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This started off as a respnse in a different thread, but I decided to
start a new one. I would like to get some feedback from the community
on these thoughts.


I definitely agree that JTL is a step in the right direction.
In a lot of ways, they have abandoned design tendencies that have
really screwed up the ground game (thus the upcoming Combat Revamp).
Good job so far, Devs.




That being said...
This really isn't a new thing in the industry. They made a game (expansion)
that is very accessible to the average gamer. No uber-loot (yet). There are no
super weapons to buy, buffs to get, or any of that other crap. Your
effectiveness in space is gated by your skill and skill boxes. With
looted components being worthwhile, any player will eventually be able
to afford a high level ship and fully stock it with components.


Easily accessible. Quick to jump into and have fun.


These are good things. I realized that there was a comparison to be drawn
here. These qualities are what has made City of Heroes so successful. It
is quick to get into and enjoy. Very accessible to the players. No uber-loot
to worry about. Every player will eventually make it to the top. You are
gated by your own skill (not as twitchy, but more interactive than the
SWG ground game) and your skill level.


The biggest differences right now between the two games (Developement-wise.
Not the actual game system/setting) :


1. Dev interaction.
It is rare to get a Dev response on any issue in SWG.
It is common to see a Dev response to an issue in COH.
COH Devs are responsive, understanding, and devoted to the player experience.
I'm not saying things are perfect, but I think they are doing a great job.
There are complaints and complainers on the boards, but it is also very common
to see a large number of "Thanks for the quick response," "it's good to see
that the Dev's care," and "you guys Rock" posts. It is an entirely different
mood.
The biggest thing is that it is pretty much unheard of to have an issue that
the Dev's don't confirm or deny as a bug/problem and to not know where the
progress on the resolution stands.


2. Content Addition.
Let's face it. Since the Death Watch bunker, nothing has really been added
to SWG as far as content goes. Almost all of the work has been fixing broken
systems and working on JTL. Plus, even the bunker wasn't so great. I can't
even step foot in there without getting my rump shot off. It's content for
high level combat templates only. I know some people will argue with that
statement, but be honest, it really is (and I don't want to hear anyone tell
me to "find a group." That's just stupid. Of course I've gone in a large
group).
In COH, every two months they put out a large scale content addition along with
system additions and some fixes. We're talking new areas, new enemies, new
animations, (next up) new power sets, max-level character rewards, a new non-
combat skill system, grouping enhancements, a badge system, costume additions,
etc... This is low, mid, and high level content addition.


The big problem with a quick playing and easily accessible system is that there
is a much lower complexity level.
I have seen players mention this about JTL already.
The "what now" question will raise its ugly head sooner with space than in the
ground game.


This will require a much larger amount of attention from the Devs. Otherwise,
space will fizzle out.


My questions are:
Are the Devs up to the challenge?
Do they have enough people on staff to handle this?


I think SWG is the most aggressive MMO on the market. The breadth of the game
is enormous. Many players have waited a very long time (including myself) for
the space expansion to get here.


What I would like to know is: Do you think they can see it through?

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graphicagent wrote:

good analysis. 5 stars. lets hope this doesnt get deleted.

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Hmmm... this would be a first for me.
I'm rather excited at the possibility.