One thing that would really help, would be to have things that could be done, when there is no content. Once again, I think this would be aided by deciding how instancing should work, and solidifying it. I am also once again suggesting that there should be multiple versions of various ages. One version would be a historical one, where people could still explore and take their journeys. The other versions would be dynamic versions that could be restored. I think that if people could possibly go on boat rides, explore virtual shops in the currently abandoned buildings, view exhibits, read plaques about various historical sites, hang out in working pubs, stay current on cavern events via various imagers, then I think that there would be a lot of replay value, even if there weren't any new ages to explore.
I know that many people don't like the idea of commerce within URU. I know that I have apprehensions of URU becoming like Second Life, if in game commercialism isn't kept in check. However, maybe it could work to people's satisfaction, if it was sufficiently isolated from the adventuristic gameplay. Maybe, there should be a surface interface (website of some sort), where people could exchange real currency for in-game currency. Maybe, there could also be a DTM (D'ni to M'ni) machine somewhere in Ae'gura. While it wouldn't have to be used for swords, shields, and armor, maybe, there could be small souvenir stands with T-shirts & schtuff around the outskirts of the library.
I still think that it might be cool to have an in-game DRC office, where people could get more information, buy souvenirs, and link to the cavern. This could keep commerce completely seperate from the cavern. Maybe, there could be some premium events where people could use currency, though. It would be nice to have the boats and dock repaired. You wouldn't necessarily need currency to add replay value to the game, but it could open up some possibilities. I also think it could be done in a way that it doesn't seem intrusive. Maybe, we could be allowed to carry more items, like some of the newer Myst games. Maybe, we could buy maps at an information table. As clever as the firefly puzzle is, maybe having alternate solutions to a puzzle should be considered. Maybe, we could be allowed to buy flashlights...
Here's the point of all this. Anything that we add to the game will require some work, whether it's new ages, or sections to the cavern. I think it might be worthwhile to invest in the cavern, and see if there might be ways to make it more interesting, and have repeatable activities to do there. For most journey ages, there's not much to do once the riddle or puzzle is solved. If there were things to do in the meantime though, it would take the pressure of coming out with new ages every week off. Consider that when URU was active, even though people knew the limitations we were operating under, I heard complaints about content within a week of something new being released. Having new ages might not be enough for some people, unless there's something else to keep those people occupied. Have a way to exit the pod in Neghilian, then have some targets set up for archery. (Once "the predator" has been taken care of)
Just a thought
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Proud member of "Bahro for the Ethical Treatment of Adventurers" (Beta)
Maybe, there's
Gathered Restorers Awaiting To Explore For URU Lives
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