That I'll agree with. The release was very smooth. Personally I've seen a few bugs. Primarily doing with the combat system. As a burglar I have about 100 different combination of attacks and every now and then a few of the attacks simply dont work in conjuction with other skills. When you push them they fire off and there is no effect whatsoever. Normal damage just dissapears. Then theres the ore collection bugs I found which make them regen much faster then there supposed to. AI flaws out the wazzo. I really could'nt count all of the bugs I deal with. With that said I dont think there even noticeable because the bugs are so damned minor. As for Opes opinions. I focus on balance issues and style issues he brings up. The rest I ignore. Im really good at finding the little peices of gold in the generally 99 percent of shit people spew out. I guess that makes it so I can love everyone
Good points indeed. I am more concerned over design decisions, flaws with visuals, and the overall need to make a copycat type game. I never had major "bug" issues except for getting stuck or AI problems, or the infamous "sound bug" in the Barrows (has that been fixed?)
But, the game is quite stable, and the landscapes are gorgeous...but, too many things not to like as well..
Just differing opinions...as people are all different...and I just enjoy the conversations...good discourse is good for the soul! (PS: Also, I use to be on the debate team in school...always fun to make sure we point out the opposing strengths and weaknesses of all types of subjects without bashing the person we oppose..)
To some extent what mite be taken poorily is when Opie says things like, The need to make copycat games. Its not to say he thinks everyone should think its a copycat game. Its just he thinks its a bit to copycat. Personally I think there are some elements that need some work as well to distinguish the game from others.
That doesn't mean I think they did a bad job though. Somehow Im not surprised you were or are on a debate team Opie I can tell from the way you type out your response. Sadly I lack the mental faculties to debate.
Still wondering, what the hell the guy means by "many bugs", or especially by "major issues".
I did not see any bugs, not even going as far as "major issues" even haters agree that LOTRO had probably the smoothest, most bug-free launch of all MMO's ever. DB
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
It kept me and a couple others I know occupied for a few months, but progression was more linear than any other MMO I've played, and at the time of our cancellation, the game was still pretty buggy and they were adding things like chicken play rather than devoting manpower to fixing major issues. It gave a GREAT first impression, especially for LOTR fans, but a few weeks later, after the initial wonder had died down a bit, it became pretty obvious that the game wouldn't have the longevity at the time to keep making us want to log in. Also, there really was no worthwhile high level content then, so as we were approaching level 40, the question "why bother?" kept popping up. And since we moved on, none of us have even thought about going back to see how things have progressed. A fully fleshed out Middle-Earth with exciting classes and a variety of non-combat content would be a truly wonderful thing, but I'm not gonna keep my eyes on LOTRO until 2013 to see that achievement realized.
Bugs? What bugs? Major issues? What major issues?
Personal preference's and one's own opinions (which I respect) aside this was and is one of the most b ug free, major issue free MMO's out there, even at launch.
Still wondering, what the hell the guy means by "many bugs", or especially by "major issues".
I did not see any bugs, not even going as far as "major issues" even haters agree that LOTRO had probably the smoothest, most bug-free launch of all MMO's ever. DB
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
Well, you have valid points. but..
I started playing with my Loremaster on the 14th of April, 2007 - day 1 of the early access. I have never met a single gameplay bug (there were very seldom sound issues, but nothing breaking the immersion).
(skills that were added later do not count as "release bugs" imho)
I perfectly understand and accept that LOTRO is not your game. Nothing can suit everyone, fair and square. However, mentioning "lots of bugs" and "major issues" is definitely not justified when describing LOTRO. Even in beta if was more stable and bug-free then any other MMO I played so far.
DB
Denial makes one look a lot dumber than he/she actually is.
Then I guess you do not understand the meaning of "Devils Advocate"
Def: One who argues against a cause or position, not as a committed opponent but simply for the sake of argument or to determine the validity of the cause or position. "The phrase "let me play devil's advocate" or equivalent is used in group discussions to counter groupthink;" Which is what we have in the LOTRO forums. A specific group of LOTRO "fans" always play the game up as the best thing since sliced bread...and it is not in my opinion.. As well, playing devils advocate does not need to be objective. I never once said I was being "objective"...just like the LOTRO fanbase is not being "objective" by saying everything is hunky dory in Middle Earth Online, they are not willing to lay out the negatives... Some one coming in and doing this helps give a prospective player an overall perspective...so THEY can be "objective"...they will have "both sides" of the argument But, instead of arguing my points I have made, it is much easier for this fanbase to slam my posts and counter by giving attitude. How does this look to a prospective player about the community of LOTRO? Argue my points logically but, maybe try to be civil about it. Yes, I may not like LOTRO overall, but I also know the things they did right...for example, I hate my US president, but I can also point out things he did right...well, what few they are.. I am sure this post will lead to "fanboi" slamming as well, but it is true. As to playtime, I have retested each book update to check if the issues I see in game have been resolved. They have not, so I can continue to state those issues anytime I please as long as I know they still exist. Turbine has not made much progress in UI, animations, stuttering or quests changes...so, I do not see why I am not able to continue to state these issues here. I came here to answer the OP's post...pure and simple. I feel LOTRO is not truly immersive as a RP'er's game. Now, if you wish to argue that point, please do...but, you may keep your opinions of my posting habits to yourself...as nothing derails a thread more than when the "fans" have to argue why I come here.. Give it a rest and stop hijacking the thread LOL.. that's funny. Shall I post links to the various threads you've hijacked - in non-LoTRO related forums - to bash LoTRO? Get off your high-horse.
I know what playing Devil's Advocate means, thank you.
As for the rest... Blah blah blah. Rhetoric, rhetoric, rhetoric.
My point stands...
Anything you post here is suspect at best because of the precedent *you* set as a LoTRO/Turbine hater through *your* quite extensive and active posting history. I, and others, are not pulling this out of thin air. We didn't hack into your account and post those messages where you gleefully and glibly knock Turbine and LoTRO. We know your angle and know that anything you post is fed by your bias against the game - not by any objective, relevant or even recent experience.
So, do not start crying foul now that your "views" aren't accepted with much credibility. You made your own bed, as the saying goes.
I really have to laugh at how determined you are to claim any kind of relevant footing here. Your need to knock this game is so extreme that you're now putting up facades.
In case you haven't noticed... we are quite welcoming of criticisms of the game here... by people who have at least played the game recently and don't have an obvious agenda or bias against the game. There's a clear difference and we address each on its own merit - or lack thereof. That said, no one seriously takes you to task on your opinions of the game because we know what you say is built on out-dated or limited experience at best. We do, however take you task on your well-established motives.
For the record... Do I think the game is perfect? Hardly. I think the way they implemented mounts is weak - that they don't run faster and/or are so easily dismounted due to aggro - to the point that in some areas, I don't even bother mounting up because I just get knocked off a few moments later. I've posted this on the official forums where it's more likely to be seen as well. I'm not crazy about how mobs can "block" or "evade" an incoming opening attack they don't know is coming - unless they all have Spidey Sense. I take issue with how some slopes are unclimbable even when they're no more steep than others that you can run up just as well. And on and on... I have my own list of gripes with the game that I'm more than happy to discuss. For the most part, however, I'm thoroughly happy with LoTRO and, yes, will tend to post more positive than negative about it.
The key thing with all those concerns, agree with them or not, is that they're all based on current and relevant experience - not month-old gripes.
"If you just step away for a sec you will clearly see all the pot holes in the road, and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
Based on what you seem to be looking for, LotRO could well be the game for you. Its immersion is its strong suit. If you are a Tolkien geek, then it will be heavenly for you.
It is relatively bug-free and more stable than any other MMO I've played.
However, its gameplay is lacking. I got bored and quit at level 45. The combat and the design of some areas and quests turned me off. There are open world areas of elites that have multiple waves of quests, so getting a group for Dol Dinen doesn't mean that anyone else is working on the same quests as you. If you have a regular group to quest with, this irritant is removed, of course.
As to immersion, there is a 15 minute+ quest that is nothing more than following Frodo around listening to him qq. (I /followed him and made a sandwich).
If you play, I recommend a Minstrel. Best Healing Class Ever.
Still wondering, what the hell the guy means by "many bugs", or especially by "major issues".
I did not see any bugs, not even going as far as "major issues" even haters agree that LOTRO had probably the smoothest, most bug-free launch of all MMO's ever. DB
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
Im sorry but I think they did a wonderful job depicting the world. A much better job then I thought they would orginally (before I tried it and thought it eould flop). There is so much they put in from the books, from the obvious to the most obscure, it really is insasne how much detail they put in that 75% of the people that play wont even notice. Being a fan of Tolkien really helps the immersion in this game but even if you are not it still is beautiful to behold.
****************************** Brandywine Global LFF chan "/joinchannel glff"
Thinking that this was maybe just that particular game, I tried others, including WoW, CoH, FFXI, L2, to name but a few. It was incredibly frustrating, as instead of feeling immersed in those worlds, I just got the impression that my goal was to level, get better gear, etc. Where was the sense of story that would draw me into the game? Single player rpg's such as Baldur's Gate 2 managed it, so why couldn't a dev produce a persistent world that had the same sense of story and drama as that? Now, I have heard quite a few things in regards to Lord of the Rings, and it sounds promising. Immersive quests, that are not the generic 'find this, kill that' variety, but actual story-arcs, which can be played with your friends, and give the same feeling of verismilitude that single player rpg's create.
LOTRO is a charming game, and ideal if you prefer a slower paced game experience.
Its been a little while since I played, but aspects like the music system are excellent, and high quality pervades the entire game experience. The community is for the most part supportive, and there are plenty of light RP opportunities if you like that kind of thing.
The combat takes a little getting used to, but there are some interesting classes here - try a dwarf minstrel! - and it can get pretty frantic well everything is flying.
Some of the best moments are just hanging around in a town square, and seeing what people are up to.
There are a number of kill this quests, be warned, but the story arcs are well done, and an important leap forward in MMO narrative technique in my opinion.
From what you wrote, I would argue that this is a game well worth buying. Personally, I left because I was looking for a game with world pvp... but for a pve experience this game was a joy to play.
Aye Ebonhawk, those kind of touches are just the kind of things I love in games. Still curious to hear about whether there are cut-scenes, and if you can actually play musical instruments (not just as an e-mote, but actually play them)?
Yes, there are cutscenes (in the Epic storyline), and you can actually play music with your keyboard, or with scripts. ANY music
DB
"Stairway to Heaven" for the WIN!! I have heard some awesome songs played in game, very innovative, and nice to see Turbine actually implements new things, rather than playing the tried and true method always.
I started playing with my Loremaster on the 14th of April, 2007 - day 1 of the early access. I have never met a single gameplay bug (there were very seldom sound issues, but nothing breaking the immersion). (skills that were added later do not count as "release bugs" imho) I perfectly understand and accept that LOTRO is not your game. Nothing can suit everyone, fair and square. However, mentioning "lots of bugs" and "major issues" is definitely not justified when describing LOTRO. Even in beta if was more stable and bug-free then any other MMO I played so far. DB
And you never had to wrestle with broken pet pathing or broken pet abilities? You never had to run from an enemy you could've taken if your pet hadn't gotten knocked back into a body of water and flew off into the horizon? Bugs aside, game design issues like slow pet run speed and their despawning after falling behind never bothered you, and you didn't question, each time you used the AH or mail system, how the UI possibly survived in that state through beta testing?
I never said "lots of bugs" or "many bugs" or any of the other terms some of you have placed in quotes. I said "pretty buggy," and the fact remains that most bugs don't affect everyone. Most affect only certain players with certain machine specs, or certain classes, or they're so obscure that it takes 5 coincidences in a row to trigger them. My experiences playing a loremaster on a Vista machine (man, those memory leaks were horrendous) with a GeForce 8800 just happened to include a lot of frustration. Believe me or don't...I carefully worded my comments to make sure the OP understood that I have not played in awhile and the game could have changed drastically since then. Anyway, my criticisms on the gameplay content were meant to be the important part.
And you never had to wrestle with broken pet pathing or broken pet abilities? You never had to run from an enemy you could've taken if your pet hadn't gotten knocked back into a body of water and flew off into the horizon? Bugs aside, game design issues like slow pet run speed and their despawning after falling behind never bothered you, and you didn't question, each time you used the AH or mail system, how the UI possibly survived in that state through beta testing?
I never said "lots of bugs" or "many bugs" or any of the other terms some of you have placed in quotes. I said "pretty buggy," and the fact remains that most bugs don't affect everyone. Most affect only certain players with certain machine specs, or certain classes, or they're so obscure that it takes 5 coincidences in a row to trigger them. My experiences playing a loremaster on a Vista machine (man, those memory leaks were horrendous) with a GeForce 8800 just happened to include a lot of frustration. Believe me or don't...I carefully worded my comments to make sure the OP understood that I have not played in awhile and the game could have changed drastically since then. Anyway, my criticisms on the gameplay content were meant to be the important part.
I have a bad habit of picking up a game and playing every class I possibly can. Right now I have a lvl16 loremaster and a lvl 18 captain. I can agree the pathing issues can be irritating. But I think they are working on them a little at a time. Working with my bear pet I found the least of all pathing issues I have had with the crow, captains heralds, and the bear to date. In fact with my bear (which I read in earlier posts was the worse) had maybe two hangups all night last evening.
One of the big feats with pathing is you have so many collision items they tend to get hung up on. But again I think they are working on it.
In case you haven't noticed... we are quite welcoming of criticisms of the game here... by people who have at least played the game recently and don't have an obvious agenda or bias against the game. There's a clear difference and we address each on its own merit - or lack thereof. That said, no one seriously takes you to task on your opinions of the game because we know what you say is built on out-dated or limited experience at best. We do, however take you task on your well-established motives. So, because I have not touched the game in a month...many changes have been made to the UI, animations, hitching and quest system and RP immersion? As to the welcoming...I am not so sure. I can point to other threads where the "fans" argue with another user who said he has seen bugs. They seem to be lambasting that person over the hot coals....that unequivocally there are NO BUGS? do YOU believe there are no bugs? For the record... Do I think the game is perfect? Hardly. I think the way they implemented mounts is weak - that they don't run faster and/or are so easily dismounted due to aggro - to the point that in some areas, I don't even bother mounting up because I just get knocked off a few moments later. I've posted this on the official forums where it's more likely to be seen as well. I'm not crazy about how mobs can "block" or "evade" an incoming opening attack they don't know is coming - unless they all have Spidey Sense. I take issue with how some slopes are unclimbable even when they're no more steep than others that you can run up just as well. And on and on... I have my own list of gripes with the game that I'm more than happy to discuss. For the most part, however, I'm thoroughly happy with LoTRO and, yes, will tend to post more positive than negative about it. And I never begrudge your positive opinion. Never do I hop on and specifically point at WSI Mike as a fanboi, and say you have a motive...yet, you are willing to attack every post I make? This seems a little lopsided and really has nothing to do with either of our motives, except you have a dislike for me posting...period. And as well, is a hijack of the topic...this screams "motives" to me... The key thing with all those concerns, agree with them or not, is that they're all based on current and relevant experience - not month-old gripes. Again show me where the metagame has changed in the last month, and I will take all my gripes and leave. No issues. The fact I am willing to go back after each book and see what changes have taken place I believe speaks to how I felt abut the game. But, as another poster here stated (and was not attacked for it) Turbine was more willing to do chicken play than fix complaints users had at the time...this speaks volumes... I have also stated, I have read that one of my qualms with the game is actually being looked into...the UI for the expansion. Doesnt this say something? I must not have been the only one complaining.. WE can agree to disagree, but stop making it personal is all ...it really ruins the threads... Thanks
In case you haven't noticed... we are quite welcoming of criticisms of the game here... by people who have at least played the game recently and don't have an obvious agenda or bias against the game. There's a clear difference and we address each on its own merit - or lack thereof. That said, no one seriously takes you to task on your opinions of the game because we know what you say is built on out-dated or limited experience at best. We do, however take you task on your well-established motives. So, because I have not touched the game in a month...many changes have been made to the UI, animations, hitching and quest system and RP immersion? As to the welcoming...I am not so sure. I can point to other threads where the "fans" argue with another user who said he has seen bugs. They seem to be lambasting that person over the hot coals....that unequivocally there are NO BUGS? do YOU believe there are no bugs? For the record... Do I think the game is perfect? Hardly. I think the way they implemented mounts is weak - that they don't run faster and/or are so easily dismounted due to aggro - to the point that in some areas, I don't even bother mounting up because I just get knocked off a few moments later. I've posted this on the official forums where it's more likely to be seen as well. I'm not crazy about how mobs can "block" or "evade" an incoming opening attack they don't know is coming - unless they all have Spidey Sense. I take issue with how some slopes are unclimbable even when they're no more steep than others that you can run up just as well. And on and on... I have my own list of gripes with the game that I'm more than happy to discuss. For the most part, however, I'm thoroughly happy with LoTRO and, yes, will tend to post more positive than negative about it. And I never begrudge your positive opinion. Never do I hop on and specifically point at WSI Mike as a fanboi, and say you have a motive...yet, you are willing to attack every post I make? This seems a little lopsided and really has nothing to do with either of our motives, except you have a dislike for me posting...period. And as well, is a hijack of the topic...this screams "motives" to me... The key thing with all those concerns, agree with them or not, is that they're all based on current and relevant experience - not month-old gripes. Again show me where the metagame has changed in the last month, and I will take all my gripes and leave. No issues. The fact I am willing to go back after each book and see what changes have taken place I believe speaks to how I felt abut the game. But, as another poster here stated (and was not attacked for it) Turbine was more willing to do chicken play than fix complaints users had at the time...this speaks volumes... I have also stated, I have read that one of my qualms with the game is actually being looked into...the UI for the expansion. Doesnt this say something? I must not have been the only one complaining.. WE can agree to disagree, but stop making it personal is all ...it really ruins the threads... Thanks
Sigh and he accuses me of highjacking..................
And you never had to wrestle with broken pet pathing or broken pet abilities? Nope, not really. You never had to run from an enemy you could've taken if your pet hadn't gotten knocked back into a body of water and flew off into the horizon? Never even heard of such a bug. Bugs aside, game design issues like slow pet run speed and their despawning after falling behind never bothered you, Since I didn't have this issue.. err... no ?and you didn't question, each time you used the AH or mail system, how the UI possibly survived in that state through beta testing? I never really had any issue with the AH - it could use a "drag+drop" for the lazy typers, but otherwise it works fine! I never said "lots of bugs" or "many bugs" or any of the other terms some of you have placed in quotes. I said "pretty buggy," and the fact remains that most bugs don't affect everyone. See? Major difference in phrsing that. NOW your opinion is actually fair for LOTRO. Most affect only certain players with certain machine specs, or certain classes, or they're so obscure that it takes 5 coincidences in a row to trigger them. Precisely! Does it not sound a little different, than "pretty buggy" or "major issues"? My experiences playing a loremaster on a Vista machine (man, those memory leaks were horrendous) with a GeForce 8800 just happened to include a lot of frustration. Believe me or don't... (I certainly do believe you, that was never an issue. What I'm trying to tell you is that you should not necessarily juxtapose your personal experiences and generalize it on everyone. Here I am for 1 example who did not have those issues - I believe, I'm not alone either.I carefully worded my comments to make sure the OP understood that I have not played in awhile and the game could have changed drastically since then. Anyway, my criticisms on the gameplay content were meant to be the important part. And I also told you - fair enough - you had bad experience, you stopped playing. I had only (99%) good ones - I also love the game - thus, I am playing. Let the OP try it himself, I'm pretty sure he will be MUCH less prone to bugs, since the game is already a year old and even those minority-affecting bugs are probably mostly gone.
I think we reached the conclusion eventually
DB
Denial makes one look a lot dumber than he/she actually is.
So, because I have not touched the game in a month...many changes have been made to the UI, animations, hitching and quest system and RP immersion? Well there's one problem right there. You're confusing "potential issues" with "personal gripes", or just mixing the two far too freely. The two do not deserve the same treatment. You're talking opinions right now... So, let's break this down: UI - Is it perfect? No of course not. It's functional, it's usable and it gets the job done. I've never had any issues with it at all. That said, no, they're not completely changing the UI - they're reprogramming the underlying code which currently dates back at least to AC2 and are doing so to allow for more flexibility; not "so they can fix the UI to openedge's liking so he'll stop bashing the game and start playing".
Animations - The animations are fine. You not liking them doesn't necessitate any "changes" being made. Some love the animations. Some hate them. Can't please everyone. Not liking the animations is one thing... implying that they need "fixing" because you don't like them is a conceit I don't think anyone has a right to.
Hitching - always going to be an issue to some people in any MMO. I've seen hitching, or have known of people experiencing it in any MMO I've played - even when I wasn't myself (as in LoTRO). People even have hitching in WoW. If you're expecting that to go away completely... may as well give up playing MMOs. Quest System - A personal gripe does not mandate an overhaul. Some don't like the quest system as is. Some are fine with it as is. Some couldn't care less either way. Any changes they are making will result in the same results. Some will like the changes. Some won't. Some will remain indifferent and simply play the game as they always did. The point? "Fixing" it to you is going to invariably be "breaking it" to someone else. Again, can't please everyone. All said, the quest system works - you get quests, it tracks them and marks them as "finished" when they're complete. RP Immersion - This one makes me chuckle. You seriously want Turbine to change the game because you have lacking role-play skills? It's called imagination. With enough imagination you could role-play in a void. I see people role-playing just fine. Nothing needs "fixing" there.
As to the welcoming...I am not so sure. I can point to other threads where the "fans" argue with another user who said he has seen bugs. They seem to be lambasting that person over the hot coals....that unequivocally there are NO BUGS? do YOU believe there are no bugs? Nope... never said there were no bugs... nor have I ever "lambasted" people for mentioning them. On that note, I can point to plenty of people who haven't been blasted for expressing dislike of the game or mentioning glitches in it. Again - it depends on the delivery and apparent motive of the person posting. Some are posting an honest concern... speak their mind without slamming the game or Turbine. For others, any perceived issue - real or imagined - is merely an excuse to bash the game. Two different things... and they're generally treated as such. And I never begrudge your positive opinion. Never do I hop on and specifically point at WSI Mike as a fanboi, and say you have a motive...yet, you are willing to attack every post I make? This seems a little lopsided and really has nothing to do with either of our motives, except you have a dislike for me posting...period. And as well, is a hijack of the topic...this screams "motives" to me... Again with the feigned indignation. Like you have no idea why I or anyone else would have any problem with "poor innocent you" posting your undoubtedlygenuine concerns here. I thought I've made myself clear on this in the past, but I'll say it once more:
No.. I don't have a dislike for you posting in particular. You have a right to post as much as anyone. No one's stopping you, are they? What I *do* take issue with is your continued disingenuous and duplicitous behavior. I have a problem with you putting on this "act" as being at all truly interested in the game in these forums... while gleefully bashing it elsewhere. Your profile quote for *weeks* was a blatant slam against LoTRO and/or Turbine.
Unfortunately for you, too many of us know better than that. I've made my issues with you very plainly known - a number of times now, in this thread and elsewhere. Continuing this act of "righteous indignation" you've got going on only underscores how disingenuous you are.
Again show me where the metagame has changed in the last month, and I will take all my gripes and leave.
That's very funny. No, I'm pretty sure Turbine isn't going to make people's lack of imagination, spontaneity or role-playing skills a "serious concern" to be addressed by changing the design. I can think of a number of different ways in which LoTRO supports role-playing... and don't even have to look hard to find them.
WE can agree to disagree, but stop making it personal is all ...it really ruins the threads... Yeah.. 'cause you wouldn't know anything about ruining threads. Amazing... still feigning innocence. Nothing personal at all. I don't know you personally. I'm going off your posting history and your own comments. I'm calling you out on your well-precedented track-record with this game and how it begs, at best, incredulity on anything you have to say about it... no matter how you try to dress it up after the fact. If you're going to insist on obsessing over the game, the least you can do is drop the "but I really really *am* interested in the game! I want it to succeed!" BS. As long as you continue with the duplicitous behavior, expressing entirely different views of the game and company depending on where you're posting, I'm going to continue to call you on it.
"If you just step away for a sec you will clearly see all the pot holes in the road, and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
Still wondering, what the hell the guy means by "many bugs", or especially by "major issues".
I did not see any bugs, not even going as far as "major issues" even haters agree that LOTRO had probably the smoothest, most bug-free launch of all MMO's ever. DB
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
I also played a loremaster, and it's true that there have been problems with pet ai and pathing, but for myself it was never close to being a deal breaker. I enjoyed the class immensely. I think it's a gross overstatement to call the LM "half broken" because of the occasional glitch with the pet. Pet AI and pathing is well known to be a very tricky thing to code, so I'm willing to cut them some slack- especially given that the LM isn't too dependent on the pet to be successful.
Also the chicken play was developed by 1 person, and they have made use of that technology for the Troll and Ranger sessions that help balance the PVP. I get the feeling that the chicken play probably just started out as a test for session play technology, and it ended up being fun by itself which is why it was included. So I don't think it's fair to imply that they had massive resources dedicated to chicken play at the expense of other areas.
And finally I think the lack of lvl 40-50 skills at release ended up being beneficial to the game. They were able to collect a large amount of feedback from the players on what they thought was needed for their classes.
~~~ Currently Playing ~~~ LOTRO- Guardian Wrymstrum & Lore-master Stabler on Nimrodel.
Conan- Zoltar <Angels of Death> Guardian on Stormrage.
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either. I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship. There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
I also played a loremaster, and it's true that there have been problems with pet ai and pathing, but for myself it was never close to being a deal breaker. I enjoyed the class immensely. I think it's a gross overstatement to call the LM "half broken" because of the occasional glitch with the pet. Pet AI and pathing is well known to be a very tricky thing to code, so I'm willing to cut them some slack- especially given that the LM isn't too dependent on the pet to be successful.
Also the chicken play was developed by 1 person, and they have made use of that technology for the Troll and Ranger sessions that help balance the PVP. I get the feeling that the chicken play probably just started out as a test for session play technology, and it ended up being fun by itself which is why it was included. So I don't think it's fair to imply that they had massive resources dedicated to chicken play at the expense of other areas.
And finally I think the lack of lvl 40-50 skills at release ended up being beneficial to the game. They were able to collect a large amount of feedback from the players on what they thought was needed for their classes.
Well, I also think that one reason players have an issue with LOTRO is that they don't think of it in context of the entire Lord of the Rings Story. As Bonzoso said, it took place in a space of middle earth that might not be considered interesting.
However, I know for myself, I look at this first year as the "start" of the journey.. start of the game. Like reading a prelude of a book or even the first chapter.
For me it's just starting, the setting is "set", I know my character, etc.
Now we start getting into the nitty gritty with Moria, Lothlorien and beyond. Should be good. I hope.
Like Skyrim? Need more content? Try my Skyrim mod "Godfred's Tomb."
While I'm at it, I'd like to comment about the complaints that the game is too linear and limited to Eriador.
Look, Turbine can only do so much in so much time. I am very happy with the decisions they have made about how to develop middle earth. There's no way they could have put out a game that included all the areas from the books without making huge sacrifices to the detail and content density of the zones. And if they had chosen to try to include everything that we want to see at the start, then what? What would there be to look forward to in a couple of years? Look at all the excitement that the Mines of Moria expansion has created among the player base. Moria is going to be freaking huge and awesome. Thank god they didn't rush it for the original release and make it disappointing.
Yes, the game is pretty linear. But it is also very story-driven. Those two go hand in hand. Frankly, for this IP I think that was the right choice. The epic quest lines are unique, well done, and add a lot to the game. Also the original size of the game was a limiting factor in how non-linear the game is. Because the number of zones were limited, sometimes you were forced to fight in a particular area at a particular level range. But Turbine has continued to add new zones which has helped add variety. In fact a new 44-50 zone is coming out today. Again it comes down to the fact that you can only do so much in a period of time. If you want an mmo that is content-rich, detailed, and story focused you probably aren't going to find that it's a gigantic non-linear world. I like what Turbine has chosen to do.
~~~ Currently Playing ~~~ LOTRO- Guardian Wrymstrum & Lore-master Stabler on Nimrodel.
Conan- Zoltar <Angels of Death> Guardian on Stormrage.
While I'm at it, I'd like to comment about the complaints that the game is too linear and limited to Eriador.
Look, Turbine can only do so much in so much time. I am very happy with the decisions they have made about how to develop middle earth. There's no way they could have put out a game that included all the areas from the books without making huge sacrifices to the detail and content density of the zones. And if they had chosen to try to include everything that we want to see at the start, then what? What would there be to look forward to in a couple of years? Look at all the excitement that the Mines of Moria expansion has created among the player base. Moria is going to be freaking huge and awesome. Thank god they didn't rush it for the original release and make it disappointing. Yes, the game is pretty linear. But it is also very story-driven. Those two go hand in hand. Frankly, for this IP I think that was the right choice. The epic quest lines are unique, well done, and add a lot to the game. Also the original size of the game was a limiting factor in how non-linear the game is. Because the number of zones were limited, sometimes you were forced to fight in a particular area at a particular level range. But Turbine has continued to add new zones which has helped add variety. In fact a new 44-50 zone is coming out today. Again it comes down to the fact that you can only do so much in a period of time. If you want an mmo that is content-rich, detailed, and story focused you probably aren't going to find that it's a gigantic non-linear world. I like what Turbine has chosen to do.
I like the approach they're taking as well. They're making sure their reach doesn't exceed their grasp. They learned that lesson with AC2 which was a vast world that many often complained was too barren and didn't have enough content. So... there ya go. They learned from their mistakes and decided to expand on Middle Earth in smaller, more manageable chunks instead of trying to populate an entire game-world (which based on how large Eriador is by itself is going to be huge when all of ME is in there) in one go ... and people still complain.
Just can't win.
That said.. I do kinda wonder what happens when they get to Mordor and the ring has been cast into the volcano... I guess they're pacing it so that by that time, the game will have had a pretty long run and then there's always side content people can do... -shrug-. There's always alts I suppose. And yes.. I realize I'm thinking about something that won't happen for another 6 or 7 years likely. Hush :-p.
"If you just step away for a sec you will clearly see all the pot holes in the road, and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
While I'm at it, I'd like to comment about the complaints that the game is too linear and limited to Eriador.
Look, Turbine can only do so much in so much time. I am very happy with the decisions they have made about how to develop middle earth. There's no way they could have put out a game that included all the areas from the books without making huge sacrifices to the detail and content density of the zones. And if they had chosen to try to include everything that we want to see at the start, then what? What would there be to look forward to in a couple of years? Look at all the excitement that the Mines of Moria expansion has created among the player base. Moria is going to be freaking huge and awesome. Thank god they didn't rush it for the original release and make it disappointing. Yes, the game is pretty linear. But it is also very story-driven. Those two go hand in hand. Frankly, for this IP I think that was the right choice. The epic quest lines are unique, well done, and add a lot to the game. Also the original size of the game was a limiting factor in how non-linear the game is. Because the number of zones were limited, sometimes you were forced to fight in a particular area at a particular level range. But Turbine has continued to add new zones which has helped add variety. In fact a new 44-50 zone is coming out today. Again it comes down to the fact that you can only do so much in a period of time. If you want an mmo that is content-rich, detailed, and story focused you probably aren't going to find that it's a gigantic non-linear world. I like what Turbine has chosen to do.
Well said as always Wrymstrum!
I gotta laugh at those that criticize the focus of LoTRo's area in Middle Earth. Umm... did they even read the books? (You know the books that the game is based on). Heh... where else is the story supposed to start? I'm guessing that they did not know that the story starts in the Shire... then Bree... then Barrow Downs... then WeatherTop... then Rivendell... and then next comes Moria.
Heh... guess what? That's a lot like the progress your character makes in the game. Wow! What a coincidence! LOL!
Comments
Good points indeed. I am more concerned over design decisions, flaws with visuals, and the overall need to make a copycat type game. I never had major "bug" issues except for getting stuck or AI problems, or the infamous "sound bug" in the Barrows (has that been fixed?)
But, the game is quite stable, and the landscapes are gorgeous...but, too many things not to like as well..
Just differing opinions...as people are all different...and I just enjoy the conversations...good discourse is good for the soul! (PS: Also, I use to be on the debate team in school...always fun to make sure we point out the opposing strengths and weaknesses of all types of subjects without bashing the person we oppose..)
Later
To some extent what mite be taken poorily is when Opie says things like, The need to make copycat games. Its not to say he thinks everyone should think its a copycat game. Its just he thinks its a bit to copycat. Personally I think there are some elements that need some work as well to distinguish the game from others.
That doesn't mean I think they did a bad job though. Somehow Im not surprised you were or are on a debate team Opie
I can tell from the way you type out your response. Sadly I lack the mental faculties to debate. 
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
Bugs?
What bugs? Major issues?
What major issues?
Personal preference's and one's own opinions (which I respect) aside this was and is one of the most b ug free, major issue free MMO's out there, even at launch.
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
Well, you have valid points. but..I started playing with my Loremaster on the 14th of April, 2007 - day 1 of the early access. I have never met a single gameplay bug (there were very seldom sound issues, but nothing breaking the immersion).
(skills that were added later do not count as "release bugs" imho)
I perfectly understand and accept that LOTRO is not your game. Nothing can suit everyone, fair and square. However, mentioning "lots of bugs" and "major issues" is definitely not justified when describing LOTRO. Even in beta if was more stable and bug-free then any other MMO I played so far.
DB
Denial makes one look a lot dumber than he/she actually is.
I know what playing Devil's Advocate means, thank you.
As for the rest... Blah blah blah. Rhetoric, rhetoric, rhetoric.
My point stands...
Anything you post here is suspect at best because of the precedent *you* set as a LoTRO/Turbine hater through *your* quite extensive and active posting history. I, and others, are not pulling this out of thin air. We didn't hack into your account and post those messages where you gleefully and glibly knock Turbine and LoTRO. We know your angle and know that anything you post is fed by your bias against the game - not by any objective, relevant or even recent experience.
So, do not start crying foul now that your "views" aren't accepted with much credibility. You made your own bed, as the saying goes.
I really have to laugh at how determined you are to claim any kind of relevant footing here. Your need to knock this game is so extreme that you're now putting up facades.
In case you haven't noticed... we are quite welcoming of criticisms of the game here... by people who have at least played the game recently and don't have an obvious agenda or bias against the game. There's a clear difference and we address each on its own merit - or lack thereof. That said, no one seriously takes you to task on your opinions of the game because we know what you say is built on out-dated or limited experience at best. We do, however take you task on your well-established motives.
For the record... Do I think the game is perfect? Hardly. I think the way they implemented mounts is weak - that they don't run faster and/or are so easily dismounted due to aggro - to the point that in some areas, I don't even bother mounting up because I just get knocked off a few moments later. I've posted this on the official forums where it's more likely to be seen as well. I'm not crazy about how mobs can "block" or "evade" an incoming opening attack they don't know is coming - unless they all have Spidey Sense. I take issue with how some slopes are unclimbable even when they're no more steep than others that you can run up just as well. And on and on... I have my own list of gripes with the game that I'm more than happy to discuss. For the most part, however, I'm thoroughly happy with LoTRO and, yes, will tend to post more positive than negative about it.
The key thing with all those concerns, agree with them or not, is that they're all based on current and relevant experience - not month-old gripes.
and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
Based on what you seem to be looking for, LotRO could well be the game for you. Its immersion is its strong suit. If you are a Tolkien geek, then it will be heavenly for you.
It is relatively bug-free and more stable than any other MMO I've played.
However, its gameplay is lacking. I got bored and quit at level 45. The combat and the design of some areas and quests turned me off. There are open world areas of elites that have multiple waves of quests, so getting a group for Dol Dinen doesn't mean that anyone else is working on the same quests as you. If you have a regular group to quest with, this irritant is removed, of course.
As to immersion, there is a 15 minute+ quest that is nothing more than following Frodo around listening to him qq. (I /followed him and made a sandwich).
If you play, I recommend a Minstrel. Best Healing Class Ever.
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
Im sorry but I think they did a wonderful job depicting the world. A much better job then I thought they would orginally (before I tried it and thought it eould flop). There is so much they put in from the books, from the obvious to the most obscure, it really is insasne how much detail they put in that 75% of the people that play wont even notice. Being a fan of Tolkien really helps the immersion in this game but even if you are not it still is beautiful to behold.
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Brandywine Global LFF chan "/joinchannel glff"
Its been a little while since I played, but aspects like the music system are excellent, and high quality pervades the entire game experience. The community is for the most part supportive, and there are plenty of light RP opportunities if you like that kind of thing.
The combat takes a little getting used to, but there are some interesting classes here - try a dwarf minstrel! - and it can get pretty frantic well everything is flying.
Some of the best moments are just hanging around in a town square, and seeing what people are up to.
There are a number of kill this quests, be warned, but the story arcs are well done, and an important leap forward in MMO narrative technique in my opinion.
From what you wrote, I would argue that this is a game well worth buying. Personally, I left because I was looking for a game with world pvp... but for a pve experience this game was a joy to play.
DB
"Stairway to Heaven" for the WIN!! I have heard some awesome songs played in game, very innovative, and nice to see Turbine actually implements new things, rather than playing the tried and true method always.
And you never had to wrestle with broken pet pathing or broken pet abilities? You never had to run from an enemy you could've taken if your pet hadn't gotten knocked back into a body of water and flew off into the horizon? Bugs aside, game design issues like slow pet run speed and their despawning after falling behind never bothered you, and you didn't question, each time you used the AH or mail system, how the UI possibly survived in that state through beta testing?
I never said "lots of bugs" or "many bugs" or any of the other terms some of you have placed in quotes. I said "pretty buggy," and the fact remains that most bugs don't affect everyone. Most affect only certain players with certain machine specs, or certain classes, or they're so obscure that it takes 5 coincidences in a row to trigger them. My experiences playing a loremaster on a Vista machine (man, those memory leaks were horrendous) with a GeForce 8800 just happened to include a lot of frustration. Believe me or don't...I carefully worded my comments to make sure the OP understood that I have not played in awhile and the game could have changed drastically since then. Anyway, my criticisms on the gameplay content were meant to be the important part.
I have a bad habit of picking up a game and playing every class I possibly can. Right now I have a lvl16 loremaster and a lvl 18 captain. I can agree the pathing issues can be irritating. But I think they are working on them a little at a time. Working with my bear pet I found the least of all pathing issues I have had with the crow, captains heralds, and the bear to date. In fact with my bear (which I read in earlier posts was the worse) had maybe two hangups all night last evening.
One of the big feats with pathing is you have so many collision items they tend to get hung up on. But again I think they are working on it.
Sigh and he accuses me of highjacking..................
back to topic please
Since you haven't put forth the effort to even try it for FREE..I would say no,this isn't the game for you
I think we reached the conclusion eventually
DB
Denial makes one look a lot dumber than he/she actually is.
and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
While I enjoy reading Opies posts I think Dragons right Opie, time to drop it for awhile. I'm a neutralist though
I'm bound to stoke and quash
Well, it was an exercise in frustration for Loremasters at least as often as it was fun. And I've never been the loot-obsessed type that rushes to the level cap in order to grind for the best gear, but I DO want my experiences to have a lasting impact, and when I was playing it, LOTRO seemed to be forcing me down a linear road in which adventuring (levelling) was really the only thing to do. Being at level 15 when the game launched didn't help its longevity, either.
I'm a fan of LOTR, and I wanted to like the MMO so much that I purchased the retail version and convinced friends & family to do so even after getting impressions of mediocrity throughout closed & open beta. When the class I truly wanted to play was still unfinished and half-broken for months after launch and fixes were still months away, but devs were working diligently on bringing me the ability to play as a chicken, I just thought it might be time to jump ship.
There were many reasons it wasn't the game for me (or my friends), not the least of which is that I'm a jaded MMO vet who's still foolishly searching for "the one" while knowing full well the only things that separate one game from the other is the setting and a few minute details. It certainly isn't Turbine's fault they chose a license so beloved that they really had no chance of doing it justice...15 square kilometers in the least interesting (personal opinion, of course) corner of Middle-Earth is not what I envisioned when Middle-Earth Online was first announced, and I wasn't about to support Turbine for the 5+ years they plan to take to deliver Return of the King content.
I also played a loremaster, and it's true that there have been problems with pet ai and pathing, but for myself it was never close to being a deal breaker. I enjoyed the class immensely. I think it's a gross overstatement to call the LM "half broken" because of the occasional glitch with the pet. Pet AI and pathing is well known to be a very tricky thing to code, so I'm willing to cut them some slack- especially given that the LM isn't too dependent on the pet to be successful.
Also the chicken play was developed by 1 person, and they have made use of that technology for the Troll and Ranger sessions that help balance the PVP. I get the feeling that the chicken play probably just started out as a test for session play technology, and it ended up being fun by itself which is why it was included. So I don't think it's fair to imply that they had massive resources dedicated to chicken play at the expense of other areas.
And finally I think the lack of lvl 40-50 skills at release ended up being beneficial to the game. They were able to collect a large amount of feedback from the players on what they thought was needed for their classes.
~~~ Currently Playing ~~~
LOTRO- Guardian Wrymstrum & Lore-master Stabler on Nimrodel.
Conan- Zoltar <Angels of Death> Guardian on Stormrage.
Great post Wrym!
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Brandywine Global LFF chan "/joinchannel glff"
I also played a loremaster, and it's true that there have been problems with pet ai and pathing, but for myself it was never close to being a deal breaker. I enjoyed the class immensely. I think it's a gross overstatement to call the LM "half broken" because of the occasional glitch with the pet. Pet AI and pathing is well known to be a very tricky thing to code, so I'm willing to cut them some slack- especially given that the LM isn't too dependent on the pet to be successful.
Also the chicken play was developed by 1 person, and they have made use of that technology for the Troll and Ranger sessions that help balance the PVP. I get the feeling that the chicken play probably just started out as a test for session play technology, and it ended up being fun by itself which is why it was included. So I don't think it's fair to imply that they had massive resources dedicated to chicken play at the expense of other areas.
And finally I think the lack of lvl 40-50 skills at release ended up being beneficial to the game. They were able to collect a large amount of feedback from the players on what they thought was needed for their classes.
Well, I also think that one reason players have an issue with LOTRO is that they don't think of it in context of the entire Lord of the Rings Story. As Bonzoso said, it took place in a space of middle earth that might not be considered interesting.
However, I know for myself, I look at this first year as the "start" of the journey.. start of the game. Like reading a prelude of a book or even the first chapter.
For me it's just starting, the setting is "set", I know my character, etc.
Now we start getting into the nitty gritty with Moria, Lothlorien and beyond. Should be good. I hope.
Godfred's Tomb Trailer: https://youtu.be/-nsXGddj_4w
Original Skyrim: https://www.nexusmods.com/skyrim/mods/109547
Serph toze kindly has started a walk-through. https://youtu.be/UIelCK-lldo
While I'm at it, I'd like to comment about the complaints that the game is too linear and limited to Eriador.
Look, Turbine can only do so much in so much time. I am very happy with the decisions they have made about how to develop middle earth. There's no way they could have put out a game that included all the areas from the books without making huge sacrifices to the detail and content density of the zones. And if they had chosen to try to include everything that we want to see at the start, then what? What would there be to look forward to in a couple of years? Look at all the excitement that the Mines of Moria expansion has created among the player base. Moria is going to be freaking huge and awesome. Thank god they didn't rush it for the original release and make it disappointing.
Yes, the game is pretty linear. But it is also very story-driven. Those two go hand in hand. Frankly, for this IP I think that was the right choice. The epic quest lines are unique, well done, and add a lot to the game. Also the original size of the game was a limiting factor in how non-linear the game is. Because the number of zones were limited, sometimes you were forced to fight in a particular area at a particular level range. But Turbine has continued to add new zones which has helped add variety. In fact a new 44-50 zone is coming out today. Again it comes down to the fact that you can only do so much in a period of time. If you want an mmo that is content-rich, detailed, and story focused you probably aren't going to find that it's a gigantic non-linear world. I like what Turbine has chosen to do.
~~~ Currently Playing ~~~
LOTRO- Guardian Wrymstrum & Lore-master Stabler on Nimrodel.
Conan- Zoltar <Angels of Death> Guardian on Stormrage.
I like the approach they're taking as well. They're making sure their reach doesn't exceed their grasp. They learned that lesson with AC2 which was a vast world that many often complained was too barren and didn't have enough content. So... there ya go. They learned from their mistakes and decided to expand on Middle Earth in smaller, more manageable chunks instead of trying to populate an entire game-world (which based on how large Eriador is by itself is going to be huge when all of ME is in there) in one go ... and people still complain.
Just can't win.
That said.. I do kinda wonder what happens when they get to Mordor and the ring has been cast into the volcano... I guess they're pacing it so that by that time, the game will have had a pretty long run and then there's always side content people can do... -shrug-. There's always alts I suppose. And yes.. I realize I'm thinking about something that won't happen for another 6 or 7 years likely. Hush :-p.
and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
I gotta laugh at those that criticize the focus of LoTRo's area in Middle Earth. Umm... did they even read the books? (You know the books that the game is based on). Heh... where else is the story supposed to start? I'm guessing that they did not know that the story starts in the Shire... then Bree... then Barrow Downs... then WeatherTop... then Rivendell... and then next comes Moria.
Heh... guess what? That's a lot like the progress your character makes in the game. Wow! What a coincidence! LOL!