I played the game for 3 weeks. First three were a blast. But that is usually how most decent action games do for me. On the fourth week, after capping two characters and trying out everything. The game got stale, just a button masher with little depth. If people like it, that's great. But mmos imo need to have more depth to keep long term subscribers.
As others have asked, why are some people so upset that people like this game?
I played it in beta and had fun for several weeks. I even played mostly on the PvP server because it just made more sense to be able to attack your opposition. I don't normally play much PvP but in DCUO it seemed to fit so well.
The gameplay is solid, while the interface is garbage. It's a common statement on just about any review I've read of this game, not just at mmorpg.com. The other worry that players have is SOE's promise to add monthy updates. If SOE keeps its promise, this game will continue to be successful and even pull more players into the game that were on the fence about purchasing it.
If you like PvP and fast-paced play, then you should try this game. If you like more "traditional" MMOs then maybe this one isn't for you. This is not to say that you need to PvP to play this game, but I found that it actually adds to the game (and I'm no hardcore PvPer). Also, the fact that you work with or fight recognizable DC characters early and throughout the game makes it even more rewarding for DC fans.
It turns out that I became bored with the game as I do prefer the more "traditional" MMOs. That doesn't mean no one else should like this game, it just means its not a good fit for me. I think its great that some players enjoy the game. Their enjoyment in no way affects my life. And it shouldn't affect yours either.
Frankly, its the same UI they tried to sell people on with star wars galaxies NGE that was such a disaster. its almost like someone at soe is just hell bent on getting his pet project accepted. it isnt going to happen. its a game breaker for me.
if not for that use the mouse freelook ui garbage and the chat thing, i would be more inclined to keep the game. the user interface is just garbage a.
if i dont get an option to do a more traditional lock the camera behind me and be able to use my mouse to click things/target, whatever you want to call it (i call it the "Normal" user interface"), ill have to drop the subscription.
i am betting half the complaints about the game will go away if they fix that console ui they have
www.insomniacsbar.com (my little bar that i own in florida)
If you like PvP and fast-paced play, then you should try this game. If you like more "traditional" MMOs then maybe this one isn't for you.
I've done maybe 3 PvP activities in this game.
I've spent probably about 99% of the time with everything just doing PvE battles and I can add that if someone likes PvE, they probably would like this game as well. I found the Alerts and Raids are more engaging than the PvE as they are more diverse and I'm a sucker for story. The PvP is fun though but that's something I'll do in the game when I get bored with content which hasn't happened yet.
I think there is room for people who like traditional MMOs as well. I am one of those diehard traditionalists and I've met quite a few who are pretty addicted on the story side, so it's pretty much a game for all.
I would say if someone doesn't like a lot of clicking constantly, then they probably won't like the game that much.
Loved the article and love the game. And I gave coh/cox a good try more than once but now I know why I wasn't happy there. It was too much like other mmo's with superheroes inserted. Now, I feel like a superhero or villian. I am completely dazzled by the detail built in and the variety of things to do. I'm a long time quest hater but in this game it's just part of the story and while they can be challenging or even hard at times they also build in lots of help in the way of things you can throw (that can explode depending on what they are), npcs that will help you or are in the instance fighting already. Gotham and Metropolis have come to life and it can be fun just to drop in and have some fun even if you already done the quests the npcs are acting out for and even help others out. I am so completely amazed I can't really be objective right now. The interface and chat aren't great compared to what I was used too since I don't console at all but I've adapted to it and after a few days it's becoming second nature and as for the chat maybe it's a good thing there is no global chat. I know many need that to feel connected but it can also be a pain in most mmo's and I know I can get as involved as I want with the voice chat and grouping or joining leages (all things I haven't done yet). The power and skils system is well-done and with the iconic powers you can take on some of the mainstays of comic heroing (heat ray vision, freezing breath ect). You can choose your role (damage, healing) and have completely different choices from your selected power set. Costumes are already setup so once you have something you can use it just for looks and sell the real thing off.
The main problem I see the game facing is that it's more like guild wars than warcraft and quite unique and we all know how so many want the same ameneties from game to game (even though they tired of the last game already). It's not near as social as coh but more immersive by a long shot. If you enjoy superhero type movies you will love this as right from the beginning you feel 'super' and there is no need to grind anything. But I'm already seeing the bored 30's whining for content as the game is going to be eaten alive by the folks that race through levels like it's a race and play one class exclusivey as this is truely a game that is more about the journey to 30 than the actual arrival. I wasn't in the beta and I didn't read up on the game (or even follow it during developement so I've have to feel my way through sometimes struggling to figure out quests or how the game works but that's been great. I loathe the day the walk-throughs will pop up and folks will be racing through the content by the numbers skipping the fun in figuring things out when the answers aren't always obvious. The answers have always been there in front of me in most cases but due to my long mmo history and usual habits I sometimes balk if everything isn't obvious right away. So far I've had one thing I didn't understand after lots of trial and error (the rife moves/comboes using directional keys along with the mouse) that I was missing because you had to have a target to get them to work when most skills and powers work even without targets.
Many might be disappointed in only 3 movement types (flight, acrobatics and superspeed) with two being almost identical to coh but the one I thought I'd hate has become my favorite: acrobatics. You climb up anything like spiderman and race along the ground and an increased speed (not super but decent) and as I have found out there are other ways to gain flight: ie acrobatics you can select a skill that lets you glide forever instead of just angled down till you land with the basic acrobatics which is so like flying as you surf over buildings on the invisible air currents and a very quick speed. Sure its harder than flight and you can't hover but that makes it al the better for me. In addition you can gain access to equipment that allows you to fly anyway or power selections that allow you to fly in other forms.
I could go on but I wont as I'm itching to play but I want to mention one fun thing I've never seen before. Once a day after you hit level 6 you can hit the vault which is basically an instance provided by the joker full of gift packages that you break to either gain cash (most common thing) or unique costume items, weapons or just regular equipment you can buy. For instance my first thing I got on one character was joker's jetpack that allowed me to fly if I equipped it instead of my cape. It's not tradeable sadly but you do have a bank in the watchtower (the dc superhero spacestation hanging above earth) that shares between characters if the item is shareable. And the view up there...wow. Anyway, I want to play..not talk. So long.
edited for gotham instead of gothan and a can't for a can.....hate typoes...sure there are more but I wasn't kidding when I say I want to play not type.
As others have asked, why are some people so upset that people like this game?
Conversely, why do people get so aggrevated when others say they dislike the game? We tend to agree with the position that aligns with out view and refute those that don't.
... and on sales: they aren't fantastic for a US$50m title. It might be the "quickest selling SOE title ever" but that is probably because they launched on two platforms at once.
If the sales figures were great, SOE would be publishing them, but it appears that DCUO has sold in the 400k - 500k range overall, split roughly 50/50 between PC and PS3. But since it isn't cross server, it is more like having two games of 250k when it comes to community and server population issues. A number of big MMO launches have struggled to retain 50% of their launch players, and retention is the core problem than DCUO is going to face.
The one alarming thing that stands out to me about this game is the number of people talking about how they already have one or more characters at max level and are currently doing "endgame" content. So they're having fun now but does the game have the lasting power for them to still be having fun a month or two down the road?
I think I'm going to hold off to see if there really are monthly content updates. As it stands now I don't see enough here to justify a game purchase plus a monthly sub. I'll be curious to see how the retention rate is for this game.
1. For god's sake mmo gamers, enough with the analogies. They're unnecessary and your comparisons are terrible, dissimilar, and illogical.
2. To posters feeling the need to state how f2p really isn't f2p: Players understand the concept. You aren't privy to some secret the rest are missing. You're embarrassing yourself.
3. Yes, Cpt. Obvious, we're not industry experts. Now run along and let the big people use the forums for their purpose.
I took the leap and finaly bought this game late Saturday night, largely due to all of the positive responses from the staff here and posts. I am not a bit dissapointed, the game is loads of fun, especially on PVP servers.
As others have stated it definately has some work to be done undeniably but for me it is a huge upgrade/improvement from City of Heros. As for control issues, ive found that having a programable mouse helps out quite a bit.
My biggest problem is not being able to get a character to 10 before making another one. While i am playing one type of character I think of a new build and have to try it out . lol
Smedley has said that the prime focus for DCUO is to convince PS3 players that they should get used to the subscription paid model of MMOs from the PC world. Go look thru interviews with him to see him state exactly that.
I would imagine that most improvements are going to be forthcoming for the PS3 version with the PC version getting just enough to get by. In other words, don't look for the PC controls or chat system to get major fixes anytime soon. The focus for SOE right now is to retain and grow this for PS3 players.
Everything said here is more or less true, the game can be fun and the PC controls and interface are nothing short of irritating. Some powersets are broken and others probably over powered compared to others (although they are super powers...they need to power up the low ones, not nerf the powerful ones) and the travel powers are wonky. It's all designed for flyers and speedsters or acrobats are just trying to get where they are going. Lack of documentation for travel powers (and really everything in the game) stands out.
The article also didn't address the huge problems SOE and it's partners had on getting any of the pre-order bonuses right (unless you ordered from Gamestop or Amazon, you probably didn't get everything you were supposed to or get it on time for sure.) This is par for the course with SOE who has phone company level of customer service (that is to say nearly non-existant and at times antagonistic.)
SOE admits this is meant to be a 'snack' game, i.e. not life consuming as some MMOs are designed to be, so we will see how much content and when we get it. I'd be ready to buy a Green Lantern themed expansion to coincide with the release of the GL movie (he's conspicuously absent for the most part in the base version so far) with new mentors and powers etc....
That's funny, I thought John was trying to tell us PC gamers that the subscription model is dead, so we should get used to all his new cash shops.
Also, if the game is meant to be a snack, why the current box price, plus subscription? Sort of like paying for a bucket of chicken and getting four nuggets imo.
I'm a comic book fan. Still collect a few titles. Before playing this though, I'd expect more initial content for the money, a working auction house, more user-friendly chat, and better combat animations tbh. What I've seen looks very choppy--kind of like one of those fight games from the 80's or 90's. I also wouldn't hold my breath for content updates that justify the current subscription fee.
Well that is the conundrum isn't it? Smedley says sub model is dead, let's sell the sub model to PS3! We will end up seeing the cash shop for DCUO soon enough I imagine. As far as them saying it's a 'snack' game yet it still costs the same as any other AAA MMO, well that's $oE for you.
They really need to have a divergence and make the PC version work for how PC players think it should and the PS3 one work the way it should. Both groups of players are already on seperate servers and if they don't intend on making PC and PS3 players play on the same server (or in some kinda cross-server/cross-platform instances to come) then polish the game to the hardware in use, not this cut it down the middle and make it work not especially well for neither. I say that having not played the PS3 version, but from everything I've seen the PS3 people are all ok on the controls etc...they just are not used to the subscription model, which, again, is SOE's main concern with the game atm. Getting those box sales of PS3 to convert to $15 a month customers for a long time.
Played: Asheron's Call(still the best fantasy MMO!), EQ1, EQ2, Vanguard, DAoC, Horizons, City of Heroes/Villians, WoW (crap), LOTORO, D&D Online, Eve, Anarchy Online, and still playing SWG daily.
Let's make that either (not neither) and also take a look at the interviews all over the place with SOE reps talking about this game. They continually say how DCUO is a AAA MMO. Repetition of something that seems like it wouldn't have to be usually means someone is trying to sell a lie...or at least change your mind. Classic programming (and I don't mean coding) technique.
Played: Asheron's Call(still the best fantasy MMO!), EQ1, EQ2, Vanguard, DAoC, Horizons, City of Heroes/Villians, WoW (crap), LOTORO, D&D Online, Eve, Anarchy Online, and still playing SWG daily.
The game certainly has issues (what mmo doesn't) and I agree wholeheartedly with the criticisms made by the reviewers and many of the comments here....but the actual fun and entertainment you get from playing the game imo effortlessly overcomes them imo.
Some people have commented that its just pvp where this fun arises, but that is not the case at all, the conviction and integrity underpinning this gameworld elevate all forms of play and transform what elsewhere is tired and repetitive making it feel fresh and new. Other mmo's lead you almost exclusively by the avatar customisations and neglect the gameworld.....but ironically not only is gameworld responsible for giving our avatar worth (and by association those customisations value) it goes on to provide 90% of overall experience. Although DCUO misses some basic MMO staples it compensates with the rarest of qualities immersion, involvement and fun.
As noted this is not an mmo for everyone, certainly not the traditionalists, but Its great to have a genuine alternative mmo to sample at long last after what was beginning to seem an increasingly stale and generic genre.
imo SoE have a golden goose and need to keep it well fed.
So I was wondering if DCU is the only game that will be receiving a weekly column dedicated to its pre-release and post release?
I looked, but didn't see one for Rift which is releasing in a few weeks and thought that it might be interesting to read the staffs thoughts on that game. Trion isn't as big a company as SOE and most likely doesn't have the same exposure and markting budget, but rift seems to be a pretty big event in the genre, but there doesn't seem to be much staff coverage on it.
So can we expect to read more weekly reviews of other games like this or was it just a special case for DCU?
How about the same for Earthrise? Or any number of other MMOs releasing sooner than Rift?
They don't have as big a budget as Rift, but I'm sure some people would love to read their staff thoughts on those game as well. Plus, it's actually releasing sooner than Rift so why should Rift be a special case? That's the problem.. too many games not enough time to cover them all.
Not to defend MMORPG.com, but a gaming site like this one has to pick and choose which game(s) to send their people on to produce articles. Now they COULD send a bunch of people over to Trion, but that's not going to pay the bills as we all know. Some choose WoW to lie in bed with, some choose others.
DCUO is a bigger name and more people instantly know the IP and most humans would rather talk about things they are familiar with and like rather than things they don't really understand (all the souls) or the mechanics (rifts).
While I already pre-ordered Rift, I really have no problem with MMORPG picking/choosing which games to go in-depth on. They didn't do it for Darkfall but they sure went all out for Warhammer.
It's their site. They can pick who they want to feature.
Lets be honest, there simply are not a lot of big name game released in single year. This year will see maybe 5, so I don't think it is a case of to much to be covered. As for paying the bills, I think that writing articles that attract readers to the site is what pays the bills through advertising. I'm not sure how sending people to trion won't pay the bills.
Anyhow, it isn't like the weekly articles building up to DCU release were time consuming to create. The majority of the article (before the game was delayed) were based on guesswork and speculation, because soe was being so tight fisted with information. Bill had to practically invent things to report on. I'm not claiming he fabricated information, but he did the best he could with what was available. Which was almost nothing.
The concept for weekly articles reporting on some of the more newsworthy games being released is a sound concept. Just look where all the activity is on this site. Discussing new releases is a large part of what attracts people to this site. I can only imagine it would serve the site best to continue to do weekly reports for games. Heck it doesn't even need to be limited to just one game.
DCU has been slathered in coverage by the staff and now that they have said it is coming to an end I think it would be nice to know if this will continue for other games (rift was just an example) or if this was just some special case for DCU?
Lets be honest, there simply are not a lot of big name game released in single year. This year will see maybe 5, so I don't think it is a case of to much to be covered.
As for paying the bills, I think that writing articles that attract readers to the site is what pays the bills through advertising. I'm not sure how sending people to trion won't pay the bills. Anyhow, it isn't like the weekly articles building up to DCU release were time consuming to create. The majority of the article (before the game was delayed) were based on guesswork and speculation, because soe was being so tight fisted with information. Bill had to practically invent things to report on. I'm not claiming he fabricated information, but he did the best he could with what was available. Which was almost nothing. The concept for weekly articles reporting on some of the more newsworthy games being released is a sound concept. Just look where all the activity is on this site. Discussing new releases is a large part of what attracts people to this site. I can only imagine it would serve the site best to continue to do weekly reports for games. Heck it doesn't even need to be limited to just one game. DCU has been slathered in coverage by the staff and now that they have said it is coming to an end I think it would be nice to know if this will continue for other games (rift was just an example) or if this was just some special case for DCU?
Good points, but this isn't a "AAA MMO" site. It's all MMOs. So what you are asking is simply impossible.
For them to give 'just as much equal time' to Rift as DCUO means another MMO loses out. Think of it like a big pie.
Most of that pie is naturally going to go to the person who's paying your bills. Then the next biggest piece goes to the next person. So on and so forth. Now that may not seem fair (which is your point) but this isn't a democracy. It's a site that doesn't charge members to post here and relies on income to come from gamemakers.
If those gamemakers don't pony up, they can't expect to get premiere coverage. Those that do should expect to get the lion's share of coverage. If you had a product that you were advertising vs your competitor, you'd expect to get better press if you paid more in the SAME newspaper or site. That's just natural.
You as a fan of a particular game don't have any say here other than your opinion of what should be covered (same as me). Because you and I don't pay, it's not logical to think we'd be able to say "I want this game covered JUST AS MUCH as something I like".
Articles is not what draws readers to a site. The ability to post their opinions free without a monthly/weekly/yearly fee is what does it for most people.
1) I'm not trying to get coverage for any game that I happen to like. I simply think the concept of weekly articles focused on a new release are interesting to read and happen to cover what most of the readers here are going to be interested in. AAA or not, I don't really care what the subject is as much as I am curious if this will be something done for other games.
2) I'm still working under the impression that mmorpg.com doesn't accept payments to create articles and favorable reviews from game developers. That is why I am asking if this is something that will be done for other games. A lot of people have expressed concerns that payola is the motivator for the disparity in coverage between dcu and other games and this would be a good chance to quiet those concerns.
That being said, it isn't a question you or I can really answer. Only the staff here can.
Originally posted by Daffid011 I think two things seperate our view popinjay.
1) I'm not trying to get coverage for any game that I happen to like. I simply think the concept of weekly articles focused on a new release are interesting to read and happen to cover what most of the readers here are going to be interested in. AAA or not, I don't really care what the subject is as much as I am curious if this will be something done for other games. 2) I'm still working under the impression that mmorpg.com doesn't accept payments to create articles and favorable reviews from game developers. That is why I am asking if this is something that will be done for other games. A lot of people have expressed concerns that payola is the motivator for the disparity in coverage between dcu and other games and this would be a good chance to quiet those concerns.
That being said, it isn't a question you or I can really answer. Only the staff here can.
Your question about 'pay to play' is legitimate as it goes on in many industries (and politics) already.I don't work for MMORPG so I don't know what their policy is other than what they state.
Now if you ask me if it's possible they might feel 'pressure' to review their bigger contributors games more in-depth than a indie game, possibly, probably. That certainly can figure in here and it's good business policy if you want to keep a free site running. (never bite the hand that feeds you)
I tend to think though that the difference between DCUO and Rift is that DCUO was doing a lot more publicity in beta, there are commercials on ESPN and major channels which hasn't happened for a MMO in a LONG time so there was a ton of buzz masses of people wanted to know about. Plus DCUO is actually out and released already so the staff can actually PLAY it all day long and get that really good review from it that we've read above from them.
While I like Rift very much and have pre-ordered a CE, I have only been able to play that game for 3 days at a stretch. Not because I don't like Rift.. I enjoy it a ton, but because Trion is selective about what it's showing. The endgame is wrapped up in an Alpha enigma that only a priviledged few have access, and we've got a month to go.
No word on what it's going to be like completely, no film from them on it, no review. So how can MMORPG do what you are asking if the game itself isn't willing to be opened up to BE reviewed like DCUO has? Rift has gotten good coverage from what I've seen compared to other MMOs.
But there is simply no way the popularity demands from a game like DCUO, SWTOR, and GW2 should be equaled in coverage for a game like Rift, which by all accounts is a drive-by sleeper... exactly what Trion wants it to be. Not a big hyped up game under a microscope.
Lets be honest, there simply are not a lot of big name game released in single year. This year will see maybe 5, so I don't think it is a case of to much to be covered. As for paying the bills, I think that writing articles that attract readers to the site is what pays the bills through advertising. I'm not sure how sending people to trion won't pay the bills.
Anyhow, it isn't like the weekly articles building up to DCU release were time consuming to create. The majority of the article (before the game was delayed) were based on guesswork and speculation, because soe was being so tight fisted with information. Bill had to practically invent things to report on. I'm not claiming he fabricated information, but he did the best he could with what was available. Which was almost nothing.
The concept for weekly articles reporting on some of the more newsworthy games being released is a sound concept. Just look where all the activity is on this site. Discussing new releases is a large part of what attracts people to this site. I can only imagine it would serve the site best to continue to do weekly reports for games. Heck it doesn't even need to be limited to just one game.
DCU has been slathered in coverage by the staff and now that they have said it is coming to an end I think it would be nice to know if this will continue for other games (rift was just an example) or if this was just some special case for DCU?
I don't want to push the thread off-topic but let me chime in here real quick. Yes, our weekly coverage of DC Universe Online has wrapped up and we are now shifting gears to Rift: Planes of Telara. We definitely appreciate your feedback and if you'd like to create a thread offering additional feedback on our editorial content you can feel free to do so in our Site Suggestions forum, but this thread is not the appropriate venue. Otherwise, questions regarding editorial can be directed to our Managing Editor Jon Wood at editor@mmorpg.com.
Also, the assertions that pay has anything to do with our editorial content couldn't be further from the truth and those of us who work here every day to provide you with content certainly don't appreciate such wild speculation. The fact of the matter is this: anything that has to do with money (advertising) is separated entirely from editorial. None of us on staff, and certainly none of our writers are privy to anything in advertising. I have no idea what ads go up when, who they are from, etc, and neither does anyone else other than our President & CEO who handles all of that (and also has absolutely no idea or say in regards to what we are doing in editorial, and that is all on purpose). DC Universe Online got a lot of play because it is a high profile MMO generating a lot of interest with a release date in the near future, let's please set the tinfoil hats aside. There is no conspiracy here, we're just gamers like you who love to write about games.
With that said, let's please stay on topic. Thank you.
(Off topic posts, discussion of editorial content, Rift, etc beyond this point WILL be removed. If you'd like to contact me privately with any questions or concerns you may do so at community@mmorpg.com)
While I like Rift very much and have pre-ordered a CE, I have only been able to play that game for 3 days at a stretch. Not because I don't like Rift.. I enjoy it a ton, but because Trion is selective about what it's showing. The endgame is wrapped up in an Alpha enigma that only a priviledged few have access, and we've got a month to go.
No word on what it's going to be like completely, no film from them on it, no review. So how can MMORPG do what you are asking if the game itself isn't willing to be opened up to BE reviewed like DCUO has? Rift has gotten good coverage from what I've seen compared to other MMOs.
How was that any different from DCU while it was being reviewed here? Soe didn't even have an open beta until AFTER the game was originally scheduled to be released, but that didn't prevent 10 weeks of articles revieing the game. Even when the game was openly shown it was only up to level 20.
I'm not asking for in depth end game reviews and I have no idea how you come to that conclusion, but what you claim to be impossible has already happened.
Comments
I played the game for 3 weeks. First three were a blast. But that is usually how most decent action games do for me. On the fourth week, after capping two characters and trying out everything. The game got stale, just a button masher with little depth. If people like it, that's great. But mmos imo need to have more depth to keep long term subscribers.
As others have asked, why are some people so upset that people like this game?
I played it in beta and had fun for several weeks. I even played mostly on the PvP server because it just made more sense to be able to attack your opposition. I don't normally play much PvP but in DCUO it seemed to fit so well.
The gameplay is solid, while the interface is garbage. It's a common statement on just about any review I've read of this game, not just at mmorpg.com. The other worry that players have is SOE's promise to add monthy updates. If SOE keeps its promise, this game will continue to be successful and even pull more players into the game that were on the fence about purchasing it.
If you like PvP and fast-paced play, then you should try this game. If you like more "traditional" MMOs then maybe this one isn't for you. This is not to say that you need to PvP to play this game, but I found that it actually adds to the game (and I'm no hardcore PvPer). Also, the fact that you work with or fight recognizable DC characters early and throughout the game makes it even more rewarding for DC fans.
It turns out that I became bored with the game as I do prefer the more "traditional" MMOs. That doesn't mean no one else should like this game, it just means its not a good fit for me. I think its great that some players enjoy the game. Their enjoyment in no way affects my life. And it shouldn't affect yours either.
Frankly, its the same UI they tried to sell people on with star wars galaxies NGE that was such a disaster. its almost like someone at soe is just hell bent on getting his pet project accepted. it isnt going to happen. its a game breaker for me.
if not for that use the mouse freelook ui garbage and the chat thing, i would be more inclined to keep the game. the user interface is just garbage a.
if i dont get an option to do a more traditional lock the camera behind me and be able to use my mouse to click things/target, whatever you want to call it (i call it the "Normal" user interface"), ill have to drop the subscription.
i am betting half the complaints about the game will go away if they fix that console ui they have
www.insomniacsbar.com (my little bar that i own in florida)
I've spent probably about 99% of the time with everything just doing PvE battles and I can add that if someone likes PvE, they probably would like this game as well. I found the Alerts and Raids are more engaging than the PvE as they are more diverse and I'm a sucker for story. The PvP is fun though but that's something I'll do in the game when I get bored with content which hasn't happened yet.
I think there is room for people who like traditional MMOs as well. I am one of those diehard traditionalists and I've met quite a few who are pretty addicted on the story side, so it's pretty much a game for all.
I would say if someone doesn't like a lot of clicking constantly, then they probably won't like the game that much.
"TO MICHAEL!"
Loved the article and love the game. And I gave coh/cox a good try more than once but now I know why I wasn't happy there. It was too much like other mmo's with superheroes inserted. Now, I feel like a superhero or villian. I am completely dazzled by the detail built in and the variety of things to do. I'm a long time quest hater but in this game it's just part of the story and while they can be challenging or even hard at times they also build in lots of help in the way of things you can throw (that can explode depending on what they are), npcs that will help you or are in the instance fighting already. Gotham and Metropolis have come to life and it can be fun just to drop in and have some fun even if you already done the quests the npcs are acting out for and even help others out. I am so completely amazed I can't really be objective right now. The interface and chat aren't great compared to what I was used too since I don't console at all but I've adapted to it and after a few days it's becoming second nature and as for the chat maybe it's a good thing there is no global chat. I know many need that to feel connected but it can also be a pain in most mmo's and I know I can get as involved as I want with the voice chat and grouping or joining leages (all things I haven't done yet). The power and skils system is well-done and with the iconic powers you can take on some of the mainstays of comic heroing (heat ray vision, freezing breath ect). You can choose your role (damage, healing) and have completely different choices from your selected power set. Costumes are already setup so once you have something you can use it just for looks and sell the real thing off.
The main problem I see the game facing is that it's more like guild wars than warcraft and quite unique and we all know how so many want the same ameneties from game to game (even though they tired of the last game already). It's not near as social as coh but more immersive by a long shot. If you enjoy superhero type movies you will love this as right from the beginning you feel 'super' and there is no need to grind anything. But I'm already seeing the bored 30's whining for content as the game is going to be eaten alive by the folks that race through levels like it's a race and play one class exclusivey as this is truely a game that is more about the journey to 30 than the actual arrival. I wasn't in the beta and I didn't read up on the game (or even follow it during developement so I've have to feel my way through sometimes struggling to figure out quests or how the game works but that's been great. I loathe the day the walk-throughs will pop up and folks will be racing through the content by the numbers skipping the fun in figuring things out when the answers aren't always obvious. The answers have always been there in front of me in most cases but due to my long mmo history and usual habits I sometimes balk if everything isn't obvious right away. So far I've had one thing I didn't understand after lots of trial and error (the rife moves/comboes using directional keys along with the mouse) that I was missing because you had to have a target to get them to work when most skills and powers work even without targets.
Many might be disappointed in only 3 movement types (flight, acrobatics and superspeed) with two being almost identical to coh but the one I thought I'd hate has become my favorite: acrobatics. You climb up anything like spiderman and race along the ground and an increased speed (not super but decent) and as I have found out there are other ways to gain flight: ie acrobatics you can select a skill that lets you glide forever instead of just angled down till you land with the basic acrobatics which is so like flying as you surf over buildings on the invisible air currents and a very quick speed. Sure its harder than flight and you can't hover but that makes it al the better for me. In addition you can gain access to equipment that allows you to fly anyway or power selections that allow you to fly in other forms.
I could go on but I wont as I'm itching to play but I want to mention one fun thing I've never seen before. Once a day after you hit level 6 you can hit the vault which is basically an instance provided by the joker full of gift packages that you break to either gain cash (most common thing) or unique costume items, weapons or just regular equipment you can buy. For instance my first thing I got on one character was joker's jetpack that allowed me to fly if I equipped it instead of my cape. It's not tradeable sadly but you do have a bank in the watchtower (the dc superhero spacestation hanging above earth) that shares between characters if the item is shareable. And the view up there...wow. Anyway, I want to play..not talk. So long.
edited for gotham instead of gothan and a can't for a can.....hate typoes...sure there are more but I wasn't kidding when I say I want to play not type.
Conversely, why do people get so aggrevated when others say they dislike the game? We tend to agree with the position that aligns with out view and refute those that don't.
{Mod Edit}
... and on sales: they aren't fantastic for a US$50m title. It might be the "quickest selling SOE title ever" but that is probably because they launched on two platforms at once.
If the sales figures were great, SOE would be publishing them, but it appears that DCUO has sold in the 400k - 500k range overall, split roughly 50/50 between PC and PS3. But since it isn't cross server, it is more like having two games of 250k when it comes to community and server population issues. A number of big MMO launches have struggled to retain 50% of their launch players, and retention is the core problem than DCUO is going to face.
Hated the game at first but its growing on me like fungus now.
Plz fix targeting and ui and chat !!! for pc ( we hav our own servers lol ) So just fix it dammit.
The one alarming thing that stands out to me about this game is the number of people talking about how they already have one or more characters at max level and are currently doing "endgame" content. So they're having fun now but does the game have the lasting power for them to still be having fun a month or two down the road?
I think I'm going to hold off to see if there really are monthly content updates. As it stands now I don't see enough here to justify a game purchase plus a monthly sub. I'll be curious to see how the retention rate is for this game.
1. For god's sake mmo gamers, enough with the analogies. They're unnecessary and your comparisons are terrible, dissimilar, and illogical.
2. To posters feeling the need to state how f2p really isn't f2p: Players understand the concept. You aren't privy to some secret the rest are missing. You're embarrassing yourself.
3. Yes, Cpt. Obvious, we're not industry experts. Now run along and let the big people use the forums for their purpose.
I took the leap and finaly bought this game late Saturday night, largely due to all of the positive responses from the staff here and posts. I am not a bit dissapointed, the game is loads of fun, especially on PVP servers.
As others have stated it definately has some work to be done undeniably but for me it is a huge upgrade/improvement from City of Heros. As for control issues, ive found that having a programable mouse helps out quite a bit.
My biggest problem is not being able to get a character to 10 before making another one. While i am playing one type of character I think of a new build and have to try it out . lol
Work hard Play Harder
Love the game, but UI/chat systems is a pain. And some technical stuff like vsync is 30 fps on a PC and not 60.
But overall best MMO for years.
Well that is the conundrum isn't it? Smedley says sub model is dead, let's sell the sub model to PS3! We will end up seeing the cash shop for DCUO soon enough I imagine. As far as them saying it's a 'snack' game yet it still costs the same as any other AAA MMO, well that's $oE for you.
They really need to have a divergence and make the PC version work for how PC players think it should and the PS3 one work the way it should. Both groups of players are already on seperate servers and if they don't intend on making PC and PS3 players play on the same server (or in some kinda cross-server/cross-platform instances to come) then polish the game to the hardware in use, not this cut it down the middle and make it work not especially well for neither. I say that having not played the PS3 version, but from everything I've seen the PS3 people are all ok on the controls etc...they just are not used to the subscription model, which, again, is SOE's main concern with the game atm. Getting those box sales of PS3 to convert to $15 a month customers for a long time.
Played: Asheron's Call(still the best fantasy MMO!), EQ1, EQ2, Vanguard, DAoC, Horizons, City of Heroes/Villians, WoW (crap), LOTORO, D&D Online, Eve, Anarchy Online, and still playing SWG daily.
Let's make that either (not neither) and also take a look at the interviews all over the place with SOE reps talking about this game. They continually say how DCUO is a AAA MMO. Repetition of something that seems like it wouldn't have to be usually means someone is trying to sell a lie...or at least change your mind. Classic programming (and I don't mean coding) technique.
Played: Asheron's Call(still the best fantasy MMO!), EQ1, EQ2, Vanguard, DAoC, Horizons, City of Heroes/Villians, WoW (crap), LOTORO, D&D Online, Eve, Anarchy Online, and still playing SWG daily.
The game certainly has issues (what mmo doesn't) and I agree wholeheartedly with the criticisms made by the reviewers and many of the comments here....but the actual fun and entertainment you get from playing the game imo effortlessly overcomes them imo.
Some people have commented that its just pvp where this fun arises, but that is not the case at all, the conviction and integrity underpinning this gameworld elevate all forms of play and transform what elsewhere is tired and repetitive making it feel fresh and new. Other mmo's lead you almost exclusively by the avatar customisations and neglect the gameworld.....but ironically not only is gameworld responsible for giving our avatar worth (and by association those customisations value) it goes on to provide 90% of overall experience. Although DCUO misses some basic MMO staples it compensates with the rarest of qualities immersion, involvement and fun.
As noted this is not an mmo for everyone, certainly not the traditionalists, but Its great to have a genuine alternative mmo to sample at long last after what was beginning to seem an increasingly stale and generic genre.
imo SoE have a golden goose and need to keep it well fed.
The two main issues I have with this game are
SOE being involved. I've yet to play a game they have a hand in that they have kept their promises and didn't muck up.
The Level Cap. I have to agree 30 is way too little content for such a game.
Thus i have not purchased it. In a year, if SOE doesn't destroy it, and content is much higher level, I might consider buying it (for the PC) then.
<link>http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8204/8245379178_45a58cec29.jpg</link>;
So I was wondering if DCU is the only game that will be receiving a weekly column dedicated to its pre-release and post release?
I looked, but didn't see one for Rift which is releasing in a few weeks and thought that it might be interesting to read the staffs thoughts on that game. Trion isn't as big a company as SOE and most likely doesn't have the same exposure and markting budget, but rift seems to be a pretty big event in the genre, but there doesn't seem to be much staff coverage on it.
So can we expect to read more weekly reviews of other games like this or was it just a special case for DCU?
How about the same for Earthrise? Or any number of other MMOs releasing sooner than Rift?
They don't have as big a budget as Rift, but I'm sure some people would love to read their staff thoughts on those game as well. Plus, it's actually releasing sooner than Rift so why should Rift be a special case? That's the problem.. too many games not enough time to cover them all.
Not to defend MMORPG.com, but a gaming site like this one has to pick and choose which game(s) to send their people on to produce articles. Now they COULD send a bunch of people over to Trion, but that's not going to pay the bills as we all know. Some choose WoW to lie in bed with, some choose others.
DCUO is a bigger name and more people instantly know the IP and most humans would rather talk about things they are familiar with and like rather than things they don't really understand (all the souls) or the mechanics (rifts).
While I already pre-ordered Rift, I really have no problem with MMORPG picking/choosing which games to go in-depth on. They didn't do it for Darkfall but they sure went all out for Warhammer.
It's their site. They can pick who they want to feature.
"TO MICHAEL!"
Lets be honest, there simply are not a lot of big name game released in single year. This year will see maybe 5, so I don't think it is a case of to much to be covered. As for paying the bills, I think that writing articles that attract readers to the site is what pays the bills through advertising. I'm not sure how sending people to trion won't pay the bills.
Anyhow, it isn't like the weekly articles building up to DCU release were time consuming to create. The majority of the article (before the game was delayed) were based on guesswork and speculation, because soe was being so tight fisted with information. Bill had to practically invent things to report on. I'm not claiming he fabricated information, but he did the best he could with what was available. Which was almost nothing.
The concept for weekly articles reporting on some of the more newsworthy games being released is a sound concept. Just look where all the activity is on this site. Discussing new releases is a large part of what attracts people to this site. I can only imagine it would serve the site best to continue to do weekly reports for games. Heck it doesn't even need to be limited to just one game.
DCU has been slathered in coverage by the staff and now that they have said it is coming to an end I think it would be nice to know if this will continue for other games (rift was just an example) or if this was just some special case for DCU?
Good points, but this isn't a "AAA MMO" site. It's all MMOs. So what you are asking is simply impossible.
For them to give 'just as much equal time' to Rift as DCUO means another MMO loses out. Think of it like a big pie.
Most of that pie is naturally going to go to the person who's paying your bills. Then the next biggest piece goes to the next person. So on and so forth. Now that may not seem fair (which is your point) but this isn't a democracy. It's a site that doesn't charge members to post here and relies on income to come from gamemakers.
If those gamemakers don't pony up, they can't expect to get premiere coverage. Those that do should expect to get the lion's share of coverage. If you had a product that you were advertising vs your competitor, you'd expect to get better press if you paid more in the SAME newspaper or site. That's just natural.
You as a fan of a particular game don't have any say here other than your opinion of what should be covered (same as me). Because you and I don't pay, it's not logical to think we'd be able to say "I want this game covered JUST AS MUCH as something I like".
Articles is not what draws readers to a site. The ability to post their opinions free without a monthly/weekly/yearly fee is what does it for most people.
"TO MICHAEL!"
I think two things seperate our view popinjay.
1) I'm not trying to get coverage for any game that I happen to like. I simply think the concept of weekly articles focused on a new release are interesting to read and happen to cover what most of the readers here are going to be interested in. AAA or not, I don't really care what the subject is as much as I am curious if this will be something done for other games.
2) I'm still working under the impression that mmorpg.com doesn't accept payments to create articles and favorable reviews from game developers. That is why I am asking if this is something that will be done for other games. A lot of people have expressed concerns that payola is the motivator for the disparity in coverage between dcu and other games and this would be a good chance to quiet those concerns.
That being said, it isn't a question you or I can really answer. Only the staff here can.
Now if you ask me if it's possible they might feel 'pressure' to review their bigger contributors games more in-depth than a indie game, possibly, probably. That certainly can figure in here and it's good business policy if you want to keep a free site running. (never bite the hand that feeds you)
I tend to think though that the difference between DCUO and Rift is that DCUO was doing a lot more publicity in beta, there are commercials on ESPN and major channels which hasn't happened for a MMO in a LONG time so there was a ton of buzz masses of people wanted to know about. Plus DCUO is actually out and released already so the staff can actually PLAY it all day long and get that really good review from it that we've read above from them.
While I like Rift very much and have pre-ordered a CE, I have only been able to play that game for 3 days at a stretch. Not because I don't like Rift.. I enjoy it a ton, but because Trion is selective about what it's showing. The endgame is wrapped up in an Alpha enigma that only a priviledged few have access, and we've got a month to go.
No word on what it's going to be like completely, no film from them on it, no review. So how can MMORPG do what you are asking if the game itself isn't willing to be opened up to BE reviewed like DCUO has? Rift has gotten good coverage from what I've seen compared to other MMOs.
But there is simply no way the popularity demands from a game like DCUO, SWTOR, and GW2 should be equaled in coverage for a game like Rift, which by all accounts is a drive-by sleeper... exactly what Trion wants it to be. Not a big hyped up game under a microscope.
"TO MICHAEL!"
I don't want to push the thread off-topic but let me chime in here real quick. Yes, our weekly coverage of DC Universe Online has wrapped up and we are now shifting gears to Rift: Planes of Telara. We definitely appreciate your feedback and if you'd like to create a thread offering additional feedback on our editorial content you can feel free to do so in our Site Suggestions forum, but this thread is not the appropriate venue. Otherwise, questions regarding editorial can be directed to our Managing Editor Jon Wood at editor@mmorpg.com.
Also, the assertions that pay has anything to do with our editorial content couldn't be further from the truth and those of us who work here every day to provide you with content certainly don't appreciate such wild speculation. The fact of the matter is this: anything that has to do with money (advertising) is separated entirely from editorial. None of us on staff, and certainly none of our writers are privy to anything in advertising. I have no idea what ads go up when, who they are from, etc, and neither does anyone else other than our President & CEO who handles all of that (and also has absolutely no idea or say in regards to what we are doing in editorial, and that is all on purpose). DC Universe Online got a lot of play because it is a high profile MMO generating a lot of interest with a release date in the near future, let's please set the tinfoil hats aside. There is no conspiracy here, we're just gamers like you who love to write about games.
With that said, let's please stay on topic. Thank you.
(Off topic posts, discussion of editorial content, Rift, etc beyond this point WILL be removed. If you'd like to contact me privately with any questions or concerns you may do so at community@mmorpg.com)
How was that any different from DCU while it was being reviewed here? Soe didn't even have an open beta until AFTER the game was originally scheduled to be released, but that didn't prevent 10 weeks of articles revieing the game. Even when the game was openly shown it was only up to level 20.
I'm not asking for in depth end game reviews and I have no idea how you come to that conclusion, but what you claim to be impossible has already happened.