MMOs using known IPs

CookieTime

Now, while this topic points heavily towards SWTOR and uses it as an example, it is meant to adress all MMOs that use non-gaming IPs to bring their worlds alive.



We're all aware of the fact that huge IPs like SW attract a lot of attention when mentioned out loud, meaning a lot of potential customers for any product related to it. But it also represents a problem when it comes to games, because everytime I hear "dude it's Star Wars, it's going to be amazing", I find myself wondering about the limitations this quote brings..

What happens when writers try to bring something new and unexpected into the story? While they can afford small changes, the really big (and exciting) ones can not be accepted. This problem increases even more when a game is put into a time frame before the actual movie/story, because everything in the game has to correspond with the future which is already written and known. This can represent a huge disadvantage for developers and players alike.

Not to mention all the hardcore IP fans, who cause a panic for every little inconsistency with the lore.

In this aspect, games with their own IPs have an advantage. ANYTHING can happen and the game is not confined within the boundaries and rules of one predefined universe.

Thoughts?

Jimmac

So long as the developers make it known that the game is non canon in all aspects if the IP, then it doesn't really bother me what they do, but I do agree with your overall point that original IP's have an advantage in the ways you said they did. That seems really more like an objective observation than subjective opinion so it's hard to disagree with. 

Puremallace

SWToR is SEVERELY locked into lore based decisions. Like if they wanted to add flying mounts it would forced to a like that speeder thing in Episode 2 during the chase scene.

 

Like they can never just go crazy with their armor or weapons.