Originally posted by Ravanos the hypocrisy is actually on the side of the attackers how many changes has EQ2 made to help out the soloer. especially when they said before launch that "soloing would be done in "lobbies" of dungeons while waiting for groups to form". that was a lie but i bet you don't count that since it worked in the benefit of the soloer. Or changes to most of the zones from many heroic mobs to NO heroic mobs ... again making it easy to solo. them changing that thus changing the focus of the game from a group oriented game to a solo WoW centric game is a lie but no one brings that up as being a lie. it's amazing its always a lie when it doesn't go in the flamers favor ... he said it ... wow congrats you found something SOE decided to change thier mind on heres a button. Let me go reread through some blizzard interviews i bet i could point out a bunch of crap that they "lied" about. time change ... things change. When i was 10 i said i would never ever eat salad ... now I have a salad with many of my meals. OMG IM A LIAR!!!!
There is a difference between an direct lie to your customers and tweaking a game. What you point out isn't SOE being dishonest in my opinion (well most of the time anyhow). It is SOE not having a clue to what they are doing. EQ2s entire history has been a series of the devs doing exactly what you illustrate. It isn't some issue of "flamers" over looking what is in their favor. The devs simply have no consistency in design direction. There are plenty of people who don't overlook that and do think SOE was being dishonest to their current players and instead changing the game to attract a bigger market. So I don't think everyone overlooks those issues.
What is funny about your opinion is that the "defender" in question is a huge soloer in EQ2. Kind of shoots a giant hole in your theory doesn't it?
Cash shops are lame and yes they probably did sneak it in because they wanted to milk the expansion. But check out Playerauctions and i think still EBay. People have ALWAYS been able to buy items for real cash, this is nothing new. Why is it so much worse when the actual company that made the game is getting a piece of the pie?
If I wanted to play a game with Microtransaction model I would go play a FREE 2 Play Asian game.
We are talking about a PAY 2 Play game here. A game that has going on for over 4 years now!
They have a loyal playerbase that has stick with them through tick and thin through these years and always said they didn't want to see an Item Mall in the game.
They protested against Station Exchange and thats why it was done on seperate servers.
John Smedly said to calm the people down and not mass quiting already back then, that they would NEVER do it on the existing Non-Exchange servers in EverQuest 2!
And here we are today!
Nothing further to add.
Cheers
But, it is a huge jump to say that "ya there is only fluff on there now but soon all great items are only going to be sold at the shop". That would be the stupidest thing in the world for SOE to do. Who is going to play a game where you can ONLY get the best items by buying them?
A huge jump? I really don't think so.
I'm sure people would have said it was a "huge jump" to suggest an Item Mall would be added at all after they implemented Station Exchange servers; what with all the controversy surrounding that whole situation.
Besides, Smed had stated emphatically that RMT would never be implemented in any way, shape or form on the non-SE servers, didn't he?
Regardless, despite Smed's reassurances that it wouldn't happen, RMT was added to the non SE servers anyway, in the form of an Item Mall. They did it in a very underhanded way (very typical of SOE) with very little notice, sneaking it in right after people had gone out and bought an expansion... just like they did with the NGE. And just like the NGE mess, they came back and said "the players supported the idea" - even as many players knew nothing about any such thing until after it was added.
I would think that would have raised a red flag or three for those with a memory of what happened with the Station Exchange and/or NGE situations. Yet, here we are now with people defending SOE/Smed, and projecting doubt that it would ever go beyond fluff items.
At what point, I wonder, do people stop ignoring the actions of the past, or denying that they set a precedent for for the future? How many times does a person have to lie or pull stunts like this before people snap out of it and say "okay, enough is enough"? How much benefit of the doubt can you seriously give someone when they repeatedly squander it?
That's what I'd like to know.
"Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."
"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
At what point, I wonder, do people stop ignoring the actions of the past, or denying that they set a precedent for for the future? How many times does a person have to lie or pull stunts like this before people snap out of it and say "okay, enough is enough"? How much benefit of the doubt can you seriously give someone when they repeatedly squander it?
That's what I'd like to know. "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
At what point, I wonder, do people stop ignoring the actions of the past, or denying that they set a precedent for for the future? How many times does a person have to lie or pull stunts like this before people snap out of it and say "okay, enough is enough"? How much benefit of the doubt can you seriously give someone when they repeatedly squander it?
That's what I'd like to know. "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
Exactly,
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
At what point, I wonder, do people stop ignoring the actions of the past, or denying that they set a precedent for for the future? How many times does a person have to lie or pull stunts like this before people snap out of it and say "okay, enough is enough"? How much benefit of the doubt can you seriously give someone when they repeatedly squander it?
That's what I'd like to know. "Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
Exactly,
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
Let that sink in and think about that.
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
I'm sorry people yell at you when your are working the cash register, but that doesn't really equate to experience with CEOs of corporations does it? Obviously you have an axe to grind with unruly customers who blame you for a corporations failings (at least how you see them), but these are similar situations. This isn't a case of a customer wanting to 'rent' a book via returning it or wanting free super sizing and yelling at you for not doing it.
Perhaps there is a forum for employees that have to deal with angry customers where your experiences would be better suited.
I'm sorry people yell at you when your are working the cash register, but that doesn't really equate to experience with CEOs of corporations does it? Obviously you have an axe to grind with unruly customers who blame you for a corporations failings (at least how you see them), but these are similar situations. This isn't a case of a customer wanting to 'rent' a book via returning it or wanting free super sizing and yelling at you for not doing it.
Perhaps there is a forum for employees that have to deal with angry customers where your experiences would be better suited.
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
I'm sorry people yell at you when your are working the cash register, but that doesn't really equate to experience with CEOs of corporations does it? Obviously you have an axe to grind with unruly customers who blame you for a corporations failings (at least how you see them), but these are similar situations. This isn't a case of a customer wanting to 'rent' a book via returning it or wanting free super sizing and yelling at you for not doing it.
Perhaps there is a forum for employees that have to deal with angry customers where your experiences would be better suited.
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
I'm sorry people yell at you when your are working the cash register, but that doesn't really equate to experience with CEOs of corporations does it? Obviously you have an axe to grind with unruly customers who blame you for a corporations failings (at least how you see them), but these are similar situations. This isn't a case of a customer wanting to 'rent' a book via returning it or wanting free super sizing and yelling at you for not doing it.
Perhaps there is a forum for employees that have to deal with angry customers where your experiences would be better suited.
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
Oh sweet irony....
i⋅ro⋅ny
1 /?a?r?ni, ?a??r-/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [ahy-ruh-nee, ahy-er-] Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun, plural -nies.
1. the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning: the irony of her reply, “How nice!” when I said I had to work all weekend.
2. Literature.
a. a technique of indicating, as through character or plot development, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or ostensibly stated.
b. (esp. in contemporary writing) a manner of organizing a work so as to give full expression to contradictory or complementary impulses, attitudes, etc., esp. as a means of indicating detachment from a subject, theme, or emotion.
3. Socratic irony.
4. dramatic irony.
5. an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.
6. the incongruity of this.
7. an objectively sardonic style of speech or writing.
8. an objectively or humorously sardonic utterance, disposition, quality, etc.
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
Let that sink in and think about that.
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
You clearly have no idea what you are talking about. So I just leave it by that.
No point making it clear to you what has gone on around SOE the last couple years since the SWG CU, NGE and EverQuest 2 and how stupid bussiness decision after stupid bussiness decision have been made. And so they have lost millions and millions of dollars of steady revenue because of it.
And if you cannot see that, well then you are indeed very naive and I guess SOE might be lucky there are naive people like you acting like sheep and keep throwing money at them. Otherwise they would have been out of bussiness long ago.
And if you think what SOE is doing is normal and standard these days. No it is not! Just have a look at Turbine or CCP or Mythic or the guys of FFXI.
What SOE has done here is a PURE SCAM! Plain and simple. 1. They didn't warn their paying customers way in front that this was coming! 2. They waited a couple weeks after the TSO expansion launch. Make sure they sell as much as possible. 3. They quickly changed the Terms and EULA with the patching in of Station Cash. These SCAM'ing bastards knew pretty well and on forhand that this sytem, would they have announced it at forehand, would have made a lot of people cancel their accounts and would have hurt their TSO expansion sales drastically!
I dont know if I would call it a scam but I do agree with your 3 points - especially the 1st point
Microtransactions are controversial
to just add them to an older existing game
with no prior communication shows a complete disregard for their playerbase
This !
I am so happy I never started playing EQ II
BTW, if they ever did something like this in EVE Online, I would quit and never look back. ( Even tho I love this game )
If you are interested in subscription or PCU numbers for MMORPG's, check out my site : http://mmodata.blogspot.be/ Favorite MMORPG's : DAoC pre ToA-NF, SWG Pre CU-NGE, EVE Online
This is a shame. Don't think I bother going back to EQ2 anytime soon.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
What SOE has done here is a PURE SCAM! Plain and simple. 1. They didn't warn their paying customers way in front that this was coming! 2. They waited a couple weeks after the TSO expansion launch. Make sure they sell as much as possible. 3. They quickly changed the Terms and EULA with the patching in of Station Cash. These SCAM'ing bastards knew pretty well and on forhand that this sytem, would they have announced it at forehand, would have made a lot of people cancel their accounts and would have hurt their TSO expansion sales drastically!
I dont know if I would call it a scam but I do agree with your 3 points - especially the 1st point
Microtransactions are controversial
to just add them to an older existing game
with no prior communication shows a complete disregard for their playerbase
This !
I am so happy I never started playing EQ II
BTW, if they ever did something like this in EVE Online, I would quit and never look back. ( Even tho I love this game )
i been playting off and on since 2004 during its launch, so i was actually glad i never purchased TSO expansion after i heard this BS. thank god i dodged this bullet. I wont be going back to eq2 ever. time to pack mah shit and move on. the game was slowly dying anyways. same can be said for every game SOE has on life support currently probably barely getting by compared to other MMO's.
3.4ghz Phenom II X4 965, 8GB PC12800 DDR3 GSKILL, EVGA 560GTX 2GB OC, 640GB HD SATA II, BFG 1000WATT PSU. MSI NF980-G65 TRI-SLI MOBO.
This is a shame. Don't think I bother going back to EQ2 anytime soon.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
We all have been going over this for a very long time. Many people have given good reasons as to why.
The only excuse you keep coming up with as a recorded tape message is that the Item Mall doesn't affect YOUR gameplay. Fine. We get that now.
It's not about conspiracy. It is about bad bussiness practices. It is continous lies.
Many people, including me had the endure the NGE years ago by SOE, that completely destroyed a game we all loved to play and supported through thick and thin.
I didn't jump on the hate wagon back then. I did my say about it and turned my back on SOE and left.
Years later EverQuest 2 comes along and I decided to give SOE a second chance. In a hope SOE would have learned from their NGE debacle and would do better now. EverQuest 2 was a new game I came to love. With a great community and great gameplay.
But appearently they haven't learned a thing at all! Yes they have learned they can screw over people and keep lying to them, as there will always be enough sheep around swallowing it and keep throwing money at them. No matter what they do.
It's about basic company ethics and respect towards your paying customers! Something SOE clearly disregards. Better yet... something Sony lately as a whole completely disregards!
The way this Cash Shop was implemented (read Stealth patched just a couple weeks after a major expansion) smells SCAM all over it! Complete and Utter disrespect towards their loyal customers. Just like how they did with the CU and NGE back then in SWG.
And to wake you up from your Etereal dream my friend. The responsible SOE producer is already talking about adding real armor sets and other items to the Cash Shop.
How about that not being game breaking huh.
Rest is assured, that it doesn't take long before the Cash shop will be a fully fledged Item Mall in wich you can buy EVERYTHING! Making it the first Play 2 Pay subscription based MMO with an Item Mall!
The hints are already there in the open. If you don't want to see them and rather ignore them as you ignore all the other past stunts SOE has pulled. That is completely fine with me.
But don't keep coming here telling people we are the liars, drama queens, overdramatising, etc, etc.
We have all reasons to and all evidence lies in the open supporting our anger towards SOE.
I have never seen such a dramatic company before in my life that could wreck a good designed and well running game, after game after game. Purely due to sheer arrogance, total disregard towards their paying customers and bad decision after bad decision.
SOE had all the talent, expertise, IP's and funding to become the topdog in the MMO industry. But due to a highly unqualified CEO as head of the company they completely blew it!
Smedley lied, again. I predicted he'd do this when the first exchange servers went live and he was talking about how microtransation was the payment model of the future. He still is talking about microtransactions, just he doesn't believe in dropping the subscription system either!
Yeah I laughed my head off when this happened, all the players calling me a troll and hater and telling me how it was only two servers and Smedley had given his word! How niave!
Now you have people that think it'll stop here and won't go on to having good items for sale, this is funny to read. Smed wants your MUNNNNNEEEEHHHHH! He doesn't care what you want, he'll start putting all the new gear on thier and phasing out old gear he thinks he can't get away with putting on. Then you're paying your Sub and buying his 2 expansions per year too!
"But you're not forced to use it, so why complain?" Not forced to? Maybe not now but in 6 months to 1 year when you're wearing crappy armour with crappy weapons getting bitch slapped by the 10 year old and his potion of uberness (cash shop TM) you might not be forced but you'll be annoyed. It will result in you can't ignore the existance of the cash shop, and your game will suffer due to its existance.
You may not believe me but all the items you guys have been asking for will start appearing ingame now, well in cash shop! So you'll be faced with a sub, an expansion and that item you've been asking to be ingame for 1 year.
"But you can buy items anyway, what does it matter if SOE sell them now?" this cracks me up. Well for one you already bought the game and its 50 expansions and pay a subscription, good enough reason? Gold and item selling is illeagl in most pay to plays, but now it's ok aslong as you pay Smed. It's ridiculous that you are paying them to make items that you ask for which go into the cash shop that you have to buy again and pay the sub, box and any number of expansion each year!
But if you're happy biting the SOE pillow I say go for it and have fun, I know Smed will!
"A fool and his money are easily parted" - John Smedley CEO of Shopping Online Everday
"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience"
This is a shame. Don't think I bother going back to EQ2 anytime soon.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
We all have been going over this for a very long time. Many people have given good reasons as to why.
The only excuse you keep coming up with as a recorded tape message is that the Item Mall doesn't affect YOUR gameplay. Fine. We get that now.
It's not about conspiracy. It is about bad bussiness practices. It is continous lies.
Many people, including me had the endure the NGE years ago by SOE, that completely destroyed a game we all loved to play and supported through thick and thin.
I didn't jump on the hate wagon back then. I did my say about it and turned my back on SOE and left.
Years later EverQuest 2 comes along and I decided to give SOE a second chance. In a hope SOE would have learned from their NGE debacle and would do better now. EverQuest 2 was a new game I came to love. With a great community and great gameplay.
But appearently they haven't learned a thing at all! Yes they have learned they can screw over people and keep lying to them, as there will always be enough sheep around swallowing it and keep throwing money at them. No matter what they do.
It's about basic company ethics and respect towards your paying customers! Something SOE clearly disregards. Better yet... something Sony lately as a whole completely disregards!
The way this Cash Shop was implemented (read Stealth patched just a couple weeks after a major expansion) smells SCAM all over it! Complete and Utter disrespect towards their loyal customers. Just like how they did with the CU and NGE back then in SWG.
And to wake you up from your Etereal dream my friend. The responsible SOE producer is already talking about adding real armor sets and other items to the Cash Shop.
How about that not being game breaking huh.
Rest is assured, that it doesn't take long before the Cash shop will be a fully fledged Item Mall in wich you can buy EVERYTHING! Making it the first Play 2 Pay subscription based MMO with an Item Mall!
The hints are already there in the open. If you don't want to see them and rather ignore them as you ignore all the other past stunts SOE has pulled. That is completely fine with me.
But don't keep coming here telling people we are the liars, drama queens, overdramatising, etc, etc.
We have all reasons to and all evidence lies in the open supporting our anger towards SOE.
I have never seen such a dramatic company before in my life that could wreck a good designed and well running game, after game after game. Purely due to sheer arrogance, total disregard towards their paying customers and bad decision after bad decision.
SOE had all the talent, expertise, IP's to become the topdog in the MMO industry. But due to highly unqualified CEO as head of the company they completely blew it!
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainment dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainemt dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
Alright,
Let's put it in a different perspective. Maybe things become more clear then.
First: Item Malls are hopefully not the future! Me and many others will turn our backs in an instant!
Item Malls have never been popular here in the west and hopefully it will stay that way.
Why? Because we are not that stupid to be forced to pay $5 for a health pot or $10 per armor item, just to be able to play the game, instead of a tedious frustration.
I am not going to spend $100 or more each month on the item mall for some pixelated crap just to play a game! While I can enjoy another game with just $15 a month as fee.
Item Malls were the only way for Free 2 Play MMO companies to make a profit. This bussiness model was always popular in Asia.
But even in Korea the monthly subscription based model becomes more and more popular!
That aside:
------------------
Why seems SOE to be forced to continuously screw over the customers by constantly making 180 degree turns in their ongoing game development process on LIVE games?
Why did they had to add a pixelated Trading Card Game on top of existing live MMO games that are nothing more then Loot card lottery schemes?
Why did they had to launch Station Exchange Servers?
Why did they had to stealth patch the Cash Shop to EverQuest 2 right after the launch of a PAID expansion? And with that completely altering the Bussiness Model of an existing LIVE game?
Is it maybe, because they MISSERABLY FAIL in their ongoing development process? That they are complete loose cannons and have no clear and solid directions? Constantly altering their games? Constantly creating unrest within their game's community?
That they fail to retain their paying subscribers? Goh what a suprise!
John Smedly is just a bad bad CEO, completely clueless, completely out of touch with his paying customer base... seeing these almost panic business decisions.
He fails to keep people subscribed to his games, thus instead he slaps gamble and F2P RMT systems on top of his P2P MMO games to squeeze more money out of their wallets. Completely altering existing ongoing live games. Completely altering the Bussiness models. And thus completely altering EULA's on the fly!
And if he loses even more customers because of it. That doesn't matter. As long as there are enough sheep left throwing enough money at him to make a profit.
How long do you think SOE can continue to operate like this? Before more and more and more people are going to say: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I have had it! And turn their backs to SOE as well!
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainemt dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
Alright,
Let's put it in a different perspective. Maybe things become more clear then.
First: Item Malls are hopefully not the future! Me and many others will turn our backs in an instant!
Item Malls have never been popular here in the west and hopefully it will stay that way.
Why? Because we are not that stupid to be forced to pay $5 for a health pot or $10 per armor item, just to be able to play the game, instead of a tedious frustration.
I am not going to spend $100 or more each month on the item mall for some pixelated crap just to play a game! While I can enjoy another game with just $15 a month as fee.
Item Malls were the only way for Free 2 Play MMO companies to make a profit. This bussiness model was always popular in Asia.
But even in Korea the monthly subscription based model becomes more and more popular!
That aside:
------------------
Why seems SOE to be forced to continuously screw over the customers by constantly making 180 degree turns in their ongoing game development process on LIVE games?
Why did they had to add a pixelated Trading Card Game on top of existing live MMO games that are nothing more then Loot card lottery schemes?
Why did they had to launch Station Exchange Servers?
Why did they had to stealth patch the Cash Shop to EverQuest 2 right after the launch of a PAID expansion? And with that completely altering the Bussiness Model of an existing LIVE game?
Is it maybe, because they MISSERABLY FAIL in their ongoing development process? That they are complete loose cannons and have no clear and solid directions? Constantly altering their games? Constantly creating unrest within their game's community?
That they fail to retain their paying subscribers? Goh what a suprise!
John Smedly is just a bad bad CEO, completely clueless, completely out of touch with his paying customer base... seeing these almost panic business decisions.
He fails to keep people subscribed to his games, thus instead he slaps gamble and F2P RMT systems on top of his P2P MMO games to squeeze more money out of their wallets. Completely altering existing ongoing live games. Completely altering the Bussiness models. And thus completely altering EULA's on the fly!
And if he loses even more customers because of it. That doesn't matter. As long as there are enough sheep left throwing enough money at him to make a profit.
How long do you think SOE can continue to operate like this? Before more and more and more people are going to say: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I have had it! And turn their backs to SOE as well!
Different perspective? Thats not a "different perspective", thats you bashing SOE because you're moaning about something you don't like. Just like most other people in this thread who don't have lives and simply refuse to enjoy the game because they have this childish beaf with SOE.
Get over it. You don't like it? There's the door, protest with your money. You don't play it? Then why are you trolling because you obviously have no reason to be here other than to cause trouble.
Different perspective? Thats not a "different perspective", thats you bashing SOE because you're moaning about something you don't like. Just like most other people in this thread who don't have lives and simply refuse to enjoy the game because they have this childish beaf with SOE.
Get over it. You don't like it? There's the door, protest with your money. You don't play it? Then why are you trolling because you obviously have no reason to be here other than to cause trouble.
Me and my girlfriend have thrown over a $1000 on boxes, expansions and sub fees towards SOE these past years.
So I have every right to express myself. Just like others. Thank you.
But then again. We know who you are. So I wouldn't have expected any different answer from you anyway.
- Vanguard debacle (nothing new since 1 year ? VG worked better in jan.2008 than in jan. 2009...)
- EQII cash shop (wanted to try again EQ2 but with CS won't subscribe)
It's over. I have been subscribed at SWG, VG and EQ2. I won't pay again. Not a scam, only a strange way to keep customers... They are going to loose customers, nothing else.
This is a shame. Don't think I bother going back to EQ2 anytime soon.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of.
Those fun odd choices used to be free. That affects the game, because they are no longer free nor rewards for ingame actions.
Those fun odd choices take the time and effort of programmers to create. Those are the same programmers your monthly fee pays to create ongoing upkeep and content that used to be free. That affects the game.
Those fun odd choices you need not be part of are now a monetary choice, not a gameplay choice. That affects the game.
Those fun odd choices will grow as soe will depends on that extra revenue which in turn means less free content.
Those fun odd choices already affect the game in terms of experience gain. Soe can at any time change the mechanics behind the scenes to nudge people towards the cash shop instead of offering in game activities that challenge players.
The cash shop items without a doubt change the way the game is designed. Everything in the game now has to go through the process of determining if it will be better served for soe to sell the item in the cash shop or put it in game as part of continual support. That affects how the entire game is made.
If you are fine with the cash shop by all means best of wishes to you. However, please do not attempt to pretend this does not affect the game. It does even if it is mild or hard to see the abstract concepts right now. There is more to cash malls affecting a game than just giving statistical advantages on a character sheet.
In the end you and everyone else are now being asked to pay a second fee for individual items that used to be a free part of your subscription. The strangest part is that soe is asking people to pay fees to NOT play the game and receive rewards. I remember a time when people on this forum used to brag about how EQ2 was a game where you had to earn your items.
I really hope that anything like this does not catch on in the industry.
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
So I suppose you think that customers who pay hard earned money for a PRODUCT, should just bend over and take it up the a** if the product is either sub-par, not what they were told it would be, or faulty in some other way?
Let's look at it this way....
Say you paid Verizon Wireless 150 bucks a month for unlimited calls and unlimited text messaging and then, after you signed the contract, and had been a loyal customer, never making late payments for about 4 years, they decide to change said contract (discreetly slipping in the changes without telling you ahead of time), and began to charge for text messages longer than oh.....one line. Let's say they did this right after you bought a special "Valentine's Day Package" that was to allow even more "perks," (say sending mp3s with your messages or something) but yet suddenly you realize that your text messages are now going to have to be lacking/shorter, or you're going to have to pay more for them. Would you complain? Or....would you insist that you got the UNLIMITED package that you PAID for? (The above is just an example, it has no basis in fact, and is in no way intended to reflect negatively on Verizon Wireless.)
I understand all of your "business sense" yammer. However, it is NEVER good business to piss off your most loyal customers....EVER. Customers TALK, and they spread the word about both GOOD things, and BAD. Customers cancel subscriptions. If you combine those two things they equal lost business.
Common courtesy and consideration are only not given by businesses that are not called to ACCOUNT for bad customer service practices. I assert, that it's people like YOU that just say, "Meh...they have to make a buck," that allow this sort of bad business practice to carry on. It's the same as watching a crime and doing nothing to report it. Your lack of involvement and apathy, makes you PART of the PROBLEM.
People have a right to demand that they GET.....EXACTLY what they paid for, which is the product that was TRUTHFULLY advertised to them and paid for. Anything outside of that realm not only DESERVES criticism, but punitive action, whether that be complaints, subscription cancellation, or litigation (in some cases).
Comments
There is a difference between an direct lie to your customers and tweaking a game. What you point out isn't SOE being dishonest in my opinion (well most of the time anyhow). It is SOE not having a clue to what they are doing. EQ2s entire history has been a series of the devs doing exactly what you illustrate. It isn't some issue of "flamers" over looking what is in their favor. The devs simply have no consistency in design direction. There are plenty of people who don't overlook that and do think SOE was being dishonest to their current players and instead changing the game to attract a bigger market. So I don't think everyone overlooks those issues.
What is funny about your opinion is that the "defender" in question is a huge soloer in EQ2. Kind of shoots a giant hole in your theory doesn't it?
If I wanted to play a game with Microtransaction model I would go play a FREE 2 Play Asian game.
We are talking about a PAY 2 Play game here. A game that has going on for over 4 years now!
They have a loyal playerbase that has stick with them through tick and thin through these years and always said they didn't want to see an Item Mall in the game.
They protested against Station Exchange and thats why it was done on seperate servers.
John Smedly said to calm the people down and not mass quiting already back then, that they would NEVER do it on the existing Non-Exchange servers in EverQuest 2!
And here we are today!
Nothing further to add.
Cheers
But, it is a huge jump to say that "ya there is only fluff on there now but soon all great items are only going to be sold at the shop". That would be the stupidest thing in the world for SOE to do. Who is going to play a game where you can ONLY get the best items by buying them?
A huge jump? I really don't think so.
I'm sure people would have said it was a "huge jump" to suggest an Item Mall would be added at all after they implemented Station Exchange servers; what with all the controversy surrounding that whole situation.
Besides, Smed had stated emphatically that RMT would never be implemented in any way, shape or form on the non-SE servers, didn't he?
Regardless, despite Smed's reassurances that it wouldn't happen, RMT was added to the non SE servers anyway, in the form of an Item Mall. They did it in a very underhanded way (very typical of SOE) with very little notice, sneaking it in right after people had gone out and bought an expansion... just like they did with the NGE. And just like the NGE mess, they came back and said "the players supported the idea" - even as many players knew nothing about any such thing until after it was added.
I would think that would have raised a red flag or three for those with a memory of what happened with the Station Exchange and/or NGE situations. Yet, here we are now with people defending SOE/Smed, and projecting doubt that it would ever go beyond fluff items.
At what point, I wonder, do people stop ignoring the actions of the past, or denying that they set a precedent for for the future? How many times does a person have to lie or pull stunts like this before people snap out of it and say "okay, enough is enough"? How much benefit of the doubt can you seriously give someone when they repeatedly squander it?
That's what I'd like to know.
"Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me."
and the cash shop selling asphalt..." - Mimzel on F2P/Cash Shops
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
President of The Marvelously Meowhead Fan Club
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
Exactly,
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
Let that sink in and think about that.
Uhm.....yeah. ^^^^^ What you posted right here.
This simple paragraph should be read, studied, and memorized by gamers worldwide. I can think of another fan base that NEEDS to see this paragraph....the Darkfall fans. I read it and cringed. I think it applies to FAR more than EQ2, and to far more.....than games....as far as that goes.
Exactly,
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
Let that sink in and think about that.
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
I'm sorry people yell at you when your are working the cash register, but that doesn't really equate to experience with CEOs of corporations does it? Obviously you have an axe to grind with unruly customers who blame you for a corporations failings (at least how you see them), but these are similar situations. This isn't a case of a customer wanting to 'rent' a book via returning it or wanting free super sizing and yelling at you for not doing it.
Perhaps there is a forum for employees that have to deal with angry customers where your experiences would be better suited.
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
Oh sweet irony....
The point I'm trying to make is if you want changes made don't act like a spoiled brat. The more you yell the less inclined someone is to help you.
Oh sweet irony....
i⋅ro⋅ny
1 /?a?r?ni, ?a??r-/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [ahy-ruh-nee, ahy-er-] Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun, plural -nies.
1. the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning: the irony of her reply, “How nice!” when I said I had to work all weekend.
2. Literature.
a. a technique of indicating, as through character or plot development, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or ostensibly stated.
b. (esp. in contemporary writing) a manner of organizing a work so as to give full expression to contradictory or complementary impulses, attitudes, etc., esp. as a means of indicating detachment from a subject, theme, or emotion.
3. Socratic irony.
4. dramatic irony.
5. an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.
6. the incongruity of this.
7. an objectively sardonic style of speech or writing.
8. an objectively or humorously sardonic utterance, disposition, quality, etc.
This is a shame.
Don't think I bother going back to EQ2 anytime soon.
Exactly,
If the CEO flat out lies to his customerbase several times over the years. What does that tell you about the company itself?
If the CEO itself cannot be trusted already?!
We can say a lot about Funcom and what they did with Age of Conan last year. But there is a big difference here. At least Gaute Godager (Co-founder of Funcom for the ones that didn't know) took finally responsibilties for his actions, stepped down and left the company.
Something we cannot say about the CEO of Sony Online Entertainment. A CEO that has basically done the same crap, if not even far worse then Gaute Godager.
Let that sink in and think about that.
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
You clearly have no idea what you are talking about. So I just leave it by that.
No point making it clear to you what has gone on around SOE the last couple years since the SWG CU, NGE and EverQuest 2 and how stupid bussiness decision after stupid bussiness decision have been made. And so they have lost millions and millions of dollars of steady revenue because of it.
And if you cannot see that, well then you are indeed very naive and I guess SOE might be lucky there are naive people like you acting like sheep and keep throwing money at them. Otherwise they would have been out of bussiness long ago.
And if you think what SOE is doing is normal and standard these days. No it is not! Just have a look at Turbine or CCP or Mythic or the guys of FFXI.
Enough said.
I dont know if I would call it a scam but I do agree with your 3 points - especially the 1st point
Microtransactions are controversial
to just add them to an older existing game
with no prior communication shows a complete disregard for their playerbase
This !
I am so happy I never started playing EQ II
BTW, if they ever did something like this in EVE Online, I would quit and never look back. ( Even tho I love this game
)
If you are interested in subscription or PCU numbers for MMORPG's, check out my site :
http://mmodata.blogspot.be/
Favorite MMORPG's : DAoC pre ToA-NF, SWG Pre CU-NGE, EVE Online
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
I dont know if I would call it a scam but I do agree with your 3 points - especially the 1st point
Microtransactions are controversial
to just add them to an older existing game
with no prior communication shows a complete disregard for their playerbase
This !
I am so happy I never started playing EQ II
BTW, if they ever did something like this in EVE Online, I would quit and never look back. ( Even tho I love this game
)
i been playting off and on since 2004 during its launch, so i was actually glad i never purchased TSO expansion after i heard this BS. thank god i dodged this bullet. I wont be going back to eq2 ever. time to pack mah shit and move on. the game was slowly dying anyways. same can be said for every game SOE has on life support currently probably barely getting by compared to other MMO's.
3.4ghz Phenom II X4 965, 8GB PC12800 DDR3 GSKILL, EVGA 560GTX 2GB OC, 640GB HD SATA II, BFG 1000WATT PSU. MSI NF980-G65 TRI-SLI MOBO.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
We all have been going over this for a very long time. Many people have given good reasons as to why.
The only excuse you keep coming up with as a recorded tape message is that the Item Mall doesn't affect YOUR gameplay. Fine. We get that now.
It's not about conspiracy. It is about bad bussiness practices. It is continous lies.
Many people, including me had the endure the NGE years ago by SOE, that completely destroyed a game we all loved to play and supported through thick and thin.
I didn't jump on the hate wagon back then. I did my say about it and turned my back on SOE and left.
Years later EverQuest 2 comes along and I decided to give SOE a second chance. In a hope SOE would have learned from their NGE debacle and would do better now. EverQuest 2 was a new game I came to love. With a great community and great gameplay.
But appearently they haven't learned a thing at all! Yes they have learned they can screw over people and keep lying to them, as there will always be enough sheep around swallowing it and keep throwing money at them. No matter what they do.
It's about basic company ethics and respect towards your paying customers! Something SOE clearly disregards. Better yet... something Sony lately as a whole completely disregards!
The way this Cash Shop was implemented (read Stealth patched just a couple weeks after a major expansion) smells SCAM all over it! Complete and Utter disrespect towards their loyal customers. Just like how they did with the CU and NGE back then in SWG.
And to wake you up from your Etereal dream my friend. The responsible SOE producer is already talking about adding real armor sets and other items to the Cash Shop.
How about that not being game breaking huh.
Rest is assured, that it doesn't take long before the Cash shop will be a fully fledged Item Mall in wich you can buy EVERYTHING! Making it the first Play 2 Pay subscription based MMO with an Item Mall!
The hints are already there in the open. If you don't want to see them and rather ignore them as you ignore all the other past stunts SOE has pulled. That is completely fine with me.
But don't keep coming here telling people we are the liars, drama queens, overdramatising, etc, etc.
We have all reasons to and all evidence lies in the open supporting our anger towards SOE.
I have never seen such a dramatic company before in my life that could wreck a good designed and well running game, after game after game. Purely due to sheer arrogance, total disregard towards their paying customers and bad decision after bad decision.
SOE had all the talent, expertise, IP's and funding to become the topdog in the MMO industry. But due to a highly unqualified CEO as head of the company they completely blew it!
Smedley lied, again. I predicted he'd do this when the first exchange servers went live and he was talking about how microtransation was the payment model of the future. He still is talking about microtransactions, just he doesn't believe in dropping the subscription system either!
Yeah I laughed my head off when this happened, all the players calling me a troll and hater and telling me how it was only two servers and Smedley had given his word! How niave!
Now you have people that think it'll stop here and won't go on to having good items for sale, this is funny to read. Smed wants your MUNNNNNEEEEHHHHH! He doesn't care what you want, he'll start putting all the new gear on thier and phasing out old gear he thinks he can't get away with putting on. Then you're paying your Sub and buying his 2 expansions per year too!
"But you're not forced to use it, so why complain?" Not forced to? Maybe not now but in 6 months to 1 year when you're wearing crappy armour with crappy weapons getting bitch slapped by the 10 year old and his potion of uberness (cash shop TM) you might not be forced but you'll be annoyed. It will result in you can't ignore the existance of the cash shop, and your game will suffer due to its existance.
You may not believe me but all the items you guys have been asking for will start appearing ingame now, well in cash shop! So you'll be faced with a sub, an expansion and that item you've been asking to be ingame for 1 year.
"But you can buy items anyway, what does it matter if SOE sell them now?" this cracks me up. Well for one you already bought the game and its 50 expansions and pay a subscription, good enough reason? Gold and item selling is illeagl in most pay to plays, but now it's ok aslong as you pay Smed. It's ridiculous that you are paying them to make items that you ask for which go into the cash shop that you have to buy again and pay the sub, box and any number of expansion each year!
But if you're happy biting the SOE pillow I say go for it and have fun, I know Smed will!
"A fool and his money are easily parted" - John Smedley CEO of Shopping Online Everday
"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience"
CS Lewis
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of. I bought the baby bear pet cost 5 dollars. SOE added 5 dollars to it and donated 10 dollars to Child's Play a great game industry charity giving games, consoles, and toys to hospitals for kids. Let's see who will be the first to ring in that that is a scam to.
On a game side, the non-stat armor is fun. Yup it cost 10 dollars for a set. A bunch of use who raid regularly all bought the same set. It has no purpose other then it is fun. We all have the same armor and capes when we raid. Sure it is silly and cost a whopping 10 dollars. You know what? It is just fun and the enjoyment we get was worth the 10 bucks. How else in the game can 30 players get the same armor regardless of class.
If you leave or do not return to EQ2 becasue of the item mall then you have made a mistake in my opinion. You can take the mall and connect it with all the other questionable things SOE has done and create some big conspiracy about this if you want. You can argue not playing EQ2 for a number of reason if it is that important to you. EQ2 is a great game and the marketplace has not effected game play in anyway. The only ones who claim this are not playing. I have no problem with peolpe using their right as a customer to leave. However this situation is not at all like the many SOE "haters" ( I did not say all who are against this are haters) claim it is. It is not some barometer to the future of EQ2 or more evidence the anit-christ Smed is trying to steal your money with this "scam".
We all have been going over this for a very long time. Many people have given good reasons as to why.
The only excuse you keep coming up with as a recorded tape message is that the Item Mall doesn't affect YOUR gameplay. Fine. We get that now.
It's not about conspiracy. It is about bad bussiness practices. It is continous lies.
Many people, including me had the endure the NGE years ago by SOE, that completely destroyed a game we all loved to play and supported through thick and thin.
I didn't jump on the hate wagon back then. I did my say about it and turned my back on SOE and left.
Years later EverQuest 2 comes along and I decided to give SOE a second chance. In a hope SOE would have learned from their NGE debacle and would do better now. EverQuest 2 was a new game I came to love. With a great community and great gameplay.
But appearently they haven't learned a thing at all! Yes they have learned they can screw over people and keep lying to them, as there will always be enough sheep around swallowing it and keep throwing money at them. No matter what they do.
It's about basic company ethics and respect towards your paying customers! Something SOE clearly disregards. Better yet... something Sony lately as a whole completely disregards!
The way this Cash Shop was implemented (read Stealth patched just a couple weeks after a major expansion) smells SCAM all over it! Complete and Utter disrespect towards their loyal customers. Just like how they did with the CU and NGE back then in SWG.
And to wake you up from your Etereal dream my friend. The responsible SOE producer is already talking about adding real armor sets and other items to the Cash Shop.
How about that not being game breaking huh.
Rest is assured, that it doesn't take long before the Cash shop will be a fully fledged Item Mall in wich you can buy EVERYTHING! Making it the first Play 2 Pay subscription based MMO with an Item Mall!
The hints are already there in the open. If you don't want to see them and rather ignore them as you ignore all the other past stunts SOE has pulled. That is completely fine with me.
But don't keep coming here telling people we are the liars, drama queens, overdramatising, etc, etc.
We have all reasons to and all evidence lies in the open supporting our anger towards SOE.
I have never seen such a dramatic company before in my life that could wreck a good designed and well running game, after game after game. Purely due to sheer arrogance, total disregard towards their paying customers and bad decision after bad decision.
SOE had all the talent, expertise, IP's to become the topdog in the MMO industry. But due to highly unqualified CEO as head of the company they completely blew it!
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainment dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainemt dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
Alright,
Let's put it in a different perspective. Maybe things become more clear then.
First: Item Malls are hopefully not the future! Me and many others will turn our backs in an instant!
Item Malls have never been popular here in the west and hopefully it will stay that way.
Why? Because we are not that stupid to be forced to pay $5 for a health pot or $10 per armor item, just to be able to play the game, instead of a tedious frustration.
I am not going to spend $100 or more each month on the item mall for some pixelated crap just to play a game! While I can enjoy another game with just $15 a month as fee.
Item Malls were the only way for Free 2 Play MMO companies to make a profit. This bussiness model was always popular in Asia.
But even in Korea the monthly subscription based model becomes more and more popular!
That aside:
------------------
Why seems SOE to be forced to continuously screw over the customers by constantly making 180 degree turns in their ongoing game development process on LIVE games?
Why did they had to add a pixelated Trading Card Game on top of existing live MMO games that are nothing more then Loot card lottery schemes?
Why did they had to launch Station Exchange Servers?
Why did they had to stealth patch the Cash Shop to EverQuest 2 right after the launch of a PAID expansion? And with that completely altering the Bussiness Model of an existing LIVE game?
Is it maybe, because they MISSERABLY FAIL in their ongoing development process? That they are complete loose cannons and have no clear and solid directions? Constantly altering their games? Constantly creating unrest within their game's community?
That they fail to retain their paying subscribers? Goh what a suprise!
John Smedly is just a bad bad CEO, completely clueless, completely out of touch with his paying customer base... seeing these almost panic business decisions.
He fails to keep people subscribed to his games, thus instead he slaps gamble and F2P RMT systems on top of his P2P MMO games to squeeze more money out of their wallets. Completely altering existing ongoing live games. Completely altering the Bussiness models. And thus completely altering EULA's on the fly!
And if he loses even more customers because of it. That doesn't matter. As long as there are enough sheep left throwing enough money at him to make a profit.
How long do you think SOE can continue to operate like this? Before more and more and more people are going to say: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I have had it! And turn their backs to SOE as well!
When have I ever called anyone here a liar, drama queen, overdramatising, etc, etc? When have I ever said you did not have a reason to dislike SOE or even hate them. When have I ever put anyone down for their feelings on this matter in the way I have been put down? Read your post and the insulting tone it has since I disagree with you. Since you are quoting me quote where I have done what you claim, quote those statements you say I have made. You maybe responding to some responses on this issue but not mine. Before you make up stuff i never said and make assumptions about my posts read them all.
I to was a SWG vet. Do not hold that up as some sort of medal of understanding. I have never ignored SOE and its problems. I have posted numerous times about them. I am posting to this issue in this thread about my feelings of this as a "scam". So you can keep coming here and misrepresenting my stance.
I simply do not find this a problem or a reason to boycott or leave EQ2. Wake up from my eternal dream? Try responding to the poster you are quoting. I have even said that depending on items added to the mall I might not leave even if the items do have stats. I do not have a problem with item malls as I have currently experienced them. I simply do not invest as much emotion in this issue as some do. This is a game and entertainment for me when it no longer gives me a return on my entertainemt dollars I will leave. I do invest time into responses that quote then misrepresent my stance and what I have said.
I have continuely said for me it is not an issue and I see item malls as the future of mmos. You feel ripped off or hurt in some way by SOE I understand that. I do not, you should try to understand that. Now we may disagree but until you understand I do not see this as some scam and that I am totally aware of what is going on ( I am not in a dream state) you have nothing really to say to me. You simply are assuming things about me and not even trying to understand my position. You make statements about my comments not based on my posted responses but on your feelings not mine. SOE made game breaking decisions about SWG so I left. SOE made decisions on EQ2 that were not game breaking for me so I stay and am having a great time. I am not trying to convince you that you are wrong or to comeback you have made this decision already. I am trying to point out that for many players this is not viewed as a "scam".
Alright,
Let's put it in a different perspective. Maybe things become more clear then.
First: Item Malls are hopefully not the future! Me and many others will turn our backs in an instant!
Item Malls have never been popular here in the west and hopefully it will stay that way.
Why? Because we are not that stupid to be forced to pay $5 for a health pot or $10 per armor item, just to be able to play the game, instead of a tedious frustration.
I am not going to spend $100 or more each month on the item mall for some pixelated crap just to play a game! While I can enjoy another game with just $15 a month as fee.
Item Malls were the only way for Free 2 Play MMO companies to make a profit. This bussiness model was always popular in Asia.
But even in Korea the monthly subscription based model becomes more and more popular!
That aside:
------------------
Why seems SOE to be forced to continuously screw over the customers by constantly making 180 degree turns in their ongoing game development process on LIVE games?
Why did they had to add a pixelated Trading Card Game on top of existing live MMO games that are nothing more then Loot card lottery schemes?
Why did they had to launch Station Exchange Servers?
Why did they had to stealth patch the Cash Shop to EverQuest 2 right after the launch of a PAID expansion? And with that completely altering the Bussiness Model of an existing LIVE game?
Is it maybe, because they MISSERABLY FAIL in their ongoing development process? That they are complete loose cannons and have no clear and solid directions? Constantly altering their games? Constantly creating unrest within their game's community?
That they fail to retain their paying subscribers? Goh what a suprise!
John Smedly is just a bad bad CEO, completely clueless, completely out of touch with his paying customer base... seeing these almost panic business decisions.
He fails to keep people subscribed to his games, thus instead he slaps gamble and F2P RMT systems on top of his P2P MMO games to squeeze more money out of their wallets. Completely altering existing ongoing live games. Completely altering the Bussiness models. And thus completely altering EULA's on the fly!
And if he loses even more customers because of it. That doesn't matter. As long as there are enough sheep left throwing enough money at him to make a profit.
How long do you think SOE can continue to operate like this? Before more and more and more people are going to say: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I have had it! And turn their backs to SOE as well!
Different perspective? Thats not a "different perspective", thats you bashing SOE because you're moaning about something you don't like. Just like most other people in this thread who don't have lives and simply refuse to enjoy the game because they have this childish beaf with SOE.
Get over it. You don't like it? There's the door, protest with your money. You don't play it? Then why are you trolling because you obviously have no reason to be here other than to cause trouble.
Different perspective? Thats not a "different perspective", thats you bashing SOE because you're moaning about something you don't like. Just like most other people in this thread who don't have lives and simply refuse to enjoy the game because they have this childish beaf with SOE.
Get over it. You don't like it? There's the door, protest with your money. You don't play it? Then why are you trolling because you obviously have no reason to be here other than to cause trouble.
Me and my girlfriend have thrown over a $1000 on boxes, expansions and sub fees towards SOE these past years.
So I have every right to express myself. Just like others. Thank you.
But then again. We know who you are. So I wouldn't have expected any different answer from you anyway.
So I leave it by this.
- SWG NGE
- Vanguard debacle (nothing new since 1 year ? VG worked better in jan.2008 than in jan. 2009...)
- EQII cash shop (wanted to try again EQ2 but with CS won't subscribe)
It's over. I have been subscribed at SWG, VG and EQ2. I won't pay again. Not a scam, only a strange way to keep customers... They are going to loose customers, nothing else.
This is not a shame at all. If you play you will see the marketplace does nothing to effect game play but add some fun odd choices, which you do not need to be part of.
Those fun odd choices used to be free. That affects the game, because they are no longer free nor rewards for ingame actions.
Those fun odd choices take the time and effort of programmers to create. Those are the same programmers your monthly fee pays to create ongoing upkeep and content that used to be free. That affects the game.
Those fun odd choices you need not be part of are now a monetary choice, not a gameplay choice. That affects the game.
Those fun odd choices will grow as soe will depends on that extra revenue which in turn means less free content.
Those fun odd choices already affect the game in terms of experience gain. Soe can at any time change the mechanics behind the scenes to nudge people towards the cash shop instead of offering in game activities that challenge players.
The cash shop items without a doubt change the way the game is designed. Everything in the game now has to go through the process of determining if it will be better served for soe to sell the item in the cash shop or put it in game as part of continual support. That affects how the entire game is made.
If you are fine with the cash shop by all means best of wishes to you. However, please do not attempt to pretend this does not affect the game. It does even if it is mild or hard to see the abstract concepts right now. There is more to cash malls affecting a game than just giving statistical advantages on a character sheet.
In the end you and everyone else are now being asked to pay a second fee for individual items that used to be a free part of your subscription. The strangest part is that soe is asking people to pay fees to NOT play the game and receive rewards. I remember a time when people on this forum used to brag about how EQ2 was a game where you had to earn your items.
I really hope that anything like this does not catch on in the industry.
some in the industry have already been doing this
most notably City of Heroes and their costume packs
30 day JetPack
secure.plaync.com/cgi-bin/Store.pl
cyborg pack
secure.plaync.com/cgi-bin/Store.pl
wedding pack
secure.plaync.com/cgi-bin/Store.pl
players may draw different lines at which they will tolerate this stuff
- some tolerate fluff
- some tolerate no RMT whatsoever
EQ2 fan sites
Ummmmm......how many corporations have you worked for? I've worked for alot(yay 6 years of retail experience)
Blockbuster, Compusa, Borders, Nielson.
And yknow what aside from borders the CEOs all had their heads up their asses. And just loved to make sweeping changes without a care for their employees and sometimes the customers.
All in the name of Profit.
What you forget is this country is for better or worse a Capitalism which means that for the most part a company is allowed to make a profit how it's owners see fit. Hell corporations as a whole are afforded the same basic freedoms as a human, fun huh?
And if I come off as intolerant of what you people are going through with this horrible change here is the thing.
Blockbuster whenever one of you comes into my store and throws a tempertantrum, 40 year old people screaming at the top of their lungs that it's my fault they were late, I'm supposed to apologize even though it isn't my fault and fix it while they treat me like absolute crap. Compusa same thing
just recently while working at a kiosk for borders where we have an ABSOLUTLY no returns policy on a huge ass sign on top of the computer and on the reciept.
I had someone throw the sign at me because I would not give him what they wanted while they threatened to sue me and the company.
So you whiny tempertantrum throwing children are no better then they are.
You don't like a new policy there is the door! You fools can't possibly understand the pressure the people that work for SOE is under. The pressure to keep up with someone like WoW who has already proved that a huge profit can be made on all the little extras they cna pop out, Comics, mini games, card games, novels, loot, etc.
Smed would have to find a way to make that money or probably lose his job. Times change, and I'm sorry you feel lied to I really do but.....and here is the important part....... TIMES CHANGE.
and I know you will probably call me a fantic for defending all of this but remember
If I have to dress walk talk and act like you to be a non conformist......I'd rather be a sheep.
So I suppose you think that customers who pay hard earned money for a PRODUCT, should just bend over and take it up the a** if the product is either sub-par, not what they were told it would be, or faulty in some other way?
Let's look at it this way....
Say you paid Verizon Wireless 150 bucks a month for unlimited calls and unlimited text messaging and then, after you signed the contract, and had been a loyal customer, never making late payments for about 4 years, they decide to change said contract (discreetly slipping in the changes without telling you ahead of time), and began to charge for text messages longer than oh.....one line. Let's say they did this right after you bought a special "Valentine's Day Package" that was to allow even more "perks," (say sending mp3s with your messages or something) but yet suddenly you realize that your text messages are now going to have to be lacking/shorter, or you're going to have to pay more for them. Would you complain? Or....would you insist that you got the UNLIMITED package that you PAID for? (The above is just an example, it has no basis in fact, and is in no way intended to reflect negatively on Verizon Wireless.)
I understand all of your "business sense" yammer. However, it is NEVER good business to piss off your most loyal customers....EVER. Customers TALK, and they spread the word about both GOOD things, and BAD. Customers cancel subscriptions. If you combine those two things they equal lost business.
Common courtesy and consideration are only not given by businesses that are not called to ACCOUNT for bad customer service practices. I assert, that it's people like YOU that just say, "Meh...they have to make a buck," that allow this sort of bad business practice to carry on. It's the same as watching a crime and doing nothing to report it. Your lack of involvement and apathy, makes you PART of the PROBLEM.
People have a right to demand that they GET.....EXACTLY what they paid for, which is the product that was TRUTHFULLY advertised to them and paid for. Anything outside of that realm not only DESERVES criticism, but punitive action, whether that be complaints, subscription cancellation, or litigation (in some cases).
President of The Marvelously Meowhead Fan Club
This thread has become the worlds largest discussion-palindrome. I've really enjoyed reading. Thanks to whomever necro'd it back into life!