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New Info Up - TONS of new incoming stuff!
Skilling up magic 6x faster on mobs after this week. All other skill ups 3x as much as before on mobs. Here comes open world PvP again baby!
Oh, and may I mention the upcoming expansion in October?? SEA OBJECTIVES? LOCAL BANKING? PLAYER OWNED VENDORS? RACIAL SKILLS? BARBER SHOP? CARAVANS????????? WANDERING MOBS? ARCHERY AND MELEE CUSTOMIZATION
Can't wait!
---------------------
Hi everyone,
Right now we are putting the finishing touches on our next patch, which we plan to have ready by the end of this week.
With this patch we are adding a significant skill-up bonus to fighting mobs, essentially tripling the speed of skill-ups compared to hitting other players. At the same time we have doubled the speed of skilling up all magic schools. This means that all skills involving combat are now leveling up three times as fast as before, and leveling magic schools are six times as fast as before when fighting monsters.
This change will help newer players catch up to veterans faster. We also think it will make it even more attractive to go out and fight monsters, which in turn should lead to more open field PvP.
In this patch we have also fixed the underlying problem with battlespikes and damage modifiers. The hotfix we released last week was temporary, and we will adjust the modifiers back to their correct values now that the root of the issue has been fixed.
Other than the upcoming patch, the development team is hard at work with the second free expansion for Darkfall, which is currently scheduled for release by the end of October. This expansion is a lot bigger than the first, and we are extremely excited about it. We will give you more detailed information on the many new features over the coming weeks.
It includes many changes and additions to ship building, sea combat and sea objectives, part two of our character specialization system - this time some much needed love for archery and melee combat, the first step of local banking, player owned local vendors, the first set of racial skills, barber shop, the caravan system, new houses and villages, new housing objects to decorate your house with, wandering mobs, more rare drops added to monsters, new free spawning objects to discover, and much more.
See you ingame.
Comments
I like how AV isn't addressing the big issues with the game, and just making skills easier and less of a grind. Where is the softcap or skill cap? Where is the adjustments to AOE magic spells? Also Archery and Melee skills additions are overdue, and time will tell how good these adjustments are compared to magic. I think AV needs to do more, than making DF easymode to gain skills.
These changes are going to address some of the biggest issues.
With the skill changes the bloodwall will be obsolete, the grind will not be a big deal, and people will be PvEing fo their skill ups. Thus, macroing is not going to be much of a big deal anymore, or at the very least players won't have to spend as much time to catch up with them.
I'd still ilke to see skill caps but the game is not unplayable without it.
These changes are nice, but they lost me as a customer with the NA-1 (buy a new client) fiasco.
Now the last thing they need is a soft cap. But then I wouldn't be able to use all my 100 elementals, arcane, and necro...
Not sure if you noticed but...
HE DID NOT POST THE FULL PATCH NOTES.
Thats some pretty damn nice "new" features : )
I guess DF have moved far from most other MMOs when this patch is done. Dont think there is anything like it, when i think about it. Anf thats really good for a MMO wich everyone belived was vaporware.
The community started a thread to give Aventurine questions to answer hours before they wrote the announcement.
http://forums.darkfallonline.com/showthread.php?t=211209
Did they fix the weather yet? I thought that was a cool idea but had issues.
What is before?
They did speed up skillgain one time and I wonder if it's 3 x from today or 3 x from the launch of DF. If it is 3 x from the launch skillgain I'm not happy at all. Far to little and no skillcap.
So instead of finishing the game and giving stuff they promised at launch they just released a game way early forced tons of people to buy it twice they just release 2 free expansions with features they promised at launch ?
Yep!
Isnt that great : ) Now we have had the pleasure to play for nine months already. What id they had waited until now? Not cool. Remember that DF was considered vaporware by the general worldwide MMO community. And we cant forget this is from a small indie developer. But the fact people tend to treat AV as a major MMO company must be a good sign : )
Yep!
Isnt that great : ) Now we have had the pleasure to play for nine months already. What id they had waited until now? Not cool. Remember that DF was considered vaporware by the general worldwide MMO community. And we cant forget this is from a small indie developer. But the fact people tend to treat AV as a major MMO company must be a good sign : )
Actually if you want to look what was promised at launch a lot of the features they added were new. Its good they are fixing stuff, and they are doing it a fairly ok rate. But the game did have a lot of problems at launch and they still have not tackled the problem of skill gain.
I am all for flaming darkfall, has a lot to be flamed about. But people should correct in their flaming.
wow they are actually doing local banking now that will make the game 1000 times more interesting. they added more sand to the sandbox with that alone.
Watching Fanbois drop their soap in a prison full of desperate men.
Weather was turned off, and hasn't been mentioned again since. I think they are hoping everyone forgets about it.
They have changed what they say about weather on their web page.
This is what is said now:
Experience a world brought to life by real-world physics and dynamic lighting and shadows. Watch trees and grass sway in the wind as sunlight peeks through passing clouds. Observe the movements of Agon's twin moons, which are part of a dynamic planetary system with smooth day/night cycles. Darkfall’s dynamic environment system features real weather simulation, real day/night cycles, a planetary system, and variable cloud cover and thickness.
www.us.darkfallonline.com/default.php
This is what was said before:
Experience a world brought to life by real-world physics and dynamic lighting and shadows. Watch trees and grass sway in the wind as sunlight peeks through passing clouds. Observe the movements of Agon's twin moons, which are part of a dynamic planetary system with smooth day/night cycles. Sail your ship through rough seas, then become hampered by fog as the waters calm. Struggle as your battlefield-bound army marches into a severe storm. In Darkfall, the weather is more than just window dressing.
web.archive.org/web/20080204041306/www.darkfallonline.com/features/explore.html
I don't think they ever figured out how to get it to work like they intended. Perhaps sometime down the line, but for now, weather is a non-factor.
Good point.
It's ironic really; I'll explain. Some games, for example EQ2 and AoC, release in a very sub par State, and that from established large game developer companies. After one year EQ2 became an incredible game IMO, for a PvE game, although my experience with AoC was the opposite, in that I felt it declined in the "fun" factor and what could have been an amazing game made very poor design choices. Interestingly, you won't find one post from my on the AoC forum here, at least none I can recall, because I'm funny that way, and don't like pissing on others cheerios. On this forum we talk about a game that is focusing on a PvP-Centric game, has only been out for 7 months, 1 in NA officially, and has significantly improved with each patch, yet the "Rabid Unfanboys" for lack of a better word, seem to conveniently avoid topics that reflect the above, and go out of their way to try and bury a game.
As quoted in my signature, it really does appear that some will go out of their way to "get even", for whatever reasons they may or may not have. Odd.
-CC
"Lately it occurs to me,
what a long, strange trip it's been". -Hunter
Not to pick on CC specifically, as I've noticed others have done it as well, but I'm curious about the distinction given for being out in NA only 1 month.
Does the NA server use different code than the EU server?
Does the NA server receive updates/patches on a different schedule than the EU server?
Are the developers different for the NA server vs. the EU server?
Anyway, just curious why some have felt it necessary to point out the difference in release times.
For new players wanting to join, then the distinction makes sense for me. But when I've seen it used it's been more in the context of an "excuse" for why some things are the way they are. As in... "Give them a break the server has only been out a month".
If the NA server is using the same code as the EU server... then it's 7 month code... not 1 month. When other MMOs release new servers in a different area are they treated as a brand new release, or as just expanding into another area?
Just something I found interesting.
Not to pick on CC specifically, as I've noticed others have done it as well, but I'm curious about the distinction given for being out in NA only 1 month.
Does the NA server use different code than the EU server?
Does the NA server receive updates/patches on a different schedule than the EU server?
Are the developers different for the NA server vs. the EU server?
Anyway, just curious why some have felt it necessary to point out the difference in release times.
For new players wanting to join, then the distinction makes sense for me. But when I've seen it used it's been more in the context of an "excuse" for why some things are the way they are. As in... "Give them a break the server has only been out a month".
If the NA server is using the same code as the EU server... then it's 7 month code... not 1 month. When other MMOs release new servers in a different area are they treated as a brand new release, or as just expanding into another area?
Just something I found interesting.
EU was a limited release. One typically had to go out of their way to try and get an account. This was complained about many places endlessly, even though AV explained it would be a limited release many times.
EU hosts the game in Germany; lag and game experience may vary depending on location.
NA is not a limited release. One can purchase the game easily.
NA hosts the game in California; lag and game experience may vary depending on location.
-CC
"Lately it occurs to me,
what a long, strange trip it's been". -Hunter
Not to pick on CC specifically, as I've noticed others have done it as well, but I'm curious about the distinction given for being out in NA only 1 month.
Does the NA server use different code than the EU server?
Does the NA server receive updates/patches on a different schedule than the EU server?
Are the developers different for the NA server vs. the EU server?
Anyway, just curious why some have felt it necessary to point out the difference in release times.
For new players wanting to join, then the distinction makes sense for me. But when I've seen it used it's been more in the context of an "excuse" for why some things are the way they are. As in... "Give them a break the server has only been out a month".
If the NA server is using the same code as the EU server... then it's 7 month code... not 1 month. When other MMOs release new servers in a different area are they treated as a brand new release, or as just expanding into another area?
Just something I found interesting.
EU was a limited release. One typically had to go out of their way to try and get an account. This was complained about many places endlessly, even though AV explained it would be a limited release many times.
EU hosts the game in Germany; lag and game experience may vary depending on location.
NA is not a limited release. One can purchase the game easily.
NA hosts the game in California; lag and game experience may vary depending on location.
-CC
Good information and matches with what I know as well.
Just a couple quick notes I would add, as they weren't clear in your post.
EU can be purchased easily now as well, just like NA. The days of limited release for either server are over.
Players may use other means of payment than just a credit card now for either server.
You didn't really explain or try to answer the question about the game code and/or patches being different between EU and NA. From what I know of the subject they are identical in every aspect... except as you touched on above where the physical servers are hosted (AV leases the servers, they don't own them).
I didn't respond to that part of your question because I feel it is flame bait. Obviously the game code is the same. You asked why players refer to the two releases as EU 7 months ago and NA 1 month ago. I explained why, but you appear to be pushing for the purpose of making some point. Reality is that many of us beta tested DFO, including me, and knew exactly what we were subscribing to. There was plenty of information; both pro's and con's, including videos, and AV announced the release would be in EU first on a limited basis and down the road, in NA. A player had to really want to get DFO to play on EU, and despite all the information when they were not satisfied for whatever reason, blame AV instead of themselves for not waiting. There is no comparison between the experience of a new player on NA a month ago, compared to EU when it launched.
Since no transfers have occurred, the NA launch and server is in fact, only one month old. I shared the differences and the reasons I refer to them in the way I do. Clearly people have different opinions here on every thing, but after all the beat the dead horse stuff is done day after day, the only reality that is important is what game you play, if any, and if your having fun. I play DFO, am having a blast and starting over on NA, even with a 6-month old character on EU has proven to be a great decision and highly enjoyable.
-CC
"Lately it occurs to me,
what a long, strange trip it's been". -Hunter
the Eu wasnt limited after about 2 months. the game is not 1 month old so dont pull that horsepoop
that aside..............
localized banking is a darn good step. I may actually consider giving the game a go if i see the 3 different combat types evened out. Till then, pass.
They keep adding new content on a regular basis, so they are making enough money to keep the game going and the make the fans happier. (and even bring a few new/old players back in.
Sound's like they are a success so far.
"True friends stab you in the front." | Oscar Wilde
"I need to finish" - Christian Wolff: The Accountant
Just trying to live long enough to play a new, released MMORPG, playing New Worlds atm
Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. Pvbs 18:2, NIV
Don't just play games, inhabit virtual worlds™
"This is the most intelligent, well qualified and articulate response to a post I have ever seen on these forums. It's a shame most people here won't have the attention span to read past the second line." - Anon
I didn't respond to that part of your question because I feel it is flame bait. Obviously the game code is the same. You asked why players refer to the two releases as EU 7 months ago and NA 1 month ago. I explained why, but you appear to be pushing for the purpose of making some point. Reality is that many of us beta tested DFO, including me, and knew exactly what we were subscribing to. There was plenty of information; both pro's and con's, including videos, and AV announced the release would be in EU first on a limited basis and down the road, in NA. A player had to really want to get DFO to play on EU, and despite all the information when they were not satisfied for whatever reason, blame AV instead of themselves for not waiting. There is no comparison between the experience of a new player on NA a month ago, compared to EU when it launched.
Since no transfers have occurred, the NA launch and server is in fact, only one month old. I shared the differences and the reasons I refer to them in the way I do. Clearly people have different opinions here on every thing, but after all the beat the dead horse stuff is done day after day, the only reality that is important is what game you play, if any, and if your having fun. I play DFO, am having a blast and starting over on NA, even with a 6-month old character on EU has proven to be a great decision and highly enjoyable.
-CC
Heh... easy there CC, no flame bait intended.
I have seen some suggest that the game code was different on the two servers on the official forums, and since I don't actively play DarkFall; I wasn't 100% sure. I can appreciate your answers for not wanting to get into it here though.
In a skill-based game like DarkFall it does make sense to differentiate the age of servers, as new players are a lot closer to the average player in skill-level if they start on the newest server. So again, I do agree with that aspect of acknowledging the server age differences.
What I touched on before, and why I was wanting to clarify that there were no code differences between the 2 servers is when some were wanting to use the "newness" of the NA server to explain some "interesting choices" by Aventurine.
Since it's the same code... the newness of the NA server doesn't really come into play when discussing said "interesting choices" by Aventurine.
DarkFall released Feb. 25th, 2009. The newest server is the NA server; which opened on July 13th, 2009.
(Perhaps that is the most fair way to say it).
Im am no longer a DF fan by any means its release actually pissed me off to the point that i wont be returning.
But i do agree with you in those cases the game will seem more populated because everyone wont be hiding shooting them selves/eachother so there will be alot more activity at mob spawns.
Not here to bash just read your stament and couldnt agree more.
Mortal Online/EarthRise/Project V13
TheVindicators.com
But while the code is the same, the experience for players upon the birth of the NA server was and is dramatically different from the experience of those who played on the EU server, and that is a critical point. Significant changes to the game were made prior to NA, which greatly impacted the game experience for those starting on NA, and even vets like myself who started over. No longer would newbie non-drop items bring skill gains, or shooting in the air to name just a few. Three days prior to the NA release was also a massive patch forums.darkfallonline.com/showthread.php
So while it may be the same code, starting DFO on NA was a vastly different experience. Add to that how just 1-month after NA release, we are about (over the next few days) to get a much needed patch that will severely reduce the sense of grind and make bloodwalls 3rd rate at best, compared to actually going in to the world and playing the game. While it is certainly not true for every one, it is pretty obvious that had those who feel so much angst over their experience on EU waited, and started the game when NA was born, it is very likely they would be singing a different tune today. But as we know, people will go to great lengths to "get even" over feeling wronged, but that is for a pshychologist to field; as i have no desire to analyze it, but yet I don't deny. Fortunately there are many gamers who did not play DFO on EU and do not share the same baggage as many who did. For those yet to experience DFO, they have a lot to look forward to.
-CC
"Lately it occurs to me,
what a long, strange trip it's been". -Hunter
But while the code is the same, the experience for players upon the birth of the NA server was and is dramatically different from the experience of those who played on the EU server, and that is a critical point. Significant changes to the game were made prior to NA, which greatly impacted the game experience for those starting on NA, and even vets like myself who started over. No longer would newbie non-drop items bring skill gains, or shooting in the air to name just a few. Three days prior to the NA release was also a massive patch forums.darkfallonline.com/showthread.php
So while it may be the same code, starting DFO on NA was a vastly different experience. Add to that how just 1-month after NA release, we are about (over the next few days) to get a much needed patch that will severely reduce the sense of grind and make bloodwalls 3rd rate at best, compared to actually going in to the world and playing the game. While it is certainly not true for every one, it is pretty obvious that had those who feel so much angst over their experience on EU waited, and started the game when NA was born, it is very likely they would be singing a different tune today. But as we know, people will go to great lengths to "get even" over feeling wronged, but that is for a pshychologist to field; as i have no desire to analyze it, but yet I don't deny. Fortunately there are many gamers who did not play DFO on EU and do not share the same baggage as many who did. For those yet to experience DFO, they have a lot to look forward to.
-CC
Hm, not so sure about the tune people would be playing. After all, NA was launched some time ago, and it didn't boom like some people here predicted. The disappointment would be simply different. Because while many of the worst things were at least partially fixed, there are still lots of problems in the core mechanics that drive people, like me, away. There are still features that were promised that are missing. You can dust under the rug, and move on. I can't. Who is right?
It's a mixture of Karma and History. History has this habit of making us want to look back when we assess a situation, and Karma will charge the price for incompetence, always. Because, while I think you accept Aventurine as it is, many of us simply don't. And both groups have their reasons, which are not right or wrong.