Lessons from the past
The-West is constantly evolving, and the developers are continually seeking ways to enhance the player's experience, but don't seem to know where to focus their attention. One possible source of inspiration is the Classic West server, which has been running for approximately three weeks and features many InnoGames staff amongst the 900-strong player-base. This temporary server presents a unique opportunity to analyse aspects that contribute to player engagement and satisfaction. In particular, we will explore how meaningful quest rewards, PvP as a viable source of progression, the significance of in-game currency, and the importance of skill point allocation can improve the overall gaming experience.
Meaningful Quest Rewards
In the Classic West server, quests provide players with meaningful rewards, offering a stark contrast to version 2. Meaningful rewards incentivise players to actively participate in quests and advance quicker than by jobbing alone. By incorporating engaging narratives, level-appropriate tasks, and providing valuable rewards such as meaningful experience points, useful items, or relatively valuable skill points, developers can enhance player motivation to actually do the new quests that are being added to the game.
The Importance of PvP
In the Classic West server, PvP serves as a significant source of both experience points and in-game currency. This design choice creates an environment where engaging in player-versus-player combat is not only thrilling but also rewarding. By reintroducing the importance of PvP in the modern version, InnoGames can revive the excitement and competitiveness that comes with testing one's skills against other players, fostering a dynamic and engaging multiplayer experience. Always remember - the other players are the primary content in a Role Playing game.
Relevance of In-Game Currency
Classic West's emphasis on the significance of every donated dollar to town funds provides a sense of communal progress and genuine impact. This concept can be translated into V2 by integrating meaningful economic systems. By offering players opportunities to contribute to the development of the virtual world, developers can instill a sense of purpose and accomplishment, allowing players to actively shape the game environment and feel a sense of ownership. Ideas including; Fort battle degradation after battles, customisable town layouts, re-rolling town shops, bank robbing another town's funds, and alliance buildings have been floated in the past, and could provide inspiration for the basis of an economic system.
Skill Point Allocation as a Strategic Element
In the Classic West server, skill point allocation plays a vital role in shaping a player's gameplay style. Unlike in V2, players cannot simply change clothes and master every job at a relatively low level. This design encourages strategic decision-making and specialisation, creating a sense of uniqueness and diversity among players. There are many duelling builds to choose, there are many working builds to try out, and each has its own benefits both individually and to your town. Developers can learn from this approach by implementing skill systems that require thoughtful allocation and customisation, providing players with a sense of agency and personalisation once again. Suggestions such as increasing the number of skill and attribute points players are awarded per level may provide a solution to this aspect in the modern West, however almost every system would need to be updated to accommodate such power-creep.
Conclusion
The Classic West server serves as a valuable case study for anyone looking to enhance the modern game experience. By offering meaningful quest rewards, reintroducing the importance of PvP, emphasizing the relevance of in-game currency, and highlighting the strategic element of skill point allocation, developers can create immersive and engaging gameplay environments. By incorporating these lessons, future updates can foster player motivation, diversity, and a sense of accomplishment, ultimately providing players with more fulfilling and rewarding experiences.
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