Co-op is the future. It combines the dynamic elements of human players with the predictable satisfaction of AI enemies. The most exciting way to advance virtual world gaming is to consider how the game system can more effectively manage the user experience - blending cooperative and competitive play with a dynamic world system.
The Warcraft 3 map mod Defense of the Ancients did this pretty well. Having stupid AI grunts running around while powerful player heroes fought it out together and against each other added the kind of fun depth we're always looking for. The kind that excites you with possibilities rather than dragging you down with details.
I think WoW started out with this vision, and you can see it in Alterac Valley which I understand was originally not intended as an instance. They never got close though, and you can appreciate the immense technical and gameplay hurdles to be overcome. Still, I think that is the next gen, and someone had better be working on it.
No comments:
Post a Comment