Post by Morreion on Sept 24, 2010 10:19:03 GMT -5
The Daily Grind: Want realism with that? (Massively)
'Realism' in MMO systems can be defined in different ways. There is a certain basic suspension of disbelief with any game short of Star Trek's virtual reality holodecks. I view something that's described as 'realistic' as something closer to reality than some feature that is considered more 'accessible'. It's a sliding ideal scale.
Recent MMO titles are big on accessibility- older titles not as much. Not surprisingly, I tend to like more realism. For instance, consuming food and drink to provide modest buffs is a good thing in my book. Having a reputation system (such as UO's fame/infamy system based on the actions of your character) is a good thing, the more factors playing into it the better. More dynamic mobs and NPCs are also a positive. Static situations are more accessible, but dynamic situations are both more engaging and more realistic.
I'd also add realistic looking art styles into this discussion. I much prefer realistic-looking characters/armor/weapons. Stylized art has its place, but I tend to prefer it in landscapes and not on characters.
I guess I'd see realism as more complex or more detailed systems in a game.
'Realism' in MMO systems can be defined in different ways. There is a certain basic suspension of disbelief with any game short of Star Trek's virtual reality holodecks. I view something that's described as 'realistic' as something closer to reality than some feature that is considered more 'accessible'. It's a sliding ideal scale.
Recent MMO titles are big on accessibility- older titles not as much. Not surprisingly, I tend to like more realism. For instance, consuming food and drink to provide modest buffs is a good thing in my book. Having a reputation system (such as UO's fame/infamy system based on the actions of your character) is a good thing, the more factors playing into it the better. More dynamic mobs and NPCs are also a positive. Static situations are more accessible, but dynamic situations are both more engaging and more realistic.
I'd also add realistic looking art styles into this discussion. I much prefer realistic-looking characters/armor/weapons. Stylized art has its place, but I tend to prefer it in landscapes and not on characters.
I guess I'd see realism as more complex or more detailed systems in a game.
