As we get closer to the end of the year, Star Wars: The Old Republic is getting closer to launch, and we're starting to see more and more of the game. The general buzz I'm seeing is that anyone who has played an MMO is going to at least try it out. Will is be a WoW-killer? Probably not. But will it gain a big enough audience to provide a substantial alternative to the seven-year old juggernaut? Probably so.
The Star Wars universe has mechanics that seem to translate very well into a game setting. Swords make sense there. They have two distinct factions with opposing philosophies. It seems like a no-brainer. I tried the previous venture into gaming with Star Wars Galaxies, and it was not that good. The Jedi Knight series of single player games was awesome. Bioware had a great product with Knights of the Old Republic, and it looks like they're going to translate that success into the MMO field.
I have not pre-ordered yet. I know a lot of people who say they are playing, but I'm looking for a stable group that will be committed to playing together and giving it a serious try.
World of Warcraft is still a great game - probably the best game I've ever played - but it's become a bit dull waiting for the next big thing to happen. If Blizzard is going to retain folks, they're going to have to do something spectacular to keep them from defecting to TOR.
Great write up Jeff. I am with you on finding a good solid group to play with. Perhaps we can find a group that will fit the bill.
ReplyDeleteI'd love that. I'm not hardcore as in raiding, but I do like to share in the social experience of whatever game I'm playing. It's always better with friends!
ReplyDeleteI've already pre-ordered!
ReplyDeleteThis game to me follows and utilises the tried and tested schticks of a successful MMO but has the unique hook that they are utilising voice acting and flowing it very tightly to an individualised storyline.
An MMO is something you want to get you immersed into the game. Hooking you into the internal story of your character will do that for me. It's no longer just the playing of a "toon" but your character now has history and it's come alive and it's something I want to help develop!
Sith all the way!