So I have played Elite for about a week now. I think I have the handle on most things, and there is still a ton of stuff to do. However, there is a lack of direction that gives the game an aimless quality. I am a huge fan of sandbox games. I have played Minecraft longer than any other game I own (over 4 years). However, A game such as elite would be remise if they didn't and "some" structure. Not enough to take a way the freedom from those who truly desire it, but enough to give the vast majority of players a feeling like they make a difference a the vast galaxy.
Questing arches for regions and sectors would be a great way to do this. Since there are already factions in the game, it seems sensible to have their struggles play out in real time and story missions for that region. Players can chose which side to join, or not join a side. Maybe they want to be a merchant that sells arms to both sides to make the war longer, or they may want to just do the cargo mission they got from a neighboring sector and get the hell out of the way. Guild wars 2 has done a lot of good work with dynamic real time events, where the player participates in battles for towns and if they win, the town stays in the control of "the good guys." Elite has the capability of having dynamic events on literally a galactic level if they choose. Regions and boarders of influence can change with each battle. If the Alliance gains ground against a rebel force occupying a space station, that station may not have a black market anymore because it was stamped out, now the PC smugglers of the region have an interest in joining the rebels to get their black market back. See where I am going with this?
This system could be implemented subtly so as not to feel like we are being guided by an invisible hand or just trying to get all the quests done. The players could chose their sides, maybe even turn traitor, and decide what to get invested in, but feel like they are accomplishing something in the game. XP and Levels need not be a reward. Money, exotic parts, or medals of valor to display would be an awesome reward.
The Devs say they have a lot in plan for this game and I hope so. While it is fun to have the whole galaxy at my fingertips. I fear the excitement will be short lived if I feel removed from the universe I am exploring. Please tell me what you think. Again, I am not suggesting Elite take away the freedom already available; just add a little bit to it.
Questing arches for regions and sectors would be a great way to do this. Since there are already factions in the game, it seems sensible to have their struggles play out in real time and story missions for that region. Players can chose which side to join, or not join a side. Maybe they want to be a merchant that sells arms to both sides to make the war longer, or they may want to just do the cargo mission they got from a neighboring sector and get the hell out of the way. Guild wars 2 has done a lot of good work with dynamic real time events, where the player participates in battles for towns and if they win, the town stays in the control of "the good guys." Elite has the capability of having dynamic events on literally a galactic level if they choose. Regions and boarders of influence can change with each battle. If the Alliance gains ground against a rebel force occupying a space station, that station may not have a black market anymore because it was stamped out, now the PC smugglers of the region have an interest in joining the rebels to get their black market back. See where I am going with this?
This system could be implemented subtly so as not to feel like we are being guided by an invisible hand or just trying to get all the quests done. The players could chose their sides, maybe even turn traitor, and decide what to get invested in, but feel like they are accomplishing something in the game. XP and Levels need not be a reward. Money, exotic parts, or medals of valor to display would be an awesome reward.
The Devs say they have a lot in plan for this game and I hope so. While it is fun to have the whole galaxy at my fingertips. I fear the excitement will be short lived if I feel removed from the universe I am exploring. Please tell me what you think. Again, I am not suggesting Elite take away the freedom already available; just add a little bit to it.
