Quote Originally Posted by TheDecay View Post
You are completely right that many gameplay features seem to have been abandoned in EW, such as exploratory content. The lack of depth is very clear to see. And as I've explained in another topic, I believe this can have long-term consequences for FF14 if there's an emergent new MMO that really pulls off PvE combat well (the fabled Riot MMO perhaps):
Yeah. That being said, I've pretty much resorted to using other MMO's as a way to get my fix for exploration and immersion these days. There's a lot of ways in which FFXIV could have added some cool things to the game world to see and do but even after many suggestions on that front the design isn't evolving in the slightest. At most you get aether currents and the sightseeing log as opposed to hidden quests or treasure to find.

As much as I enjoyed FFXVI for the most part, in terms of exploration the same approach was taken. There's very few hidden items to find of worth and scant treasure chests. As for the story itself, it's another JRPG without alternate endings or player agency. I liked that games such as Breath of Fire IV and Shadow Hearts had different endings.

As for upcoming MMO's, I've my eye on a handful. Whether any are the ones to breathe some new life into the industry remain to be seen but simply prioritising being an actual game will give them a major boost. FFXIV's been around for ten to thirteen years depending on how you decide to count. It claims to be willing to stick around for at least another decade and I think it will - since FFXI and WoW are still around. Though I do question how much of FFXIV's success is down to it being a new place for those who became disillusioned with other MMO's to hang out in simply because it isn't them.

I'm cautiously optimistic for Ashes of Creation. Despite it being pushed as PvP focused, I've been watching their monthly updates and their approach to the other aspects of the game is pretty intelligent. If it can live up to even half of the promises made then I think it has a lot of potential. It's recognising some of the flaws present elsewhere in the industry and seeking to address them but also striving to be an MMO for people who actually enjoy MMO's...as opposed to being an MMO rapidly devolving into mostly being a solo experience.

I'd say my main concern is with the potential monetisation practices but at this point when FFXIV is locking exclusive emotes and such behind £250 limited edition statues, I can't bring myself to shun a game purely on that basis.