I've looked through a lot of the threads regarding housing, and the process of acquiring one. (Current and proposed change for the new area) and it seems like there's a huge divide. Rightfully so.
The question always remains, "Is this better?" If you've been browsing the forums as I have, you would have seen the divide or maybe even gave a few thoughts and opinions of your own. For the most part, with both systems there's positives and negatives. Which outweighs the other is entirely up to the individual, and the perspective in which it's being represented.
A lot of players over the years has suggested that instanced housing would be the token system, and I agree with that. I believe that island sanctuary is something that they're giving to us not only as a recreational activity, but also as a test to implement something new, that everyone can have and own. (Think about it for a minute, you not only have a house, but your own private island that has it's own unique features) it makes sense, right? Is this what we've been asking for? No, but it's something in the right direction; for now.
We've been told that doing instanced housing would require a lot of background work. Work including, but not limited to:Just to name a few.
- Server issues
- Equipment Issues
- Programming Issues
The thing is though, I don't think that the general player-base would mind the team taking time; dedicated time, to have this system implemented. I don't want to assume, but for the sake of this post I shall. We recently witnessed the game being pulled from shelves (literally and figuratively) because it became too popular. It's safe to assume that was only done because you guys could've afforded to, so the budget is there.
Think about this: What if we had apartments of different sizes; each having their own cost? Like a penthouse, a suite, studio etc.. (maybe this is a reach, but you get the idea) The point being that it still gives everyone other options that they can work towards knowing that it's a guarantee. Not a clickwar. Not a lottery.
The current system in a perfect world is good IF the game wasn't as popular as it is currently. To put it simply, it is outdated.
In conclusion, you guys are taking time to implement new systems, new ideals, and new gameplay enhancements, but when it comes to housing it's always a hit or miss. I would suggest that time be taken to actually work on the possibility of instanced housing being implemented within the "10 year" plan that you guys envision for the game, and add it to the "To-Do" list. We don't mind waiting for a system that we're all truly satisfied with. I know the topic in this post isn't one of the options of "Lottery vs FCFS" but I do think it would be something to consider.
If you got to the end, thank you for reading, and I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions.