Regarding the Zones in A Realm Reborn

[Wolfie]

-snip-

You don't load all of the graphics assets of an entire zone. You cycle them between the VRAM and the hard drive as needed, which is why traditionally consoles have a smaller draw distance than PCs. If anything, the limitation is server side, because it's the server that needs to store the additional zone information such as the available mobs/characters/NPCS/events/whatever.

Small zones or missing zones is not the cause of PS3 limitations. It's a design choice made by the level design guys and the producer in order to reduce the amount of useless areas a game has, reduce the amount of money and time spent developing content that might not see a lot of use, and reduce server stress or the need for additional servers.

[Elros]

If you look at it, Coerthas Central highlands in ARR is almost identical to the central highlands from 1.0 (shapewise on the map). And besides it looks like there will be future access to the east because of that large gate that's closed. Also I remember seeing a camp to the west where the npc's were on an expedition to get through some ice wall where the 'Falcon's Nest' is located. So who knows, probably will see more in future updates.

I am also sad about mor dhona cut in half too, but I'm willing to bet that it'll be open in 2.1 for when the crystal tower is released!

[Gokulo]

I will gladly take the smaller zones seeing how much more interesting and beautiful they are. And we will get even more with expansions.

[HerpnDerpidus]

i would maybe believe the ps3 has anything to do with it if you had any evidence or facts at all there, go to metropolis on DCUO and you will see why that argument doesnt make much sense to me

[DiaDeem]

somethingsomethingconsolelimitations

[Boblawblah]

Are you telling me that we can't have hats because of consoles???

[TheMightyMollusk]

The deep dark secret they don't want to tell you is that consoles charge a premium for hat-rendering services, and they just can't afford any more.

[DiaDeem]

"You can access the Viera Hats feature by purchasing it from the PS Store. Please note that a PS+ Subscription is required"

[Atelier-Bagur]

It's not PS3 limitations, it's cutting out useless fat. There were zones or areas in 1.0 that served absolutely no purpose and were just filled with level 70+ mobs to give an artificial challenge to people looking to get their exploration achievements.

Some of these zones that they couldn't find a purpose for in ARR were cut out and the cataclysm was used to justify it via lore. Maybe they'll make a return in future patches/expansions, but honestly I'd rather see different settings or regions than these.

Honestly I would argue more often that not, many of the current zones have some areas and corners tucked away that rarely ever get used. At least the zone design is small enough for it be somewhat noticable but I wish there were more open world content besides FATES to have players revisit and explore these zones.

[EZGIL]