MMO design opinions and genre philosophy

The discussion includes several broader opinions about MMORPG design beyond any single game system.

Why Scars of Honor is being made

Scars of Honor is described as a response to a perceived gap in the MMORPG genre. The project is framed as an attempt to serve players who feel that existing games no longer evolve in the right direction or no longer listen closely enough to their communities.

First-MMO nostalgia

A distinction is made between discovering the MMORPG genre for the first time and playing a new MMO later in life. The first MMO a player experiences is described as uniquely formative, and later games are expected to be judged against that original point of reference. A new game can still feel fresh, but not necessarily in exactly the same way as a player's first exposure to the genre.

Quest design philosophy

Questing is discussed as worthwhile only when it serves a clear design purpose. Repetitive chores with no meaningful variation are criticized. More positive examples include quests with hidden solutions, multiple completion methods, or discoveries that players can share with each other.

Leveling and scaling

Automatic level scaling is criticized as undermining the purpose of having levels at all. The preferred direction for Scars of Honor is closer to a traditional progression model, where gaining levels retains meaning instead of being neutralized by constant scaling.

External guides and loss of discovery

The modern MMO ecosystem of YouTube, Twitch, and instant build guides is described as a mixed blessing. It can help a new game gain attention, but it can also shorten the life of discovery by pushing players immediately toward optimal builds and solutions. Preserving mystery and social learning is treated as valuable.

Mobile as a genre gateway

Mobile support is defended as a practical way to reach younger players who may have little familiarity with PC controls or older MMORPG conventions. Rather than treating mobile as inherently opposed to MMO design, the discussion presents it as a necessary access point for a newer audience.

Community and shared enthusiasm

A recurring theme is that MMORPG development depends on a strong exchange between creators and community. Enthusiasm, trust, and active participation are treated as essential parts of building a successful MMO, not merely as marketing support.

Source

• Recording: Druid Caster Community Choice/Concept Review-Hidden Stream Guest - Gamescom Discussions, Playing GW2
• YouTube: Watch on YouTube
• Published: Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 9:04 PM UTC