Critical Balance Problematics
Introduction
Hi! My name's Peter, prior Moderator on Stormfall: Age of War and Wiki Author, and I'd like to put something on the table here that's been troubling my mind when I play this game.
Please note, I'm not trying to criticize anything. I'm just trying to give constructive feedback and I'm interested in other's opinions.
The Problem
I've been frankly inactive over the past year. Been playing other games, busy with college et cetera. Now I've got plenty of time as I'm switching college due to the fact I'm not interested in the education they provide. But that's not the only problem here.
I've seen Stormfall change since 31st day of January 2015, which is when I started. Back then, financially everything, from what I remember, was better. I currently see a lot of paid content appear rather than shortcuts (The new units, Vanguard and Valkyrie, and the 50% Offense & Defense boost to name some). I also noticed the VIP program is being imbalanced. I recently asked my VIP agent for a bonus on an offer I was going to pay. He replied by saying that only if I spend at least $100 (€73) on the game, I'd get (9000 Sapphires and 50 Prestige Dragons / 100 Prestige Griffins) for $100.
In my opinion, this is really bad for the balance (and my wallet). It used to be the case that when you ask for a bonus, you'd get a bonus depending on the basecount of the Sapphires. This is still tweakable, but a whole bunch more fair that how it's now.
So I asked why this was implemented on which he answered that 'They want to treat players equally.' I appreciate the attempt, but it's far from more equal. You see, those who are able to spend at least $100 are fine. But those are usually among the full-time job workers. I'm 18 and I'm dependant on how many 3D design commissions I make and how much they pay me off. Besides, I should save up for my future rather than spending that much on a game!
Potential Solution?
About the paid content stuff, I'd recommend making them shortcuts rather than having it as exclusive paid content!
As for the VIP situation, honestly, I don't see any potential solutions other than rolling back that idea. Not everyone has VIP and those who do have VIP are expected to pay a bunch to actually gain the bonusses.
Opinions?
What do you think of those situations? Do you have any ideas that could solve those problems? Let me know in the replies! I'm really interested in seeing your opinions.
Thanks for reading,
Ichezis (Aka. Peter)