Hey, Parn. Thanks again. ;)
Segaholic2 wrote:Since it sounds like you're in the beta, would you mind explaining some basic things about the game?
I'm most interested in the improvements in this one from PSO. Like, how large are the stages in comparison? Do they feel less restricted? How's the range of level variety? (I really hope it's not as limited as PSO)
Stuff like that.
Well, I only just got to start the beta this morning, so I haven't played as much as I'd like. But, I'll try to answer what I can.
The initial stage you run through is SEED-infested Linear Line inside the Guardians Colony. It isn't huge by any means, so I guess it's not the best example to use, but I'll still mention it. It reminded me of
PSO levels a bit, expect it didn't seem to have that feel of large room, hallway, large room, hallway, etc. like the mines or seabed plant. (Then again, maybe the excitement of finally getting to play the game made me not notice that.) A better example of level size would be Raphon Plains on Parum. I still haven't finished that area since I'm so low level, but I got to explore a decent bit just running from enemies. (My poor FObeast kept getting raped by Shagreeths and packs of Vahras, so I've got some leveling to do before I head back there.) At first glace, Raphon looks gigantic. Absolutely huge. As you explore, you'll notice that there is a set path, but it didn't really make me feel restricted or confined. The path was large and open enough to give me decent room to roam, and the barriers felt natural. Smallish cliffs and other steep dropoffs are some of the barriers I recall, along with thick foliage and greenery.
The lobbies are nicely sized, too. Clyze City on the Colony has five different floors to run around on, each with its own purpose. (Shopping, transportation, Guardians missions, etc.) Holtes City on Parum is divided up into different sections: east, central and west. I think there might be more areas that are closed off for the beta, though. And Ohtoku City on Neudaiz is of a nice size, too, from what I saw this morning. I didn't take the time to run around the entire city to see how far down each path along the river runs, but judging from the size of the other two cities, I'd say it stretches for a fair bit. I would've ventured into Mizuraki Preserve on Neudaiz, but considering how badly I was getting beaten at Raphon, I was honestly too afraid. I'll try that area once I've leveled up more.