Star Trek Online's open beta is just around the corner. I can't help but start to get excited about the game. Usually I am a pretty cynical person when it comes to new MMO's. Champions Online and Aion are two recent examples. But it is different with STO and I'll tell you why.
It's Star Trek.
I am a fan of the Star Trek shows (not Enterprise) and movies. I wouldn't call myself a Trekkie as I would never go to a convention or dress the part. Not that there is anything wrong with that... just not my thing. The Next Generation is my favorite Star Trek series and I own the DVD seasons.
I guess I am one of those built-in fans Cryptic got when they took over the IP. Because I like the lore so much I am able to look beyond the normal new MMO concerns. The way Cryptic handled the CO launch would usually be a major flag, but it's Star Trek.
In most MMO's, the lore does not make much of a difference for me. Warcrafts lore... meh. I really had no interest in the world of Champions Online. Even with Warhammer Online, I am not a big lore person. Lord of the Rings? I've only read the Hobbit.
The lore in Star Trek and Star Wars will get me to shell out some money for their games. It may not be rational, but that's just how it is. That doesn't mean those games will retain me, but it will get me to try them out.
The articles released on gaming news sites do worry me a little. However, the things they praised are weighted much more heavily in my mind. All I need to do is see myself flying around a Galaxy class starship blasting some Cardassians and the worries subside. STO may not be perfect, heck it may not be good at all. They will get my money in a few weeks regardless because it's Star Trek.
