One problem WAR has been fighting with since launch is one realm dominating the other. Often this was due to population imbalances, organizational issues or just a loss of morale. In 1.3.3 we were introduced to the Underdog system which was supposed to help. Has it worked?
You will probably get a different answer depending on the server. On Badlands, I think the system has worked great. Prior to the patch, Destruction would routinely push to Altdorf while Order only rarely made it to the Inevitable City.
If you look at Badlands now, both sides are getting to their enemies city. I'm not sure I've ever seen a -3 Underdog rating, usually at -2 the opposing realm is able to start a city siege. All this without really punishing the winners for winning. I was skeptical, but in the case of Badlands I am pleased with the results.
Of course, not all servers fared as well as Badlands did with 1.3.3. Where there was a wide population imbalance the same issues still remain. Population is a tough problem to solve. A bonus to exp and renown does not seem like it is enough to have people switching servers. Even though 1.3.3 helped, there is still some work to be done.
How are things on your server? Has the Underdog system helped at all?
Monday, March 8, 2010
Does the Underdog System work?
