The big news story this week is the first reveal of SOE's new game, EverQuest Next. They discussed it at length at their Vegas conference. It has been long anticipated and it seems like it has lived up to the hype. However, I'm sad to say it may not be the game for me.
Don't get me wrong, it sounds fantastic. Flexible class system, destructible environments, building, emphasis on crafting, Storybricks powered AI all sound great. Normally I would be very excited about such a game. It looks like a very engaging sandbox MMO.
Therein lies the problem for me. At this point in my life a sandbox game, whether it be a MMO or not, is hard for me to get into. To get the most out of that type of game you need be able to devote a sizable chunk of time. Between work, family, and projects I just don't have the time anymore. I barely scratched the surface of Skyrim too.
Part of what makes a sandbox game so interesting is the prospect of making your own story. If you have the time, you can do some great things in a sandbox. If you're short on time, then there is just not as much potential. It's the same reason I don't play Eve Online. I have ambitions in the game, all of which require much more time than I have to give.
That's one reason I prefer the theme park model in SWTOR right now. I like being a part of a story and going at my own pace. My sandbox is life outside of games and I just don't think I have time for two of them. If only I was back in college, or the time before kids, then I'd be all in for a game like this.
Will I try EverQuest Next out? Of course, it looks awesome.
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