Trekman wrote:I do not deny the idea completely - but in my opinion this is the worst of all possible times to invent it :
1) Server instabilities (as already mentioned).
They have been going on quite some time now, and nobody can say for how long they will remain that bad.
Stable servers will probably make it easier to pass the 12 mil.
But stable servers also raise the average XP passup again which in return makes a higher quota less important.
Stable servers will definately make it easier to send up more xp. But that doesn't mean that's what will happen. I and MANY other folks in the chain are currently making this type of xp already. Server problems and all. So, it can be done now, and Im sure it can be done after next patch. When the servers stop acting up, it will be that much easier.
Trekman wrote:If people have difficulties now to reach 6 mil due to hours of being stuck in world or (as happened to me recently) 1.5 days without being able to login - how could they possibly reach 12 mil ?
Remember that lvl 126+ does not protect from those instabilities
The management has, and will always be sympathetic to circumstances beyond a player's control that prevents that player from getting in game.
Trekman wrote:I know - the 12 mil. are only voluntary. But do not underestimate the group dynamics you start with that "voluntary quota".
Pure speculation. I suspect those that know they can handle quota will join and those that know they can't will not. If you can't make quota, then you would just be removed anyway, so why lose your spot in the entire chain? Just stay in the FC if you think it will be too difficult. There's absolutely nothing wrong with staying in the FC.
Trekman wrote:2) Monster Rebalancing
The next (2 - 3 ?) months will show a significant change in individual difficulty (based on player template) and XP outcome of monsters. Nobody can say now which influence that will have on *any* chain.
People will probably have to re-evaluate and adopt their hunting habits, which usually means more exploring and testing, but less XP.
The frequently heard "Its easy to make XX millions in a fellowship in <thisdungeon> or <thatarea>" might not be true anymore after next patch - until other <thisdungeon>s or <thatarea>s are starting to be camped.
Definate cause for concern. This is another reason why we have decided to make the new quota an option only for 126+ characters. Characters of this lvl are least likely to be effected by any rebalancing. At a certain point xp can "brute force" its way past problems. Its doubtful this rebalancing will cause major problems with very high lvl character's hunting grounds.
Trekman wrote:Apart from these two points I am mulling over the fairness of such a system.
If someone passes (average) 15 mil. up but does not want to be forced to 12 mil. (for whatever reasons - its his right) he still remains in the 6 mil. FC.
Another one is in "Order" and passes up his minimum of 12 mil. repeatedly over time. So he has more benefit (due to higher chain position and higher quota between that other toon and himself) but contributes less to the chain than that other one.
Well, heh Im not sure what to say about that one. If a person who is 126+ is passing up 15million a week and CHOOSES not to be in the Order, then they CHOOSE to accept the lower xp. Is it fair? I would have to say yes. That person knows and accepts his actions. You can't blame others for your own choices. If you can pass up that much xp then the logical thing to do is join the Order.
Now, I do realize of course that there are many 126- characters that are capable of making 12million pass up. I do indeed agree that it is not entirely fair that these people would not be permitted into the Order until 126. But here is the reason why it has to be like that: (Its quite unavoidable too, Im sure you'll agree.) Plain and simple, we can only sit it atop the FC without disruption to the entire chain if there is a 126 requirement. If you look at the situation and know anything at all about chain dynamics, you'll see there is really no other way. Also, I think I speak for the rest of management here when I say that we want to see the Order filled with people who have earned their spot. We envision the Order of Hyssop and Trout as a priveledge, not a right. When you have progressed through the lvs to 126, you can opt to join the order. We want it to be something people strive for. We want it to be open to Last Dynasty warriors only. We want to return something to the experience chain that has been sorely lacking: LOYALTY. Loyalty to the clan. Loyalty that is rewarded with entrance into the ranks of the Order. We are the oldest continually active chain on the server and we are confident we can make this work.