In a recent outreach to the gaming community, Throne and Liberty producer Ahn Jong-ok has addressed growing concerns surrounding the game's systems used during its Closed Beta Test (CBT). As the Korean launch of the game approaches on December 7th, this announcement comes as a significant update to players eagerly awaiting the game's release.
Addressing Player Feedback
Ahn Jong-ok acknowledged the concerns raised by the community over the past weekend, particularly focusing on systems implemented during the CBT. In response, the development team at NCSOFT has made substantial improvements, including the removal of two controversial features: the Express Request system and the Lucky Collector system. This decision reflects the team's commitment to listening to player feedback and adjusting the game accordingly.
For more background on the producer's previous communication and the game's journey to launch, check out our earlier article on the 5th producer's letter and our detailed breakdown of what the Korean version will entail at launch.
Understanding the Removed Systems
Lucky Collector System: Explained and Removed
The Lucky Collector system, an integral part of the game's Battlepass, was designed to modify the in-game economy by making more items available for trade in the marketplace. This system enabled items acquired through gameplay to have a chance of becoming tradeable, diverging from the typical binding to the player's account. While this feature aimed to enhance trading flexibility, it raised concerns about potentially unbalancing the game's economy and affecting the overall player experience.
Special Quest System: Premium Access and Its Impact
Another significant aspect was the Special Quest System, accessible through the use of premium currency. This system offered players premium daily quests, which provided substantial rewards, including a large amount of experience points (EXP), gold, and rare materials. However, with its limitation of 20 quests per day, the system's cost was estimated at around $450 USD per month, leading to apprehensions about its impact on the game's balance and the potential for creating a pay-to-win environment.
The removal of these systems has been well-received by the community, demonstrating NCSOFT's commitment to listening to player feedback.
Commitment to a Balanced Launch
In light of these adjustments, Ahn Jong-ok reassures players that the development team is dedicated to delivering a balanced and enjoyable experience at launch. The removal of these systems is a step towards ensuring a fair and engaging environment for all players. The team's willingness to listen and respond to community feedback is a positive sign for the game's future post-launch.
