Big Reveal for Korean Fans
During a presentation tailored for their Korean audience, NCsoft unveiled a slew of information about the anticipated MMORPG, Throne & Liberty. The most significant revelation was the Korean release slated for December 7th, 2023, while the global Amazon version remains scheduled for a debut next year.
From Lineage Eternal to Throne & Liberty
The showcased content for the game featured an overhauled combat system, intricate weather effects influencing gameplay, diverse PvE and PvPvE content, and notable UI improvements. Furthermore, the unveiling brought to light expansive regions, grandiose cities, guild advancements, and the end of lockboxes. Comparatively, the game looks substantially different from the Lineage Eternal many awaited for over a decade.
Updates and Monetization
The Korean Throne & Liberty plans to roll out three updates annually, each accompanied by two battle passes replete with cosmetics, perks, and currencies. However, there's been chatter regarding potential pay-to-win elements and a bias towards larger guilds and power leveling. It remains uncertain how these will impact the global version.
G-Star Presentation
If you're in Busan on November 18th, don't miss NCsoft's booth at G-Star. They'll be showcasing three distinct dungeon content types – solo, party, and raid. Plus, there's the added allure of raffles and pre-registration events.
MMORPG Features and Elements
Producer Jongok Ahn reiterated the vast expanse of the game world, emphasizing the impact of weather and time on gameplay. Players can now wield two weapon types, allowing for a variety of skill combinations. New inclusions also feature six-player group dungeons, each boasting unique mechanics challenging players' prowess.
Monetization Breakdown
Throne & Liberty's monetization centers around four elements:
Battle Pass: Two passes offer rewards as your character evolves and special missions every four weeks. These passes majorly feature cosmetics and developmental consumables.
Skins & Cosmetics: Purely cosmetic costumes that players can customize in terms of patterns and colors.
Auction: Player exchanges are facilitated through a distinct trading platform using the premium currency, Lucent.
Amitoy & Transformations: Amitoy dolls act as companions aiding in loot collection and character healing. Character transformations ease in-game travel. Both elements are purchasable cosmetics, devoid of any special features.
Combat and Gameplay
Auto-combat has been sidelined, paving the way for a dynamic, redesigned combat system. The intent behind this overhaul was to have players center their attention on battle strategies rather than swift button pressing.
Furthermore, Incursions are bifurcated into PvE and PvPvE types. PvE rewards remain non-transferable, keeping them player-specific. This move aims to prevent the overpowering of specific guilds, ensuring equal growth opportunities for all server players.
Interface Optimization
Addressing the critique of Throne & Liberty's UI being excessively "mobile", the team is now refining the interface to befit PC and console platforms. Originally, a mobile platform release was on the cards, but this idea was shelved, leading to significant game redesigns.
