Players in MMORPGs want to be equally challenged. However, a developer from Final Fantasy XIV explains in a conversation that it is impossible to please all players. Each player type expects a different level of challenges. Moreover, one cannot “invent” a difficulty level that is equally suitable for all players.
In a conversation with the English-speaking magazine PCGamer, Lead Battle Content Designer Masaki “Mr. Ozma” Nakagawa talked about the difficulty level in Final Fantasy XIV and how to cater to all players. And this is not so easy, the developer explained to the magazine.
Basically, Nakagawa states that it is impossible to create a difficulty level that is perfectly suitable for all players. He says in the conversation with PCGamer:
I believe it is simply impossible to design a difficulty level that is “just right” for all players. Every content should be developed with a specific target audience in mind, with a difficulty level that is precisely right for that audience. At the same time, I believe that the content should also offer something for players outside the primary target group.
Therefore, one must develop unique content for each player type. For instance, this includes content that appeals to casual gamers, while professionals may feel hopelessly under-challenged.
Alliance Raids are for beginners, professionals feel under-challenged
He cites this as an example: In the conversation, he primarily addresses the Alliance Raids: These contents were developed for players who do not want to participate in endgame content like extreme trials or wild raids. However, players who are used to the high level of other raids may quickly realize that Alliance raids are not particularly engaging, the developer explained.
However, there is also an advantage to having to design all content differently: Because each type of content is suitable for slightly different players, rather than trying to please everyone at once, battles can maintain their uniqueness. As a result, each content in the game also feels different.
Basically, this also leads to players being always dissatisfied with the difficulty level. Some demand more challenging and tougher content, while other players call for simplifications.
Some demand that dungeons and alliance raids be made easier, while others wish for 24-player ultimates or content that surpasses the difficulty level of ultimates. I believe it is okay for opinions to differ. Whatever your opinions may be, we respect them and take every player feedback seriously. And of course, we will continue to strive to outdo ourselves and create combat content that is even better than the last.
By the way, if you feel like starting again with Final Fantasy XIV, you should check out the free offer of the MMORPG. Currently, the game is giving away almost 100 hours of gameplay to returners: One of the best MMORPGs is currently giving away almost 100 hours of gameplay
