The sandbox MMORPG Albion Online is making great strides towards launch. Time for the developers to share some insights about their plans.
In an interview with a US site, the team discusses the shift from the planned Free2Play model to a Buy2Play model. Albion Online was conceived from the very beginning for a specific group of players looking for an MMO where they could be involved for many years. However, the subscription model was already not an option back then. Thus, they decided on a model where players can purchase cosmetic items and a non-essential premium status.
However, tests and feedback from testers had shown, that a Free2Play model would simply take too much time to get right and provide players with enough content. Therefore, they ultimately decided on the Buy2Play model. You can simply buy the game at launch and play as long as you want. The in-game shop will offer optional cosmetic items and premium status for purchase, enabling players to progress faster. However, this status can only be purchased with in-game currency.
There is still much to do before the launch
As for the launch of Albion Online, it is planned for the third quarter of 2016. Prior to that, they aim to introduce a lot of new features and changes. Dhe entire game world will be overhauled, so that zones and clusters function completely differently than they do now. There will be a crime and reputation system, and the entire user interface will be revised.
Additionally, they are already working on larger changes that will give PvE and solo play more significance. They want to create a synergy between PvP and PvE players. Thus, with Albion Online, they also aim to reach those who do not place much value on PvP combat. They will introduce so-called “expeditions” that can be completed entirely alone, with friends, or with a large group of players.
The crime and reputation system is also intended to make players think twice about attacking other players without cause – it will still be possible, however. Until the launch of Albion Online, the developers have a lot of work ahead of them.
