The freshly launched MOBA by Blizzard, Heroes of the Storm, breaks with some conventions that are otherwise common in this genre. There is no item shop and the whole team shares the same experience points. What was behind this decision has now been clarified in an interview with a developer.
Arthas already has a sword!
No matter if LoL, DOTA, or SMITE, all major MOBAs have a shop where heroes can gain strength by using the earned gold to buy items. Blizzard’s MOBA takes a different approach. When asked why there is no shop, senior artist Phill Gonzales said: A shop removes the heroes from what they already are. Arthas, the Lich King, has the notorious blade Frostmourne. Why on earth should he need to buy a Flame Sword with additional strength?
Instead of items that can be upgraded at the fountain of the team, HotS relies on a talent system. This is mainly possible because all characters (… except perhaps Murky) have a very developed backstory. In the lore, their abilities are often anchored, and players associate certain things with the heroes. When they choose Sylvanas’ “Will of the Forsaken” or upgrade Zagara’s “Creep Tumors”, it reminds them of the games where the heroes had their original appearances.
Group experience provides new opportunities
By adding the experience of all players to a group pool, completely new types of mechanics could be created. An Abathur who spends most of his time behind the walls of his own base supporting from there would be unthinkable in a traditional MOBA system. If the Zerg Evolution Master had to struggle on the front lines, many of his talents and abilities would be useless, and the whole character concept would be a shot in the dark.
By dissolving Blizzard’s existing standards – and incidentally setting new ones – it offers a fresh experience for all who are tired of MOBAs.
