In Japan, a first alpha for the action MMO Blue Protocol took place, which caused a stir with its anime graphics. There are already some first voices about the game.
What is Blue Protocol? The action MMO announced last summer by Bandai Namco mainly draws attention due to its graphics that look like a playable anime.
Although Blue Protocol is not referred to as an MMORPG, it gives that impression. You create a hero, explore the world together with other players, and complete quests. You also improve your character by fighting many monsters. All this in beautiful anime graphics.
Impressions from the Alpha
Where do the infos come from? The Japanese alpha currently gives players an initial impression of the online game. So far, testers were under an NDA and were not allowed to talk about their gaming experience. However, the NDA was lifted on February 3rd. Now, first videos have appeared online and initial impressions are being shared.
What do the gameplay videos show? Blue Protocol looks visually very exciting in the videos. You really get the feeling of playing an anime. Especially the game world looks simply beautiful and invites exploration. Atmospherically, the action MMO can certainly impress.
Not much can be said about the quests yet, as the texts are all in Japanese. However, it does seem that we can expect rather standard fare here. The heroes set out from the town to fight monsters in the wilderness and gather resources.
In the dungeons, even more enemies lie in wait for the players, and there are even boss fights. Blue Protocol currently gives the impression of being very grind-heavy, like other Asian MMORPGs.
Interestingly, each character has some sort of self-healing. Therefore, the focus is on action-packed and fast battles rather than on taking specific roles in a team like healer or tank. Essentially, everyone seems to be a damage dealer. However, the fast battles look very exciting and spectacular. Thus, Blue Protocol seems to be more of an action MMO than a classic MMORPG.
Could it be something?
What do the testers think of Blue Protocol? Opinions are a bit divided. The graphics and atmosphere are praised, but especially the rather generic gameplay seems to bother some.
- VectoredStar says on reddit: “I snuck into the Japanese alpha and the game reminded me of Dragon Nest in terms of dungeons, mixed with a large world full of monsters and the FATE system from Final Fantasy XIV. The music was decent, the skill system is quite simplified.”
- GodiFiorenza writes quite negatively: “The gameplay is rather simple. Animations look bad, the AI is not good and seems to offer no challenge.”
- JagoKestral believes: “It feels like a JRPG that is also an MMO. It reminds me a bit of the .Hack games that I loved in my childhood.”
When can we play? Currently, there is no information on whether and when Blue Protocol will be released in the West. However, it seems that Bandai Namco is preparing a release in the USA and Europe, as employees for an English localization are being sought.
Are you excited for Blue Protocol? How do you like the gameplay videos from the alpha?
