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Old 05-23-2013, 08:07 PM
Vexenu Vexenu is offline
Planar Protector


Join Date: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,220
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A well-designed token-spawning system is a non-classic proposal that would ultimately result in a more classic gameplay experience than any other proposal on the table. Importantly, it would also require almost zero GM intervention once implemented. The current variance system is totally un-classic. A simple FTE shout with no variance would result in 4-5 guilds at each spawn trying to win a FTE lotto, which is also totally un-classic.

A token system could allow for hardcore guilds to earn more tokens to spawn more raid mobs, while still allowing casual guilds a shot at the mobs on a less frequent basis. It is essentially a de facto rotation that doesn't require guilds to cooperate with each other, and allows for competition and guilds to set themselves apart, with more dedicated guilds getting more loot.

You can pick holes in a token system and think of ways it could be abused, but most of these could be addressed with good design. And even with flaws, the end result would be preferable to the status quo.

Ultimately the question is whether it is better to adhere to the spirit or the letter of the law. A token spawning system would better approach the spirit of classic EQ while obviously violating the letter, since no such system existed in classic. However, neither did variance, neither did a 2.5 year duration Kunark, neither did 24/7 tracking and 3AM batphoning, and neither did a single server overflowing with 60s. Given the fact that the server is already entirely un-classic in these important regards, a token system which is also un-classic but which would deliver classic gameplay results would seem to be preferable.