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I agree that it is not cost efficient, especially given the multiple languages/simultaneous release... Perhaps they will implement it on a very limited basis though (i.e., cutscenes and the like). However, I must touch on the JPN vs. NA voice actors point one last time. In my earlier post, I was careless and I want to acknowledge that there are many great NA voice actors. Likewise, I have played many games (and seen others) featuring almost stereotypical JPN voice acting that made my skin crawl. Yet, overall, it seems like NA voice acting is much more spotty as far as consistency ACROSS THE ENTIRE GENRE goes. It's a generalization, but I still think it is based on fairly unbiased observations. I feel like if you pick up a random game with NA voice acting, you have a much higher chance of finding yourself distracted by the voice "actors" (or at least turning the vocal track off in the options menu, if that's even allowed --- which it frequently isn't, annoyingly so... ugh). Likewise, your random JPN voice acting tends to show a lot of depth and you can tell the voice actor has studied the game's world/story/plot/etc. That's just on average, and yes... there are exceptions to the rule. And, it should be said, over the years NA voice acting has improved DRAMATICALLY. I won't deny that. Still, you gotta admit, your random NA voice acting on a game vs. JPN voice acting = more often than not, the JPN voice actors are more "refined"/professional and better at what they are doing. Honestly, I just want to play the damn game. Now. Right now. This is too long to wait. ;^_^ /sighs dejectedly. |
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Originally posted by Teiman
funny =D |
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I haven't read this whole thread, and I've seen a few kinda hint at this (and I bet others actually say it but I'm just too lazy to read everything right now). Still, this action by the Chinese govt is NOT to help game companies, or players, or limit the number of sweatshop type "businesses" in their country. People are closer when they suppose it's related to controlling the economy. But, more accurately, the crack down (including porn) is directly related to what just went down in Iran. China fears what just happened in Iran, and they are doing what they can to remind their populace that they are in control and watching. In fact, China's ability to monitor and control the internet and cell phone usage is supposedly much less centralized/effective than Iran's is. I've read numerous reports that the "deep packet inspection" technology that Nokia/Siemens sold to Iran = doesn't work for some reasons with China's infrastructure. So, instead, China is left with token enforcement and simply changing laws to coerce people out of partaking in any potentinally subversive activities. The crackdown on porn and gold selling is just for show, though I bet they'll enforce it enough that it sends a message to the people. Frankly, I'm surprised nobody started a thread to discuss this article's point about the Iranian firewall and the possibility of using MMO's to get around it: http://asert.arbornetworks.com/2009/06/a-deeper-look-at-the-iranian-firewall/ . It's something relevant to MMO'ing and relevant to current events. Who cares about the news or outside world though, right? Oh, and here's a quotation from that link since the relevant info. is at the end: While the rapidly evolving Iranian firewall has blocked web, video and most forms of interactive communication, not all Internet applications appear impacted. Interestingly, game protocols like xbox and World of Warcraft show little evidence of government manipulation. Perhaps games provide a possible source of covert channels (e.g. “Bring your elves to the castle on the island of Azeroth and we’ll plan the next Ahmadinejad protest rally?”) Oh well, like I said, I haven't had time to read up on these forums recently, so maybe people have already discussed this to death. Anyways, I bet that I remain... the thread-killer... ending all discussion in whatever thread I post to ;^_^ |
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what I would voted for is "voice acting w/ optional text"... I guess that's nothing strange. Still, I agree with others that voice acting quality is pretty spotty from game to game. There are various reasons, but it seems English-voiced games suffer sometimes from corny/subpar actors who overact and kill any hopes for a sense of immersion. However, many here surely know that voice acting is a bit of an artform in Japan and I would *love* if XIV offered Japanese voices w/ English subtitles. Maybe that is not practical or wouldn't appeal to most gamers, but I would take quality voice acting in any language as long as the subtitles were well translated. I enjoy learning languages, though I'm pretty miserable w/ grammar and writing when it comes down to it, but if the actors are good, ppl can hear emotion in ANY language, even if they don't speak it or only know a few words in it. Thinking of an example for the difference in quality and enjoying a game w/ Japanese voice acting+english subtitles... a game like Ninja Gaiden for PS2 works I guess (only cite it b/c remember a friend w/ the game pointing out the diff. in quality). Better examples out there, I know... But, still... obviously, the American voice actors destroyed the flavor of the game while the Japanese voice actors were much better actors, if I remember correctly. The coolest notion to me = it would rule to have tarutaru's talking to you in forceful Japanese voices, or Galka's rumbling at you in Nihongo about dangerous tasks that await you at every turn. Imagine melding Japanese and mithran "cat sounds".... I wonder how a skilled, hardcore voice actor would approach that. ;^_^ Oh, and we mustn't forget what the rumored new race would sound like... Is it strange to wonder about these kinds of things? Gotta love completely pointless dreaming, considering it's more likely we'll get "text based" MMO gaming for several more years (at least where SE is concerned). |
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Originally posted by cfurlin
Your consistent vitriol and opposition to this game is puzzling (and yes, I know you play it and you "like" it, but you are consistently berating those who are excited about it and you frequently call it, and its gamers, "cookie cutter".
If people are excited about something, regardless of whether or not you are, why can't you just let them be? I know when people are going nuts about the latest blockbuster shoot-'em-up, I could care less. But, do I take the time out of my day to mock them, condescend to them, and present their devotion and excitement as a joke? Hardly... I do what most ADULTS do and just move along, 'cause FOR ME (a person who has decided against that movie, or in your case, a game), I walk away from things I'm not interested in and ignore them.
If others go ga-ga over it, why should I care? It's cool they have found something they enjoy. Why rain on somebody's parade? You say people are freaking out like they just got the latest my little pony, but you remind me of the kid who didn't get ANYTHING and just cuts-down others because if you can't have fun, why should anybody else? |
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Originally posted by Cynthe
Dude you can have role play in a cardboard box if you want..... I think what you meant is lore, and while the lore is brand new it's well done and easily role playable. The world is very detailed, not in a textured sense but in a sense that there's critters running away from you as you approach, spiders coming down from tree branches, just a lot of cool wildlife and great scenery, from what I can tell everything in game actually has a meaning and an explanation in the lore from not being able to fly all the time to harvesting. I vote this is great world to RP in.
I agree. The world is not perfect in some aspects, but it definitely "breathes" and feels like it's a real place. There are distinct changes and even emotional feelings you get from different zones and the lore present throughout various quests (and just talking to NPC's). I won't deny that there are a few immersion killers, but I think they are minor and easily overlooked considering the fun that you can have (at least I felt that way). The only limit to the possibility for RPing is one's imagination, of course... but, honestly, I didn't feel like I had to stretch my imagination a whole lot to see RP possibilities in Aion (a good thing...). I think it will be *very* easy for players to RP in Aion (I know that I will gladly do my best). In fact, the lore is not only vague about what happened when the Balaur entered the Tower of Eternity... it actually contradicts itself based on what race you play. This provides a nice grounds for conflict and unanswered questions that require growth and exploration to "answer". With each race believing the other is to blame for the destruction, RP'ers could easily think up backstories and motivations for why their characters are doing what they are doing in the context of the game world. As I played over the most recent beta weekend, I kept finding myself mentally journalling "notes" for my character's backstory as I moved through the world. Clearly, there is a strong community desire to RP (e.g., Golden Dawn's migration to Aion), and likeminded people will always prove that where there's a will, there's a way. |
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I think it is very polished, fun, and has an awesome soundtrack. I find myself extremely immersed in the world, and while the quests are pretty standard fare, I find myself reading them and generally connecting with the world and story (have not been talking to as many NPC's as I did during Elyos preview event, though). The biggest thing for me is that I am attached to my toon, and I am losing track of time. Granted, I am not some jaded burnt out WoW elite gamer who has played every MMO under the sun. Still, I find Aion to be a good game that will only get better with time. It does not reinvent the wheel, but I can tell that I will enjoy exploring it and its world. The only thing left is to find a pleasant group of players to team with. From how much fun it appears people in game were having, I think there will be a lot of people to join up with. Unfortunately, as fun as it is... as much as I enjoy it, I'm still able to walk away from Aion (surprisingly). Yes, it's a great game, but there is only one thing that trumps my addiction to games and that is my addiction to politics. Though I have wanted to play *MUCH* more than I have, I've spent a lot of this weekend on twitter and watching the horribly repettive news coverage of the Iranian election. I know that's unrelated, but for those who care, Aion won't hook you enough to make you forget about the outside world (well, at least not completely). It almost has that ability, though... I find it easy to play for several hours straight and not think about what could be happening at this very moment, but then I have to take a break and I wind up losing myself to twitter for a few hours. Still, I think the rational and reasonable here will enjoy Aion. I realize a few rational and reasonable gamers here are very hardcore and they have grounds to object to Aion. But, fwiw, I find the game fun and I feel like the world exists and that my character is a part of it. I agree with some complaints that the starter zones for each race = similar, but I can live with that. I find the game fun and it feels like that feeling will last for a long time. One can never be sure, but I think a lot of people are going to find a new home for at least until TOR and FFXIV are released. Okay, back to twitter. Then going to play some more Aion after that. ^_^ |
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okay, goodbye to the world for the next couple of days (like it will miss me). Here we go. ^_^ |
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Originally posted by comerb
The only way the Elyos won't be severe underdogs is if they implement some sort of population balancing system. I actually forsee it being a problem in the game.
Gamer's just like living in the dark.
Quite true, quite true. Villains are just much more interesting, I guess. Or, at least *perceived* villains... kinda anti-heroes of sorts... After all, from what little I've read about the two races, the Elyos might *look* like the selected/angelic race... but, there is a *LOT* of doubt about whom is responsible for whatever happened in the world (I have purposefully ignored posts/spoilers so that I will enjoy the lore more when I play through it). The Elyos are described on the official site as somewhat arrogant and well aware that they are "attractive," thus believing they are favored and in the right. The Asmodae, in contrast, know that they are disfigured and are somewhat tortured by the question about if they deserve the deformity... I like that brooding/tortured history... Plus, like plenty of others, I just find the darkness of Asmodians appealing. I agree that there might be balance issues, and I just hope enough crazy skilled players go Elyos to keep things balanced even if Asmodians hold a numerical advantage. |
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Man, lots of Asmodian brothers and sisters... Would almost play Elyos because I favor the underdog (if more truly do create Asmodian characters), but I can't stand their squeaky clean image.... So, Asmodian Cleric here. Very much looking forward to this weekend's preview event, but I wish the game would just release already so we could just play... ;^_^ |
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Ah, okay, thanks. This site wasn't giving them away, but they gave us some passcode to put in when we registered that supposedly improved your chances. Guess no luck this time though. Oh well. Thanks for the replies. |
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Hmmmmm... has anyone gotten an email? I figure I won't get one, but was curious if any have gone out to others. I guess I'm just thread bumping to see if anbody had any luck... Hope at least somebody did. ;^_^ |
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Interesting *speculation* about SE hiring staff for earlier than expected beta testing.
General Discussion « Final Fantasy XIV 6/15/09 5:41:21 PM
I was reading through a ZAM post that roughly translated a 4Gamer / Famitsu / Gamewatch interview about FF14. Lots of cool details, but something stood out to me with regard to the beta test/release date. The new info. (at least to me) = SE won't beta test for as long as WoW (9 mo's). That answers my question about a long Sept 2009 beta running until the- Summer 2010 release. Add this to the next tidbit taken from the Dengeki interview with Tanaka and Komoto: Q. When does the Beta start? According to the announcement, Final Fantasy XIV will go on sale and begin service sometime in 2010. Looking at how things will go forth, Tanaka confirms that a beta test beginning next year will be most likely, with the test leading into the public release of the game. However, the exact timing is still unknown. http://www.final-fantasy-14.org/ff14-content/dengeki-speaks-with-tanaka-and-komoto/ Essentially, initial signs are pointing to a beta start at the beginning of 2010 (I know I am slow, that others already pointed this out... I just like to have links/sources so I can go back and read them again). When you add that the most we know about a release date is "after FFXIII is released" (which is Spring 2010), it's reasonable to guess at a possible Summer/Early Fall release. At the very least, if they are planning on a beta longer than 3-4 months (source), but shorter than 9 months (Zam post), then when we know the "official" date for the beta, we can probably make a reasonable guess at the game's release (add 5-8 months to the start date of the beta). Of course, by then, they'll surely tell us how long the beta will last, so whatever. I've read the "Stop. Drop........ Breathe" thread. I simply cannot. Am far too pumped about this game. Have read something else in the Zam post that alarms me, but I will post separately about that (and probably on a community forum too). Oh, and Tanaka himself has said that EVERYTHING about dates and details remains unconfirmed and can change at ANY time... but, I will speculate to my heart's content. It's been awhile since I've been this excited, you know?... =D I still don't understand why they are hiring people for possible testing/GM duties, though. . . . .? <(;-.-)> |
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It looks like this game is shaping up nicely. Have been anticipating the Beta. I bet getting a key for the last Aion Beta Weekend means my luck for getting in beta's is done for the rest of my lifetime.... Oh well, at least I got to play a little Aion. ;^_^ Thanks for the screen shots. I forget to check their website every now and then and it was a good reminder. |
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*crosses fingers* I didn't bother posting on their forums (though I did sign up here when the beta "sign up" for MMORPG readers was posted). So, highly unlikely I'll get selected... *uncrosses fingers* But, I wanna play! *crosses fingers again*. |
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Originally posted by raystantz
I see that you weren't trying to get people to convince you, my mistake. But you have to admit, it's a little strange to ask people how Aion will be different than WoW... what will make it more fun... only to shoot down their answers like you were ready for their responses. I guess what I was trying to say, though I screw it up (as always) by being too wordy... why are you asking a question if you already know the answer? You asked how Aion is different and what will make it "fun" vs. WoW. I've seen several posters try to respond, but you clearly aren't satisfied with their answers. So, as before, I guess your choice is clear: Just don't play the game. It's not meant to be mean.... as an outsider, it just looks like there are several things you won't like about it and others can't seem to give you some differences that would make you want to play it. I'd just leave it at that. I think a lot of the stuff they bring up points to what has been the standard line for the game for as long as I've been reading about it: Aion is polished and will offer some dynamic pvp/rvr, but overall it's nothing earth-shattering. So... if it's gotta be revolutionary or else, and the answers people are giving don't work for you, then Aion probably isn't your game. Can't believe I posted, multiple times no less, on this thread... (;>.<) |
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Originally posted by raystantz Okay, then why does it seem like you're doing everything you can to convince yourself not to play. Just look at how you are listing out the negative things about the game. If you're really unsure and don't think you will like it, then don't play it. I don't understand why you want other people to convince you to play. If your motivations aren't intrinsically based, then what is it to have them? In other words, if you need others to convince you to take the plunge then you're probably better off not taking it. I think it's clear you're ambivalent about Aion, so don't play. It's simple. If others want to convince you why it's a great game, I guess that's there thing. I just think it's pointless. ----------------------- Hey, guess what... I've heard joining the military is really hard and dangerous. I've done a lot of hard and dangerous things before and I'm tired of that kind of stuff. I just don't see why I should sign up to a whole new batch of hard and dangerous stuff if it's going to be just like the hard and dangerous stuff that I went through before..... I hate that kind of stuff! Okay, now... Convince me to join the military! Come on people... I know I just told you I'm biased against joining, but tell me all the reasons I should. It's just... while you do, I will make lists of reasons that you are wrong and specifically pick apart your points because I'm dead set against joining the military after all. But, still, I want you to try to convince me. Try! ---------------------- Does it strike you as pointless of a discussion as it does me? |
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If you believe everything you read, or you're only noticing the negative stuff on purpose and then seeking reassurance here for not playing (or looking to indirectly bash Aion), then don't play Aion. Seriously. IMO, it's clear you're not in an open frame of mind to really give it a fair chance even if you were to try it. If you will believe some ridiculous reviews (most of which are based on extremely limited game hours over the first 20 lvls), and you don't even want to bother to get the game and try it for yourself, then don't. Don't play the game, don't use your own brain to form your own opinion. Be a follower and allow others to form your opinions for you. I only say this because it's like you're asking for permission not to play and not to think for yourself and form your own opinion about the game. So, you have my permission. Don't play. Believe all the negative stuff you've read. It's just like WoW and will be a letdown, so don't even bother trying it out.
ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED? IS THIS NOT WHY YOU ARE HERE? |
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Interesting *speculation* about SE hiring staff for earlier than expected beta testing.
General Discussion « Final Fantasy XIV 6/14/09 6:09:46 PM
That's why I was so surprised to see rumors of a beta for this Sept., with a release date for Sept (2010)... I thought I would have some time to tuck away money and possibly build a system for XIV. Also, before reading about the possibility of an earlier than expected beta, I was planning on playing Aion while waiting for XIV. Now, I won't be able to afford it by a long shot if i have to buy a new system (or at least do some major upgrades) within a few months... Of course, I won't complain. If it means seeing the game sooner, I'm up for anything. ..... We need to make like an "Ocean's Eleven" MMORPG/FFXIV-style. You know.... instead of making fun of Darkfall and arguing about Game X's lack of some pointless feature all of the time, we all should spend the next few months planning to rob every Fry's Electronics in the country of their precious graphics cards, processors, ram, etc. The goal: beg, steal, or borrow our way to monster systems. Who's game? (;^_^) |
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