There are a massive amount of games coming out in 2013, more than we could include in all of our "Lists" of what we're personally looking forward to this year. But that doesn't mean we're not going to shine the light on each game that's due to hit in the next twelve months. With that in mind, we reached out to every developer releasing an MMO in 2013, to answer a few questions and let us know what the year has in store for each of them. As we receive the answers, we're shining the spotlight on each game. Today it’s all about one of the most ambitious browser MMOs we’ve seen yet: City of Steam. Gabriel Laforge spoke to us about what to expect in the coming year from their game.
MMORPG: What does 2013 have in store for your game?
Gabriel Laforge: Just last December we wrapped up our Closed Beta test, so this year we have our sights set on releasing the Beta version. We also have a Greenlight campaign up on Steam, which, if successful, would also mean having a client version available for those who are completely adverse to browser games (hey, it happens!).
As for what's new, we should be seeing much better game balance, more intuitive UI, better gameplay, and much more content; and even more so as we expand the game throughout Beta!
MMORPG: How do you think your game will stand out from the crowd of this year's releases?
Gabriel Laforge: For one, the setting is unique. It blends industrial and fantasy elements together, based on the rich lore of a role playing book series written by our own Creative Lead. Basically, you won't see overdone enchanted forests or dragons running around. Instead, enjoy railhauler stations and airships!
Another major thing is City of Steam's remarkable accessibility; it's our goal and what we're good at (without trying to brag). Using the powerful Unity 3D engine with a sound number of our own in-house tools, we've managed to make the game's assets compact enough to keep loading times extremely low, without bulky downloads or installation required, playable straight from your browser while still delivering a high-quality, full-featured game experience (hit that "fullscreen" button and you can't even tell it's a browser game!). This is a big plus for gamers on the move who use more than 1 computer; just log in and play from anywhere! It's easy to get friends and family (even your grandma) to jump in and play together, whether they are hardcore or casual gamers. There's something for everyone.
MMORPG: What's the number one thing you want our readers to know about your game going into launch?
Gabriel Laforge: If you've played our Closed Beta, expect a lot more from City of Steam this time around. If you haven't had the chance yet, come give it a try (once it's out, of course), and see the difference it makes to play a community-driven game where the developers are directly involved with the players. City of Steam really stands out from what you'd ever expect from a browser game.... Also jetpacks.
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