MMORPG: The last press release stated that there would be five expansions for the XBox One version of Neverwinter released this year. Are these just the previously released expansions or is there something unannounced we can look forward to also?
Rob O.: Xbox One players can expect a release of all our modules to date and the latest module Stronghold in 2015. Our goal is to catch the Xbox One up to our latest module and keep all our platforms as close as possible as far as releases. The modules coming to Xbox One this year have a ton of great content, events, rewards and more that the players are sure to enjoy.
MMORPG: Why did you decide to add guild versus guild pvp in the upcoming expansion? While PvP, both large and small scale, has always be possible in table top D&D it always felt like it was more geared to work with your friends, not try and kill them?
Rob O.: The history and lore of Strongholds in D&D are all about building up your keep and lands to engage in large battles. The translation from the table top to the MMO, the Guild vs. Guild battles, isn’t that far from what a DM would run in a campaign with friends. While cooperation and PvE centric battles might occur more often amongst friends on the table top, a DM could turn friends into foes.
MMORPG: What changes can players expect in the Xbox One version of Tiamat, compared to its PC release?
Rob O.: The initial release of Tiamat had a hoard mechanic that players could build up over the course of an hour to unlock buffs and a chance at even greater rewards upon beating Tiamat. We have updated the mechanic to a longer – weekly – cycle. Players can increase the hoard throughout the week and when the Tiamat Hoard is maxed out, it stays at max giving the benefit of better, bigger buffs and potential rewards to everyone when they fight Tiamat.
MMORPG: Are there any lessons learned from the PC version you guys are applying to the Xbox One edition?
Rob O.: There are a ton of things we have learned about Neverwinter, MMO’s and our fans since we launched. We are always working to improve the game and apply what we have learned. We are also learning a ton about our Xbox One fans and what they like to do. It’s not too much of a surprise that gamers like a good game, content that is not the same all the time and cool things to do. Everything we learn we apply with the goal to make Neverwinter the best game it can be.
MMORPG: Where are you at with the changes to the content in the Elemental Evil module?
Rob O.: We are just about wrapped up with the content changes for Elemental Evil. We are excited to bring Elemental Evil, Icewind Dale, Dreadring and Fury of the Feywild to fans later this year.
MMORPG: How will the castle building portion of Strongholds work? Will we get rewarded resources as rare drops from certain fiends throughout the world?
Rob O.: Without giving away too much, your Stronghold and it’s growth will require your guild to complete tasks on your adventures across the Sword Coast. The goal is to keep the world relevant while making it feel part of your guild’s Stronghold.
