Call me cynical, but this made me think it’s going to be a FarmVille clone with a “Hobbit” skin and the “Middle Earth” name to suck people in. And then it’s going to go full Sauron with Microstransactions. Buy a picket fence for just $2.99. You want a fountain, by all means, that’s just $4.99. Carrots in your garden? Oh well, bend over we’ll need to plant a carrot somewhere first…
I’m willing to watch the trailers. It’s why I got the vibe I did. Consider what was presented in this trailer.
What is the core game loop going to be? This is a “cozy” game, that’s blatantly obvious. Also, in case you have blinders on, that’s how they describe it over on Steam. So, the game is built around collecting resources to upgrade and expand your “base” (home, garden, etc.). By itself, this isn’t bad, it’s a game play loop many people really love. It’s why the name “FarmVille” is instantly recognizable. The problem is that this is a game play loop which lends itself to microtransactions very easily.
And what about the world? Why is this in Middle Earth? Is there some story to tell in that world with this game? Well, not really. And that’s ok. Some people will just want the opportunity to explore the world. But, there is also the cynical reason that the world was chosen to reduce the need to do as much world building and lore writing. Also, as a popular IP, it’s going to have a built-in audience.
And yes, I’m being cynical. And you’re welcome to get all bent out of shape over that. But, if someone is going to put something like this out there, they are inviting comment based on peoples’ impressions. This is just mine, you’re welcome to disagree.
It looks better than I expected. With the way gaming is now, I was expecting a low grade top down or pixel game sold at full price. I’m so sick of the low grade “Indy” games, I just want more AAA single player games. The online game stores are filled with that low grade crap
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