I don't get that whole "they are doing this to test the feature for D3" stuff. In a way, Shisou is right. They are different games.
They are giving D2 respecs because they believe it is a good thing, plain and simple. No need for that "testing" theory that came out of nowhere.
I think the point I was trying to put across is including "respec" into D2 would always generate learnings for D3 (whether that is Bliz's primary motive is up for speculation).
As such, approach the upcoming D2 respec with an open mind and likely we will see benefit down the line.
Wasn't referring to WoW; Think the last Sony-owned MMO that did really well. There were a number of game mechanics introduced that make things easier.
In the order of risk, I think Bliz has more to lose at this moment with D3 rather than D2 (financially).
I would think they would rather "screw around with a classic" and get things as much right with D3 from the onset than murk around after. "Murking around" post-release certainly did speed up Hellgate's demise. Introducing "respec" into D2 also renews interest in the franchise (how many naysayers here will be going back to try it out anyway, come on, be honest), opens a ready channel for user-testing and feebback. Highly desirable to Bliz, IMO.
The argument for and against respec is reminiscence of a certain MMO where they made it easier for beginners to get equipment and level, effectively narrowing the divide between those who "can/have it" and those who do not. The usual cry of "good old days"/ "we had it hard then, you babies"/ "am gonna quit" followed.
Contrary to some belief, I see the ability to respec encourages specialisation and experimentation because it lowers the penalty for doing so; It allows players to adapt their characters based on point-of-time equipment.
Now, while the afore-mentioned MMO may have done it to expand their player base, I suspect Blizzard has a slightly different motive. That is, to test and streamline their respec model for D3. "Respec" in a form is coming and instead of arguing about its merit (which is largely moot anyway because it is based on each individual's notion of what "respec" entails.....), it might be more useful to use the D2 test bed and then provide feedback to Blizzard.
In the old days, before cars, we had to walk everywhere. Man, we had it hard then - it was a struggle, nay, *EPIC* just getting anywhere each day. It was tough! It built characters! And we were men, I tell you! Now, with cars, you guys just drive - where is the challenge in that, I ask? Cars should be banned!!
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I think the point I was trying to put across is including "respec" into D2 would always generate learnings for D3 (whether that is Bliz's primary motive is up for speculation).
As such, approach the upcoming D2 respec with an open mind and likely we will see benefit down the line.
But those "old people" who learnt to drive, get places faster and have more time to do the fun stuff.
In the order of risk, I think Bliz has more to lose at this moment with D3 rather than D2 (financially).
I would think they would rather "screw around with a classic" and get things as much right with D3 from the onset than murk around after. "Murking around" post-release certainly did speed up Hellgate's demise. Introducing "respec" into D2 also renews interest in the franchise (how many naysayers here will be going back to try it out anyway, come on, be honest), opens a ready channel for user-testing and feebback. Highly desirable to Bliz, IMO.
Contrary to some belief, I see the ability to respec encourages specialisation and experimentation because it lowers the penalty for doing so; It allows players to adapt their characters based on point-of-time equipment.
Now, while the afore-mentioned MMO may have done it to expand their player base, I suspect Blizzard has a slightly different motive. That is, to test and streamline their respec model for D3. "Respec" in a form is coming and instead of arguing about its merit (which is largely moot anyway because it is based on each individual's notion of what "respec" entails.....), it might be more useful to use the D2 test bed and then provide feedback to Blizzard.