I was reading the patch notes for the latest update to my favorite Star Wars Galaxies emulator when this line just leaped right out at me:
“Rename is available again via a new Smuggler ability, Off the Record. The smuggler must use the command outside of all NPC and player cities. The command has a 30 minute cooldown, separate from existing abilities. The Smuggler calls in a Black Market Agent who can give you a new identity …for a price!”
Now, obviously, an unsanctioned player-run emulator like this doesn’t have to worry about costs because it isn’t making money in the first place, so naturally its developers’ first thought is to add any cool new concept to an actual player class rather than put it in a lockbox or cash shop, but in most MMOs, character renames go straight to the shop. This is so refreshing to me, not to mention in keeping with SWG’s spirit (this is a game where players are also barbers and tattoo artists!), and I wish we could see more of this in other games.
What other nifty skills should MMOs give players – but never do?
Every morning, the Massively Overpowered writers team up with mascot Mo to ask MMORPG players pointed questions about the massively multiplayer online roleplaying genre. Grab a mug of your preferred beverage and take a stab at answering the question posed in today’s Daily Grind!
