Stormrage Initial Impressions

[Tal]

1. I have not put in much effort on this, but it seems to me that quality groups are difficult to assemble.  This might be due to a lack of incentive at the early stages of the game to form groups.  For most quests, I have had no trouble finishing on my own.  This might not have been true if the server had fewer people around.  As it is right now (i.e., crowded), most areas are reasonably safe for travel, even if a character is slightly below the level of the mobs nearby.[right][snapback]61534[/snapback][/right]

I think this is more a function of early stages in general. Grouping becomes more often as you progress. Also don't hesitate to speak up in Guild chat and ask if anyone is in the area and/or willing to come give you a hand. :)

2. Level disparity is a huge factor - maybe even too much of a factor - in deciding the outcome of battles.  A level 12 character would have a challenging time defeating a level 13 mob; the fight is winnable, but the level 12 character would certainly have significantly reduced life afterwards.  In contrast, a level 14 character could engage the same mob with very little challenge.  I think that the level disparity could be smoothed out somewhat so it is not so jarring.[right][snapback]61534[/snapback][/right]

Interesting. I've not had any trouble taking on mobs a level or two higher than me. Three is where it gets dicey. Four is a shot in hell. ;)

3. Combat, from my experience so far, has involved almost no strategy.  In every instance that I can think of, the outcome of a fight can be predicted before the beginning.  If you are damaging the mob faster than you are taking damage, then you will win.  If the reverse, you will lose.  There is very little that you can do during the course of combat to change the outcome.  I realize that this might be different in later stages of the game, especially if group play is involved.  However, so far, it has not been much more than click and wait for the mob to die (or run if the mob does not die fast enough).[right][snapback]61534[/snapback][/right]

Once you get all of your skills there is more to do in combat - especially once you get your pet.

4. I have really appreciated the guild so far, even though I have not partied with anyone (guiild or otherwise) yet.  It is z useful channel of distributing spare resources, and I imagine that this will only be more true as characters become more specialized with trade skills.[right][snapback]61534[/snapback][/right]

Plus we're a silly bunch of buggers. ;)

5. Is it too early to start thinking of a tabard?
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Nope. Roane, Lissa, Ruvunal and I have been discussing Tabard selections. I'm in the process of coming up with some design options for us to vote on. Unfortunately I need to come up with 10 gold to design it...