#45
by xyn
Just to throw my $0.02 in (a.k.a another long Akbar musing):
New level requirements:
I think it is fine that Ancients become a level 95+ clan. My biggest concern, which Toycat addressed, is giving people a reasonable time to get there. Remembering that some can only play an hour or two a day is important. Also, that while boss fights are not as critical to higher levels - they are the path to better armor. And they are quite fun too, when you first get into a clan that can support you. I, myself, generally only make a level or 2 each week (non-potion), and i am fairly focused on leveling. Remember, it is a game, we are here to have fun.
The other thing to remember, Toycat is fairly responsive. If, in a month, the lvling requirements are not working out, I am sure he will review the issue (he may not change his mind, but he will certainly listen to us).
Grouping and Idols:
I think there are two issues here. Peer grouping and getting significant help from a higher level player (more than 10 levels above you).
In Peer groupings (where you are all within a 10 level range), my feeling it is up to you how many idols you have. If the group is willing to let someone ride with few idols and use the laystone (and miss half the battle), that is up to them. My guess, is that free riders won't be invited to groups, or the more powerful members will insist on idols. Also, if someone is a problem during these types of fights, they should be reported to a guardian who will talk to them (though it is likely as effective, if not more so, for a peer to address the issue in private first). Someone who is known as a freeloader will not likely stay in the clan.
As for the number of idols, my impression is that Toycat was giving a rough estimate on how many you will likely need. Personally, i go through a ton if i fight shivercowl, a moderate amount fighting Rockbelly, and very few when fighting eye bosses (these are bosses where the leystone is not too far away to use too much). My suggestion is always keep a reserve of (at least) 20 idols. if you only use 1 idol during boss fights, fine, it will be easy to maintain your reserve. If you use a lot, so be it - you have come prepared and other players will appreciate it. Also, having a reserve is good - just in case an important boss (like Falgren) shows up suddenly. You dont want to waste time trying to get idols.
In non-peer groupings: where a bunch of lower level characters really need higher level support, you should always have enough idols. If you ask a higher level to help, it is because they can do significantly more damage than you, not because they have idols and can stay alive while you run back from the leystone. I don't mind fighting lower level bosses with lower level members, but I do insist that they have idols because, quite frankly, I cannot afford to essentially solo these bosses. I will also abort if the group is not strong enough.
As a general rule of thumb, the only time I ask someone more than 10 levels above me to help with a boss is if i think they would like or need the drop. I have no issue asking Ricktor or Sam to help me with Rockbelly, cause i know they need space. Likewise, if I want their help on something non-critical, i make it clear that i am just helping lower level people and understand if they don't want to kill fellfire (for example).
In other words, be respectful when asking someone 10+ levels above you for help. Don't ask too often and accept that they may be busy in their own group or leveling. Also, the thing that annoys me the most is getting a whisper 2 seconds after I login that Goretusk ph 2 is up and will i help! Falgen, Rockbelly, Deadroot, and OW bosses, sure. Other bosses, don't whisper, mention in clan chat. Though I cannot speak for all high level members, I am more likely to help someone I have recruited and known for a while - just because i know them better.
Finally: some general thoughts on how you play the game.
i have noticed that people play the game in many ways. The four trends of play I see are:
1. social and trading - lot of time chatting, dueling, or trading
2. leveling - focused on getting xp
3. money - focused on getting as much money as possible solo
4. boss hunts - for drops and for armor upgrades
obviously there is some overlap - you can get decent money from leveling. Trying to get money from boss hunts means you are basically hoping for a big score. Ideally, boss hunts are to get the bosses you need to spawn and get the drops you need for upgrades.
If you are concerned about the new level requirements, or having enough money to pay for idols, think about how you play the game. I don't care if you like hanging out in the arena and chatting, or if you spend all day in a group killing bosses, but then don't complain you can't level fast enough or you don't have enough money for idols and lux shop things. Likewise, don't complain you never get drops or armor upgrade if you spend all your time on xp potions and don't search for the bosses you need. or if you just sell your drops instead of keeping them to trade for stuff you need. Understanding how you play will help you make adjustments so you can achieve your goals. Find a balance that works for you and have fun.
Just as a reference, i have sold very few rare drops (i.e. not a lot of big scores). I rely on killing things and selling minor drops like gems and connacht swords. I make money slowly (4-8k/day), but consistently (as you lvl up, you will make more money daily just from xp grinding). I am pretty well outfitted, but it takes a while. You just have to be patient. Also, you don't have to have the best of everything. My silver ammy lasted for 40 or 50 levels before i upgraded to heroic.
thanks
Civility, Integrity, and the Hermeneutic of Generosity
World: Lugh
Akbar: Ranger 220+
DrXyn-Druid 180+
Xyn: Mage 170+
Rabka: Rogue 150+
Rabak: Warrior 90+
Clan: Chieftain of Ancients