With DC Universe releasing tomorrow (1/11/2011), it seems more than appropriate to discuss my experience during the final beta phase of the game.
Even though hero-based MMOs are not something new to the world of MMOs, DC Universe tends to expand the concept into something far more intriguing. The DC world allows players to enjoy the vast world as either good or evil, and you are allowed to fashion your character’s skills after a small handful of heroes and / or villains (based on the alignment selected). I’ve always liked some of the villains in the DC universe, so my choice was quite obvious – my villain idolized Joker.
My villain’s skills were based on technology; hand guns were the weapon of choice; and explosive devices were quite handy and readily available.
Additionally, a ‘special’ super power can be chosen to make your character unique. I chose the ability to fly. Even though I have always liked the Joker, there will always be a place in my heart for Superman.
There was something awe-inspiring about the city of Metropolis. Aside from it being cluttered by other players, skyscrapers stretched out of view into the sky. The lighting effects were marvelous; the sun shined and sparkled off objects, and the world felt alive. My first instinct was to fly to the tallest building to see how flexible the physics were. No sooner did I reach the first building, the horizon came into view. There I stood, peering at the city. Other players flew by; the sun shined brightly; and suddenly my childhood dream of living in a comic book world became a reality.
In the distance was a group of NPCs standing on the roof of a building, so I decided to investigate. Unfortunately, I jumped off the building and fell to the streets below, causing a large crater. Luckily there was no damage done to my character.
Like most MMOs, I found that DC Universe will keep you busy with plenty of missions. Lex Luther will communicate to you via a com device, detailing the mission’s objectives. It was easy to find the mission; there is a world map that helps you along. Combat is a mixture of real-time combat and spell/super power casting. Gamers more familiar with World of Warcraft may not like the way this combat system functions. In fact, it reminded me of The Matrix Online. How many MMO gamers remember this one?
I found DC Universe far more entertaining on the PVP server. Unlike WoW where there are safe zones for noobies, DC offers no such luxuries. My villain must have spent countless hours hiding from groups of high level heroes. I’ll be honest: it was exhilarating and frustrating at the same time. PVP combat (in the final beta) seemed balanced and gave both players a fair advantage (even though it basically boiled down to who could mash buttons faster than the other). Overall, it was still a better experience than in most MMOs.
I am looking forward to DC Universe for Playstation 3. SOE listened very carefully to our feedback and hopefully those changes will appear in the final release. If all goes well, DC Universe will be the next must-have title in world of MMOs.
DC Universe Screenshots (Playstation 3):
