World of Warcraft's upcoming housing system: A different approach to player homes.
Blizzard has offered a sneak peek at the player housing feature coming to World of Warcraft: Midnight, contrasting its approach with the popular, yet sometimes problematic, system in Final Fantasy XIV. The WoW team emphasizes accessibility, stating a goal of "A Home for Everyone."
Unlike Final Fantasy XIV's system, which features limited plots, high Gil costs, lotteries, and the risk of demolition due to inactivity, World of Warcraft aims for a more inclusive experience. Blizzard explicitly states there will be "No exorbitant requirements or high purchase costs, no lotteries, and no onerous upkeep." Furthermore, subscription lapses won't result in house repossession.
The core functionality remains the same: players can purchase and personalize homes, allowing for social interaction and creative expression. While Final Fantasy XIV's housing has inspired impressive player creations, such as theaters, nightclubs, and museums, WoW's design seeks to avoid the frustrations associated with limited availability and high maintenance.
World of Warcraft's housing will be shared among a player's Warband, allowing characters of different factions and races to access the same home (though a character cannot purchase a home in an opposing faction's territory). While the number of housing zones is limited (two, with "Neighborhoods" of approximately 50 plots each), these zones are instanced, offering both public and private options. Public areas are dynamically generated, suggesting a potentially scalable system.
Blizzard's commitment extends beyond the initial launch, with plans for ongoing development and updates across future patches and expansions. This long-term vision, while subtly contrasting with some aspects of Final Fantasy XIV's housing, demonstrates an awareness of potential pitfalls and a desire to provide a positive and accessible player housing experience. More details are expected this summer with the full unveiling of World of Warcraft: Midnight.
