How to Create a Sustainable MMORPG - Part 1
How to Create a Sustainable MMORPG - Part 2
How to Create a Sustainable MMORGP - Part 3 - http://www.gamasutra.com/blogs/MantinLu/20160413/270264/How_to_Create_a_Sustainable_MMORPG__Part_3.php
EDIT: Dammit! need to really fix this forum lol! ... can't make a link after posting
This I have been saying for a some time with other games..
In order to keep a game “live long and prosper,” the developers have to make the game both “wide” and “deep.” Width of a game determines how many new elements for the gamers to explore, while the depth of a game keeps the gamers when they go through same process repeatedly without feeling bored; sometimes, it also related to the mechanics of the game. On top of that, with a good channel to deliver such a good game and stabilize it, the lifecycle of the game will definitely be a long one.
Most of the games now are short term designed and worse cater the ADD type of players. The cycle has to be broken.
I also have to say this is a major concern:
When it comes to new comers, a friendly and handy beginner system is essential to give an excellent first impression to the player. For MMORPG, to some extent it is the large player population who create the game experience for the beginners. A smart MMORPG should use the reward and quest system properly to encourage the experienced players to help the beginners get on track, and should have sustainable team and community system to extend the good first impression and maintain a mutual-benefit or team spirit concept throughout the game. When both older players and newbies get benefit from the game and find a home there, it is highly possible that the game becomes an indispensable part of their lives.
Way to many games dunb down contnet to simplafy game play. If the game tools are combersome your in trouble. If the UI is a not functional you are in trouble. If the game is not fun to play (EQN) then you are done.
Good post and fun read!!