I’d rather not have any events based on a day-night cycle. It would essentially lock me out of certain events because I logged in at the wrong time of day. I don’t get to play much (maybe 30 minutes a day), so I’m not too keen on waiting for the sun to come up to do stuff.
Would you like dynamic events to have an on / off switch as well? For the majority of us who play more than 30 min at a time, having a night cycle where the world is slightly different would be a welcome change I suspect.
For me, one of the games biggest flaws is that everything is available, all the time. The world is jam packed, and every square inch seems filled with something. For me, this is overwhelming and unrealistic.
Having a proper night cycle where the NPC’s go to bed, different creatures come out, and different events take place allows the game to space everything out a bit. It also, if done right, allows the gameplay to shift slightly to keep it fresh and fun.
Having a proper night cycle would mean players get two games in one. It means that players must consider the world and what effect it has on them. For example, if I’m going to head out and infiltrate a camp, I need to consider what time of day is most appropriate. If I’m a thief, then operating under the cover of darkness may be a good idea. If I’m a warrior, then making sure I can see my enemies head on may be a better advantage.
It also means players need to be aware of what’s happening in the world. Most of us run around by ourselfs without regard because we know there is really nothing to be afraid of. Imagine if night meant that finding a travel buddy was advantageous. As the long shadows and orange sky of dusk descends on the land, you may consider actually communicating with someone as you both know it’s mutually beneficial to travel together.
It also means that players might actually choose not to go out at night…which would be awesome. Maybe it’s just more fun to hang out in a tavern, trading stories and items until dawn breaks.
I dunno, there are so many possibilities for interesting and dynamic gameplay if the devs would just take the chance. Is, “everything must be available to everyone at all times” mentality, while practical from a rush to level 80 standpoint, doesn’t allow the players to experience a world where the world actually matters.
I for one want to interact with the world I’m playing in. I want time of say, season, weather, and the landscape to give me unique sets of challenges. I want to experience the feelings and excitement that come with a world that forces me to think.
Sorry, I’m typig this at 5:00 am so please excuse the rambling.
