Anet, you really exceeded my expectations with HoT.
A boring little bit about me. I suffer from mild level autism. That means that when things don’t go my way, or I’m bored, I tend to throw all my toys out of the pram and end up redacting later. This is one of those instances. I know I have a reputation on here for my childish rages, for which I am truly sorry. Autism isn’t an excuse for poor manners.
I have had some negative criticisms about HoT and voiced them, but most of that negativity has come through my own mistakes and idiocy, or not understanding how things work. I really need to think more before I type. So here is my honest feedback.
HoT Story – A little short, but very very sweet. The new method of conversation delivery is awesome, it really helps with immersion. We finally tie up some loose ends (although I still don’t trust or forgive Caithe. You listened to us and toned down the KasJory lurve storyline, Braham has really come into his own as a character, Taimi got even better, and I’m so glad to see more of Canach. Really enjoyed it, even if my ping is making me struggle with the finale a little.
Dynamic events in Maguuma – Brilliant. Especially the night time missions, I really do get the feeling of being up against it in hostile territory. I love the wyverns especially. Still a little too much insta-downing going on but I can forgive that.
Scenery – astounding. I love the verticality, and it really feels like an achevement to get some of the vistas. Gliding is brilliant, I can’t wait to unlock more of my masteries for it and the mushrooms. I heavily criticised the grind of Mastery Points… but it turns out I hadn’t worked out that I have to train a new mastery when the bar is full, so that is my mistake. A few things could have been labelled better. A minor niggle. Tarir is just amazing to play through.
Speciality unlocking – Really glad to see that the unlocking requirement has been reduced. I wouldnt have been too upset if it had stayed at 400 points, but 250 or even 300 feels more reasonable.
So lots of great points. I am excited to play the game again, the game I love so much.
The only cons from my perspective is that utility skills seem to be slow to activate, or don’t activate on the first try, and those goshdarned Rolling Devils
All in all, really enjoying HoT and I definitely think it’s worth the price. Thanks, Anet!