Batch 17 was always meant to be an online, cross platform game. It is online-always, after all. Originally, we hadn't planned to add real-time multiplayer so soon into the game, but after some discussions about what we could do with the multiplayer, we couldn't stop tossing around ideas and so, here we go.
Multiplayer support in Batch 17 will be comprised of the following. Please note that this is prealpha, and so the stipulations may change, but this is the scenario as we see it now.
1. Real time Instances.
Every account in Batch 17 will be allocated three instances. Each instance is a brand new iteration of the game, in its entirety. Think of it like a save game, except that your friends can join.
2. PVP rewards.
For every kill you get in PVP you'll earn dog tags. Dog tags can be redeemed on the space station for special weapons, powerups and protections for your base. These pvp rewards can also be used during the PVE experience of course, and you may come up with some clever ways to use them.
3. Friendly Only PVP, Online Only PVP, and Full PVP
PVP is a tricky subject whenever you discuss it. We're going to be careful to make the experience as safe, or as risky as you want. By default, the PVP flag means that your instance can be "zoned into" by other players.
- Friendly Only PVP means that players can join your instance whenever, but only to do things that are helpful. They cannot loot your AI, they cannot destroy bases or wreck missions, and they cannot loot your sleeping body.
- Online Only PVP means that players can join you but only when you are online and able to defend yourself, or play cooperatively. Without this flag on, your instance is open, even when you're not logged on!
- Full PVP means, you're Serious! Your instance is open, all the time, free reign. People can join your instance whenever they want and wreak absolute havoc on your instance. We don't suggest flagging yourself full pvp until you've beaten the campaign but that's your choice. People can loot your sleeping body, infiltrate your base, destroy your base, rob your vaults, whatever. It would probably be a good idea to join or form a guild, but we're not going to tell you what to do.
4. Quartermaster on the space station
On the space station will be an AI who will trade you dog tags for special items provided by the imperial army. This will include but is not limited to, electromagnetic blast shields to protect you while you sleep, upgraded weapons, automated gun turrets to protect your base, and "Lev Gun" that will allow you to steal components of bases you've destroyed to construct your own base with! (more to come)
This is just a hint of the multiplayer that's coming from Batch 17 so please stay tuned for more.
And don't forget to sign up for a pre-alpha tester account on our website!
