TheButtSatisfier, on 04 Aug 2016 - 09:56 AM, said:
1. I like to think that Reloaded is releasing new mechs with reused assets because they're working out the final kinks in their new backend. Not only that, but they probably didn't have enough time to create new assets before the console releases, so they're working with what they've got.
2. My guess is that their development focus moving forward will include bug fixes, balance tweaking, maybe the reimplementation of mech customization, and map cleanup. Once that's done, they'll start eyeballing a PC update containing most changes to date. Afterwards they'll probably be confident enough both in their new backend and in their development capabilities to start creating new assets themselves.
3. Keep in mind that while we're pretty upset with a lot of the changes we've seen with the console releases, Reloaded has been playing it fairly safe with their changes. Each change they've made with the Howken seems like it's either (1) a result of having limited time to get things "right" before the console releases, or (2) they intentionally made an isolated change to gauge community reaction. Not just our reactions mind you, but more importantly, the innocent and wide-eyed console players.
4. They've reiterated time and again that they're monitoring what we're saying and listening to our feedback. Just because we don't see visible and clear proof that they've listened to our feedback and implemented changes which precisely follow our recommendations doesn't mean that they aren't listening.
5. Though it's anyone's guess what's actually going on in Reloaded town, I like to believe they're being conservative with their resources, methodical with how they review community input, and patient in monitoring how changes are received.
Good analysis, I'll relay my thoughts about it.
3. Playing it safe would have amounted to reducing each mech's weapons to one of their existing counterparts on the PC version, which is mostly what they did. And then there are mechs like the M36. Putting two PPA's on a brand new mech is not a conservative implementation. Rather, it demonstrates a complete lack of knowledge of the weapon's function. As it stands, that mech will need a significant overhaul to remain viable.
4. The primary issue isn't necessarily that we've yet to see the results of our feedback. Rather, it's more like Reloaded has implemented the exact opposite of our recommendations (would-be or otherwise). Reducing customization, re-implementing turret mode, and hiding powerful mechs (at least at first glance) behind paywalls aren't changes that any experienced player would've advocated.
Ultimately, there are some significant changes that'll need to be made before their current patch comes close to what the game offers on PC. Imo, the playerbase' response is altogether justified, minus the personal attacks and bashing.
Edited by Xacius, 04 August 2016 - 10:50 PM.