As more and more MMOs’ release, it is evident that World of Warcraft’s success has been an anomaly. Remember when SWTOR was strutted as the next “WoW killer?” But ultimately a large exodus occurred, and layoffs followed. Many have since begun questioning the success of any subscription based MMO to follow. If Bioware is struggling with a subscription model when they have the biggest IP you can attach to an MMO, what hope is there for any other MMO that follows the same model? Essentially, Bioware needs to convert to the Free-to-Play model if they want to increase their profit and player base.

With Patch 1.2 out and Patch 1.3 on the way, “soon” the much toted Group Finder will be upon us. Whether it will be a success or just a stepping stone for cross-server is yet to be determined.

To be same-sever or not to be, that is the question.
Bioware initially was not a fan of an LFG queue system, but in 1.3 they will be adding a LFG queue system. Although details are scarce, Bioware has stated that it will be same-server, following in the footsteps of Rift. When Rift first introduced its LFG system it was same-server; unfortunately, players had to wait hours for the queue to pop up, and eventually Trion, Rift’s developer, expanded it to cross-server.

I’m one of those gamers that sometimes enjoys taking a step back from whatever game I’m currently playing and looking at the grand scheme of the MMO scene. I believe it’s important, as gamers, to be aware of the overall image that the market and field are portraying. It helps us make informed gaming decisions, and lets us prepare ourselves for the road ahead. Seeing as we’re in the final stretches before SWTOR’s deployment, I figure now’s a good time to take that step back, and do some gazing.