Exclusive DC Universe Online Interview
DC Universe Online is coming out for the PlayStation 3 and PC and is one of the most highly anticipated MMORPGs on the horizon, as it uses the world of DC Comics, and lets players take control.
However, the game still has many questions that need answering, and Gaming Union was able to catch up with Wes Yanagi, the Senior Producer for DC Universe Online, to get some of these questions answered.
Gaming Union: We've heard rumours online about a "secret identity" system for interaction between the two factions - any light you can shed on that?
Wes Yanagi: We're still developing the system right now and will be sharing more details about it in the future, but I can say that the concept of a 'secret identity' is very integral to the DC Universe. Clark Kent is Superman, Hal Jordan is Green Lantern, Bruce Wayne is Batman... well even if he is technically a black lantern right now. :) From early on, it's been an important goal for us to pass on the essence of this to the players, and we’ll be able to share more in the future.
GU: As players have complete freedom of movement from what seems like the beginning, are you planning on giving low-levelled players restrictions on travel?
WY: From day one, we want to fulfill a player's superpower fantasy and make sure you feel like a superhero/supervillain. So right off the bat, you will have your basic movement modes: flight, acrobatics, and superspeed. As your character advances, you'll gain additional abilities on top of these basic modes, which will augment their functionality in the game.
GU: Are there any plans to optimize the UI for PC gamers while keeping the "action-focused" feel of the current interface?
WY: Definitely. UI is one of those areas that will undergo constant iteration. We are constantly evaluating and adjusting the UI based on feedback from the team, and internal & external focus groups. That being said, another one of our key goals is to support PC/PS3 cross platform play, so balancing the two also plays a part of the process.
GU: Is there a definite release date as of this time?
WY: Not yet.
GU: What details can you mention in regards to endgame content? Dungeon concepts, boss fights, pvp?
WY: All the typical endgame MMO goodness will be there. Places like Arkham will be our equivalent of dungeons, and we have tons of iconic DC characters to draw from as bosses. Imagine Mr. Freeze breaking out of his cell in Arkham and having to fight thru his minions to put him back behind bars.
GU: Cases for good and evil players will be different, but will they intersect at all?
WY: By virtue of having heroes and villains, we will definitely have content that intersects in the form of contested missions and other PvP content. However, we'll make sure that it's always consensual based on server choice, entering particular zones, or engaging in certain content.
GU: Will Rorschach make an appearance in the game?
WY: No. Even though Watchmen is published by DC Comics, it isn't part of the DC Universe continuity. However, Rorschach was based on The Question, who is part of the DC Universe.
