Here is the second of two dev chats hosted by the Vault and guest starring Mythic devs. Chat with the devs both before and after the official chat can be found in the "read more" link, just so it doesn't make the front page too ridiculously long.


<@Rosethorn> HELLO EVERYONE AND WELCOME TO OUR SECOND DARK AGE OF CAMELOT DEV CHAT! WE ARE SO EXCITED YOU ALL COULD JOIN US. WE WILL RUN DOWN INTRODUCTIONS OF THOSE MYTHIC FOLKS HERE AND THEN WE'LL START THE Q&A.
<@Rosethorn> IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, YOU MAY START SENDING THEM TO OCURA, SWANNY AND TRINITYDIVINE
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Hi folks, name's Chris Rabideau and I'm the producer of DAoC. Thanks for participating tonight, glad to see you all here :)
<+EAMythic_James> Hello, my name is James Casey, I'm the "strike team lead", which is just a fancy way of saying I head up the content team. I've been with DAoC in some fashion since launch and am glad to see so many out here tonight.
<+EAMythic_Steven> Hi, my name is Steven Engle aka Balancinator, Systems Designer for Dark Age of Camelot. Thanks for coming out.
<+Mythic_Adam> Greetings, I am Adam Coleman, a Content Developer. I like to make shiny things! Glad to see everyone out.
<+Mythic_Lori> Hey there. I'm Lori Hyrup (Silva for those who were around DAoC at launch). I've been with Mythic for 11+ year and DAoC since it was first concepted. I'm currently the Creative Producer for the project.
<+MythicJoanne> Hello everyone! I'm Joanne Laroche, I am the Community Coordinator for DAoC and I'm so glad you could all be here. :)

<@Rosethorn> <Protogere> My question is in regards to populations, what are the plans to see that this new server does not hurt the existing clustered clusters and Mordred in the way that the classic servers hurt the population? Will there be Come Back campaigns or any advertising to try to offset the current server players who will head to Origins server?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> First question: My question is in regards to populations, what are the plans to see that this new server does not hurt the existing clustered clusters and Mordred in the way that the classic servers hurt the population? Will there be Come Back campaigns or any advertising to try to offset the current server players who will head to Origins server?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> <TrinityDivine> Gor: What, if anyth
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Ignore the second part, was an error on my part.
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> To the answer, which is multi-part: Introducing a new server is always a challenging proposition, especially when it concerns the other servers...
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> As was the case with Classic, many players did go to that ruleset from the others, but not permanently
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> We will continue to support all rulesets by continuing to provide new updates, content and improvements
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> That may not be quite the answer you're looking for, but we are taking measures to encourage players not to abandon their current servers
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> We are doing a Come back to Camelot campaign to be timed with Origins, as well as heading out to the community to put a spotlight on the game

<@Rosethorn> <Angerthas> ok so my question is "as we all know the population of Daoc is declining, are there any plans to advertise daoc, and if budget is a big concern, would a possibility be to hold a contest and have people submit videos from all aspects of the game to see how bad the players want this game to stay alive"
<+Mythic_Lori> We are aware of the state of the DAoC population. Unfortunately, the DAoC development team is unable to field marketing-related questions. Development questions we can answer. We will, however, pass your concerns on to the marketing deparment.

<@Rosethorn> Gor: What, if anything, are you planning on doing to address some of the common issues players had with OF? Obviously NF did not fix them entirely or Origins would not be in the works. Things like milegates, travel, terrain, moving a realm's force from defense to offense, and pbaoe/aoe onto doors and through walls. Lots of those things (milegates, travel) were slightly annoying but still had purpose.
<+EAMythic_James> Next Question:...
<+EAMythic_James> What, if anything, are you planning on doing to address some of the common issues players had with OF? Obviously NF did not fix them entirely or Origins would not be in the works. Things like milegates, travel, terrain, moving a realm's force from defense to offense, and pbaoe/aoe onto doors and through walls. Lots of those things (milegates, travel) were slightly annoying but still had purpose.
<+EAMythic_James> Answer:
<+EAMythic_James> One of the current items we are going to try out is a slight modification to the milegates that removes the gates, hopefully lessening the frustration with attempting to pass through those while retaining the ability to stage fights or standoffs there.
<+EAMythic_James> As well, we are looking at ways to take exsisting OF mechanics like the portal ceremony and making them streamlined, while retaining the flavor.
<+EAMythic_James> We're playing with a lot of mechanics to make the experience fun and engaging so...
<+EAMythic_James> I would suggest that if you have any suggestions on issues that you think might need solutions to help in these regards, send them in via feedback.

<@Rosethorn> <Kazo> Are Hertics going to be on th Origins server? On the Herald it was said that the Valkyrie will be added to this server to help out midgard and i see this as a good counter part for the Friar and the Warden, but it also said that it will make it so that midgard would have 3 healing typr classes just like the other two. If i am remembering correctly, Albion only had Clerics and Friars, Heretics where added in the Catacomb
<+EAMythic_Steven> No, Heretics are not going to be on this ruleset. We are improving the paladin's healing abilities to compensate for their loss.

<@Rosethorn> Swanny: <Kazo> could you explain what kind of class changes are being consider to help balance the game?
<+EAMythic_Steven> We are considering moving the Theurgist's pulsing blade turn into the Wizard Ice Line. The removal of Determination with the decreasing of crowd control durations. There are many others that still have not been decided yet and we'll have more for you in the near future.


<@Rosethorn> <albybum-Percival> "Are there any plans to increase the realm lockout timer (for Origins or all servers) that some believe contributes to unbalanced realms and diminshed realm pride on clusters?" - Thanks
<+EAMythic_Steven> We are discussing it, but at the moment have not come to a decision.
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Jumping in here quickly about the realm timer: We're leaning on placing a reasonable timer on the Origins server. The issue really comes into play when clustering...
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> because we do not like to lock players out of characters they've worked hard to level up, which explains why the realm timers on clusters are shorter
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> In terms of how long the realm timer will be, we're still in discussion. The general consensus of the community appears to be in line with our own - that realm pride should be a factor

<@Rosethorn> Effex: question: Considering that the majority of players that make up the Origins server will be former or current DAOC players with a high likelyhood of multiple level 50 characters, are there any considerations of modifying the experience gain on this server to help people hit 50 a bit quicker?
<+Mythic_Lori> There are some things are looking at doing in order to help experience move faster. 1.94 will introduce rest experience, and we will be looking at a number of experience bonuses, particularly for players leveling in the Old Frontier zones.

<@Rosethorn> <hydric> what methods are you going to use to increase PvE throughout the mainland? are you going to take out instances and TD? i would love to see myrkwood forest as crowded as it used to me in 2001 and 2002
<+EAMythic_James> For Origins, there will be no Task Dungeons, which should help keep players in the same areas and build up community.

<@Rosethorn> <Sentack> Question: What happened to the Campain system? Are we only going to see Mini-events now like the Ghost Keep in the future for the Standard Servers? (ToA and Classic)
<+EAMythic_James> The current plan is to continue to launch mini-events that are semi-connected in theme. These will allow us to promote action in specific ways.

<@Rosethorn> <slzr> Hey, im curious about the gear on this new server. I suppose the dragon campaign gear will be removed or atleast "nerfed" to fit better on that server type... I also hope you will bring the old epic armor back :)
<@Rosethorn> <slzr> However, my question is: will you keep spellcrafting on this server?
<+EAMythic_James> Spellcrafting, along with the other lines in crafting will be modified on the new ruleset. These will primarily come in the form of recipes that will be disabled. The only line that will be out completely at this point is siegcraft.
<+EAMythic_James> Spellcrafting, along with the other lines in crafting will be modified on the new ruleset. These will primarily come in the form of recipes that will be disabled. The only line that will be out completely at this point is siegcraft.
<+EAMythic_James> And yes, the dragon gear will be modifed on this ruleset as well.

<@Rosethorn> <Razmakauf> Can you expand on your thought on shorten CC? Will determination be nerfed as well to make CC is viable?
<+EAMythic_Steven> We are trying to shorten overall crowd control durations. This should help small groups and pugs be a bit more competitive without needing the "perfect" setup. The ability determination will most likely not be on the "origins" server.

<@Rosethorn> <kanjo> Q: how will the new porting ceremony work? can you clear it up?
<+Mythic_Adam> The porting ceremony will work quite near the same as it did in the past. We will be removing the cumbersome necklaces in favor
<+Mythic_Adam> of a system that won't be as unforgiving if you forget to place it on yourself
<+Mythic_Adam> The time will between porting will be tested in
<+Mythic_Adam> beta to find a favorable time.
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> One addendum to the portal ceremony: We're leaning toward no longer than a 5 minute wait time.

<@Rosethorn> <lilieana> Question: since its been stated they will be keeping the new archery system intact, what kinda of changes car archers expect to bring them on par with other classes?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> We are routinely looking at all of our classes. Archers, while there are some issues with the new system, balance out fairly well in testing. We do know that some issues occur when comparing PvE damage to RvR damage, so that is something we're looking at...
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> If you are aware of specific issues you believe to be problematic, please send in feedback

<@Rosethorn> <Sonoh> 1. Mentalist Question: Will there a change of the mentalism line, so that Menta mentas get a little more groupfriendly?
<+EAMythic_Steven> There has been some talk on the internal forums of how to improve mentalists. The teamleads have been bouncing around ideas to add nearsight to the mentalist class. At the moment, we just aren't sure and have not made any decisions on it.

<@Rosethorn> <PallyDog> What about Darkness Falls, the dungeon? Will any revamp be made to this? Such as improved loot, or killing all the bosses to open the "Behemouth" chamber or some other key boss? This was one of my favorite areas but since SI, the DF raids slowed and I believe have essentially halted. How many players in game have seen the Worm for example?
<+Mythic_Lori> Yes, Darkness Falls will be included and back to being controlled by keeps. The zone will not be revamped, but we will be looking at loot and difficulty to make sure it is on par with our goals for this server.

<@Rosethorn> <J-bomb> When will houseing Market Explore be searchable for all servers
<+Mythic_Lori> It's the first thing on the 1.95 schedule, which is currently in development.

<@Rosethorn> <drac\afk> When the new server type goes live, will we have the opportunity to make toons in each realm (either by having 3 servers, or some other means)?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> This server will operate the same as all single, unclustered servers. You will need to pick one realm in which to create characters.

<@Rosethorn> <PallyDog> And friar question. When do we get donkeys?
<+Mythic_Lori> I have been trying to get donkeys as mounts for a while now. Unfortunately, they are fairly low on the priority list. However, we have some fantastic new artists working with us now, so it not entirely impossible that we may get them. :)

<@Rosethorn> <Mirmir|SH|EU> Question: Whats the position of mythic on 1vs1, 8vs8 in contrast to the Zerg vs Zerg RvR? Because in EU there is alway a lot of trouble because of these 3 coexisting factions and people get kicked, banned etc. frequently
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Our position is that DAoC is an RvR game. While we can't directly influence how players choose to play their characters, and which whom, we have and will continue to take measures that encourage players to RvR in large groups
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> that's *and with whom
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> We are considering some possible changes to rogues that will make them more group friendly on this server, and we'd be very interested in hearing the community's feedback on this.

<@Rosethorn> <Lakesat> Does opening classes to any races mean balance issues that needs to be addressed first, thus meaning a farther release for Origin?
<+EAMythic_Steven> We aren't opening up all classes to all races. Sorry no Troll Hunters (though I really wanted to see them). We went through a few iterations of the race/class combination list with the reamleads before getting their sign off.
<+EAMythic_Steven> should be teamleads =p
<+EAMythic_Steven> Yes, it should be balanced with a few new cool class/race combos.

<@Rosethorn> <Monkeynut> so about the title bug on killibury cluster.. it says 'nothing to report' is that due to be fixed at all?
<+EAMythic_James> I'm assuming that this quesion has to do with the issue regarding /stats on some new characters. This is a known issue and in our bug tracker. I can't give you a firm ETA, but it is known and being looked at.

<@Rosethorn> <J-bomb> will guild BP be useable for ML's/arties soon?
<+EAMythic_James> The ability to buy Master Levels and Artifact credit etc with personal bountypoints was done as the personal bountypoints were a personal achievement being used to purchase those personal improvements.
<+EAMythic_James> (did i say personal enough?)
<+EAMythic_James> You won't see guild bps being used for such purchases, but we do have plans to add additional items for guilds to spend BPS on in the future.
<@Swanny> that was a personal answer james ty :)

<@Rosethorn> <Budroni> Are the buffs given in the new server going be like spec buffs now (no timer) or will they be like hastner with 10 minute timer?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Apologies for the delay: How we're going to handle buffs on Origins is still the subject of much debate. The buff system on Classic does work well, but we have also identified some interesting ways that differ from that system.
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> We're discussing with our TLs a few of these ideas, and we may try a few things out before we come to a conclusion. We'd love to hear your feedback on the Origins buff system.

<@Rosethorn> <flipperpk> will self buffing classes such as Friars be compensated for everyone being buffed
<+EAMythic_Steven> There are no plans to boost buffing classes at the moment. It really all hinges on how we approach the universal buff issue.

<@Rosethorn> <Pravius> Another question, how is the pricing going to work. I have not played DAOC for some time now, since Catacombs. Loved the game in the day and plan to come back for this. Will we have to own all expansions? The core game?
<+Mythic_Lori> This is really something that our marketing department will ultimately decide, as well as the future pricing for all of DAoC. We will be working with them to arrive at a pricing/purchasing scheme that makes sense for both this server and the game, in general.

<@Rosethorn> <dx2x> Will the gravity be changed back to normal for the origins server? Personally I think the animations of the new gravity look funny, and it really does bother me.
<+EAMythic_James> The gravity will remain the same as the current settings on the new server. We are aware some animations could stand a little tweaking and we are having our lead artist/animation guy look at those in his spare time to see how we can tweak them with the new gravity.

<@Rosethorn> IStandAloneToo|Eshaish-Tristan: Question: Will the bonuses introduced in the expansions be present on Origins? Or will the item bonuses be back to stats, skills, and resists (exclusively)?
<+EAMythic_James> The bonuses on items will primarily be those present in classic camelot. The bonuses that came with other expansions will be mostly left out.

<@Rosethorn> <Craskill> My question is referring to a complaint many classes have with stuns. Will the new "origins" server do anything to make it easier for tank classes to compete against "stun and stab" classes with stealth?
<+EAMythic_Steven> Stuns have been discussed for removal on this server. Assuming that they are not removed, their effects will be reduced much like other CC spells/skills. I am not sure how that will change your fights. We will see after some testing.

<@Rosethorn> kanjo: Yesterday, it was said that the border keeps would remain in current positions, however if you look at the current positions, it leaves a potential bottleneck right at the BK door, will this be looked at/
<+EAMythic_James> The border keeps will need to remain in place where they are. We will look at the terrain around it and modify it based on how it plays on in testing if bottlenecks cause issues.

<@Rosethorn> <Afpherian> Is Origins going to be a retail expansion? Or will this be free content, like the classic servers?
<+EAMythic_James> Origins is free content, like the classic servers.

<@Rosethorn> Razmakauf> How do you see the lowbies in the frontiers working? What is the idea for the anti-griefing system, and what about OF will be altered?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> The anti-griefing system will be limited to certain areas of the frontiers in which low players have an exclusive interest
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> I've seen posts on the boards about the fears associated with this system, but I can assure you that we're looking it over closely to make sure
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> that it doesn't introduce exploits and that it works in a way that allows lower level players to participate in RvR without compromising RvR
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> Our goal is to get back to the 'old days' when lower level players could enter the frontiers and play
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> before the servers filled up with level 50 players, at which time most low level players stopped going to frontiers altogether

<@Rosethorn> Seraphus: Have you decided which version of keeps will be used on the new server? I really liked being able to ninja a keep with a group or two of sneaks!!
<+EAMythic_James> The keeps will be the OF Keeps as they were back in the day. Same layouts, same doors, etc....
<+EAMythic_James> However, they might be prettied up a bit, along with the terrain in the zone.

<@Rosethorn> <ADDwire> Is there any plans to tone down the snow in mid? People choose not to fight there because it was too bright.
<+EAMythic_James> All of the OF zones are being looked at and the terrain and textures adjusted, this includes the 'snow' zones.

<@Rosethorn> <Craskill> Would it be correct to assume that Agramon Island will be removed?
<+EAMythic_James> No it won't be accessible in the OF on this ruleset.

<@Rosethorn> Razmakauf: how is it possible to get on the list to test the new origin's server beta?
<+MythicJoanne> Continue to watch the Herald, when we need testers or plan on inviting players to it, we will let everyone know. :)

<@Rosethorn> <GreatPumpkin> OF had a big problem with pbaoe that went through walls, of note the Hib "ramp of death". Are keeps being updated to prevent pbaoe from going though walls?
<+EAMythic_ChrisR> I remember those days very well! This is certainly something we're looking at and discussing.

<@Rosethorn> We want to thank Mythic so much for taking the time to do two developer chats with us! We hope you all enjoyed it. Thank you!

End Official Chat

I was at the IGN-hosted dev chat last night (and will be tonight as well - hang around afterward for a mini announcement), and recorded the chat. Here it is, cleaned up. It also includes the questions addressed by Mythic after the chat officially ended. It's also been reorganized very slightly to keep answers together with their questions.

[18:37] <@Rosethorn> Hello and welcome to the IGN VAult and Camelot Vault developer chat with the developers of Dark Age of Camelot (everyone's favorite game right?)
[18:38] <@Rosethorn> If you have questions you would like to ask the developers, please send a PM to either Beibhinn, Ocura or TrinityDivine, they are your question moderators today.
[18:38] <@Rosethorn> We will start the chat out with introductions, done by the developers themselves. :)

[18:40] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> And I was disconnected again...
[18:42] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Evening folks, I'm Chris Rabideau, Producer of DAoC. I've been with Mythic for 7+ years now and am myself, in addition to being a developer, a huge fan of the game! Glad to see you all make it to the chat :)
[18:42] <+EAMythic_Bob> Hi everybody, I'm Robert Mull, the Community Relations Director for EA Mythic. I oversee our Community Coordinators for Dark Age of Camelot, Ultima Online and Warhammer Online.
[18:43] <+EAMythic_Leslie> Evening everyone, I am Leslie Kidd, Assistant Producer of Dark Age. Glad to see so many here!
[18:43] <+EAMythic_Mark> Hi, I'm Mark and I'm a content developer for DAOC
[18:43] <+EAMythic_Steven> Hi everyone, I'm Steven Engle aka Balancinator, Systems Designer for EA Mythic.
[18:44] <+Mythic_Adam> Greetings everyone, I am Adam Coleman, Content developer for EA Mythic. Glad to see everyone out!
[18:44] <+Mythic_James> Hello, my name is James Casey and I'm the 'strike team lead' which is just a fancy way of saying I lead the content team. I've been here since launch. Thanks for showing up.
[18:45] <+MythicJoanne> Hello everyone, I'm Joanne Laroche, Community Coordinator for Dark Age of Camelot. I'm so glad to all of you here. :)
[18:45] <+MythicJoanne> To see you all here even. :)

[18:45] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Okay, on to the first question, which is: EA:M said there wouldn't be any battlegrounds on the DAoC Origins server, however many people were hoping for old battlegrounds along with Old Frontiers, will it be considered before release? (We miss Caledonia :) ).
[18:46] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Nothing is firm as of yet. We're still debating this aspect of Origins and there are valid points on both sides. That's not all...
[18:47] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> On the one hand, BGs weren't a part of the Original game. On the other, and something we've tried to emphasize during this process, is that Origins isn't necessarily exactly what the game was at launch
[18:48] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> So, still much discussion going on about this and I would encourage you all to continue to provide feedback and your own views on this component.

[18:49] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Another question: Are there any plans to remove the race restrictions on classes, so any race can play any class for a given realm?
[18:50] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Answer: The current plan is to open up all races (except the mino) on Origins. I don't think we've quite determined if we're going to allow any race to be any class. Steven may be able to answer that.
[18:51] <+EAMythic_Steven> Actually, our first inclination was to open up all race/class combination.
[18:51] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> So still on the table.
[18:52] <+EAMythic_Steven> We brought it to the teamleads and have worked it down to an expanded version, but not quite a full release of race/class combinations.

[18:52] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Next question: Does Mythic plan on releasing any more expansions (PvE Based) for DAoC?
[18:53] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> To the expansion question: No immediate plans for an expansion right now

[18:54] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Next question: What are the reasons behind the decision for going with 11 classes per realm over 10 classes per realm. If you did 10 classes you would not have to add the valkyrie (which overlaps heavily on the other mid tanks). You could then reduce albion's classes from 12 to 10 through the combination of the theurgist and wizard (sans pets)...
[18:56] <+EAMythic_Steven> Ok I will field this since Chris got disconnected.
[18:57] <+EAMythic_Steven> Yes, the original design for "Origins" reduced all realms to 10/10/10 split.
[18:58] <+EAMythic_Steven> We found it very difficult to divide the basic skills of two classes into the remaining ten.
[18:58] <+EAMythic_Steven> The choice was made to go with eleven classes instead.
[19:01] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Also, to clarify something I've been reading on the boards which also has to do with classes: It's accurate to say that with Origins, Albion will definitely have three healer classes

[19:01] <+Mythic_James> Okay, next question. Question: Will there Be Spellcrafting and Af 102 Armor Crafting (level 51 Armors and Weapons), and alchemy, or do we keep to Epic and Darkness falls weapons ?
[19:01] <+Mythic_James> We're currently evaluating the state of crafting on the new ruleset. There will be some modifications to exsisting lines. We're attempting to make sure crafting and drops both play a role on the new server. Some of the crafting items that mimic stuff that can only be found in expansions will not be enabled to make sure that we aren't just disrupting the balance of the system...
[19:02] <+Mythic_James> We've gotten a lot of feedback internally and from our team lead program on this. Feel free to drop feedback on what you would want to see in regards to crafting to Joanne.

[19:03] <+Mythic_James> Next question: Would it be possible to make the quality of drops 100% on the new server? I think this would make dungeons popular again.
[19:04] <+Mythic_James> We've actually discussed some of this internally. Right now there are no definite plans for an across the board change of that magnitude, but we are looking at how drops, crafting, etc. work in the item marketplace of this ruleset.

[19:05] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : what exacally will be changed as far as RA's go? will they be old frontiers? new RA's? or a mix and match?

[19:06] <+EAMythic_Steven> Well it is far easier to keep the current RA system fairly intact. Of course, this would not be good without some modifications. So it is very possible to see some old RA's floating around in the mix.

[19:06] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Two questions. First: I have a question, I would like to know what EA/Mythic's intentions are for this game. People are getting worried since there has been no new content or expansions
[19:08] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Okay, to answer the first question about our intentions: Our intentions are to continue to put support behind Camelot just as we always have. This Origins proposal is a means for us to provide a new experience to players for free, but to also sort of bring the game back to its roots.
[19:09] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> To the GoA question: We're still in discussion

[19:10] <+Mythic_James> Next question: will there be any substantal graphic changes in the client?
[19:11] <+Mythic_James> We are working on improving some of the graphics for the Origins server, but I don't know that it would qualify as substantial...
[19:11] <+Mythic_James> We want to retain the flavor of the game back then, but at the same time, there are some things we can spruce up all around that will make the game more enjoyable.
[19:11] <+Mythic_James> done.

[19:11] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : Question for the devs: When they say 3 healer archtypes each realm, whats the third for Albion? Paladin? or Heretic? or was that just overlooked a bit?
[19:13] <+EAMythic_Steven> We consider the Paladin the third healer on this new server type. Yes, they will have more than a Heal chant. We are working on ways to expand the class as a healing type.

[19:13] <+Mythic_James> Question: Will leveling be considerably faster on the origins server, and will there be advantages to exploring the classic lands (Catacombs, Corusicating Mines, Finiliths) over the new frontiers enxounters?
[19:14] <+Mythic_James> As noted in our FAQ, a number of systems that exist in the current game will be present on the origins rulseet. With that in mind, leveling in the game will be considerably faster I think that when we launched the game. You won't see any real improvements beyond that...
[19:15] <+Mythic_James> As to the second part of the question, that really comes down to a matter of preference. The encounters in the classic zones that are PVE offer a different experience than the ones in the frontiers where you can encounter level appropriate pve and rvr content.
[19:15] <+Mythic_James> done. :)

[19:15] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : Why is Shield cap 75% while Evade and Parry are 50%?
[19:17] <+EAMythic_Steven> The shield cap was lowered to 75% in hopes to find a sweet spot. After the change it was to be monitored and adjusted if the rate was still too high.
[19:17] <+EAMythic_Steven> We are well aware of the issues and we are working on getting that rate adjusted again.

[19:19] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next question : Are there any plans to review/change game mechanics such as caster interrupts and melee strafing to be more inline with modern MMOs?
[19:21] <+EAMythic_Steven> We had discussed changing casting mechanics for the Origins server and bring it to live servers as well. The issue became retuning the game around that.
[19:22] <+EAMythic_Steven> We would have to review all damage spells to achieve balance.

[19:23] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Next question for me: Ive heard that the new "daoc:origins" is going to have a new box set? if so does this mean a completely differen client and will current players holding accounts get discounts on a upgrade or such?
[19:24] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Answers: No new box set. Our plan is to roll this new server out like we have other rulesets in the past. It will not be a different client. Anyone with an updated client can play on Origins. As to the discount part of the question, the server being offered along with all of our other servers for no additional cost.
[19:25] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> the server *is* being offered, rather

[19:27] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Next question for me: Many players believe clustering has severely hurt the game. How many servers are you planning for Origins and how are you going to prevent the troubles that occur when clustering eventually must happen?
[19:28] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> I would disagree that clustering has hurt the game. For Origins, our hope is that clustering will not be required. However, to answer both parts of the question simultaneously, the Classic cluster is doing very well.

[19:28] <+EAMythic_Bob> For everyone asking questions specific to GOA, i.e. patches being behind, Team Lead programs, etc. GOA and Mythic are partners and we work with them constantly to improve the player experience. Being partners means a certain give and take to accomplish common goals for differing audiences.
[19:29] <+EAMythic_Bob> While we are writing down all the issues raised here, and I can say we definitely hear you, it's also equally important that you raise these issues with GOA directly as well.

[19:29] <+Mythic_James> Next question: will the old border keeps (and models) be used? For instance, Castle Sauvage was moved forward and a tower of the terrain removed; will that tower be put back in and sauavge moved back to where it was?
[19:30] <+Mythic_James> answer: the border keeps will remain in their new position. The short answer is because their position needs to be the same on all rulesets so having them there benefits both rulesets.

[19:30] <+Mythic_James> next Question: Are we ever going to get larger personal vaults? my personal vault has no space and its full of artis and items that I cant put anywhere else.
[19:30] <+Mythic_James> answer; This is pretty common feedback and a very complicated answer. Short answer, we're trying to get something in the game to help in that regard with our housing changes. Hopefully, you'll see that hit Pendragon very soon.

[19:31] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : I would like to know if there can be a change to the RR5 ability the archer classes have. Entwinging Snakes is a little lame. It would be cool if an archer class could, say, scale a keep wall via grappeling hook fired from their bow
[19:31] <+EAMythic_Steven> I am not sure another wall climbing ability needs to be in the game. I can look at the Hunter R5 ability and see if we can make improvements to it.

[19:32] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : Hi. Will the class changes remain that was made recently? Like pali/wardens have celerity?
[19:33] <+EAMythic_Steven> Yes, there are no plans on changing those classes. Right now, we will probably be adding abilities to Alb classes to compensate for the loss of the Theurgist.

[19:34] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : Question!! Are there going to be stealthers on DAOC Origins
[19:34] <+EAMythic_Steven> Yes
[19:34] <+EAMythic_Steven> =)

[19:35] <+EAMythic_Steven> Next Question : my question is how will light tanks utility be increased on this new server and how will heavy tanks be nerfed?
[19:36] <+EAMythic_Steven> Well I am hoping we can address shield issues and that will help light tanks in the light tank versus heavy tank fight.
[19:36] <+EAMythic_Steven> We will have to see how that plays out before we make many other changes.

[19:38] <+Mythic_James> Final question: Will there be a public beta phase for this server (before launch) ?
[19:39] <+Mythic_James> We plan to stage this launch like others, where we have the ruleset available in stages, one of those stages will be a public available test. I can't give any specifics when this will happen though at this time. :)

[19:40] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> Okay, I'd like to take a moment to clear something up (and I'm actually surprised no one asked). In my letter I stated that are targeted launch was Aug/Sep...
[19:41] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> In all actuality, we'd like to get Origins out there sooner, preferably Jul/Aug. The Aug/Sep timeframe was used to be conservative.
[19:42] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> I can't give an exact date because development is an iterative process, and some of our development time is being used to focus on the community (you all)...
[19:42] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> so that we can be sure we're able to gather feedback about our design and make logical changes where required.
[19:43] <+EAMythic_ChrisR> And I normally don't typo as often as I am tonight, but I am typing quickly...

[19:43] <+EAMythic_Bob> I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight. The mods are getting us every question asked, so we can follow up on them for future Grab Bags and to add to the FAQ as well.
[19:44] <@Rosethorn> I want to thank EA Mythic so much for coming out and joining us in this dev chat. We have another one, same place, different time (6:30 PST which is 9:30 EST) tomorrow night. Come armed with questions!
[19:44] <+EAMythic_Bob> Your feedback is important and we value it highly

END OFFICIAL CHAT

[19:46] will there be any more changes to the UI coming?
[19:47] We are looking at making some additional improvements to the UI, but nothing drastic in the short term.

[19:49] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:47] Batlas: EAMythic_ChrisR you said that Alb classes were going to get some loving for losing Theurgs, how do you plan on balancing that on regular servers? <-- They are completely different classes in essence with the same abilities and names for this server type. Any changes made for this server will not translate into the current Live servers.

[19:53] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:53] woin|WPUG: CC is one of the very few remaining aspects of this game that allows a group of players to kill a larger number of players...please do not remove it <-- CC isn't being removed.

[19:56] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:55] Drakonal: i would personally like to know about the new buffing ysstem in Origins <-- It hasn't completely been decided yet. Hopefully, we'll have a better idea soon.

[19:57] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:57] Zalirid: Steven, is it being looked at to implement it on all servers, so the other servers dont simply die when people only have 1 account? <-- We're currently looking at "Origins" with potential for other servers.

[19:59] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:58] Balcor\Helz: with the lack of spell pierce and +magic dmg are there any plans on addressing some of the new heavy tank changes such as Fury <-- Yes, many of the abilities tanks received to combat casting issues will be removed on this server.

[19:59] <+EAMythic_Steven> [19:59] Krane: Steven: This was hinted at but not really answered - Will we be forced to pick only 1 realm per account for the new origins server or will we be able to play all 3 realms per account? <-- That is something I cannot answer. I do not know.

[19:59] Okay, that was my last involuntary disconnect for the evening. I want to thank you all for participating. I tried to get to most of the private messages you sent...
[20:00] but there were WAY too many, so my apologies. We'll be back tomorrow evening. Please continue to send your feedback in and please continue to post on the VN boards. We ARE reading. Good night! :)
[20:00] <+Mythic_James> Yeah, I'd stick around more, but the weather here is frightful. We'll ba back tomorrow. And yes, as Chris said, we read VN and there is always feedback.
[20:01] <+MythicJoanne> I can attest that the weather out here is frightful, I keep on looking outside wondering if it's going to start flooding!
[20:01] <+EAMythic_Steven> I'm still at work Joanne!
[20:02] <+MythicJoanne> Go home Steven!
[20:02] <+EAMythic_Steven> haha
[20:02] <+MythicJoanne> No Cheetos here, just a sugar cookie. :)
[20:02] <+EAMythic_Steven> I don't want to brave teh weather!
[20:03] <+MythicJoanne> Wimp Steven you won't melt, maybe sink in a puddle. :)
[20:03] he says teh!
[20:03] does the slushy machine still work there, or did sonja take it with her
[20:03] that would explain alot, sugar isnt good for your keyboard
[20:03] <+MythicJoanne> I know all about making slushies. :)
[20:03] you would
[20:03] Question to all mythic/EA devs: what is your favorite fruit and why?
[20:03] so its still there, cool i will have a Cherry slushie please :)
[20:05] <+EAMythic_Steven> [20:04] woin|WPUG: 01Question to all mythic/EA devs: what is your favorite fruit and why? <-- kiwi because it's furry?
[20:05] ok, good answer
[20:05] so you like furry stuff huh Steven
[20:05] <+Mythic_Adam> Mmm Grapes

[20:06] <+EAMythic_Steven> [20:06] Drakonal: 01Are warlocks gonna get love? :( <-- I'm trying, but it's a tough cookie.

Mythic has released details on the upcoming server type, which is being called "Origins" and has been in development for a couple months already. The salient details include:

• Will launch around August/September
• OF portal ceremony replaced with shorter waiting period for players to port out together
• 11 classes per realm. The only expansion class will be the Valkyrie
• Theurgist removed from Albion, some of its abilities (NOT including pets) spread between other casting classes)
• No battlegrounds, instead a focus on world RvR for all levels and grief protection for lower levels vs. higher
• Strategic "hotspots" - capturable spots in the Frontiers. Think WAR's Battlefield Objectives.
• New spell-like archery system, rather than the old one
• No SI yet
• Reduced CC duration
• All races except Minotaur available
• Modified version of current RA system

You can read more in the...
Letter From the Producer
Origins Overview and FAQ