Games Modes Part 1: Staying True to EVE

We've been thinking a lot recently about the different type of Game Modes .vs. Sandbox style gameplay in regards to Dust 514 and after some debate we've come to the conclusion that both can be done, while still staying true to the fiction and story that is New Eden. We realize that EVE was here first and that staying true to EVE's plot is really the most important thing. The issues are simple, many console players aren't ready for the total sandbox style of EVE. They certainly want to participate in a title with this much depth, and with Dust being the first of its kind incorporating a truly tangible connection to a PC universe prospective players are certainly intrigued. Many of them will appreciate what the game offers outside of shooting people and immerse themselves in it, some will even become EVE players. But there are also the console players that simply want to enjoy the combat, and make no mistake, this is nothing to look down upon or scoff at. New Eden certainly has a place for single-minded soldiers--especially those good at what they do. The Drone Mentality fits perfectly into the EVE/DUST Mythos. There has never been a time where the powerful haven't used soldiers to further their own ends. Still, the average console player needs content and while Dust seems to have that in abundance, they also need variety. In truth, we all need variety or our gaming experiences begin to slow to a halt because of the grind of monotony.




A single game mode where players fight over territory, even if its on various planets with different environments will not hold the attention of console players for long. Again, they need variety to continue enjoying the experience. And there is really a way that it can be done without sacrificing the all-important integrity of the EVE fiction that is at the heart of both games.


We can incorporate both very easily. While the sandbox style is an EVE staple and certain to be an aspect of Dust 514, it would be very easy to add in Game Modes as types of Contracts. This way, players can choose what type of experience they want, something lengthy and deep, or something brief. Something hardcore and involved, or something basic and straightforward. Hopefully this could also allow EVE and Dust corps at a certain level to generate contracts to employ mercenaries as well. The types of contracts should be varied and offer much different experiences within them. Some contracts might be taken out an another corp, others might be on neutral territory that two parties desire. The possibilities are endless.


Sabotage - Pretty straightforward, this contract type asks a corp to destroy an asset. Perhaps its a facility, ship, or any kind of asset, really. Obviously there would be a time limit to complete for the contract to be successful and earn ISK.


Escort - Here's a contract type where either VIPs or assets need to move from one area to another. The contract would stipulate that these need to be protected at all costs. More difficult contracts like these may even offer more compensation. Corps might even haggle over a price.


Assassination - This kind of contract asks a corp to eliminate an individual. When that person is liquidated the contract is successful. NOTE: Assassins usually strike with the advantage of surprise. Perhaps this could be a smaller game type (1-4 assassins max) without the benefit of respawns that could even take place at Social Areas. One chance at an eliminating a target sounds about right and could make assassination contracts some of the more difficult and highly paid. GASP! Did we just invent a bodyguard mechanic? Why yes, it looks like we did :)


Capture/Steal - Just like it says, these type of contracts would have the corp take assets or secure personnel from another corp or political group for ransom (the Amarr finance minister for instance). The kind of assets could be chosen from a group that CCP could determine. Maybe experimental technology is the target, maybe blueprints, weapons caches or vehicles are the goal. The intent here would be to make off with whatever you're contracted to.


Seize Territory - This contract type has a corp seize control of predetermined territory by rival corps who either own it or are contracted to protect it. Obviously these contracts would be successful when the enemy is eliminated or the area is controlled.


These are just some of the ideas we had. We're sure CCP will think of much more imaginative ways to give us variety and options in Dust (like the ability to retreat from overmatched circumstances for instance) These options do a good job of allowing players to get a varied experience within Dust and avoid the blandness of a single repeated instance. Dust's calling card is that it will bring a truly revolutionary and tangible experience to FPS, giving people tired of "games that end with a meaningless score with no real progress" Its also a good idea to make certain that it offers one-of-a-kind variety in its gameplay as well.


Editor's Note: Wouldn't it be cool at the end of an interaction if the corp commander had the option to pay mercs or not to? This could add a number of great mechanics like asking for deposits up front, merc politics and the ever present value of Reputation.