I was lucky enough to get into the Diablo 3 Beta a few days before the massive failure of the Open Beta weekend. Thus, my experience wasn't marred by a lack of ability to play. It was marred more by a the lack of excitement the game provided to me.
Now, don't get me wrong. Diablo 3 is a beautiful game. The world is well crafted, and a nice extension from the previous incarnations. The classes are each well thought out and there are some very neat abilities spread between them. The enemies are numerous, and at times can be a challenge. But, the game feels no different than it's predecessors. There is not (at least that I've seen) anything innovative to Diablo 3 over 1 & 2.
I think the "more of the same" model of game design is really turning out to be a double edged sword. It becomes difficult to determine if a company does this simply out of greed, being lazy or just by trying to give fans of the game what they want. I think, in this case, it may be a combination of all 3. I didn't find D3 exciting because I didn't find anything new with it's gameplay. However, one of the games I am anxiously awaiting, Borderlands 2, will likely not bring anything innovative over the first in terms of gameplay. Is it simply a curse of the trilogy over the sequel?
I can understand why game companies/publishers stick with this model though. Diablo 3 will turn a huge profit, regardless of how good it is, or isn't. It just worries me for the future of gaming that we are likely going to have to expect cycles of 2-3 games from developers before they bring anything new to the table.
If you were a fan of the first two games, you'll likely still enjoy Diablo 3. I'll also play it all the way through when it is released next month. Maybe there is more deeper in the game that will excite me. At this point though I am glad I am getting it free as part of the WoW "Annual Pass" promotion, becuase I would likely have not bought it based on my experience with the Beta.
Right on!
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