News: Warhammer Online - Op/Ed: Flying Solo @ Ten Ton Hammer

In a recent phone Q&A with EA Mythic the question actually came up about how viable solo play was in Warhammer Online. Jeff Hickman's answer was:



"It's the only thing Paul does because he's a malcontent. There will plenty of opportunities to group up with others, but solo is very viable. The deal is the game tricks you into making friends. It tricks you into having a social life. Public Quests do that, as do scenarios. You don't have to wander around the capital city LFG, you can run out get involved, socialize and get involved right away. You've painted your face blue, they've done the same. Soccer fans who love your team are everywhere!"



Now an interesting phrase stands out in that quote and no it isn't the Soccer reference because we know no one plays Soccer in America. Tricking you into making friends seems like an odd way to present a mechanic but it's subtle and brilliant in nature. What they essentially had in mind here was that you'd show up to help assault a city, a Keep, or play a scenario and the classical Esprit De Corps would kick in prompting new friends and allies in the war. In addition to this, it's a well known fact that Creative Director Paul Barnett has a preference for solo play and has no problems letting people know that. With that in mind it seems very likely he has been providing his input about this playstyle.