Revamp the Epic Archetype Arcs
The point, and name, of the Epic AT is that they have their own story arcs. Opening them to everyone kind of goes against that, not to mention *doesn't make sense* for other ATs at all.
For instance, why would a Void Hunter - a mercenary group *specifically* set to hunt Kheldians, and armed to do so - be taunting a blaster about how they're probably feeling fear the VH is there? (And without which the speech - and the point of the mission and arc - makes zero sense?)
And the VEAT arcs (spoiler if you haven't run them, or really paid attention) are not "all about being a destined one." They're about sneaking onto the list, sure, but it's the *why* - and why you're *allowed* to, and (at least in part) what your fellow Arachnos troops, think about it. Again, for just a generic Brute, or Mastermind, or Scrapper - it makes zero sense.
It's kind of like saying "I like that pearl harbor movie. But let's put it in space. With the Japanese attacking a wagon train heading west."
As for the different arcs when changing sides - I'd love to see it. I don't expect to, but I'd love to see it. (Problem being, of course, having it make sense whenever you turn - whether it's at 20 or 45.)
I suppose you have a point. I am just worried that the devs would be reluctant to do it...
The villain arc needed to be revamped as soon as it launched.
As into lore as I tended to be... well, I was on teamspeak with a friend when I ran that. Think it was the 30 or 35 arc.... of one mission. By that time it had irritated me so badly I was about ready to log and delete the character.
I think the arcs are ok up to... eh, maybe 15. Then we get the "You are a destined one! You aren't! No, wait, you are! Just kidding!" going on.
(Also, revisiting branching.... it always seemed rather silly to me that the Banes, Spiders and Fortunata/Widows didn't have different arcs. Granted, it would be a problem with dual builds.)
Yeah, definitely don't open them up. Still though, the arcs could use some love. The new arcs are all action packed and exciting with those cool interjection window things and people to talk to. Honestly though I think this suggestion could be applied to all of the older content and not just the EAT arcs. Maybe EATs first, since the arcs are a big part of the character, but everything eventually.
@Rorn ---- Blue Baron ---- Guardian
Kheldians and Soldiers of Arachnos have access to special story arcs related specifically to their story. Which is cool.
...However, there are several issues.
1) Compared to newer missions, the old epic arcs are... Old.
2) Should you switch alignments, the epic storyline is abandoned.
So, here is my suggestion: Let's make the Epic Arcs epic, using the more recent arcs as a model.
Suggestion 1: Open Epic storyarcs to everyone.
This is a practical measure more than anything. Content for 10 ATs is more economically viable than content for four.
We have technology in place that allows us to add special dialogue to missions based on alignment, badges earned, and prior choices. Thus, we can offer special options and dialogue to players of the appropriate Archetypes.
So, the Kheldian arcs focus on the Kheldian War. For a normal AT, you're a normal hero offering assistance. For a Peacebringer, contacts might be more open with you. Warshades might not be trusted as much. Certain allies and enemies may or may not appear.
The VEAT arcs are all about being a Destined One. Normal Villains already are destined. VEATs will have to sneak their name onto the list as per usual.
Suggestion 2: Let the arc carry over to the other side at level 20.
At level 20, you can get a special Moral Choice mission, allowing your character to turn coats. It works like the moral choice missions in Praetoria: at a key point, you need to choose to remain your current alignment, or to swap sides. This works regardless of whether or not you have the Going Rogue alignment system. It's a freebie. You can only do it once, though.
If you decide to turn coats, your story branches.
Take VEATS for an example.
Normally, the story follows you as you break free from your faceless mook status and become a true Destined One. If you Choose to "Screw Destiny" at level 20, you'll have to deal with Arachnos as they try to force you into the destiny you created for yourself, whether you like it or not.
Suggestion 3: Have Utility Arcs on both sides. This is mostly VEAT specific, as Kheldians are self contained. But the arcs needed to unlock your bonus costume slot and Patron Pools are side locked, which (If you use your free alignment change) is a PAIN.
So, tossing the ability for VEATs to grab a free costume slot and patron pools on one of their blueside contacts would be a good idea.
What do you think? Reasonable?