World of Warcraft's upcoming housing system: A different approach to player homes.
Blizzard has offered a sneak peek at the player housing feature coming to World of Warcraft: Midnight, highlighting a design philosophy that contrasts sharply with other MMOs, particularly Final Fantasy XIV. The WoW team emphasized accessibility as a core principle, aiming to provide a "Home for Everyone."
Unlike some MMOs with limited plots, exorbitant costs, lotteries, and harsh penalties for inactivity, WoW's housing promises a more inclusive experience. Blizzard explicitly stated there will be no lottery system, no excessive purchase prices, and no risk of repossession if a subscription lapses. The goal is straightforward: if players want a house, they can have one.
The functionality is as expected: players can purchase and personalize homes, inviting others to visit. This echoes the popular player-created content seen in Final Fantasy XIV, ranging from theatrical performances to cafes and museums. However, WoW aims to avoid the well-known issues plaguing FFXIV's housing system, such as server-wide plot limitations and the potential for demolition.
WoW's housing system will leverage the Warband feature, allowing shared access across characters regardless of faction. While a Human character couldn't purchase a home in a Horde zone, a Warband member of a different race could, granting access to all.
While the number of housing zones will be limited (two, with "Neighborhoods" of approximately 50 plots each), these zones will be instanced, offering both public and private options. Public areas will be dynamically generated as needed, eliminating a fixed plot limit.
Blizzard's commitment to long-term support is evident. Their stated goals include "boundless self-expression," a "deeply social" experience, and a "long-lasting journey" with ongoing updates and expansions. This suggests a conscious effort to learn from the successes and shortcomings of other MMO housing systems.
Further details are expected during the summer unveiling of World of Warcraft: Midnight.
