**This can also be seen at Video Gaming Blog, where I am a contributing author**
Just in time for the holiday buying season, a slew of MMO’s (Massively Multiplayer Online games) have come out. From fighting demons, to undead pirates and sci-fi action several choices are now available in the genre that has quickly become a staple of computer gaming. One of the more anticipated games has been Pirates of the Caribbean Online.
PotC is not the average MMO. Unlike many games in the genre it is family-oriented. That designation normally indicates a sub-standard and unamusing game, in my experience. Another warning sign is the fact that this video game is based on a movie, which virtually guarantees failure. But there have been exceptions to both of these rules.
PotC does not appear to break the rules, which is sad considering the enormous returns the 3 films generated. Still there is only so much that can be expected from Disney, and considering play (with limitations) can be free you get what you pay for. And you get a lot for the all the limitations in the game, even if you do pay ($10/month).
Disney has failed to follow the standard of most MMO’s these days. Poor execution of forming crews and friend management are only part of the problems. Being very kid friendly, battles are limited. Pirates can only fight each other in PvP areas, as cursed pirates only, ship battles can only occur against NPC ships.
Experience management is horrible, with groups not benefiting from kills, and the ease of being dropped from a battle and place in jail being high. NPC enemies can often be multiple levels higher than the player, regardless of the area encountered.
The game has issues. Does it look good? Yes. Is it family-friendly? Definitely. Is it cheap and highly affordable for subscriptions? Check there. But as I said before you are getting what you pay for.
In my mind, would I play this? If I was paid. Very young gamers may well enjoy this, and it can be cute for a distraction for a day. But if you enjoy LotRO (Lord of the Rings Online), WoW (World of Warcraft), or several other MMO’s you may want to wait for Conan or Tabula Rasa.
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