This XDefiant Feature Would Keep Players Coming Back

Summary

In this video, Jack discusses the potential introduction of an in-game currency system for *X Defiant*, aimed at providing players with more incentives to grind and return to the game. He compares this idea to successful systems in *Black Ops 1* and *Halo Reach*, emphasizing the importance of offering cosmetic rewards without affecting gameplay balance. Jack suggests offering partial cosmetic items, unique weapon variants, and ways to enhance character customization through grinding. He also encourages community feedback to shape the system, while highlighting the need for fair and ethical design to avoid the game feeling like pay-to-win.

Takeaways

• 😀 The idea of an in-game currency system for *X Defiant* is under discussion, with the aim of giving players a reason to grind and return to the game.
• 😀 The in-game currency system must be separate from real money purchases to avoid the game being considered 'gambling'.
• 😀 *Black Ops 1* and *Halo Reach* serve as major inspirations for the proposed system, with their grindable rewards and cosmetic customization systems being key examples.
• 😀 The in-game currency should unlock exclusive cosmetic rewards like partial armor pieces, weapon skins, and customizations that don’t affect gameplay balance.
• 😀 The concept includes grindable cosmetic items such as different iron sights, gun variants, and faction-specific armor parts that can be mixed and matched.
• 😀 *X Defiant* could offer players more variety in character and weapon customization, similar to the customizations seen in *Halo Reach* and *Call of Duty*.
• 😀 A potential reward system could include things like 'contracts' that encourage players to grind for currency through specific challenges.
• 😀 The game’s real-money store should sell cosmetics that complement, but don’t conflict with, items obtainable through the in-game currency system.
• 😀 Jack emphasizes that cosmetic rewards should enhance player experience without giving any competitive advantage, avoiding a 'pay-to-win' situation.
• 😀 Jack encourages community input on how the in-game currency system should be designed, including what kind of cosmetics players would like to see.
• 😀 While the concept remains speculative, Jack believes that if executed well, an in-game currency system could significantly improve player engagement in *X Defiant*.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video script?

The main focus of the video is discussing a potential in-game currency system for *X Defiant* that would encourage players to grind and provide additional rewards, such as cosmetics and weapon variants, to enhance player engagement.

Why does the speaker emphasize that the in-game currency should be separate from real money?

The speaker emphasizes this separation to avoid the game being accused of promoting gambling. If the in-game currency can only be earned through gameplay, it ensures that it is not directly tied to real-money purchases, preventing any legal or ethical issues.

Which games does the speaker refer to when discussing the in-game currency concept?

The speaker refers to *Black Ops 1*, *Halo Reach*, and *Call of Duty: WWII* as examples of games that implemented successful in-game currency systems and progression mechanics.

What types of rewards does the speaker suggest could be tied to the in-game currency system?

The speaker suggests rewards like weapon skins, customizable armor pieces, partial cosmetic items, and weapon variants that do not affect gameplay balance but offer aesthetic customization options for players.

What is the significance of *Black Ops 1* in the context of this video?

*Black Ops 1* is mentioned as a reference for its effective in-game currency system, where players could grind to earn currency that unlocked exclusive cosmetic items like gold camos, which served as an incentive for continued gameplay.

How does the speaker envision using partial armor pieces or cosmetic items in *X Defiant*?

The speaker envisions players grinding for partial cosmetic items that can be mixed and matched to create unique looks for their characters, similar to how armor pieces were used in *Halo Reach*. This customization would make the game more engaging without impacting gameplay balance.

What role do contracts play in the proposed system for *X Defiant*?

Contracts are mentioned as a way to incentivize players to return to the game by offering additional goals or tasks that reward them with in-game currency. These could be linked to different factions, game modes, or challenges, driving further engagement and progression.

What are 'party games' and why does the speaker think *X Defiant* should include them?

Party games like *One in the Chamber* and *Gun Game* are mentioned as fun, arcade-style modes that many players enjoy. The speaker believes *X Defiant* should include these modes to keep the gameplay experience varied and offer players something new and engaging beyond traditional modes.

How does the speaker suggest preventing a 'pay-to-win' situation with the in-game currency system?

The speaker suggests ensuring that cosmetic items and customizations earned through the in-game currency system do not impact gameplay balance. This means items like different iron sights or aesthetic weapon variants should not alter a gun's stats, preventing any advantage for players who purchase these items.

What is the role of the in-game store in the context of *X Defiant*'s currency system?

The in-game store would offer cosmetic items that are not available through the in-game currency system, providing an alternative way for players to customize their experience. These items would be priced reasonably to avoid discouraging players from spending real money.