We packed our bags and headed out for Cologne, Germany, to demo TERA for North American Press at GamesCom 2011.
First of all, this show is huge! The halls were packed with gamers from all over the world, anxious to get their hands on as many games as possible, and we were pumped to bring some TERA along with us. You could feel the excitement, and players could literally be heard storming down the hallways to fill the expo hall at the start of each day.
The demo we gave was an overview of what TERA is—fast, fun, and action-packed, but also with the depth of a massive world with a multi-layered, rewarding story, plus more. So how do you do all of that in about 20 minutes?
First, we focused on the action by showing exciting game elements like combat, combos, and BAMs. Then we hit them with our overarching story, covering 80+ zones with 600+ monsters, etc. Then it was time to demonstrate all of it together with one of the toughest five-man runs we have had to date.
The risk of wiping was always there and the pressure on me as the healer, well, definitely kept things interesting. I’d like to say that the German keyboard was my kryptonite but no excuses! I was often running around like a mad man, throwing out heals, missing heals, and even resurrecting a few comrades who’d died (mostly Chager, the tank). Trust me when I say to all of the healers out there, you definitely have your work cut out for you.
We also offered a peek into the future development of TERA, in our server vs. server invasions. This will combine PvE and PvP elements in a unique way that will engage all types of players. We went into further details surrounding the mystery of the argons, the fierce and deadly enemies that players will band together to fight off and keep from overthrowing the Valkyon Federation.
Outside of the show, we had the opportunity to meet up with some of the TERA community. You guys are always so passionate and excited to geek out with us about anything and everything gaming. We really appreciate your support, and it’s always great to get a reminder about what we are doing this for. This is the reason that we stick to our guns on certain features and the reason we are working hard to not only make the best MMO out there, but a complete game that all of you will enjoy at launch.
Overall, it was great fun and we’re gearing up to welcome some of you at our offices next weekend during PAX. I hope to see you then and can’t wait to get TERA in your hands soon.