Star Trek Online at Ten Ton Hammer

Star Trek Online's Open Beta is over a week old and everyone is piling into the game while piling on in the forums. Server restarts and gnashing of teeth on the forums was expected, but for once it appears that we can have civil discourse about the game’s possibilities (both positive and unknown). At the mid-point of Open Beta, it’s time to reflect on the changes so far and progress of the game as we start peering at the launch date right around the corner.

STO isn’t the first game to include public quests or other mechanics to get players to work together. I would say though that the system works very well so far. Zoning into a mission can land you into a group automatically where everyone works together to defeat a common foe. The missions are fairly straight forward and it’s in everyone’s best interest to take out the enemies. There isn’t much actual teamwork required, just aim and fire. I’ve been surprised by two social impacts of this system. First, in general chat players are actually recruiting for group quests and seeing things like “Meet at the Bhea System for anyone interested” is not uncommon. Secondly, the grouping is easy and fun. And if for some reason it isn’t, you can just leave. No questions asked. I’m sure there is some ass-hat quotient out there, but thankfully they aren’t playing when or where I am.

• To continue reading our latest Star Trek Online beta journal, click here!