I was pleased with the sprinkling of Steampunk elements in Warhammer Online. The flavor was certainly there, more so for some classes than others but there nonetheless. I was elated by Rift’s inclusion of even more Steampunk elements. The idea blended well within the confines of the story being told and the associated technology but I always felt it could have been more pronounced. The artifacts that were there were nothing short of stunning but didn’t feel integral or integrated into my game play.
I can’t say enough about Guild Wars 2 art direction and graphics. I’d be running around saying STUNNING all day and night but most times, that’s the impression it leaves. Here too, I thirst for more than the splattering of Steampunk being offered in popular MMOs. I get all googly-eyed when I see things here and there. I almost lose my mind when I find a weapon I’d actually use that has a taste of Steampunk. On this topic however, I’m a greedy bugger and want more.
I feel as though Steampunk is easily be fused with fantasy so why so little of it beyond window dressing? Is it really that niche? Based on the concept art, I thought the Charr city would be amazing Steampunk or even the Asura but not so much. Again, it’s more flavored than an essential element. Charr is more fused metal and grunge. Asura is high technology that feels modern. Maybe my ideal of Steampunk is too narrow. I certainly don’t expect or need a Victorian aesthetic. There are nice elements scattered throughout Tyria but it’s more backdrop. I just wish there was one city or port of call completely infused in it.
From an armour perspective, I wish I could transmute cloth or leather items over my Guardian gear. I've seen gorgeous Steampunk worthy elements - helms and cuffs for cloth wears and jackets and shoulders for leather. I'm inspired by the Steampunk genre in my reading, writing and some of my own jewelry designs. I'm desperate to see more of it in a AAA MMO.
I walk around Divinity’s Reach and Lion’s Arch for the fun of it. Lion’s Arch is especially packed with lots of flavor. Sure it has some steam elements but reminds me more of an upgraded version of Booty Bay. To revel in the beauty and feeling of being in a “real” Steampunk city would be amazing.. I keep crossing my fingers it will come to a MMO near me soon.
