Notes: World of Warcraft

What is it good for? Absolutely NUTHIN'... say it again!

Huh. I'm dropping World of Warcraft. After only two months. I hate to do it to such an obviously superior piece of software, but after five days of not logging in I realize that I don't miss it. The account expires sometime mid-April so maybe I'll jump back in for a few laughs before time runs out.

That I would drop an expensive MMO that provides pretty much everything I look for in an online game should tell me something about my own tastes. WoW has an engaging overall plot, enjoyable mechanics, a robust crafting system, rewarding solo play, and excellent team dynamics. The new patch even added a better user interface and a chat system more in line with SWG, which was top notch. But still, it's just another grind. I discovered in the past weeks I had three choices - I could level up by smashing gorillas in a jungle, bashing yetis in the mountains, or bonking lizards in the desert. For about 6 levels or so. Then I'd be able to move on to other forests, other mountians and other plains in which to hit things. Not really appealing anymore.

I suppose if I had a decent group to play with regularly I'd stick with it, but that never materialized. Hell, I stayed with Star Wars, a game I came to loathe, for almost two years just so I could stay in the guild there. Socialization makes the whole thing work. It's difficult to find that magical union of game environment and community where the impetus to play enhances the social aspect and the friendships reinforce the desire to play. Two base hit with WoW, but no run scored.

So farewell, Azeroth, I hardly knew ye. Hmmm... I wonder if Paragon City needs an extra hero next month?