Item Durability Question

[CriticalRPG]

I was thinking about adding the concept of item durability into my game(s). However, I wanted to get an opinion before I do so. I've gone over a few pros and cons.

Pros

- Increased play time

- Extra element of challenge

Cons

- May slow down progress

Tell me what you guys think.

P.S. I'm thinking about using Selchar's durability script, in case you're wondering.

 

[Wavelength]

My general advice with weapon/armor durability is "don't".  It's not a fun element for the player to manage.  There are certain types of games where you want to limit how far the player can get in a single journey without returning to a town to fix their equipment (Rune Factory or Diablo, for example), and equipment durability can be a good feature in those games.  But for most RPGs this will just damper the player's fun.

 

[CriticalRPG]

My general advice with weapon/armor durability is "don't".  It's not a fun element for the player to manage.  There are certain types of games where you want to limit how far the player can get in a single journey without returning to a town to fix their equipment (Rune Factory or Diablo, for example), and equipment durability can be a good feature in those games.  But for most RPGs this will just damper the player's fun.

I see. I'll think about it. Thanks for the advice.

 

[KanaX]

It could be more fun than not, if used correctly.

1. You should make sure that you have several easily accessible repair stations (smiths?), perhaps some repairing items, or even allow the player to repair the weapon themselves, after some time.
2. You should have a rule regarding  the durability of the average weapon itself. The player should easily be able to defeat all enemies in the area   (if the amount is fixed), or you should calculate the approximate amount of enemies the player will defeat (if they respawn). The amount of lost durability after that should be between 1/4 to 1/3. That way, you ensure that it's not the thorough players that are punished, but the irresponsible ones.
3. Neat idea: Incredibly powerful weapons with very low durability.
4. Neat idea 2: Environment elements that damage weapons.
5. Neat idea 3:Attacks/items used by enemies that bring durability down.
6. Neat idea 4:Enemies with melee weapons have durability too (if you can implement it).

 

[CriticalRPG]

It could be more fun than not, if used correctly.

1. You should make sure that you have several easily accessible repair stations (smiths?), perhaps some repairing items, or even allow the player to repair the weapon themselves, after some time.
2. You should have a rule regarding  the durability of the average weapon itself. The player should easily be able to defeat all enemies in the area   (if the amount is fixed), or you should calculate the approximate amount of enemies the player will defeat (if they respawn). They amount of lost durability after that should be between 1/4 to 1/3. That way, you ensure that it's not the thorough players that are punished, but the irresponsible ones.
3. Neat idea: Incredibly powerful weapons with very low durability.
4. Neat idea 2: Environment elements that damage weapons.
5. Neat idea 3:Attacks/items used by enemies that bring durability down.
6. Neat idea 4:Enemies with melee weapons have durability too (if you can implement it).

Wow, those ideas sound pretty interesting!

Thanks!

 

[KanaX]

You are welcome, just don't go crazy with idea 2 and 3. They can be pretty annoying if used throughout the entire game. Stick them in that area. You know what I mean. The hell area that everyone hates, but it's still an iconic part of the game.