Is the Renewed RO2 Worth Expecting? [Producer Interview]

The server safety problem and bugs found in RO2's first open beta were really a headache.
Yes, so this time, we'll never launch open beta till the server stability is guaranteed. We'll try our best to improve the server stability, and get rid of bottlenecks particularly. We'll also improve the in-game systems, and solve the unsmooth running problem caused by the great number of gamers. Theoretically, all these can solve the lag problem basically, and make one server able to support 20,000 simultaneous online gamers.

Will Unreal Engine 2 still be adopted?

No, we'll switch to GameBryo. This is the most often used engine in Gravity in fact, and can thus facilitate our work. The PC system requirements will also not be that high, which can guarantee the game's easy export overseas. As RO has been served in over 60 countries and regions around the world, the adoption of GameBryo will bring us more favorable matters.

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RO2, developed by using Unreal Engine 2

RO2's high popularity is partly attributed to Yoko Kanno's music, right?

Our 5-year contract with Yoko Kanno still has several years to run. We were licensed to use 150-200 songs of Yoko Kanno at the time when RO2 just entered its open beta. Now, we'll choose and adopt some songs in conformity with the game concept. In the meantime, our sound team will also make some more music.

What about the game's schedules?
The renewed RO2 will start its first CBT on August 30. Its open beta will be launched as soon as possible if the server stability is good enough, but will be delayed in case of any problems. Personally, I hope the game can enter its open beta stage within this year. But we still won't forget the past mistakes.

So the game's official launch will depend on its first CBT, which can be regarded as a "Stress Test".

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The open beta will never be launched till the server stability is guaranteed.

What game content will be unveiled in the CBT and open beta?

We plan to set the level cap at 30 in CBT and 50 in the open beta, with 3 big cities, 9 areas and 3 instances made open as well. At the time of the game's official operation, the PvP elements like guild wars will also be made available.

The game's interface will also be designed as user-friendly as possible. For example, players can enjoy the features like "Quest", "Helper" and so on.

The interaction among players instead of PvP is the key of RO actually. So, we're also considering the recent hot Social Network Service system.

Anything you want to tell the RO2 fans?

It's been long since RO2 debuted in 2007. The game used to dissatisfy players and have many weak points in the service. We have conducted many discussions in our company during the long period, and finally manage to bring forth the fruit now.

After the launch of the game's teaser site, we've received lots of criticism from players. But there're also many players who support and encourage us greatly, which is to our surprise and makes us more confident. We'll continue to take players' suggestions seriously and produce satisfactory games. Thanks!