First Impressions

[Mekon]

The game itself is the same. Everything about it looks the same. However, its the server that's different. I'm running the same client you are. The exact same version in fact. The difference is in the servers. If you ran around for an hour in the private server you'd only notice a few things that are different between it and retail. Most people wouldn't instantly PVP, instantly get over level 10, and monsters generally are the same whether they do 50 damage or 5. So it feels the same.

I'd argue that when it comes to an MMO, the only thing that matters is the server... that's where the game happens.

Evaluating a game based on a rip-off missing half the features is pretty idiotic.

[nudge]

whats the point of playing an MMO on a private server anyway... is it so you can go 'Hey buddy, give me the best equipment you can code?'

[1atromm1]

I don't think its a good idea to talk about private servers. They are correct in saying its irrelevant as private != official. No matter how small the difference are, the experiences are different. Just like in WoW priv vs Official, keep your (private) infos to yourselves. Talking about it brings critcisms and possible flames.

[Minkelz]

Picked this game up from Dick Smith for $70, marked down from $99, thought I'd save myself the trouble of d/ling it.

[Nida]

The game itself is the same. Everything about it looks the same. However, its the server that's different. I'm running the same client you are. The exact same version in fact. The difference is in the servers. If you ran around for an hour in the private server you'd only notice a few things that are different between it and retail. Most people wouldn't instantly PVP, instantly get over level 10, and monsters generally are the same whether they do 50 damage or 5. So it feels the same.

A friend of mine was trying the game out on a private server before deciding to actually buy it or not, and Id say there is a HUGE difference. Being able to kill a lvl 15 monster in 2 hits when youre lvl 5 on a private server is no comparison to the retail version where you would most likely get your rear end handed to you on a nice shiny platter if you even attempted to face something that far above you. Sure you can see the basic functions of the game, but you cant play the game as its meant to be played, as whoever owns the server has tweaked things and "dumbed" them down to make it easier - little effort for huge reward - no thanks.