[ 
Mood: Shocked ]
So, just wanted to post my thoughts about the Rikti invasion that City of Heroes (CoH) has unveiled in the last month.
CoH uses free game upgrades, what they call issues, to keep the content fresh. Previous issues have included an invention system that allows you to create enhancements, temporary powers and costume additions. This time around, the developers have brought back an alien foe from CoH lore, the Rikti.
The Rikti are aliens (actually its more complicated than that – but I have to go to work soon). They invaded a while ago, but were pushed back by the efforts of the heroes of Earth. Somehow they have found a way back, and are attacking.
Now to celebrate the release, CoH unleashed invasions of Paragon City. All across the various city zones, the Rikti attacked. Dropships dropped bombs, and soldiers showed up in the main squares of zones. The same thing was happening in CoH’s sister game, City of Villains.
This actually lead to some hilarity as the "superhero trainers" just stood there and watched as a battle raged around them. "Hey Miss Liberty, how about some help here?!?"
I actually had the privilege of being their for the first invasion. So was everyone else. My impression of the invasion is cool, until you get 50 or so players showing up , and then the lag hits. Then it’s like walking through molasses. The designers have done somethings to rectify this, but they also expect your drivers to be upto date. The nerve.
Still, this has been hugely popular with the players, so much so that even though the original invasion was only due to last a few weeks, CoH has brought it back for limited one day engagements, with the last day being September 22.
There will also be an invasion generated when a team completes the Rikti Co-op task force.
You can get yourself a 14 day free trial if you want. Please note that this is a subscription based service.
Tell em Studded Canary sent you. No, really, cause then I get your referral credit. Me, ulterior motive. Never! 