I’ve enjoyed my time so far in ToS, but I believe the game still has a long way to go. I collected various notes about my experience and I’m going to list them in no order.
Mouse mode - this is the only control option which allows WASD movement, which is what many PC players are most comfortable with. Right now, mouse mode features an auto attack, and skills that turn to face the mouse, then cast. I think mouse mode is alright, but a “WASD mode” where left click turns to attack without an autoattack- similar to Diablo, and the way that mouse mode’s skills work now- would be popular. I also think that skills in “WASD mode” and mouse mode should move to where the skill is in range before casting, similar to how quick casting works in DotA-style games.
Movement - All characters should have access to sprint. Most non-swordsmen could not deplete Stamina, and it makes no sense for Tree Root Crystals to be so plentiful when optimally only 1/4 of characters could make use of them regularly. Additionally, it would be nice for all control modes to be able to move to a point on the minimap by clicking on it. The addition of backspace quest warp is nice, but manually moving anywhere else can become tiring.
Green zoning arrows - The arrows that indicate where zones end do not represent the actual space that will trigger a teleport. Making a “zoning wall” or portal or door would be nice to prevent accidental movement between zones. Make sure no NPCs are close to zoning arrows, to avoid scenarios where players might accidentally leave their map. As it stands, players can teleport with backspace and mirrors while in combat, which has pros and cons.
Party & grouping - The party window should have an “invite” box. It is initially confusing whether to use character names or clan/player names when chatting and inviting players to befriend, party, or whatever else. Make sure players know which name to use in any scenario.
Interface - The most necessary change is an optional ability to see damage formulas for skills. Players are left to guess which skills are the most efficient, instead of being able to ascertain from facts and math. Skills in the cast bar should show mana costs, probably the most frustrating thing related to skills at the moment. A bulk buy in NPC shop menus would also be welcome, it’s frustrating buying potions one at a time.
Achievements - The Magical Association NPC should be renamed to a Collection Manager or something similar. A swordsman has no reason to believe he has use for a Magical Association, so there’s no reason to confuse them. The Introduction to Crafting achievement should count number of items crafted instead of instances of crafting completed.
I did not have an issue with bosses, except maybe that they occur too frequently, and more dynamic challenges could improve on what already exists in-game.
Big issues - Class structure & balance. I get it. It’s a beta. Nothing is perfect. However, my insight is that the issue stems from the minimum investment of fifteen points each time you take a circle in any class. Many classes do not have three useful skills at first circle. It’s frustrating trying to build a character that is both flavorful and powerful with the current limitations on skills. I think the easiest way to resolve this is by removing the locks on second and third circle skills and skill ranks, but maintaining the requirement of investing 15 skill ranks into one class at a time. Of course, this would come with its own set of issues, but I want to contribute to the discussion of reforming the class system so that all characters can be both unique and effective.
I appreciate the opportunity to beta test ToS, and will definitely be playing in future betas and on official release. I can’t wait to see how the game improves!