Well we have all seen it there, that mysterious pathway outside the boundaries.
The prison system is a very tough decision. I have had it pretty much ready since late last year.
I haven't flipped the switch because im very concerned it will make or break the PvP/Risk here.
Currently the system works as such:
As of now, when a guard attacks you, he does so until your dead or is evaded.
With the prison system, when a guard catches up makes physical contact you will instead be temporary frozen and given some choices:
- Resist(the guard will then fight you to the death, unless you get away.) You now become an Outlaw.
- Pay a fine of X (X being your most recent crime scaled)
- Give-in and be sent to Slumon' Oubliette.
A little more explanation:
When you resist you are able to move again and you will then continue your fight or flee from the guard as you normally would. However, if you manage to escape the guards you become an Outlaw. Being an Outlaw not only shows you as an Enemy to all other players, you will instantly be attacked by guards on sight (no options given). You also cannot buy from shopkeepers, rent or access your bank. Plans for "black-market" peddlers outside of town to sell limited goods to Outlaws. Once an Outlaw, you will not be able to remove it until you serve your time + a fine.
When paying your fine, the fine amount will be based on a series of things: How many murders have you committed in the past X amounts of hours? Do you have a bounty? Etc.. Once you pay the fine, your free to go. Perhaps certain crimes such as murder should not be payable.
Accept arrest and be transported to Slumon' Oubliette. This is were you really experience the prison system. In prison you have numerous ways to get out. Server your time, escape or work-off your debts in the prison courtyard. (mine rocks, chop trees, fill buckets etc.)
My main concern is that this could make a criminal life just not worth it. Players wont want to go criminal or commit murder if they will have to be confronted by a guard everytime. As we know the guards are quite fast and guard the only real exits out of town. Or perhaps, your chasing a criminal seeking Justice and instead of getting the kill/loot you cant, the guards take him over. Should players continue to be killable even while under temporary guard restraint?
Id really like to get any opinions and suggestions on the system and how it can be improved or if you think it shouldn't be used at all.
Normally, id release a new addition right away. However i feel such a big thing as this, should really be decided by the ones who will be facing it in their Journey.