I'll outline first that this is a suggestion, one which is very open to input and refinement.
This topic comes following some discord discussion in which someone outlined that the current ranked is under-utilized and filled with meta builds / gameplay that leaves the PVP and team aspect as under served and unrewarding.
The suggestion in mind is a time-framed PvP ranked event, that has some Dev hands on around balance.
This could be implemented on live, where players form up and queue, but specific tuning is applied. (Though there is a question on feasibility of this.)
This could be implemented on a tournament server, that has specific tuning (Mainly mitigating the most meta/cheese builds.).
Why, why, why?TLDR;
Time-framed tournament, ranked PvP.
Dev controlled tournament (technical)
Could be player organised with dev assistance.
Could be seasonal (1/2 weeks in every 3 months.) or rolled into a monthly event, where automation is feasible.
Rewards; Rank, title, mainly the fun of it.
- Primarily this is to give the most dedicated players the opportunity to be involved in mastery and spectacle.
- Sense of community; It'd create a focal point for the community to spectate, discuss and have their WAARGH renewed.
- Streaming content; It'd give those creatives amongst us something to share with the non-RoR community - or those who would like to see RoR, even if they don't play.
- Discussion; With PvP in the frame, and the close-quarter nature of tournaments, it can help lead discussion on balance for live. - with being able to see the results in real time.
The actual mechanics of the ranking ladder, I will leave for input from people with more experience or fandom of ranked ladders.
Lastly - I would suggest the ability for non-participants to live spectate via being present on the map, this would enrich the experience for every one. (Think gladiatorial games)
This is framed similar to EvE's Alliance Tournament, WoW's Esport PvP streaming.
