Communication is crucial in any massively multiplayer online world. In many cases, a single lapse in communication can mean the difference between a successful quest and the decimation of an entire party -- World of Warcraft players will not soon forget the chilling final words of Leeroy Jenkins.
With some MMORPGs operating on global servers, language barriers introduce communication issues that are not easily solved. How can players from around the world engage in meaningful and fun dialog when there is no shared language?
GameCareerGuide.com's latest Game Design Challenge attempts to address this issue. Contestants were challenged to come up with an MMORPG communications system that is useful, intuitive, and most importantly, something that players would actually want to use.
Many entries attempted to break the language barrier through the use of pictographs. Some suggested that certain symbols carry universal messages across all languages, meaning that all players would be capable of simple interactions.
Problems would inevitably arise, however, when one attempts to convey a more complex series of thoughts. A few standout entries described workable solutions to common communication issues within picture-driven languages.
Other submissions took a more drastic approach. Some attempted to circumvent the need for verbal communication altogether, describing game worlds in which all players were unable to speak. A few went as far to suggest the implementation of an entirely new language, requiring all players to attend in-game classes in order to learn its vocabulary and grammar.
What follows are the best and most original entries we received. Here are our top picks:
Best Entries
Peter Lübeck, Producer at Black Drop Studios (see page 2)
Lubeck's entry suggests a graphical user interface which allows easy access to common game-related phrases. His description is impressively detailed, even going so far as to describe what kind of sounds and visual indicators would figure into the equation.
Keith Allen Joseph Lorenzo, Game Programmer, Ant World MMO (see page 3)
Lorenzo envisions a new type of online multiplayer experience in which players are members of an ant colony. Communication in this game proves simple and intuitive, thanks to a variety of scent-based mechanics.
Vladimir Villanueva, Artist, The Explosion System (see page 4)
While perhaps not as practical as other suggested communication mechanics, Villanueva's system is impressive in how much it can convey through the use of malleable pyrotechnics. In addition to providing a unique form of communication, players are also guaranteed a rich visual experience.
Honorable Mentions
David Delisle, Interactive Icon Communication (see page 5)
Ryan Jones, Student at Wilfrid Laurier University, The C.R.A.B.S. Translator: Card-based Radial Animated Button System (see page 6)
Kevin Giang, Pasadena City College, QA Tester (see page 7)
Ivan D. Garde, Freelancer Character Animator, The Zerg Communication in World of Starcraft (see page 8)
Arthur J. Mortega, Independent Consultant - Damage Control Consulting, Communicating with NATAL (see page 9)
