Alright I used to play p1999 red extensively and I haven't touched live EQ since the PoP expansion. I've read similar threads about previous TLP servers but what I'm trying to get a sense of is exactly what EQ classic/kunark/velious is like on the TLP live servers, especially the upcoming Agnarr. Trying to decide if its worth a months sub to try out a new TLP server launch.
This is my understanding of the differences, does this capture the main issues or is there more?
- TLP servers don't use classic spell files like P1999, so I assume casters benefit from whatever updates/buffs/changes have been made to 1-60 spells over the years. Does this drastically change caster gameplay? Do casters get brand new spells or are their spell values just tweaked compared to what we'er used to on p1999? I read mages pets were OP but have since been nerfed for Agnarr.
- TLP servers have updated melee mechanics / formulas, so I assume this means they are way more powerful than they used to be in classic -- but again do the classes play exactly like they normally would 1-60, just more powerful? I've read monks fists formulas are OP.
- TLP servers have out of combat regen, however this will be turned off for agnarr, so not an issue.
- TLP servers have revamped Freeport, which apparently sucks
- TLP servers have newer graphics, but I've read you can at least downgrade the client to use Velious-era graphics?
- There is a cash shop element where you can buy stuff in game for kronos currency, and can buy items in game from other players with kronos?
- No exp penalties, no hell levels, increased xp rates for leveling?
- Instanced raiding, and 'pick zones' which are basically dynamic instances spawned for certain zones based on population.
- Bard swarm kiting is long gone?
- Each class gets one home teleport to their home city once per hour.
Does that cover the main things? Is the game otherwise relatively the same in terms of gameplay? For example, melees like warriors/rogues still need to at least duo to gain xp, you won't see warriors running around plowing through mobs on their own. Casters will still have to spend a lot of time meditating. Quad kiting is still a thing and the best way for a solo to gain exp. Groups will still struggle to hold down emperor crush's throneroom when they get there in cloth rags with rusty weapons for the first time, etc.
Or is the gameplay just drastically different and nothing like classic?
Any thoughts are appreciated.