Soldier Front Interview: Alive and Kicking!

 

SF Online is one of those FPS games that have been a mainstay in the MMO scene for quite a while now. Even with other FPS games out in the market, SF has established itself as a game that’s more than just a passing trend.

 

With three years and tournaments under its belt, SF Online is sure to still wow its players as the months progress.

 

We here on Onrpg got the scoop to what’s happening behind closed doors in the SF world and here’s what they have to say about the game.

 

 

With more than 3 million users since it launched on May, 2007, I think SF has more loyal users than any other first-person shooter (FPS) games in the Unites States.  In contrast to many other FPS games, SF also draws a number of hardcore gamers, who contribute considerably to the fast-paced, edge-of-your seat game play experience.

 

 

With more than 1,000 clans in SF, new and existing members will always encounter a flurry of action and challenge.  Joining and initial game play in SF is quick and easy.  However, you should spend some time getting accustomed to it before you dive in, and you will need to know some skills in order to master it. Current players are very active in sharing advice and general information about the SF through clans and forums as well.  Minute-by-minute, experienced users anxious to share their knowledge answer fellow player’s questions.

 

We are always contemplating new content and making it available to SF players.  Every month we push the envelope with new maps, weapons and game modes, and we have plenty planned for 2009.  Additionally, providing a clean and fair environment for our users is paramount. Our GM and security teams are consistently monitoring for illegal activity so our in-game community is disturbed as little as possible.

 

Our most important goal is simple: make sure all players are happy with the game.  We appreciate that a community-oriented FPS like SF would not be possible without each and every player.  Accordingly, we do our best to assure user’s needs are met and surpassed. 

 

Believe it or not, the team here at NHN USA loves jumping in and playing the game as much as our users do.  Daily we can be found in the community, as gamers first, but also making sure Soldier Front is keeping up with expectations.  Once in a while we make our presence more obvious by hosting events for the users to try, events like ‘Kill the GM’, offering awards for participation.

 

 

A positive user experience is top priority in planning an event, so we try to find new ways for players to enjoy SF.  We ran a video contest last year on YouTube, which surpassed our expectations by inciting the most interesting and creative outpouring of user-generated game play videos. By participating, users were able to really have fun with SF and share their fondness and skills with others. It was a great time!

 

New ideas are constantly being kicked around for SF, creativity is key and can come from anywhere.  Generally the inspiration comes from sporting events and contests that actually exist in the real world around us.

 

Actual, existing weapons are the initial pool we draw from.  From there, we have fun with rare weapons, such as the Gold AK-47 and the Engraving PSG-1.  The novelty of these particular items really seems to appeal to players.

We use the actual weapon as inspiration, sometimes customizing them for in-game balance.  For example, the stats of the golden AK-47 found in the game have been altered to be more powerful in order to provide a novelty item for players.

 

 

Each weapon is categorized as one of the following:  rifle, submachine gun, sniper rifle, machinegun, shotgun or pistol.  Each category has its basic specifications, which generally outline the strength, frequency, etc. of the weapon. For example, sniper rifles have very high power and precision compared to rifles.

 

 

Great question.  The answer is: yes.  We are going to introduce Australian and Chinese Special Forces, among others, in near future. While I cannot share the specific names of the units, they will be exciting additions - stay tuned!

 

I personally prefer Force Recon and SRG characters with premium gears who give players a boost in stats.  Others consider new outfits that can increase a player’s speed and special points. As a result, many different player styles and preferences are represented when we make decisions on new outfits.

 

In 2009, we will host more tournaments, including a National Championship later in the year.  We are also touting even more opportunities to get involved in clan warfare, so new and existing players can reach a more involved level of game play.

 

Actually, SF already holds a world championship every year where players from around the globe vie for a title.  The first World Championship was held in Thailand in 2007, the second was held in China last year.  We send a team representing the U.S. to compete every year. This year’s location hasn’t been decided on yet, so keep an eye out for that news.

 

Given the financial environment and users’ wishes, we are making SF free to join.  The ‘Free Join’ feature will be added this year, at which point users will not need to wait or wander from room to room to play.

Thank you!