Problem: PvE is boring and draining

New World's PvE playerbase has long been complaining that PvE is repetitive and draning. Finding an activity, filling all roles, gearing up, etc... can take 10-30 minutes. This is very discouraging by itself.

Solution: Accessible, evergreen PvE mode

I set up this goal when beginning the GDD -- to create THE main game mode that players habitually click on when running out of content.

Then, I defined the 5 necessary factors to achieve it. Here are my actions to nail in these factors:

1. Highly replayable core loop

• Adaptive difficulty curve for all skill levels. The mode gets harder the more bosses are defeated.
• Procedural map and extraction loop..
• Roguelike elements with randomization per run.

2. Maximized audience

• Increased combat pacing for strong engagement.
• Reduced trinity teamwork dependency to capture lone wolf players.
• Encounters and levels designed for all builds.
• Unique abilities to capture PvP players' curiosity.

3. High content efficiency

• Include almost every NW's mob encounter.
• Rework iconic bosses into catacombs-style fights.
• Design scalable and replaceable structures for frequent and efficient future updates.

4. Streamlined metagame experience

• Remove role requirements for faster matchmaking.
• When queue exceeds 1 minute, drop player in and fill the team later. (idea from Daniel Henuber)
• NPCs in very accessible locations

5. Easily scalable and renewable reward loop

• Drop exclusive currencies instead of items.
• Affinity shop to buy items with currencies. Each season opens a new affinity level progression.
• Shop mainly sells: low end starter(cheap), high end mystery box (cheap), high end chase gear(pricey).