Champions Online - Interview @ Gameshark

Senior Game Designer Randy Mosiondz working on Champions Online was interviewed by Gameshark.

What is the Nemesis system? Why is something like this important in a game about superheroes?

The Champions Online Nemesis system is a mid-game component that allows players to create a persistent enemy to plague their hero. Players select their Nemesis’ name, costume, motivation, personality, power template, and minions which then show up from time to time as players progress through the game. There are various Nemesis storylines that players can play through, uncovering their Nemesis’ plots and eventually putting them away (if they can!). Eventually players may build up a whole gallery full of Nemeses!

Why did we feel incorporating a Nemesis system was important? For one thing, it’s a common trope within the superhero genre; how many comic book heroes have earned the eternal enmity of a villain for some real or perceived slight? Also, this is another great way for players to create their own custom character content and put it into the larger game world. We’re also looking at expanding the functionality of Nemesis in the future. Maybe some players would like to turn to the dark side and play their own Nemesis…