Empire Character Progression - Loot Only

[Vikingkingq]

From Warcry's preview:

A neat feature of Warhammer Online that ties into silhouetting is the concept of characters growing in relation to their power. Orcs for examples get bigger and stronger, Dwarf beards grow longer and Chaos mutate. Sadly, the "pH netural" humans of the Empire don't get any such thing save cooler armor, weapons and gear. They didn't want to make them muscle bound warriors or old men, so they just decided to go the more traditional route when it came to identifying their strength: loot.
http://war.warcry.com/content/previews/press_event/2

We've seen a bit of this from the different tiered artwork, and I recognize the principle that it's harder to do the progression for humans while leaving them human, but it does make me a bit sad. Why not haloes? Or holy auras? Etc.

[Okri]

To me that means there will be plenty of customization from the start. Body size and type, hair styles and beards and all such things, will probably be selectable, to a larger degree than, say Greenskins and Dwarf, from the start with the Empire, since they won't be acheived through progression.

[Aquinas]

Why would they get Holy aura's and stuff when they are just an ordinary being? :<

[checkthis5000]

To me that means there will be plenty of customization from the start. Body size and type, hair styles and beards and all such things, will probably be selectable, to a larger degree than, say Greenskins and Dwarf, from the start with the Empire, since they won't be acheived through progression.

In the concepts already there were several cool looking beards for the BW. The hairstyles were pretty similar, but I think you're probably correct.

[Krulltak]

Meh. I'm ok wit dat. Elves will problably be the same thing.

[Vikingkingq]

Why would they get Holy aura's and stuff when they are just an ordinary being? :<

Because fighting evil brings you to the attention of Sigmar, and thus closer to his influence.

[Krulltak]

Because fighting evil brings you to the attention of Sigmar, and thus closer to his influence.


1- Knights of the Blazing Sun DON'T WORSHIP SIGMAR.

2- You aren't fighting any evil, because EVERYONE in Warhammer is evil......unless of course your talking by a weakling Imperial perspective, since they consider it good to shoot an innocent man in the face because it 'reduces the chances of heresy'.

3- Only the Sigmarite preists and especially important Sigmarite people get a glow around them, and only during combat to show Sigmar is with them.

[Vikingkingq]

To me that means there will be plenty of customization from the start. Body size and type, hair styles and beards and all such things, will probably be selectable, to a larger degree than, say Greenskins and Dwarf, from the start with the Empire, since they won't be acheived through progression.

I don't know about that, since we haven't seen much in the way of customization yet.

[Ajax]

What about those awsome flame tatoo/burns the BW's had. i doubt those will be from the start. Maybe the changes will be smaller but class spicific.

[Rudger]

A Witch Hunter could get access to bigger hats as he progresses ;)

[Smachaz]

What about those awsome flame tatoo/burns the BW's had. i doubt those will be from the start. Maybe the changes will be smaller but class spicific.

Well, in those pics we can se Tier 1 BW and he has Tattoos. Although if the tattoos glow as you get stronger it would be awesome.

[Krulltak]

Notice the fact that the Bright Wizard has writing all over his arm. Apperantly, playing with fire burned some of his brain cells, thus he must now wright down all his spells on his arm to remember them.

[Flegler]

From Warcry's preview:
A neat feature of Warhammer Online that ties into silhouetting is the concept of characters growing in relation to their power. Orcs for examples get bigger and stronger, Dwarf beards grow longer and Chaos mutate. Sadly, the "pH netural" humans of the Empire don't get any such thing save cooler armor, weapons and gear. They didn't want to make them muscle bound warriors or old men, so they just decided to go the more traditional route when it came to identifying their strength: loot.

This is nothing but a good thing. So, an orc's size denotes his social status. That's just an interesting feature of orcs, and it's neat that they're putting it in. It doesn't mean that high level humans should turn into muscle-bound supermen - that's basically the epitome of everything I don't want to see in Warhammer.

Mind you, I could see Bright Wizards changing in appearance as they grow more powerful. Human Wizards are meant to grow to resemble the element they work with, so they might get some persistent fiery effects at the top tier. But Knights and Witch Hunters, never. They start out as ordinary humans and they end up as more experienced, better armed ordinary humans.

[Mirander]

For Bright Wizards, both the firey hair and the tatoo-like marks on their arms, as well as the glowing eyes seen in some of the concept art, come about from channeling the Lore of Fire for too long, so they could easily be used for character progression, even though they're apparently not doing that.

I'm thinking that the hair will simply be something you choose at character creation; and as for the arm markings, I'm having the strange idea that these may end up being the 'armor' for the arm slot on Bright Wizards. They've said there's no character progression for Empire, but you can see in some of the screenshots we've seen that lower-level Wizards seem to have less tatoos on their arms than the high-level ones do.

[Ruinx]

Honestly, I prefer "no progression" aka progression via loot-appearance, for Empire, to anything like halos, glows, or the like. Those would be kind of inappropriate for at least two of the classes, and if every T4 human was going around glowing like Jesus three seconds before ascension, I'd pretty sad. I would like to see some halos on Warrior-Priests as they use their abilities, but that's a different story.

It's interesting about the hair of the Bright Wizards. If definately "progresses" and becomes "more epic" with the tiers, certainly as illustrated, so will they gain access to fancier hair-dressers as they level? They don't seem to wear helmets, so maybe their hair is their "head-slot" item-equivalent (it could be magical gel or something :p ).

I also wonder if humans will be able to acquire scars and so on as they go on, as an exceptional number of the Empire concept art pieces feature scarred individuals.

[OrioN.NL]

Yes, like scars on the face, i.e a high lvl warrior priest who has seen obviously many battles and had now scars all over his face. Low lvl player looks at him and can instantly see that guy has fought alot of evil. I personaly think it would fit more into the warhammer ip. then halo's etc. Makes the humans of the empire more grittier, they do not care wheter they live or die, but if they die its for the glory for the empire. But thats just my point of view.

[Tzin]

If I hadn't read that interview and I got asked the question:

"How do you think the Empire will progress?"

I'd have to say each class could have something different about them that changes, for example the bright wizard could use different keys and would be able to tap deeper into the winds of magic making his spells cost less and incredibly devastating or take the warrior priest I'd of thought he'd get a holy aura of some sort.

[1337mojo]

If I hadn't read that interview and I got asked the question:

"How do you think the Empire will progress?"

I'd have to say each class could have something different about them that changes, for example the bright wizard could use different keys and would be able to tap deeper into the FIREs of magic making his spells cost less and incredibly devastating or take the warrior priest I'd of thought he'd get a holy aura of some sort.

Fixed!

Warrior Priest need armor.. If Empires progression is loot then that should mean Empire is the most customizable...

[Krulltak]

The warrior preist already has armor Mojo, they just never wear anything more than a breastplate, a skullcap, and pauldrons, along with the occasional chainmail underneath.

[1337mojo]

Bigger armor! I mean...

[Krulltak]

No. This is the only armor they've worn for 25 years and they ain't gonna change that.

Big armor is more of a chaos thing anyway.

[Vikingkingq]

The warrior preist already has armor Mojo, they just never wear anything more than a breastplate, a skullcap, and pauldrons, along with the occasional chainmail underneath.

Well, if we look at the artwork, I think we see more complicated stuff:
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl01.jpg
- pauldron, but also collar, full-length vambrace and gauntlets, breastplate, but also thigh-guards
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl03.jpg
- pauldron, collar, vambraces, gauntlets, breastplate, full-length greaves and sabots
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl20.jpg
- pauldron, collar, neck-guard, breastplate, vambraces and gauntlets, thigh-guards, full-length greaves and sabots

[Krulltak]

Well, if we look at the artwork, I think we see more complicated stuff:
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl01.jpg
- pauldron, but also collar, full-length vambrace and gauntlets, breastplate, but also thigh-guards
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl03.jpg
- pauldron, collar, vambraces, gauntlets, breastplate, full-length greaves and sabots
http://www.warhammeronline.com/newsletter/images/2006/CA_oct_2006_newsl20.jpg
- pauldron, collar, neck-guard, breastplate, vambraces and gauntlets, thigh-guards, full-length greaves and sabots


........Thats basically everything I was trying to point out

[Vikingkingq]

........Thats basically everything I was trying to point out

It's a bit more than "never wear anything more than a breastplate, a skullcap, and pauldrons, along with the occasional chainmail underneath."

[Klitch]

Well for bright wizards at least, i think they light themselves on fire as they progress.

Why do i think this?

http://www.warhammeronline.com/english/gameInfo/armiesofWAR/Empire/Careers/BrightWizard.php
"His magic feeds upon itself, upon the enemy, and upon the Wizard. Embracing the fires within his mind, the Bright Wizard himself is engulfed in flame."

And from picture http://www.warhammeronline.com/english/gameInfo/armiesofWAR/Empire/Careers/images/BrightWizard01_04.jpg note the arms on fire...

[Grandmaster]

I want to change my hairstyle and beared whenever I like to .. not once at start :eek:

[Romance]

For warrior priests id also like to see a tome that grows more and more epic, glowing, glyphs, more intricate runes, and other sorta misc stuff.

[Spartacus]

Bright Wizard T4 shoes = Chaos molestation

http://www.warhammeronline.com/engli...izard01_04.jpg

[Prophet]

I agree with the aura thing because the empire is a society of excess and they delve into things a lot more than they should. Side effects of their devotion to a particular class should be shown. Also from what I gather all of the empire classes have a thing with fire so the auras should be very close to the same. (with the exception of the witchhunter probably because it woud be more of a dark flame)

Where the aura would come from
Warrior Priests - Dedication to Sigmar
KOTBS - Dedication to whatever god they believe in
Bright Wizard - Fire
Witch Hunter - I believe they were part of an order of priests or something so there religous fervour would also cause an aura

[Windace]

Battle scars, Blood-stained armor and weapons, battered shields, tatoos, titles, emblems on their shields, medals medals MEDALS!

Come on, there's plenty unique alterations you can add to Empire players for accomplishments!

[Krulltak]

Battle scars, Blood-stained armor and weapons, battered shields, tatoos, titles, emblems on their shields, medals medals MEDALS!

Come on, there's plenty unique alterations you can add to Empire players for accomplishments!


Blood-stained weapons is somthing anyone can get, not just Empire. Also, lets not forget ever playable order faction is some fancy-pants who likes to keep their weapons neat and tidy, with no blood stains.

Tattos, emblens, and medals count as loot progression.

[Janan Pacha]

Honestly, I prefer "no progression" aka progression via loot-appearance, for Empire, to anything like halos, glows, or the like. Those would be kind of inappropriate for at least two of the classes, and if every T4 human was going around glowing like Jesus three seconds before ascension, I'd pretty sad. I would like to see some halos on Warrior-Priests as they use their abilities, but that's a different story.

Seems a reasonable preference to me.

It's interesting about the hair of the Bright Wizards. If definately "progresses" and becomes "more epic" with the tiers, certainly as illustrated, so will they gain access to fancier hair-dressers as they level? They don't seem to wear helmets, so maybe their hair is their "head-slot" item-equivalent (it could be magical gel or something :p ).

I also wonder if humans will be able to acquire scars and so on as they go on, as an exceptional number of the Empire concept art pieces feature scarred individuals.

That would displease me. Not the idea of scars, but the idea that they would show up as you progress. I'd rather have a personal hand in placing a scar on my character. What if progression thinks my character should have a scar on their chest that my armor always covers? Maybe I want to place it through my characters right or left eye causing the eye to look whited out? :)

Just . . . a random thought.

[Smccrum]

Now I'm a little confused on this subject here: Do they mean that smaller items will become larger on your character if you're of higher level (which I'd like). Or do they mean that you'll just pick up loot that's bigger as you level (more likely).

[Seldaren]

Now I'm a little confused on this subject here: Do they mean that smaller items will become larger on your character if you're of higher level (which I'd like). Or do they mean that you'll just pick up loot that's bigger as you level (more likely).

The second part there. Specific gear shouldn't change based on the character's level. But higher level gear will be larger and more elaborate looking.

So Tier 1 stuff will be smaller and less impressive. Tier 4 stuff will be large and elaborate with more details and things.

Seldaren

[LightI3ulb]

More chains = more aesthetic goodness

[Galain]

1- Knights of the Blazing Sun DON'T WORSHIP SIGMAR.

2- You aren't fighting any evil, because EVERYONE in Warhammer is evil......unless of course your talking by a weakling Imperial perspective, since they consider it good to shoot an innocent man in the face because it 'reduces the chances of heresy'.

3- Only the Sigmarite preists and especially important Sigmarite people get a glow around them, and only during combat to show Sigmar is with them.

1- So what? They can still be surrounded by a glow from some other source. They are, after all, of the BLAZING SUN.

2- You can fight evil in Warhammer. You don't have to be good to fight evil. It's just that no race is purely good...which makes sense, since there's no one in REAL LIFE who is pure good, either. Essentially, you have races that are evil and want to dominate everyone else, and those that just want to survive, maybe get a little revenge. That's your "Good vs. Evil."

3- Do you have ANY sources for this? No, your arse does NOT count.

[Gorrr]

1- It's the EMPIRE. Most people worship Sigmar, and the majority who don't worship Ulric, god of Wolves, Winter, and Battle. Since a blazing sun doesn't sound like anything that would symbolize Ulric....they worship Sigmar.

2- You can fight evil in Warhammer. You don't have to be good to fight evil. It's just that no race is purely good...which makes sense, since there's no one in REAL LIFE who is pure good, either. Essentially, you have races that are evil and want to dominate everyone else, and those that just want to survive, maybe get a little revenge. That's your "Good vs. Evil."

3- Do you have ANY sources for this? No, your arse does NOT count.

I mostly agree with you but i think that Knights of Blazing Sun worship Myrmidia or w/e she's called.

[Galain]

Yes, I forgot the Blazing Sun knights were the "outsider" knights in the lore. Again, It doesn't mean they can't have some sort of glow associated with them, especially give their name.

[Flegler]

They've got no magic powers or anything, they're just skilled, heavily armoured fighters. Having them glow would be inappropriate and look really lame.

[Krulltak]

Thank you Flegler.

[Daze]

I agree about the glow thingy, I don't want every empire character I come accross to be some christmas tree.

[Dolash]

I think the whole "Loot progression" idea vis-a-vis characters slowly looking more powerful can work - they may not just mean you get a fancier hat, maybe it'll open the way for more asthetic items while you level, too? People have already suggested stuff like medals and tomes.

There is stuff that comes to mind that could have worked for each class (crackling fiery energy for BW, scars and strength for the knights, etc), but if they want to stick with the idea that humans are humans and thus shouldn't go all crazy with changing, loot progression and unlocking new and cooler appearance items could work just as well.

My only regret in this case is, well - okay, this is going to sound weird. Say you had a max-level Orc and he stripped down to his skivvies. You could still tell he was a mighty Orc, because he'd be bigger and mightier looking than the other Orcs. A Dwarf, even in regular clothing and armour and such, would stand out as experienced by having the most lustrous beard. A marauder who's become mutated up the ying-yang is going to look way more infused with the power of chaos than some other marauder. But a first-level Empire human who made the same character customization choices as you is going to look just like you, no matter your level, unless you're wearing better armour (like all the other races are going to be doing anyways).

As an added note, what was wrong with aging? A craggy old Withc Hunter would look like an experienced inquisitor, his cheeks sallow and his whiskers grey. A wrinkled Bright Wizard (so long as he had aged into one of those old, dignified sorts) could suggest a powerful archmage. Even knights covered in scars and hardened by hard living would look intimidatingly experienced. That way, new Empire players would literally look like new recruits. Still, I guess I can see why they wouldn't make this decision (not necessarily aesthetically pleasing) and I can respect such a decision as wise.

[Ballin]

A Witch Hunter could get access to bigger hats as he progresses ;)

he'd look like a clown :cool:

[Ironhide]

My only regret in this case is, well - okay, this is going to sound weird. Say you had a max-level Orc and he stripped down to his skivvies. You could still tell he was a mighty Orc, because he'd be bigger and mightier looking than the other Orcs. A Dwarf, even in regular clothing and armour and such, would stand out as experienced by having the most lustrous beard. A marauder who's become mutated up the ying-yang is going to look way more infused with the power of chaos than some other marauder. But a first-level Empire human who made the same character customization choices as you is going to look just like you, no matter your level, unless you're wearing better armour (like all the other races are going to be doing anyways).


Okay, make the Empire tier 1 characters fat and let them loose weight as they progress, in that way you can tell the difference. ;)
Have not seen that in a mmo before. :p

[Okri]

I think it was once said (A long time ago, so it may have been changed) that all characters will change appearance in some way, even if it only slightly. I suppose that the knights, could start as either somewhat fat or scrawny. That way, as you progress, you could end up as a more muscly fighter.
The Warrior Priests could maybe get slightly glowing eyes (like in the intro, just permanent instead), the Witch Hunters... well, they could get more muscly as well I s'pose. The Wizards would get bigger hair or somesuch, and probably various pyro-effects and stuff.

[apocalypse50]

Well I think they have to change the character in a way that doesn't completely change your character to a point that you don't like how it looks.
Humans could change in away that they start to look stronger or something. Since theres a plague and what not maybe humans start out thin and sickly looking or look pale. When you level up they begin to look stronger and healthier.

[Bingo]

If i could line up humans from left to right, and rank them in meanness and power,

The leftmost would have a scared expression, a common haircut, and a scrawny frame

the middle would be a unique haircut (you know something scraggly or well-strewn) or possibly a militaristic cut, also a medium frame and 5 oclock shadow type beard.

The right side guy would have a full beard, battle scars, and his expression would be resolute at all times. In the face of hell he would not change his facial expression. Hair at this point (for me) would have to grow long and mean as hell.


But if nothing else at least copy the dwarves. Peach fuzz -> 5 oclock shadow -> stache and burns -> badass beard for us humans.

[LithiumX]

I think the Bright Wizard is an exception, I remember Paul saying something about them being on fire 24/7 at some point.

I think they should give us something better: New animations.

Start off holding a sword poorly, then to a proper stance, then to a taunting stance, where your swords on your shoulder.

Just try and make us look more experiance, rather then old, gruff or anything certain players would take dismay too.

[Okri]

I think the Bright Wizard is an exception, I remember Paul saying something about them being on fire 24/7 at some point.

I think they should give us something better: New animations.

Start off holding a sword poorly, then to a proper stance, then to a taunting stance, where your swords on your shoulder.

Just try and make us look more experiance, rather then old, gruff or anything certain players would take dismay too.

Aye, good idea about the weapon handling. And I would honestly not expect anything less. In a Dev-diary (I think it was) they mentioned putting great attention to making sure it looked right when the character was holding different weapons. Making sure that higher level players look more proficient with said weapons should be an obvious next step.

[boiled_owl]

I like the idea of progression through stance. I think it would be pretty slick if characters could carry around pages of the Sigmarite gospel on their armour. (if they worship Sigmar, of course) The knights could have laurel leaves added on their armour or something along that line.

[Kruniac]

From Warcry's preview:

A neat feature of Warhammer Online that ties into silhouetting is the concept of characters growing in relation to their power. Orcs for examples get bigger and stronger, Dwarf beards grow longer and Chaos mutate. Sadly, the "pH netural" humans of the Empire don't get any such thing save cooler armor, weapons and gear. They didn't want to make them muscle bound warriors or old men, so they just decided to go the more traditional route when it came to identifying their strength: loot.
http://war.warcry.com/content/previews/press_event/2

We've seen a bit of this from the different tiered artwork, and I recognize the principle that it's harder to do the progression for humans while leaving them human, but it does make me a bit sad. Why not haloes? Or holy auras? Etc.

Dont play a pathetic "human", then. If you want to play an Imperial, then play the character for the Empire, not for 'max0r f4bul0z l00kz'

[Vikingkingq]

Dont play a pathetic "human", then. If you want to play an Imperial, then play the character for the Empire, not for 'max0r f4bul0z l00kz'

I am playing an Empire character. Don't get all high and mighty over a minor issue.

[Kruniac]

I am playing an Empire character. Don't get all high and mighty over a minor issue.

You're right. Actually, I think I know exactly how the "look" progression will go for roughly all Imperial classes.

Before PvP eligibility - Looking more and more powerful, muscular, and overall sexah.

After PvP - Looking like mangled corpse, because Chaos did that to you.

Of course, these might be changed after Beta.

[Dabigbom]

You're right. Actually, I think I know exactly how the "look" progression will go for roughly all Imperial classes.

Before PvP eligibility - Looking more and more powerful, muscular, and overall sexah.

After PvP - Looking like mangled corpse, because Chaos did that to you.

Of course, these might be changed after Beta.

Funneh, funneh....

OFF TOPIC:

OOOH I know EXACTLY HOW CHAOZ looks will be!

Befor PvP Eligibility - Looking more and more....um.......chaoz crabz!

After PvP - Looking like a burnt chicken(Hehe chicken, get it? Bird -> Tzeentch -> Chicken), because I (the Pyromancer) did that to you.

Overall, Chaoz will look like a big chicken, with warts and featherz ofc !

[Bobble]

I'd like to see some way to tell you've gotten stronger as an Imperial other than gear personally. Maybe something generic doesn't work the way beards and size work for dwarfs and greenskins, but class specific ones might work. I can't think of one for witch hutner but for WP magical effects are possible, bright wizards could start out resembling fire a bit and with time grow to look more and more like a raging fire. Knights of the BS could do something with the plumes maybe. Maybe a knight can get scarred more by end game. WP can get scarred too and/or have magical effects permanently on his hands or maybe just weapon, writings on the BW or his overall fire appearance could change over time. I just like the idea that humans arent the typical midrange race in this game. Mythic has been veryclear about that. The Empire is its own realm regardless of the fact that they're based on humanity, the Empire is humanity on edge. But the downside to being human regardless is that there are no neat little gimmicks for us. We shouldn't get bigger over time, we shouldn't grow 90 foot beards to show our strength. But why can't we share in the cool things of the fantasy races? Sure, something would have to be thought up, wouldn't work so easily as the greenskin/dwarf idea, but would be a nice way to have a visual representation of your strength as they do.

[Okri]

Thought I'd throw this in: In a recent video of gameplay, a very low-level Warrior Priest is seen, and he has both hair and a beard. This would imply that the characterictic baldness of the Warrior Priest may be a part of character progression, i.e. that when you enter Tier 2 or so, you will have your head shaved, perhaps as a part of a quest.
Just a thought.

[Krulltak]

Thought I'd throw this in: In a recent video of gameplay, a very low-level Warrior Priest is seen, and he has both hair and a beard. This would imply that the characterictic baldness of the Warrior Priest may be a part of character progression, i.e. that when you enter Tier 2 or so, you will have your head shaved, perhaps as a part of a quest.
Just a thought.


It DAMN well better be! If I see ANY high ranking WP with HAIR, then by Sigmar I will roll a Witch Hunter just to hunt down those hair-etics!

[heavyhebrew]

Thought I'd throw this in: In a recent video of gameplay, a very low-level Warrior Priest is seen, and he has both hair and a beard. This would imply that the characterictic baldness of the Warrior Priest may be a part of character progression, i.e. that when you enter Tier 2 or so, you will have your head shaved, perhaps as a part of a quest.
Just a thought.

Good idea.
It might be that at a certain point in progression you get formally inducted into the Church as a Warrior Priest.

Off topic: if I wanted to be 'phat kool' looks, I would roll for The Hat. Yes, it is that damn good.

[Nextrodaet]

It DAMN well better be! If I see ANY high ranking WP with HAIR, then by Sigmar I will roll a Witch Hunter just to hunt down those hair-etics!

Hehe! Hair-etics indeed :D *giggle* *smirk*

I like the idea of the long flowing lines of text that some models have (forgive me, not sure if they do that in Warhammer, or if it's just in 40K, but I know some empire-types *somewhere* have those lovely long scroll things dangling off their armor). I also like the idea of gooby magical effects, perhaps a glowing aura thingy above their heads or something.

Then again, I'm not the best person to ask when it comes to Empire stuff, so I fully understand my tiny suggestions are possibly crap :)

[cJacoB]

Then again, I'm not the best person to ask when it comes to Empire stuff, so I fully understand my tiny suggestions are possibly crap :)

HaHa, I do agree.

[dampunge]

HaHa, I do agree.
it's ain't a bad idea::D
i like the overwritten scrolls the WP got, i think i've seen some concept art http://www.warhammeronline.com/english/media/conceptArt/full/WARca0207_14.jpg , where they got some, not like in wh 40k, but got a snif of it...

but the idea of all the "shave your head" quest is a brilliant idea:cool:

[Metamorph]

personally i think its fine. you'll be able to judge an Empire character's strength by how nice his hat/helmet is. works for me.

[Kharnath]

I personally think that using gear alone to distinguish hiher level emprie players from lower level ones is frankly very stupid...mostly because thats the case for every faction.

It'll be cool if every race/class would get slightly bigger and more muscular as they progress, especially the tanks. In fact, they also coudl make some exclusive ones for different careers, in the empires case:

-WP: their head would glow slightly + become bigger and more muscular
-WH: just become bigger and more muscular
-BW: glow red and their hands/heads would look slightly on fire
-KotBS: overall golden glow + become bigger and more muscular

[Okri]

I was looking at the Knight concepts, and I noticed that on the lowest tiered bit of art, the knight hardly had any facial hair. As the knight progresses up the tiers, he gets more and more bearded. A possibillity?

[Utruf]

Personaly I hope they dont make it so the higher you get the more muscles you get(6 pack etc). It would be fine if they just made humans have more Trinket/Accesory slots then make them glow/larger/whatever.

I rather see a bunch of half fat badass mercenarys in scary armour then a bunch of bare chested men alá 300, the movie is awsome but I dont like the current hype over girls being like sticks and men having no body fat and a extreme amout of muscle.

And Yes, I'm a large fat irl. The Vikings where huge(Probably some where fat aswell.. BEER!).

In the end its whos most experianced rather then who has the best six pack.

[Kharnath]

Personaly I hope they dont make it so the higher you get the more muscles you get(6 pack etc). It would be fine if they just made humans have more Trinket/Accesory slots then make them glow/larger/whatever.

I rather see a bunch of half fat badass mercenarys in scary armour then a bunch of bare chested men alá 300, the movie is awsome but I dont like the current hype over girls being like sticks and men having no body fat and a extreme amout of muscle.

And Yes, I'm a large fat irl. The Vikings where huge(Probably some where fat aswell.. BEER!).

In the end its whos most experianced rather then who has the best six pack.

I think it wouldn't be too difficult to give some muscular gain to the tanking classes without overdoing it like in 300 or the body building industry....the half-fat thing might be cool, but realistically, I'd figure the imperial elite soldiers would be quite in shape...just like many of the vikings; being fat in the pre-modern age was a sign of extrordinary happiness and wealth, and thsoe who woudl be considered "fat" by modern standards would probably get it as a nickname; like King Sancho? it think it was...of Castille who was called "the Fat"...so being "fat" or well nourished in general was not all that common...although being somewhat muscle bound was, consider the types of labor peasants and proffesional warriors a-like would have to do both in rl's past and in the warhammer universe

[Khargas]

More intricate and ornate armor, more buckles on witchunters, fire and smoke around brightwizards, much can be done without going overboard. Empire is the baseline others deviate from, so they can't be too radical, but still cool.

[Utruf]

I used the term fat because the term "Well Built" now days means 6 pack etc.

I just hope they stay the way there are atm, not overtrimmed but strong soldiers. And a beer belly cant hurt, its practicly body armour(Sarcasm).


Also, even if other races have some treats it dosnt mean the other must have something to compensate, just because Destruction have Sqiug herders dosnt mean that Order needs a pet class. One of the things I find most appealing is that all the races are very diffarent from all the others.

[Amelung]

Im still generally satified with presented equipment for imperial knights, except the helmets realised on the 3D models, here the artworks are looking a bit better in shapes, artworks of shields are great. I hope really the more 'cap'like presented helmets, more looking like doorguard-equipment will be redesigned. Helmets with visor.... real helmets for knights, not those footsoldier kings-courtguard stuff.
Also swords are looking in my sight to much shortbladed broadswordlike, i would like more if 'huge' swords, greatsword-similar type. Mainly the blades are to short comparing to the other parts of presented swords.

[Nightblade]

Battle scars, Blood-stained armor and weapons, battered shields, tatoos, titles, emblems on their shields, medals medals MEDALS!

Come on, there's plenty unique alterations you can add to Empire players for accomplishments!

Agreed. I'm hoping for Chaos heads and trinkets looted from battle. I read an article that if an orc kills a lot of dwarves, dwarf beads will appear on his belt. So if you're a dwarf and see a eight foot tall orc with twenty dwarf beards on his belt. Run.

As for Witch Hunter customization, I think it'll be more along the lines of armor that's nicer, but still with that dirty look to it, more holy and evil-fighting items and trinkets, and of course, a bigger hat.

[Brigandine]

It doesn't really matter to me how they do it but if you earn the rank & have the experience, it should definitely be noticeable on the battlefield. Especially in pvp, like with dwarves & orcs, you should be able to glance at them and know by the size/beard if they are an experienced player or not. All classes that put in the time & effort deserve to be recognized in the game. And as fast-paced as pvp is most times, you don't have time to study each group coming at you. It needs to be noticeable who you are dealing with right away. Seems like your stategy could change if 1 orc warrior was a Mack truck & the other was a little pickup. ;)

[Khozen]

The witch hunters will be muscley, like the brawny man. And happiness will reign over the land.

[RadioNinja]

I think it wouldn't be too difficult to give some muscular gain to the tanking classes without overdoing it like in 300 or the body building industry....the half-fat thing might be cool, but realistically, I'd figure the imperial elite soldiers would be quite in shape...just like many of the vikings; being fat in the pre-modern age was a sign of extrordinary happiness and wealth, and thsoe who woudl be considered "fat" by modern standards would probably get it as a nickname; like King Sancho? it think it was...of Castille who was called "the Fat"...so being "fat" or well nourished in general was not all that common...although being somewhat muscle bound was, consider the types of labor peasants and proffesional warriors a-like would have to do both in rl's past and in the warhammer universe

Except that the peasants were undernourished and didn't develop muscles. They just became broken and haggard.

I don't really see the need for anyone to be glowing, except when the BW and WP is casting magic on the group or enemies, or maybe when the KotBS is inspiring the group with some battle tactics or morale bonus.

But as for progression for the empire, how about the higher level you get, the more different types of hairstyles become unlocked? A high level knight can choose a longer mustache if he so desires, or he can keep it trimmed. A Warrior priest can either maintain his clean shaven appearance, or he can neglect his appearance for a while and have a 5 o'clock shadow or a short beard and some short hair.

Or instead of hair, a Warrior Priest could be able to adorn his armor with more holy symbols/scrolls/extra bibles.

Ha, or the Higher level Warrior Priests just have BIGGER bibles.

[Mogdin Wrathammer]

Bright Wizards - Random wisps of flame will come off of them. The wisps become more frequent and larger as the Bright Wizard levels up. They'll also glow a soft red color as well as gain more tattoos.

Warrior Priests - In battle, their eyes will glow like in the cinematic and they'll have a soft glow about them.

Knight of the Blazing Sun - Knights will gain more medals and some sort of tattoo in dedication to Myrmidia.

Witch Hunter - Witch Hunters look more weathered and scarred, with some white streaks in their hair and an inherently angry sort of look.

[Artemis]

Never know it might just be some of what people are stating, I'm pretty much betting on the bigger muscle/glowy thing. Hell they may even make different run styles for each class as they gain a tier, you could mark a class easy by its run at a distance, besides their "look". KotBS - light confident jog weapons relaxed, WP - cocksure with weapon ready to smite 'evil', WH - the dont "@#$!" with me bar stride, and the BW - with flaming foot marks when he strikes the ground.

Im sure they will do something at least, they make the big bucks and know people will be disappointed when their class doesn't 'grow up' in some way.

[Lothario]

I don't think any character should be permanently glowing. Only when using buffs, spells should the Bright Wizard or Warrior Priest have any indication of power.

Bright Wizards: Bright Wizards should get the keys of the order as trophies to be put over their robes as they go up in tiers, just like their lore in the fluff. Hair gets a more intense shade of red, generally I think this class could look the more...think manic would be a good choice of word. Everytime you read about a bright wizard using his powers there is a fear elemant attatched to them, they wield the most destructive winds of magic out of any of the Empire wizards. More scrolls/parchments detailing wards/spells placed over their bodies, inked onto their skin. I like the comment Aretmis made, concerning scorched footmarks where he walks, that could definately work. Maybe a bit far fetched, but I just like the sound of that.

I really don't know about glowing, you could assume as the Bright Wizard gets stronger he gets more out of control of the power he is using, but if that was so then it'd be the Witch Hunters attacking him! So I think it'd probably be better for him to not "glow" until, sounds stupid I know, but a battle mode?

Knights of the Burning Sun: Weapons and armour would become more ornate, able to hang even more colourful pennants from their armour. I would say these and Warrior Priests are the only two classes from the Empire that should become physically stronger and bigger with each rise in level/tier. The knights will also have the best mounts out of the four classes, barbed warhorses, hulking beasts, armoured and drapped in their orders colours, once again colourful pennants on the horse or lance. More weapons, items hanging from the saddle. If these knights also start to glow in any way...dear lord I will be pissed.

Witch Hunter: This class should become darker, this is the only class where the more a Witch Hunter gains experience, the more knowledge he gains into how to combat chaos and use those ways to defeat it. He should physically become more menacing and, I would say angry. Phials of holy water, wooden stakes, gunpowder/bullet satchels (http://www.honornetwork.com/i/military/Musketeers.JPG The guy on the left is a good example) Silver sword/blades or one with Sigmarite sigils etched onto the blade work. Religious parchments across his body. Maybe an attack dog that gets larger and more vicious looking. I don't see the Witch Hunters getting bigger, they don't fight in heavy armour or use heavy weapons so why would they get stronger in such a way? Their method of war is knowledge.

Warrior Priest: Like mentioned with the knight, he should become larger. When using their buffs or attacking you'll see the halo around their heads. Clothing wise, more ornate weapons and armour displaying twin tailed comets, hammers, the book of Sigmar over his body, with a bigger more ornate one with each rank, plus choice of larger hammers ie: double sided hammer, hammer with pick, duel hammers etc. I think with the priests is that they could start off as lowly initiates. Far fewer religious symbols, and I like the comment on page 4 from Okri about the video showing them with hair, it's should definately be the higher they go leads to them becoming a full priest and having the lot shaved off.

I know that's badly structured. I kinda just rambled some parts out, thought about something else then went back to it. So just pick through it :D

[Flegler]

I really don't think any class should get bigger as they get more experienced. They're not orcs.

All the rest sounds good though.

[Lothario]

I hope that only the Warrior Priests and Knights do become bigger, but no way on the scale like the orcs, such as the way an orc will advance into heaving grotesque black orc.

I think you could easily get away with a knight or warrior priest increasing in muscle size, particularly a knight.

The lowest tier class could be an initiate into the knightly order, not wearing full plate armour but a simple tabard over chain mail, a young man at the beginning of his quest to become a fully fledged knight. Then the further you advance the higher up the ranks, so he would become tougher with more experience and stronger using heavier armour/weapons along the way.

That Warrior Priest can follow that path as well, but obviously with different class related trophies, abilities etc etc. Warrior Priests do wear heavy armour as well, and their sterotypical weapon is a huge hammer, so if you continued to use a heavy instrument, even hulking it around with you without using it, you'll body will adapt and become used to it.

[Flegler]

Tougher, better armoured? Yes, fine. Bigger? No. Humans just don't work that way.

Modern bodybuilding techniques and regimes are unknown in the Empire. Being a hardened fighter will certainly keep you fit, but it's not going to inflate your muscles. A good thing, too. I want to play a human that looks like a human, not the over-muscled goons of, say, World of Warcraft.

[cougarspeed]

1- Knights of the Blazing Sun DON'T WORSHIP SIGMAR.

2- You aren't fighting any evil, because EVERYONE in Warhammer is evil......unless of course your talking by a weakling Imperial perspective, since they consider it good to shoot an innocent man in the face because it 'reduces the chances of heresy'.

3- Only the Sigmarite preists and especially important Sigmarite people get a glow around them, and only during combat to show Sigmar is with them.

Your signature and #2 response show you are very left-wing influenced, and that shows you're weak-minded thinking. Go hug a tree, liberal.

[Amelung]

Tougher, better armoured? Yes, fine. Bigger? No. Humans just don't work that way.

Modern bodybuilding techniques and regimes are unknown in the Empire. Being a hardened fighter will certainly keep you fit, but it's not going to inflate your muscles. A good thing, too. I want to play a human that looks like a human, not the over-muscled goons of, say, World of Warcraft.
You have my vote!!! :)
If i want to play an orc i play an orc, if a human, then please a human! Warhammer 40K i think would be different, space marines are extremely 'doped' but 40K is not fantasy.

[Zzulu]

space marines don't represent humanity in 40k. They are humanitys superhumans. Genetically altered to the point where they almost go beyond humanity.

:)

[Urkdrengi]

Just some strange thoughts I’ve had along these lines…

If we’re trying to be realistic here, how do you think an environment like that of the Warhammer World would affect the human breed? (Assuming they really are the exact same breed). To start, does the Warhammer world have the same exact mass and chemical makeup as our own? The simplest things could lead to drastic changes here... If we had a larger planet for example, everyone might in fact look like a bunch Schwarzeneggers due to the extra resistance induced by the gravitational pull.

Also, we’re talking about a world where men fight not just other men, but more frequently monsters, and have been doing so for ages…This with rather limited technology I’ll add. So naturally, that’s gonna have its effect on the gene pool. In fact, in the case of Men of the Empire, guns and battle-wizards are relatively new additions to the war arsenal. Before these additions it appears they've had little more than heart and steel (and the odd Dwarfen Rune weapon :P)

Anyway…:D in the case of WAR, I think the best action is to provide players with the widest choice.

[Snuggans]

i think its safe to say that while dwarves get drunk on Rogaine and orcs and chosen take anabolic steroids, humans will look like they just walked out of an armory or a LARP store..

although, a halo would be very awesome for warrior priests, unless it somehow pisses off the lore-ists. elves will probably have something similar, like a laurel wreath.

[Aughiris]

For Warrior-Priests, there are many options.

First, ofcourse, is the gear. They will probably start in very light chainmail armor and a relative 'noobish' warhammer. As they progress, they'll obtain more powerfull ( plate ) and badass-looking armors, aswel as bigger, fatter warhammers.

Second, there are the books and scrolls. Most likely the Warrior-Priests will have a book hanging on a chain around his neck. This book could start to glow a bit as the Warrior-Priest progresses. Also, a Warrior-Priest could obtain more and more scrolls attached to his armour as he progresses, showing his dedication to Sigmar.

Third, there is ofcourse scars. One big fat scars on the face will show you that this Priest has fought many battles. Also, the Priest may look older then his newer collegues, as another sign that he is experienced. He must not look like an 80-year old though.

Fourth of all is the combat stances and the spells. While a newbie Priest should really hold his warhammer as if he is a fresh recruit ( and in fact, he is ), an experienced veteran Priest should hold it as if it would be just another part of his body. Also, the veteran's spells should look more powerfull ( trough glow etc ) then the newbie's spells.

And of course, you could also add medals, heretic's skulls, bloodstain, titels, and whatnot to the priest and his armour.

The things I would NOT like is a permanent halo or a glow. Priests aren't gods or angels, they're priests. Also I would rather not see them become more muscular. After all, a priest fights with the power of Sigmar, not with his physical strength, right?

[Flegler]

although, a halo would be very awesome for warrior priests, unless it somehow pisses off the lore-ists. elves will probably have something similar, like a laurel wreath.

Actually laurel wreaths are a common adornment for Empire heroes.

As to Warrior Priests getting haloes... perhaps, sometimes. If they've built up a huge amount of Righteous Fury. Not when they're just walking around all nonchalant-like.

Similarly I'd like to see a limited amount of flashing eyes and floating hair for the Bright Wizards, but only when they're actively channeling the power of Aqshy. I'm still clinging to the view that the Warhammer World is a low-fantasy setting.

[Dagoth]

Actually laurel wreaths are a common adornment for Empire heroes.

As to Warrior Priests getting haloes... perhaps, sometimes. If they've built up a huge amount of Righteous Fury. Not when they're just walking around all nonchalant-like.

Similarly I'd like to see a limited amount of flashing eyes and floating hair for the Bright Wizards, but only when they're actively channeling the power of Aqshy. I'm still clinging to the view that the Warhammer World is a low-fantasy setting.

Isn't laurel exclusive to the Reiksguard?

I agree with you, Warrior Priests and Bright Wizards should only have that kind of effects when channeling their power.

Warhammer does have elements from both High and low fantasy, it's a grim world, but magic and non-human races, while not seen every day, are not that uncommon.

[Lucrece]

It DAMN well better be! If I see ANY high ranking WP with HAIR, then by Sigmar I will roll a Witch Hunter just to hunt down those hair-etics!

If female WP's are given the option to sport a headful of hair, then I don't see why male WP's shouldn't be given the same option.

[Infallius_Daemonium]

If female WP's are given the option to sport a headful of hair, then I don't see why male WP's shouldn't be given the same option.
Well I don't know if theres a law about the hair, I've certainly read a good bit about them and never seen it stated, but I do know if you look in the Empire Army Book you won't find a single Priest or character (such as the Theogonist) who isn't bald on his head. Facial hair? Yes, but the head is always as bald as an egg.

But then, you won't find a female Warrior Pirest either so.

[Loekii]

A Witch Hunter could get access to bigger hats as he progresses ;)

Wasn't that mentioned by Paul in one of his blogs or vids or mad ramblings?

[Zaltais]

Smoldering or burning eyes for high level Bright Wizards would please me greatly.