In this episode, John Richardson and Rob Hal compare Project 1999’s classic experience with Daybreak’s Time-Locked Progression (TLP) servers, and why the differences aren’t just “quality of life”, they change how the game feels.
Before the main topic, there are updates:
John’s recent in-game moments, including player encounters and time spent exploring South Karana
Rob’s new levelling guild on Oakwynd (TLP), Ye Olde Hearth. Find him in-game as Scarfester
Shout out to Ossur. Thanks for the gifts.
Then it’s a proper breakdown of what separates P99 from TLP, and what each approach fixes, breaks, or quietly rewires.
Forum thread discussed:
https://www.project1999.com/forums/showthread.php?t=427692&page=1
What we cover
Levelling and pacing
XP curve changes to speed levelling, especially the “hell levels” (30 to 60)
Faster XP rates and removal of some classic penalties on TLP
Crowding and zone culture
The pick system (multiple copies of a zone) to reduce overcrowding
How picks affect population density, grouping, and the “world feels alive” factor
Raiding and competition
Raid instancing (weekly instances for guilds or groups) versus open-world competition
Why players disagree on whether this is a fix or a fundamental change
Death, danger, and consequences
Corpse runs and death penalty changes
What you gain in convenience, and what you lose in tension
Travel and “world size”
In-game maps, faster travel, and instant ocean crossings
Why boats and long routes used to force social friction (and sometimes community)
Convenience systems
Soulbinders and easier bind-point changes
Whether convenience reduces reliance on other players
Class and mechanical changes
Certain spells and class mechanics becoming less relevant as the rules shift
Examples like pet levelling behaviour on TLP and how that changes gameplay rhythm
Visual updates
Revamped textures in classic zones and mixed player reception
Rob’s guild plug
Rob is building Ye Olde Hearth on Oakwynd (TLP), aiming to progress through expansions up to Planes of Power, leaning into the faster pace and modern conveniences. Contact him in-game: Scarfester.