Currently we all use the factory as a dump, which "gets around" the weights and volume system (if used). So for content creators/player of PvE hard Survival scenario's it would be valuable to have an option, so the player cannot open the factory - unless in distance of a specified block type. For example the repair console or perhaps a BA only device (Deconstructor?). To be clear this is not a default "on" option - rather a opt in to make challenging survival games and make more sense of the weight system. For example, a player looting a POI and multi tooling it for scrap, then has to have sufficient cargo capacity to make it to a factory facility to deposit the scrap. You cannot just grab every thing for free; some though and planning would be required. Having a block that has to be researched also then limits the factory to friendly NPC faction facilities, until the player is high enough level to build their own facility. Setting a specific block to allow the factory access, also allows the modding community to change this (and yes I am thinking of @Vermillion and his re-forged mod here ) If an PvE scenario creator has this level of control, then this provides a further need for NPC bases in early game (and to be friendly with them). I'm sure there are other factors that this option would permit. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I get that this would not be loved by most - think how the weights and volume system was hated at launch. But for those that love survival and a challenge, this could create really "different" games/scenarios.
Lots of players don't use the factory as a dump, and many don't use it at all. If players really want to play hardcore survival, why do they need to be restricted in the usage of the factory ? Can't they just refrain themselves from using it for the sake of immersion ?
I get the thrust of what you are saying, nothing to stop players not using the factory, which is logical. However it could be said about almost any element of the game, ie: if you do want to play that way don't do or use X game mechanic. However I think/feel players generally play within the designs of the game or scenario presented to them (for them to experience as the designer intended), not saying the role play is not layered on top by the player - but that the frame work/rules is set by the game or scenario designer. (the number of players that use the factory is certainly open to argument - no stats to make a case ether way that I know of. My own knowledge is just based on the servers that I have played on and the youtubers I have watched - certainly not an entirely authoritive data pool! ) As I referred to, I would see this as an option - not the default basic game play. Generally I am in favour of more design options for content creators to experiment with
- I can see many game design option such a apparently small change could provide. For example, making it more challenging to move large volumes of ore, could make the NPC ore traders much more valuable, as it may be better to sell ore and convert the weight mass into very portable credits. Perhaps then a "Factory" equipped NPC POI, would also logically attract NPC merchants who would love to sell you components for the factory (at a margin of course!) There are many other ideas that could spring from such design choices.
