Hearthstone has long been the black sheep of Blizzard games, but has always retained its light-hearted, rebellious spirit. This is most evident in the graphics, boards and card mechanics, all of which attempt to Warcraft universe to life, albeit on a small scale. Although the basic features of the game have remained the same over the 10 years, there has been a notable shift towards more cosmetic options.

The number of hero skins, exclusive card appearances, and fancy spell effects has exploded in recent years, but a developer blog post suggests that something entirely new is about to be added. Pets have always been a popular staple of World of Warcraft and similar RPGs, but their possible introduction in Hearthstone would be a real premiere. The fantasy card game has always playfully jumped around in Wowand this trend seems to be reaching new heights.

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How Hearthstone can implement pets as cosmetics

Since cards HearthstoneSince this is the only real win-or-lose aspect, there is a lot of room for cosmetics. Long-time players will have amassed plenty of card backs and hero skins using both in-game gold and real-world money. If pets were introduced Hearthstonethey would likely be a cosmetic option to make things more interesting and encourage varied or challenging gameplay. Of course, fancier pets might be harder to get, and hopefully opposing players might see them too.

The best way to keep pets in Hearthstone would be small animated companions that players can interact with, perhaps to keep them entertained while they wait for an opponent to finish their turn. A pet, for example, could climb around and play on the game’s various boards while players duel, and could even have special fun or cute interactions when certain cards are played.

The key to Hearthstone’s success will be attention to detail

To get the most out of these pets, they need to feel as real and impactful as any other cool cosmetic. They can’t interfere with the actual gameplay, of course, but they could really spice things up HearthstoneGame boards or waiting screens. There is really a lack of variety in game boards and their iconic role, so adding a new way to interact would be very welcome.

A truly dangerous paradise

Hearthstone was somewhat controversial with the latest expansion, Perils in Paradise, as it did not include a new game board. Players have felt for some time that the game no longer lives up to its previous integrity and attention to detail. The player’s enjoyment should always come first, and pets can be an excellent goodwill gift to build excitement and anticipation.

Collecting pets could become a standalone mini-game, as in World of Warcraftbut they are unlikely to fight each other as they do in the MMO. At most, they could provide an interesting distraction and endear themselves to players through their striking design and personality. Each player could have their pets sitting at either end of the playing field, cheering on their owners and reacting to their triumphs or defeats.

Pets can be a force for good or evil

There is no limit on the types of pets Hearthstone from dragons and monkeys to tiny ghouls or cobras and everything in between. Still, it would be interesting to try and adapt the pets to the upcoming expansions. Perils in Paradise is set around a beach vacation setting, so the game could feature crabs, fish, seagulls, or even a small sea monster as pets.

The only Hearthstone Caution should be taken with more microtransactions, as players tend to get upset when they feel like they are being taken advantage of. Even if some remain behind a paywall, many more should be available through simple effort or limited-time events. Pets could be an incredible addition to the game, and if the developer’s deliberate hint proves true, the future of Hearthstone could skyrocket.

Hearthstone

Hearthstone is a free digital collectible card game from Blizzard and features many characters from the World of Warcraft universe.

Systems

Released

11 March 2014

Multiplayer

Online multiplayer

Motor

Unit

ESRB

T for Teens: References to alcohol, blood, fantasy violence, slightly suggestive themes

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