ElderMT2 has taken another step toward mobile gaming. One of the better-known Polish Metin2 servers has released its long-announced mobile version called ElderMobile, which lets you play on your phone. However, this is not the final version of the client yet - ElderMobile is currently in beta.
Simply being able to play ElderMT2 on a smartphone is a big change both for the project and for the whole scene where Metin2 private servers operate. Instead of being tied to a computer, players can jump into the game even when they do not have access to a PC. For part of the community, this could be an interesting option, especially for simpler tasks or for getting back into the game after a longer break.
ElderMobile is only at the start of its journey
The community's first reactions show that the mobile version has stirred up quite a lot of emotion. Plenty of people praise the very fact that the game runs on a phone and point out that the client can run smoothly. At the same time, there are critical voices about the controls and the interface.
Among the most frequently mentioned problems, players list having to stop playing when opening the inventory, not being able to equip items by double-tapping, and awkward interaction with quests and NPCs. There have also been comments about app availability on certain devices and login issues.
These are exactly the elements that may matter most for the further development of ElderMobile. In a game like Metin2, simply moving the gameplay onto a touchscreen is one thing, but comfortable handling of the inventory, bonus switching, quests and NPCs during normal play is a completely different matter.
The ElderMT2 staff describe the current version of ElderMobile as a beta and encourage players to report any bugs and issues they find. This means the current inconveniences do not have to be a permanent part of the mobile client.
Can ElderMobile win players over?
Opinions on ElderMobile are sharply divided. For some, being able to log in from a phone is reason enough to give the mobile version a chance. Others point out that the current interface and controls fall short of what they would expect from a full-fledged mobile client.
The discussions also included comparisons to international projects, including AyazMT2, in terms of interface and ease of play. Some players also point to other Metin2 servers that offer mobile gameplay. It is worth noting that ElderMT2 is not the first Polish server with this kind of solution - Old2, among others, already has a mobile version.
At this stage, it is hard to say exactly where ElderMobile is heading. The beta gives the staff a chance to collect feedback and fix the elements that bother players the most right now. The key will be how quickly and how extensively the mobile client is developed.
One thing is certain - Metin2 on a phone is no longer just a curiosity. ElderMT2 joins the projects trying to bring classic gameplay to mobile devices. If ElderMobile is developed properly, it could also influence the direction in which Metin2 private servers evolve.
What do you think about ElderMobile? Is being able to play ElderMT2 on your phone an interesting addition for you, or does it make little sense without a comfortable mobile interface?