Core Insights - The concept of "exceeding expectations" in gaming, initially proposed by Lilith Games, is gaining traction among industry professionals as a target slogan [1][5] - The increasing quality of games has raised player expectations, making it difficult for conventional themes and gameplay to remain competitive in the saturated Chinese gaming market [1][5] - Achieving "exceeding expectations" is challenging as it requires breaking players' preconceived notions, which often leads to uncertainty and external skepticism [1][3] Game Development and Strategy - "AFKJ" (《剑与远征：启程》) has made significant strides in providing an "exceeding expectations" experience through innovative gameplay mechanics and content integration [1][5] - Despite receiving accolades such as "Best of the Year" from Apple and Google, "AFKJ" faces skepticism regarding the viability of its seasonal gameplay model and its long-term operational sustainability [3][5] - The game's first anniversary has seen a rise in various product metrics, indicating positive player engagement and community interest [5][12] Team Reflection and Learning - The development team acknowledges past missteps and emphasizes the importance of understanding player preferences and refining gameplay mechanics [13][19] - A key realization is that while the seasonal model can address certain issues, the true success of a game lies in its engaging gameplay and player experience [14][19] - The team is shifting focus from complex seasonal mechanics to enhancing actual gameplay experiences, aiming for a more enjoyable and strategic player interaction [14][16] Future Directions - Future plans for "AFKJ" include improving core card battle mechanics, enhancing less engaging gameplay elements, and increasing content-driven experiences [16][20] - The introduction of a new home system aims to provide a unique gameplay experience while integrating narrative elements, addressing player desires for diverse interactions [20][22] - The team is committed to balancing rational design with emotional storytelling, enhancing the overall player experience [32][28] Community and Cultural Impact - "AFKJ" has fostered a vibrant community culture, attracting a younger and more diverse player base compared to previous titles [33][35] - Players are increasingly engaged in discussions about game narratives and character relationships, moving beyond traditional gameplay strategies [33][35] - The game's community-driven content creation, including fan art and stories, reflects a shift towards a more emotionally connected player experience [37][39] Long-term Vision - The team envisions "AFKJ" as a long-term project, focusing on nurturing the game over a decade rather than merely achieving immediate success [49][54] - The commitment to "exceeding expectations" has become a core company strategy, with "AFKJ" positioned as a flagship product for future growth and innovation [54][55]