Did SMITE Remove Starter Items? A Deep Dive into SMITE’s Item System
Yes, SMITE did remove starter items in Season 5. They were replaced with Blessings, which served a similar purpose but with a key difference: they could evolve by completing specific actions tied to the Blessing’s role. This marked a significant shift in the early game meta, aiming to provide more dynamic and engaging gameplay from the very beginning.
From Starters to Blessings: The Evolution of Early Game Items
The original starter items in SMITE were designed to provide an initial boost to gods in the early stages of a match. These were single-tier items that offered basic stats like health, mana, power, or protections. The intention was to help gods get their footing in the early game without breaking the bank. Think of them as training wheels for your burgeoning deity!
However, Hi-Rez Studios, the developer of SMITE, felt that the starter items were becoming somewhat stale and predictable. Players often defaulted to the same starters on specific god types, limiting build diversity and strategic choices. This led to the introduction of Blessings in Season 5.
Blessings retained the core function of early-game stat boosts but added an element of progression. Each Blessing had a specific requirement that, upon completion, would upgrade the Blessing into a more powerful version. For example, a Blessing for a Guardian might require assisting in a certain number of kills, encouraging proactive support play.
This system encouraged players to think more actively about their early game strategy and work towards specific objectives to maximize the value of their starting item. It also allowed for greater customization, as players could choose Blessings that aligned with their specific playstyle or the needs of their team. The Games Learning Society would likely appreciate this shift, as it adds an extra layer of strategic thinking to the game.
The Shift Away from Blessings: Back to Starters (But Different!)
While the Blessing system was innovative, it too faced criticisms. Some players found the evolution requirements restrictive, while others felt that the stat bonuses were not impactful enough. After several seasons of refinement, Hi-Rez Studios decided to reintroduce starter items in a reworked form.
The current starter item system retains the concept of single-tier, early-game boosts. However, the items are now significantly more diverse and powerful than the original starters. Many starters now offer unique passives and actives that can drastically alter a god’s playstyle. Furthermore, several of these starters can now be upgraded into a range of different items, providing even greater build flexibility.
For example, the starter item “Manikin Scepter” can be upgraded into a variety of items depending on the player’s preferred play style as a warrior. This allows for greater customization and strategic decision-making. The current starter system seeks to strike a balance between the simplicity of the original starters and the dynamic progression of the Blessings, offering players a wide range of viable options to kickstart their builds.
The Legacy of Starter Items and Blessings
The history of starter items and Blessings in SMITE demonstrates Hi-Rez Studios’ commitment to evolving the game and responding to player feedback. While the specific implementation has changed over time, the core concept of providing early-game assistance and promoting strategic decision-making has remained consistent.
The current starter item system represents a culmination of these efforts, offering a diverse and engaging selection of items that can significantly impact the course of a match. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a new player, understanding the role of starter items is crucial for success in SMITE. You can learn more about game design and strategic thinking at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 What are starter items in SMITE?
Starter items in SMITE are low-cost, single-tier items that provide initial stat boosts and unique effects to gods at the beginning of a match. They are designed to help players get established and influence the early game.
H3 How do starter items differ from regular items?
Starter items are generally weaker than regular items and are intended for early-game use. They are also significantly cheaper, allowing players to acquire them quickly. They often have unique passives or actives that are not found on regular items.
H3 Can starter items be upgraded?
Yes, many starter items can be upgraded into higher-tier items, allowing players to retain the benefits of their starter item while gaining access to more powerful stats and effects.
H3 Which starter item is best for beginners?
The best starter item for beginners depends on the god being played and the player’s preferred playstyle. However, generally, items that provide survivability or clear wave more efficiently are a good starting point.
H3 How much do starter items cost?
Starter items typically cost between 700 and 800 gold. This allows players to purchase them immediately at the start of the match.
H3 Do all gods use starter items?
Almost all gods benefit from purchasing a starter item at the beginning of a match. However, in some niche cases, a player may choose to forego a starter item in favor of a different early-game strategy.
H3 What happened to Blessings in SMITE?
Blessings were removed from SMITE after Season 7. They were replaced with the current starter item system.
H3 How did Blessings work?
Blessings provided initial stat boosts and could be upgraded by completing specific objectives, such as assisting in kills or dealing a certain amount of damage.
H3 Why were Blessings removed?
Blessings were removed to address player feedback regarding the restrictiveness of the evolution requirements and the perceived lack of impact of the stat bonuses.
H3 What is the difference between a starter item and a relic?
Starter items provide initial stats and effects, while relics are active abilities that can be used to provide utility or protection.
H3 Are starter items mandatory in SMITE?
While not strictly mandatory, purchasing a starter item is highly recommended for most gods and roles in SMITE.
H3 Can you sell starter items?
Yes, starter items can be sold at any time. However, it is generally advisable to either upgrade them or hold onto them until you can afford to replace them with a more powerful item.
H3 How do I choose the right starter item?
Choosing the right starter item depends on the god you are playing, your role, your playstyle, and the opposing team’s composition. Consider the stats and effects that will be most beneficial in the early game.
H3 Do starter items contribute to my build?
Yes, starter items contribute to your overall build by providing initial stats and effects that can be built upon as the game progresses. Upgrading starter items allows you to retain these benefits while scaling into the late game.
H3 Can you have multiple starter items?
No, players can only purchase and equip one starter item at a time. Choose wisely!