Simple but Impactful: Categorize Vendor Skill Gem UI

Currently when you buy gems from the Vendor, you see a wall of gems. This is one the first things a new player see in the game.

For new players who can't get pass Brutus or Merveil, then quit. I think this is very helpful. And overall improves the game experience for both new and veteran players.

There are a lot of UI design that should be way better than just a blank grid that expects you to hover everything just to find what you need. Typing is a welcome improvement but clearly not enough.

Possibly one of the simplest improvement would be is to pattern it after the Divine Font. You get the item from that awesomely designed holder. This however would take up space; maybe use the tab folders for the vendor as well?

Another simple implementation is similar to how the Premium Map Stash Tab categorizes maps by tier. Something like this with art specific to the vendor would be awesome.

The not simple implementation is to put some details and short demo when the player checks out one of the skill gem. With a layout similar to this:


(NPC shop from Dragonseeds)

The initial menu choices would be the category, then a list of gems with a quick preview on the side; and a short description. Maybe also an expandable info of the mechanics etc.

Btw, I just saw a "Stormcaller Lightning Golem Skin" from a buyer. I don't buy MTX that much; so I'm not familiar. But damn, that MTX is build defining.

This brings me to back to my suggestion. I think the Vendor NPC must have a clear showcase of MTX available to the skill gems. Not obtrusive but should be easily seen.