factionlocked

Factionlocked is a design term used to describe game content, features, or progression that is restricted to players belonging to a specific in-game faction. When content is factionlocked, access, rewards, or choices tied to that content are available only to players who align with the relevant faction, and are inaccessible to players of other factions unless allegiance changes or workaround methods are used.

Implementation can cover questlines, missions, zones, vendors, gear sets, abilities, or cosmetic items. Gating can be enforced server-side or client-side and may be permanent, seasonal, or time-limited. Factionlocking is often used to reinforce faction identity, create distinct playthroughs, drive competitive dynamics, or extend post-release content cycles.

The approach has several implications. It can increase replayability by offering different factional experiences, but it may also fragment communities, slow progression for players who wish to switch factions, and raise balance or accessibility concerns. Critics argue that factionlocking can feel punitive or restrict player freedom, particularly in large, shared online spaces.

Variants include full faction lock, where most related content is unavailable to opposing factions; partial lock, where only certain features are gated; and temporary or seasonal locks, which reappear under different conditions or patches. Some games balance factionlocked content with cross-faction options, alternative story paths, or neutral channels to mitigate drawbacks.

See also: faction reputation, faction system, gating, player choice in games.