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And here is the translation of the Parisian Q&A (translated by Sandro400; translator's note - don't nitpick the wording):
1) When will you finally realize that requiring an online connection is the surest way to infuriate consumers? (Znork)
We tried to make the game with a strong emphasis on offline, but nevertheless, we wanted players to spend more time online. We created the offline part of the game as a classic component of the series (as in Heroes V), and Conflux as a new, online part—a sort of innovation. Achievements, leaderboards, and other features serve as incentives for online play. Yes, we hoped for better server quality and are working on improving them. We want to keep the online part of the game and make it better—for example, we have made save files compatible across different game modes.
2) Do you realize that a poorly balanced game, full of bugs, and a slow patch creation process only anger the fans? (Znork)
Yes, we realize it! There were many problems with both the game and the patches due to the departure of 38 Studios. We understand that this angered the fans, but we believe the game has potential. We have started working on what needs to be improved. There were some problems in the final stage of development due to funding, and we released the game in the quality that our resources allowed. It's great that we have the opportunity to release patch 1.5 with balance changes, save compatibility, and much more.
We understand that fans are upset. We have a person responsible for game balance, and he reads the forums and changes the numbers. He also collaborates with VIP fans. We want to improve many things, over a hundred to be precise; we don't intend to implement the entire list, but we are trying to do as much as possible. We have improved the patch creation process, which we believe will go more smoothly. There are no more financial problems, and we are now discussing what we can do to improve the game.
3) Do you realize that you've turned your backs on longtime Heroes fans with an indecently expensive DLC, while you haven't even proven that you are capable of fixing this broken, bugged game? (Kingimp)
We really wanted to release patches for the game before tackling paid content. Fixing and improving the game is our priority #1. However, we believe the price for this "pack" is quite fair, considering how many hours of gameplay it offers; one must also not forget industry standards. We believe players will get a lot out of "Pirates of the Caribbean". The price, of course, will drop over time.
4) What about distributing this DLC for free as compensation for a product that turned out to be no better than a beta version, and simply as a gesture of goodwill? (Kingimp)
15 people are working on the game, and they need to be paid. But we believe that "Pirates" is very good and worth purchasing. It should be noted that patch 1.5 will include the multiplayer map from the DLC for free.
5) Are there any plans to simplify the map editor? (Kingimp)
Of course! During the development of Heroes VI, we wanted to improve many things, including the editor, but unfortunately, we ran out of time. Nevertheless, the map editor is a very powerful tool. The problem lies in the significant difference between master map creators and beginners ("hardcore" vs "casuals"). We are trying to make the editor more user-friendly. We are truly working on this, but the editor will nevertheless remain a complex tool. This goal will be one of the main ones on our task list for the next 3-4 months.
6) What prompted you to tie weapon artifacts (right hand) to the Dynasty system? (Fyrestorme)
There were two reasons: we wanted to make something powerful as part of the game; additionally, it would have its own unique 3D models. This is precisely why we decided to add dynasty pets to the game as well.
7) What lessons have you learned for the future? (Fyrestorme)
Put every effort into releasing a finished product! We have a whole list of things, but we'll try to give a more comprehensive answer. Control zones—great. The reputation system—not as good as intended. The development tree (well, "shrub" - translator's note) — poor, and we will be improving it. We are also concerned about the state and quality of Conflux and want to improve it, but not remove it. The story part of the game also wasn't as good, but we believe that "Pirates" will show how we have progressed in story delivery. We are also talking about resources, the spellbook, and other things, as well as listening to the opinion of the Community. We think we lost something in the process of creating the game. And we will start searching from the city screens!
8) Will we ever get the free Academy DLC that 38 Studios promised us during the beta test? (Gabryelxxx)
We remember this, although this rumor was born out of mutual misunderstanding. A lot will happen; we have plans.
9) We miss the little number next to the horse that told us how many turns were left until the destination. Will you bring it back? (Broui)
We've been asked about this twice. I will discuss it with the team, see what can be done, and then get back to you.
10) Is Crag Hack the only one destined to return? (Broui)
We want to bring many "old" heroes back to Ashan. Time will tell. You'll have to buy "Pirates"
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