Will you have different servers for different play styles? *
We think an MMOG needs to choose a focus and stick to its guns... say cooperative PvE, ala EverQuest, or PvP, ala Shadowbane. BUT, we think a LOT can be done via alternate rules servers, including exploring PvP in an otherwise PvE game, RP servers, etc.
Before Brad McQuaid left Sony Online, one of the last things he worked on was Firiona Vie, the RP server, and we think it turned out pretty well (in fact, he leveled a Ranger there to 47). At Sigil and with our first MMOG, we plan on really pushing alternate ruleset servers to their limits.
From the Official Vanguard FAQ (original entry).
Will there be Player vs. Player servers? *
Yes, and hopefully several variants. How many might be available at launch is up in the air at this point.
From the Official Vanguard FAQ (original entry).
Will there be Premium Servers? *
We realize this is a complicated and controversial subject and are still debating the issues internally. More on this later.
From the Official Vanguard FAQ (original entry).
Will there be Role-play servers? *
There will definitely be PvE servers with alternate rule sets. Some sets might be perceived as more 'RP' than others, but because people have different definitions of what 'RP' means, we will likely label these server types with more specific names.
From the Official Vanguard FAQ (original entry).
Will there be ‘iron man’ servers with permanent character death? *
Perhaps at some point. We are certainly intrigued by the idea and know it's been experimented with recently. It is not a priority, however, to launch the game with one.
From the Official Vanguard FAQ (original entry).