I figured Exxy would probably be pretty busy with the server change n' stuff, so here's an almost full account of the entire Summit Meeting, from my perspective. I'll put the summerization thing in the second post just in case you dont wanna sift through all this mostly unedited junk.
The members in attendance were: Bolvar (Me), Chrysagon, Darkheart, Kanphar, Malachi, Serrina
>nod
You nod.
>
Kanphar says, "minotaur mannersnod"
>
Exxy says, "And since there's only four of you, don't feel like you need to raise hands. I can keep up with everyone shouting at once when there's only a handful of you."
>
Malachi grins at Exxy.
>
Exxy asks, "That said -- what do you feel is the most pressing issue that Eaxia currently faces?"
>
Chrysagon says, "well population would come there"
>
Kanphar asks, "oopssay boredom?"
>say Hens dont wanna be alone, when some of the older people come back, only see one or two people awake, they'll leave, but if there's loads of people they stay, something to that effect
>
You say, "Hens dont wanna be alone, when some of the older people come back, only see one or two people awake, they'll leave, but if there's loads of people they stay, something to that effect"
>
Kanphar says, "oops"
>say Tha's how I see it
You say, "Tha's how I see it"
>
Chrysagon nods at you.
>
Malachi says, "keeping older people busy...so new ones see a population and can ask questions"
>
Chrysagon says, "well yea theres some folks returning, and a few youngins starting"
>nod
>
You nod.
>
Chrysagon nods at Malachi.
>
Exxy gets a malachite stone from inside his robes.
>
Exxy puts a malachite stone in some majestic flowing robes of beautiful pearly white dreamthread.
>
Exxy pours himself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>
Exxy takes a sip of his blueberry ale.
>get ale
You pour yourself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>l ale
You see nothing unusual.
>drink ale
>
You take a sip of your blueberry ale. Tangy and sweet. It's wonderful!
[Roundtime: 1 second]
>
Exxy says, "That's always been an issue. Often times players will ask me why I don't just hire more staff.. or someone will apply for staff and wonder why he/she wasn't hired when we obviously could use the help."
>
Exxy says, "Simply put -- becoming staff always (this has been without fail for the last seven years now) reduces the person's desire to play to nothing. Usually within a few weeks. Our playerbase can't afford the loss of more players right now."
>
Exxy says, "It's true -- the more people playing, the more fun it is to become a part of the game world."
>
Chrysagon says, "ive heard some say they like it because it is a smaller population"
>
Exxy says, "I think we'll all agree that this is too small"
>
Exxy winks.
>
Kanphar nods in agreement.
>
Chrysagon says, "but yea i think a little to small at the moment"
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Chrysagon says, "we got your usual suspects here, minus Dark right now"
>
Malachi grins.
>
Kanphar says, "and Serina"
>
Chrysagon says, "aye"
>
Exxy nods.
>
Exxy says, "She idled out."
>
Chrysagon says, "silly druids"
>
Exxy asks, "So what would you like to see the staff/I do to help encourage people to play more often?"
>
Exxy says, "Let's leave the combat rewrite on a shelf for the moment. It's a wholllle conversation on its own that we'll have a little later on."
>
Malachi says, "most exciting things at the moment are the invasions"
>
Chrysagon nods at Exxy.
>say Just more events if you ask me, people will hear about them from other players and then try to play more often in the hopes of catching one
>
You say, "Just more events if you ask me, people will hear about them from other players and then try to play more often in the hopes of catching one"
>
Malachi nods at you.
>
Chrysagon nods.
>
Malachi says, "when the prince was around, it seemed like more people showed up"
>
Exxy nods.
>
Malachi says, "understand thats tough without staff though"
>
Malachi nods at Exxy.
>
Kanphar says, "perhaps some more challenging creatures on say, one of the islands"
>say Oh yea, a new hunting area would spark alotta interest too, Darkheart was saying
You say, "Oh yea, a new hunting area would spark alotta interest too, Darkheart was saying"
>
Chrysagon nods.
>
Malachi nods.
>
Exxy says, "I've always looked at role-play events as more of a stall tactic. Though it may be a good tool to use to help stimulate some intiial interest and growth, it ultimately eats up all of the development time that would be used for the game's growth (expansion, upgrades, fixes, new arease and other new releases, etc.)."
>
Chrysagon says, "been missing that hydra cave myself"
>
Malachi says, "yep"
>
Malachi nods at Chrysagon.
>
Malachi says, "just wish they taught higher"
>
Malachi nods at Chrysagon.
>
Chrysagon says, "true"
>drink ale
You take a sip of your blueberry ale.
[Roundtime: 1 second]
>
Kanphar says, "few creatures teach older players"
>
Exxy says, "I've been asked to run a quest a time or two. And wish I had the resources to do it, but it feels too much like a cheap jab at you guys than what you guys REALLY want."
>
Malachi nods at Exxy.
>
Kanphar says, "i've never been on a quest"
>say New items, more effective weapons that arent adamantine longswords and punching daggers
You say, "New items, more effective weapons that arent adamantine longswords and punching daggers"
>
Malachi says, "we need an invasion island"
>
Malachi winks at Chrysagon.
>say That'd bring me back if I left
>
You say, "That'd bring me back if I left"
>
Chrysagon says, "well some cheap thrills i think would be use some of these maze hunting grounds for inasions"
>
Exxy says, "The problem with higher levels is that there's no real support for it. Sure, you can keep killing and leveling, and you do get more attack, armor, skill, and health out of it. But you don't gain new titles, abilities, spells, etc. unless they're written in. And then we're back to the "gotcha" that is spending staff development time on one task versus spending time on another."
>
Chrysagon says, "aye was looking forward to hunting on istillia"
>
Exxy nods at Chrysagon.
>
Malachi nods at Exxy.
>
Exxy says, "Skull kings crash the game. Not sure why. Other invasion critters don't seem to."
>
Chrysagon says, "a pity that"
>
Malachi says, "ah"
>
Malachi says, "yep"
>
Kanphar says, "very pity"
>say Mity pity.. jity, kity, hity
>
You say, "Mity pity.. jity, kity, hity"
>
Malachi says, "how about dragons"
>
Malachi grins at Exxy.
>say Kasplitty
You say, "Kasplitty"
>
Chrysagon just pinched you!
>meep
You meep!
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
Exxy says, "The real sad thing here is that I have tons of new creatures, new hunting areas, new shops, a few new towns, etc. mostly developed. But it's all set up for the new system when it's supposed to be released."
>
Chrysagon nods at Exxy.
>
Malachi whistles a few notes.
>
Exxy says, "We'll get there"
>
Exxy grins at Malachi.
>
Malachi grins at Exxy.
>
Malachi babbles to himself.
>
Malachi grins.
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Kanphar asks, "how about players being able to develop armor and weapons?"
>
Exxy asks, "Well, Darkheart got a nice new weapon.. did he share with you?"
>
Exxy smiles at you.
>say No sir
You say, "No sir"
>grin
You grin.
>
Malachi says, "nice"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi says, "thats an understatement"
>
Kanphar says, "share it! was in my face constantly"
>
Malachi grins.
>
Exxy laughs.
>
Kanphar chuckles.
>
Malachi chuckles at Kanphar.
>
Exxy says, "Mmmm megamite metal."
>
Kanphar says, "very nice"
>
Malachi says, "where do i mine that"
>
Malachi grins at Exxy.
>
Exxy says, "The game currently supports a crafting system with nearly unlimited room for recipe expansion."
>
Exxy says, "Just someone has to come up with those recipes and plug them into the system so that you guys can make those items."
>
Exxy says, "You can't"
>
Exxy winks at Malachi.
>
Malachi flails his arms around.
>
Kanphar says, "how about a library to learn those things"
>
Exxy says, "Ask Darkheart to melt down his war-forged megamir cleaver. I'm sure he won't mind."
>
Kanphar laughs.
>
Exxy asks, "To learn what things, exactly?"
>
Exxy smiles at Kanphar.
>
Kanphar says, "any new skills like weaponery or armor"
>
Exxy says, "Are we talking about the crafting system still? Not sure I'm following you"
>
Malachi laughs.
>say Thoughts a second
You say, "Thoughts a second"
>
Chrysagon says, "say guys, keep getting busy here"
>
Chrysagon says, "um sorry that is"
>
Kanphar says, "say any new info that one would need to forge weapons or armor"
>
Chrysagon says, "you can create recipes you say"
>
Kanphar says, "or new skills in alchemy"
>say I'm still stuck on a new prestige for fighters, got a great idea for one right up here
You say, "I'm still stuck on a new prestige for fighters, got a great idea for one right up here"
>tap bolv
You tap your finger to your forehead.
>
Kanphar says, "any new info"
>
Exxy says, "Well, discovering the recipes once they're in the system is the fun part... and anything fun that takes time to discover is not something you want to ruin with step-by-step ingame instructions."
>
Chrysagon says, "i want an adamantine spoon"
>
Kanphar asks, "but how does one even get a clue?"
>
Malachi says, "yup"
>
Kanphar asks, "not even a hint?"
>
Exxy says, "The recipes themselves though are on the programming side of the game. For example, if I want you guys to be able to create an arrow, I have to make a recipe that involves two ingredients (probably a wooden shaft and arrowhead) and the workstation type."
>
Exxy says, "And then I need to create another recipe that lets you make the wooden shaft and another recipe for the arrowhead."
>
Exxy says, "It's making the recipes that's time consuming... but if time was spent there, you guys could definitely wind up making weapons and armor better than what comes from drops."
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Exxy asks, "The question is -- is that the best use of the available staff resources we have? Should I spend time on that? Or on roleplay events? Or new spells and abilities? Or...?"
>
Kanphar ponders.
>say Spells and abilities imo
You say, "Spells and abilities imo"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Exxy says, "I'm pretty much willing to spend time in whatever areas the playerbase wants, I just need to nkow if that's the general concensus."
>say Scour Soul is fun for a little while, but not that usefull all=together
You say, "Scour Soul is fun for a little while, but not that usefull all=together"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar says, "for starters. most likely role play events i think"
>
Kanphar says, "to get more players to return that is"
>rub bolv
You rub your nose.
>
Malachi says, "making weapons and armor is fun...but with nothing new to fight with, not sure thats the answer"
>
Malachi ponders.
>
Kanphar nods in agreement.
>
Chrysagon grumbles.
>
Malachi says, "if i have dagger at 456...and i make a sweet new one, I dont think i will go train it for hours on end"
>
Malachi ponders.
>
Chrysagon says, "lemme backtrack see what i missed"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar says, "the role play makes sense to concentrate on first to me"
>grin
You grin.
>
Chrysagon says, "and some cheap fixes "
>
Chrysagon says, "not so much development but making some use of what we got"
>
Malachi grins at Chrysagon.
>
Malachi nods.
>say Aye, now that I think about it most players would probably look past it, but if you brought out some new abilities they might start thinkin, "Hey, they're workin on Eaxia, maybe I should check it out" I dunno
>
You say, "Aye, now that I think about it most players would probably look past it, but if you brought out some new abilities they might start thinkin, "Hey, they're workin on Eaxia, maybe I should check it out" I dunno"
>
Chrysagon says, "since we short handed at the moment"
>scra bolv
You scratch your head, looking bemused.
>
Chrysagon says, "yea some activity of some sort"
>
Exxy says, "Okay, let's take a vote -- and bear in mind that you should consider those who aren't here in your answer"
>
Exxy says, "Give me a moment to give you all of the options before voting:"
>
(1) Spend as much time developing new role-play events (invasions, quests, puzzles/mysteries, etc.) on a regular basis -- players will know when they will happen in advance and want to show up in larger groups. An occasional random invasion and light development in whatever spare time is left over.
>
Malachi raises his hand.
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
Chrysagon laughs at Malachi.
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
(2) Focus on new creatures to fight, new hunting areas to put them in, and new spells/abilities/equipment treasure drops to combat them with. The more game expansion, the better. Time remaining will go into minor invasions.
>
(3) Develop time-consuming and fun subsystems, like expanding crafting and home-building. Anything that lets players create and grow the game themselves using these kinds of tools.
>
* Natural Priestess Serina Hexa joins the adventure.
>
Chrysagon says, "ah"
>
Chrysagon says, "lets start all over"
>
Chrysagon grins.
>snick
You snicker.
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
(4) Work on very high-end premium roleplay experiences; quests, in particular. With minor focus on automated quests (gather X items, kill X beasts, etc.) for rewards.
>
Chrysagon seems to be focusing intently on some gray ensyiatite horn sleeves that encase the entire horn.
>
Malachi tugs at his earlobe and scratches behind it.
>
(5) Forgo all current development and focus resources in another direction entirely (combat rewrite, game rebuild, etc.)
>
Exxy says, "With minor variance, I don't think I skipped any options. Go ahead and cast a vote."
Kanphar asks, "would number 3 take some load off of you in the long run?"
>
Chrysagon asks, "could ya snatch Serina for us Exxy?"
>say Numbers 1 and 4 seem very short sighted, if I were to vote, I'd say 5 or 2
You say, "Numbers 1 and 4 seem very short sighted, if I were to vote, I'd say 5 or 2" (My opinion matters the most)
>
Exxy says, "With respect to items (1), (2), (4), and (5)? Not really. But anything that players create, other players can enjoy and depend on -- building a supply-and-demand economy. That's always great for comraderie."
>say Probably 2 to get stuff out quicker, then work on 5
>
You say, "Probably 2 to get stuff out quicker, then work on 5"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi says, "2 if the new stuff leans towards bigger critters"
>
Malachi smiles at Exxy.
>
Chrysagon ponders.
>
Exxy says, "Serina has been offered teleportation.. she has yet to accept it."
>
Chrysagon seems to be focusing intently on some gray ensyiatite horn sleeves that encase the entire horn.
>
Chrysagon chuckles.
>
Chrysagon ponders.
>
Kanphar ponders.
>
Exxy seems to be focusing intently on something.
>
Malachi says, "most of the people that left were old, I think"
>
The air ripples with the distortion of some magic and you notice Serina appears, looking dazed and confused.
>
Serina smiles.
>
Exxy smiles at Serina.
>
Serina sits down.
>
Kanphar hugs Serina.
>
Serina hugs Kanphar.
>
Kanphar says, "welcome"
>
Serina stands up.
>
Serina sits down on a comfy couch.
>
Exxy says, "We've been at it for a while, but you're in the middle of a poll to vote on what my time would be best spent on, considering that I'm all we have for staff resources and considering why other people left and what would help make the game more fun (for you and them)."
>
Chrysagon asks, "can we do a line item veto?"
>
Chrysagon grins.
>
Exxy says, "I'll re-send the voting options so you have a chance to see them, Serina"
>
Exxy smiles.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Serina says, "thanks"
>
Exxy says, "Help yourself to the chocolate and grass pie."
>
Malachi snickers.
>
Exxy nods at a low stand serving chocolate and grass pie.
>
Kanphar takes a bite of his apple pie.
>
(1) Spend as much time developing new role-play events (invasions, quests, puzzles/mysteries, etc.) on a regular basis -- players will know when they will happen in advance and want to show up in larger groups. An occasional random invasion and light development in whatever spare time is left over.
>
(2) Focus on new creatures to fight, new hunting areas to put them in, and new spells/abilities/equipment treasure drops to combat them with. The more game expansion, the better. Time remaining will go into minor invasions.
>
(3) Develop time-consuming and fun subsystems, like expanding crafting and home-building. Anything that lets players create and grow the game themselves using these kinds of tools.
>
(4) Work on very high-end premium roleplay experiences; quests, in particular. With minor focus on automated quests (gather X items, kill X beasts, etc.) for rewards.
>
(5) Forgo all current development and focus resources in another direction entirely (combat rewrite, game rebuild, etc.)[/color]
>
Chrysagon says, "i wouldnt mind random minor invasions you can throw out while you work on a quest idea"
>
[color=red]Exxy says, "Those are all of the options."
>
Serina nods.
>
Exxy says, "I'd like each of you to consider yourself and others -- and then vote for one of the options above as a primary interest and another option as a secondary interest."
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Exxy says, "You may whisper to me if you'd like your vote to be anonymous."
>whisp exxy I vote more interesting food items
You whisper to Exxy.
>get grass pie
You help yourself to some chocolate and grass pie.
>
Exxy tickles you.
>eat pie
You take a bite of the grass pie. The warm, rich chocolate and crunchy walnuts are a perfect delight.
[Roundtime: 2 seconds]
>grin
You grin.
>
Chrysagon says, "well i am leaning towards 1 and 2"
>
Exxy asks, "Which is more important?"
>say 2 as a primary, 5 as a secondary
You say, "2 as a primary, 5 as a secondary"
>
Malachi says, "2 and 1"
>
Chrysagon says, "like bolvar says maybe short term but could generate some player activity"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Chrysagon says, "theres still oldtimers popping in to check"
>
Chrysagon says, "like ol bernie"
>
Serina says, "I am not sure what I want falls under these "
>
Malachi says, "they need things to do"
>
Malachi nods.
>
Kanphar says, "1 and 2 here"
>
Exxy asks, "What do you feel would be the most beneficial use of my time, Serina?"
>
Chrysagon asks, "what ya thinking Serina?"
>
Serina asks, "so if I want some shops fixed and maybe some more added what number would that be under ?"
>
Chrysagon says, "ah good"
>
Malachi grins at Serina.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Chrysagon says, "like whats with the vrungs shops"
>
Serina says, "I like clothes and items "
Chrysagon nods at Serina.
>drink ale
You take a sip of your blueberry ale.
[Roundtime: 1 second]
>stow pie
You put some chocolate and grass pie in a muddy brown leather backpack.
>
Chrysagon pours himself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>
Serina says, "and to be honest the womens wear here is bad"
>
Serina smiles.
>
Malachi pours himself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>
Malachi takes a sip of his blueberry ale.
>
Exxy says, "To some degree, that would fall under (2) but is mostly under (5)."
>chug ale
You throw back your head, chug the rest of your blueberry ale and toss the empty stein aside. Tangy and sweet. It's wonderful!
[Roundtime: 3 seconds]
>
Kanphar takes a bite of his apple pie.
Kanphar finishes off the last of the pie and sets the dish aside.
>
Chrysagon takes a sip of his blueberry ale.
>
Malachi throws back his head, chugs the rest of his blueberry ale and tosses the empty stein aside.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi taps a large keg of blueberry ale.
>
Serina says, "Ok so fixing the existing shops and guilds would be my vote"
>
Malachi grins.
>
Malachi snickers.
>
Kanphar asks, "you said if the new combat system gets going, new areas are already to go?"
>
Exxy says, "I'm going to go by numbers and weigh the votes based on primary/secondary choices. Can you pick from the numbers listed? It sounds like you are a (5) and a (2)."
>
Exxy says, "Mostly, yep"
>
Exxy nods at Kanphar.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Serina says, "thanks those are my votes "
>
Serina nods at Exxy.
Kanphar says, "change me to 2, 5"
>
Malachi says, "2 and 1 for me"
>say 2 and 5 for me
You say, "2 and 5 for me"
>
Chrysagon says, "1 and 2 here as well, generate some interest for the launch"
>
Malachi inhales deeply.
>
Chrysagon says, "man we're all over the place"
>
Chrysagon laughs.
>
Exxy asks, "Okay, is everyone satisfied with their final votes before I go and crunch some numbers?"
>strang bolv
You hold your breath. You feel a little light headed.
>nod
You nod.
>
Serina says, "I am"
>
Malachi grins at you.
>
Malachi nods.
>
Malachi exhales slowly.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar nods.
>
Chrysagon says, "got a vague quest idea too"
>
Malachi peers curiously at Chrysagon.
>
Exxy says, "Okay, the results are pretty clear"
>
Chrysagon says, "called kill bolvar"
>
Malachi laughs.
>
Chrysagon attempts to choke the life out of you. Wow, someone's angry!
>
Kanphar chuckles.
>say Already been done
You say, "Already been done"
>say Trademarked by Brenn
>
You say, "Trademarked by Brenn"
>l
Malachi grins.
>
Chrysagon says, "we could do it again and again"
>
Exxy says, "Overall, you would prefer to have time spent on (2) first and (5) second."
>
Chrysagon laughs at you.
>
Kanphar cheers.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Exxy says, "I gave each primary vote +3 pts and secondary vote +2 pts."
>
Exxy says, "#2 came out in the lead with 13 total points"
>
Exxy says, "#5 with 7 points"
>
Exxy says, "#1 with 5 points"
>
Exxy says, "#3 and #4 were not voted for at all and have 0 points."
>
Malachi says, "keeping in mind that eaxia still has tons to offer for the youngins"
>
Chrysagon says, "not that they were bad"
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Chrysagon says, "but concentrating your efforts"
>
Malachi grins.
>nod
You nod.
>
Exxy says, "I'm ammending #5 to include time spent on general game expansion (towns, stores, etc.) per Serina"
>
Serina beams!
>
Malachi grins.
>
Serina says, "I like cute stuff I can not help myself"
>cough bolv
You clear your throat.
>
Chrysagon chuckles at Serina.
>
Malachi pours himself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>get ale
Malachi takes a sip of his blueberry ale.
>
You pour yourself some blueberry ale in an ivory stein.
>
Kanphar asks, "now the question is..... where are you with the new combat system?"
>
Malachi snickers at you.
>drink ale
You take a sip of your blueberry ale. Tangy and sweet. It's wonderful!
[Roundtime: 1 second]
>say Elves, eh?
You ask, "Elves, eh?"
>say What're you gonna do
You say, "What're you gonna do"
>
Overall, you guys would prefer I focus on new creatures to fight, new hunting areas to put them in, and new spells/abilities/equipment treasure drops to combat them with. The more game expansion, the better. Time remaining will go into minor invasions and general game expansion.
>
Serina nods.
>
Exxy asks, "Does that sound right by all of you?"
>nod
>
Malachi throws back his head, chugs the rest of his blueberry ale and tosses the empty stein aside.
>
You nod.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar nods.
>
Malachi nods.
>
Chrysagon says, "over all yes"
>
Serina says, "yes"
>
Chrysagon says, "odd locations i would like too invasion wise"
>
Malachi nods at Chrysagon.
>
Chrysagon says, "that hunting in the swamp was a lot of fun"
>
Malachi says, "always my answer"
>
Malachi chuckles.
>say A gigantic floating rock in a dark purpled backgrounded void
>
You say, "A gigantic floating rock in a dark purpled backgrounded void"
>say And you could fall of the edges and die like in the diamond tower
You say, "And you could fall of the edges and die like in the diamond tower"
>
Malachi says, "but if skull kings crash system...."
>
Chrysagon says, "istillia i was drooling over, make that maze fun"
>
Exxy says, "I'm going to lock you in a wardrobe and invade it with a million fire ants."
>snick
You snicker.
>
Chrysagon says, "lets vote on that"
>
Malachi laughs.
Kanphar grins.
>
Serina laughs.
>
Exxy chortles quietly.
>
Chrysagon raises his hand.
>raise hand
You raise your hand.
>
Malachi raises his warped cane to the sky.
>drink ale
>
You take a sip of your blueberry ale.
[Roundtime: 1 second]
>
Exxy raises his blood pressure.
>
Chrysagon asks, "did you load up every room on istillia or just the beach?"
>
Malachi laughs.
>
Chrysagon laughs a wicked, sinister laugh.
>
Exxy says, "I had loaded up the full jungle.."
>say Paladins.. pfft
You say, "Paladins.. pfft"
>laugh nervous
You release a nervous twitter.
>
Kanphar begins to watch you closely.
>
Chrysagon drools.
>fidg
You fidget nervously.
>
Chrysagon says, "could we try it without the skullkings"
>
Kanphar says, "that's a shame"
>
Malachi babbles.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Serina says, "I have to catch one of these invasion "
>
Chrysagon nods at Serina in agreement.
>
Chrysagon says, "could deffinately use you"
>
Exxy asks, "Is everyone here familiar with the name Rich Mondy?"
>
Malachi smiles at Exxy.
>say Yessir
You say, "Yessir"
>
Chrysagon asks, "hmm Dark gonna vote too?"
>
Malachi nods.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar nods.
>
Chrysagon asks, "who?"
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Kanphar says, "know the name"
>say CEO person I think, somethin like that
You say, "CEO person I think, somethin like that"
>say Leader people
You say, "Leader people"
>
Exxy says, "Rich Mondy is known to Haelrahv players as Trevor Rage (and also to Modus Operandi, back when he GM'd there). He has been my business partner since 2002."
>
Malachi laughs at you.
>
Chrysagon says, "ah"
>
Serina nods.
>
Chrysagon says, "trevor sounds familiar"
>
Chrysagon says, "for some reason"
>
Exxy says, "He houses all of our servers -- previously in Florida, then for the last year in Kentucky. Well I'll spare you a long story there, but his brother screwed him over financially so I invited him and his wife Sarah (who's a GM over at Haelrahv) to come live here for a while and start some things over."
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Chrysagon frowns.
>
Kanphar says, "very nice of you"
>
Exxy says, "He's driving out here over the next four days. To prevent server downtime, we transfered all of the services (games, DNs, e-mail, websites, billing systems, FTP, database, you name it) over to my personal network (I have a few PC's here). That's where we're currently running."
>
Serina nods at Exxy.
>
Kanphar nods.
>
Exxy says, "Sometime in the week following this next one (in ~9-14 days), we will be transfering the games back to the real servers, which will include some minor downtime."
>
Exxy says, "Either or both may also assist in running minor events and such to compliment my time."
>
Kanphar grins.
>
Exxy says, "If you see some new staff faces -- most likely it'll be theirs."
>
Malachi nods at Exxy.
>
Serina says, "I talked to Rich in Email before he is a really nice guy"
>
Exxy says, "I'll be spending this next week and weekend orienting them to this side of the country (it's a 1900+ mile drive) and as a result, I won't be around very much. After that, we'll start hitting this plan we've voted on."
>
Chrysagon asks, "where you situated?"
>
Exxy says, "Also, so you're all aware, the feedback form and alteration submission form at our website appears to be broken. I gave it a quick glance and it LOOKS like it's using the right mailserver. I haven't felt inclined to spend any real time on it since we're moving the mail, web, etc. services back here shortly anyway. But in case anyone has a problem with not getting a reply, please let them know."
>
Exxy says, "I live in Boise, ID. I moved here May 2nd, 2007."
>say Gotta love them potatoes
You say, "Gotta love them potatoes"
>
Malachi grins.
>
Chrysagon says, "and boise state"
>
Chrysagon says, "rah"
>watch chry
You begin to watch Chrysagon closely.
>
Chrysagon cackles at you.
>say Longhorns.. pft
You say, "Longhorns.. pft"
>
>say Just remembered
You say, "Just remembered"
>
Chrysagon says, "how"
>
Chrysagon says, "did you guess"
>
Chrysagon grins at you.
>say You told me
You say, "You told me"
>grin
You grin.
>
Exxy says, "Previously from Kingman, AZ where I was there since Nov, 2005. Previously Bessemer, AL where I was there since Oct, 2003. Previously from Kingman, AZ (again) where I was there since Jan 2002. Previously from Denver, CO where I was there since Sep 1999. Before that I was in California my whole life, mostly central valley and southern bay area."
>say Outta try Iowa, nice cold winters, scorching hot summers
You say, "Outta try Iowa, nice cold winters, scorching hot summers"
>
Chrysagon nods at Exxy.
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Malachi laughs.
>
Kanphar smiles at Exxy.
>
Malachi nods at you.
>
Malachi says, "yep"
>
Exxy says, "Actually I have a great career here and am looking to buy a house."
>grin
You grin.
>
Exxy says, "I doubt I'll move again for a very, very long time."
>
Kanphar says, "putting down roots then"
>
Kanphar grins at Exxy.
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
Malachi grins.
You whisper to Malachi.
>
Chrysagon says, "sounds like a good plan"
>
Exxy nods.
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Exxy says, "Trying to"
>
Malachi whispers, "was there 18 years"
>
Malachi nods at Exxy.
>You whisper to Malachi.
>snick bolv
You snicker to yourself.
>
Exxy says, "From Aug 2001 to May 2007, I only ever worked for/on Eaxia."
>
Malachi goes over some of the finer points of Dodging Attacks with you, demonstrating new techniques and sharing his insight with you.
>
Exxy says, "At its peak, my hourly wage was about $2.48."
>
Exxy grins.
>
Kanphar blinks.
>
Chrysagon says, "plus tips"
>
Serina says, "ouch"
>
Kanphar pats Exxy on the back.
>
Exxy grins at Chrysagon.
>
Malachi whispers, "waterloo"
>
Malachi nods at you.
>
Exxy says, "But hey if I only worked an hour a week, it seemed like more"
>
Exxy winks.
You whisper to Malachi.
>nod
You nod.
>
Serina laughs.
>
Kanphar smiles at Exxy.
>snick
Exxy says, "Okay -- next order of business"
>
You snicker.
>
You whisper to Malachi.
>
Exxy says, "The combat rewrite. Why is it taking so long, what's its status, etc."
>
Exxy says, "Bolvar, will you please explain why it's taking you so long to finish it? We'd really like to know."
>
Exxy folds his arms across his chest.
>say Lack of uhh, staff
You say, "Lack of uhh, staff"
>
Chrysagon glances at you.
>
Serina pokes you in the belly.
>say And interest
>
You say, "And interest"
>say And payment
>
You say, "And payment"
>
Serina says, "get on the ball man"
>
Exxy grins.
>grin
You grin.
>
Malachi grins at you.
>
Exxy says, "I've gone over its inception and redesign a few times in the forums, so I'll blow past that and dig into tits current status"
>
Malachi whistles a few notes.
>point mal
>
You point at Malachi.
>
Chrysagon says, "aye lets dig into those for sure"
>
Kanphar chuckles.
>
Exxy says, "*THIS"
>
Exxy coughs.
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
You whisper to Malachi.
>
Exxy says, "The conceptual design of the rewrite (which shouldnt even be refered to as comabt anymore, it encompasses nearly every other system in the game) has been finished for some time."
>nod
You nod.
>
Exxy says, "And without boasting and gloating, it's a symphony of balance, flexibility, and eye candy... not to mention functionality far beyond what this current system could draem of."
>
Malachi laughs.
>
Malachi smiles at Exxy.
>
Serina smiles.
>
Kanphar smiles.
>
Exxy says, "The problem is that while this is a potential masterpiece, the code I have to work with in the engine is like painting with only orange and gray."
>
Exxy says, "Or speaking without vowels."
>say Avians do that
You say, "Avians do that"
>
Malachi chuckles.
>
Kanphar pokes you in the belly.
>
Exxy says, "That's just from > 7 years of using an old system that I hand built from the ground up. I can't do the complex things I want to do without way more effort than is reasonable."
>
Exxy says, "Rich Mondy has proposed (several times) that I scrap the current game engine and move to a Moo-compatible one. He'd be able to rebuild most of the game in a relatively short time.. half a year or so. Though that's a rough guess."
>
Chrysagon says, "im for moo compatible"
>snick
You snicker.
>
Kanphar laughs.
>
Exxy says, "While Moo doesn't appeal too much to me, what we are doing beyond that does. Over the past year, I've been working on a new game engine that is Moo compatible. It would be in Eaxia's interests (on so many levels) to be rebuilt using that game engine."
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Exxy says, "It's codename GamEssence and the engine is far from complete, but it is something that doesn't need to be complete for the game to be rebuilt. The new engine will take in the old Moo database and use it natively."
>
Exxy says, "As far as programming goes, Moo is very easy for non-technical people to pick up and use. Something that could take weeks to do in the Eaxia engine could take an hour or two to build in Moo."
>
Kanphar says, "nice"
>
Exxy says, "So... getting back to combat, the rewrite, etc. ..."
>
Serina says, "I assumed this was already was a Moo"
>
Exxy says, "I've been strongly considering that kind of opportunity to wipe out all of the ugly patches and bandaid fixes Eaxia's suffered over the years and refactor the code, using a new language."
>
Exxy says, "There's a difference between MOO and Moo (and "moo" -- ask Chrysagon)."
>
Malachi laughs.
>whisp chrys Wha's moo?
>
You whisper to Chrysagon.
>
Chrysagon nods.
>
Kanphar chuckles.
>
Exxy says, "MOO is a generic acronym that's synonymous with MUD, MUG, etc."
>
Serina nods.
>
Chrysagon whispers, "what he said"
>
Chrysagon grins at you.
>grin
You grin.
>
Exxy says, "Moo is a specific flavor of game engine that runs a Moo. Originally built for linux, a port was made many a year ago called WinMoo. Haelrahv uses the WinMoo engine."
>
Serina nods.
>
Exxy says, "Eaxia Online uses a custom engine that I built from scratch. I have a LOT more flexibility with it, but built it nearly a decade ago when I was 20."
>
Exxy says, "God I feel old now."
>grin
You grin.
>
Serina giggles.
>
Chrysagon helps himself to some chocolate and grass pie.
>
Kanphar pats Exxy on the back.
>
Exxy says, "It's like the first automobiles... they were a thing to marvel at early on, but hell if I want to drive one now."
>
Chrysagon chuckles.
>
Serina laughs.
>
Chrysagon says, "ive converted the thunderbolt grease slapper into a moo-compatile"
>
Exxy says, "If you feel the need to confess mortal sins, I can build a confessional box in game, Chrysagon. In the meanwhile, telling us about your grease-slapping exploits will only turn our stomachs."
>snick
You snicker.
>
Serina laughs.
>
Malachi laughs.
>
Chrysagon cackles.
>
Chrysagon nibbles on some chocolate and grass pie.
>
Exxy asks, "Did anyone have any questions about the combat ("all") rewrite? Or the possible rebuild in Moo?"
>say No sir
You say, "No sir"
>
Malachi says, "nope"
>
Serina says, "I say go Moo"
>
Serina giggles.
>
Exxy asks, "Has someone been logging this meeting?"
>
Exxy grins.
>watch chry
>
You begin to watch Chrysagon closely.
>
Malachi laughs.
>
You gain a new rank in Dodging Attacks.
[You gain 25 experience points.]
>
Kanphar asks, "perhaps late summer if all goes well then?"
>
Malachi shakes his head.
>
Exxy says, "Seeing as we're in March, I doubt it."
>
Ironically that's all I could copy, that wasnt the end of the meeting, but close enough. Nothing else pertinent was discussed so dont worry. I'll put the summerization thing in the next post.