Discuss Grand Project: OB MMORPG [PG]

[Sandy]

Inspired by a few sources, mainly by Arcadia's latest RPG [url=http://www.otakuboards.com/showthread.php?t=57435][B]"Quest for the Lost Relic"[/B][/url] and a great text-based RPG/Quiz-hybrid called [url=http://www.rpgamer.com/ask/matt/sock2/socktwo070607.html][B]SOCK 2[/B][/url] over at [url=www.rpgamer.com][B]RPGamer[/B][/url], I started to think what a Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game (MMORPG for short) would be like if it was brought here to our own OtakuBoards.

After going over the thought many times, I've finally came up with an idea. Let me introduce:

[FONT="Century Gothic"][CENTER][SIZE="4"]OBsession[/SIZE]
[size=1](Working Title)[/size]
- An OtakuBoards MMORPG -[/CENTER]

[INDENT]I see before me the great [i]Kingdom of Ob[/i], ruled by the [i]Three Sovereigns[/i], who administrate the laws and keep the order aided by the noble [I]Moderator Knights[/I]. But I also see great threats looming beyond the lands of Ob: anomalous [I]Viruses[/I], bands of outlawed [I]Spammers[/I] and hordes of the [I]Trollkin[/I].

Wielding their mighty Mod Rods and Ban Hammers, the Moderator Knights try to protect the borders of the kingdom, but being vastly outnumbered, they will need help from the commoners. Ordinary [I]Gamers[/I] and [I]Mangakas[/I] are able to rise ranks to someday become Moderator Knights themselves, but only if they train themselves against the Viruses and the Spammers, aid the kingdom by doing good deeds and gather knowledge about the secrets of the [I]Ancient Versions[/I].

This path is not for everybody, though. I can see that some commoners choose to join the Spammers and Trolls instead, making pacts with the Viruses and using the power of evil to cause havoc and mayhem across the Kingdom of Ob.

Which side will be the victorious one? That I cannot see, but time will tell...

[RIGHT][I]~ Sandy the Sage ~[/I][/RIGHT][/font][/INDENT]

So there's some flavor text to escort my idea. Basically, everything within this game would take place at the Adventure Arena, and the most visible part of the game would be like almost every RPG in this place - interactive story writing from a specific role.

[I]However[/I], there would be a whole [B]game system[/B] behind that traditional roleplaying. I'm talking about monsters, battles, jobs, weapons, levels, HP & MP, statistics, missions, maps - most things that you can find in any console or computer MMORPG. Basically players would sign up as a character with a specific weapon and job, and then venture out to the Kingdom of Ob to fight monsters, do missions and solve mysteries put on their path. Because it's a MMORPG, people can interact with other players, found Guilds or Factions etc. For a mental image, think about World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XI or Guild Wars put into a message board context.

I [I]know[/I] it can be done, I've seen and experienced such a system in the RPGamer game linked on top of this post.

But I also know that I can't do it alone. I need help to make this project reality, and this very thread is the place you can post your offers of help. I'm looking for any type of ideas, suggestions, questions and answers that you can give.

I will also need help with managing the game if/when it's launched, but I'll look into that later.

For now, we should focus on the [B]game system[/B]. I have some ideas that need expanding, but of course anybody can send their own ideas here as well. Here's what I've been thinking:

[center][U]Job System:[/U][/center]
[INDENT]Players can assign their character a specific job that allows them to use certain weapons and gain special abilities. When they progress in the game (i.e. gain levels) they can advance to more powerful jobs.

Some examples for jobs:
[B]Gamer[/B], whose interest in different types of games can sometimes reach excessive limits. Gamer's battle technique is physical but quick. Wields weapons such as Buffer Swords and Wiimotes, and has access to game-related skills ("Gaming"), like "Reset" and "Dice Roll".

[B]Mangaka[/B], a fanatic of all things Japanese - especially Anime & Manga. Is a more magic-oriented job. Can use Calligraphy Brushes and Paper Fans as weapons, and can cast spells related to both art and Japan ("Magic Art"), such as "Dark Draw" and "Withering Sakura".

[b]Moderator Knight[/b] is an advanced job, and a paragon of justice and order. Has the prowess to both praise and punish. Uses Ban Hammers, Mod Rods and such as weapons, and special skills ("Judgment") as sees best.

[b]Spammer[/b] is a despised outcast, but a dangerous one too. Is very sneaky and roguish, and it reflects the job's weapons and skills as well. They rather attack quickly and then retreat.

[b]Troll[/b], an advanced job of a person that has been completely mutated by evil. Trolls are both fearsome and gruesome, and they hold nothing back. Though extremely physical, they are also very simple.

[b]Catalyst[/b] is the archnemesis of a Moderator Knight. As evil as a Troll, but brimmed with self-righteous intellect. He literally catalyzes pure evil into the Kingdom. A master of words and mindgames, this advanced job is a choice for a more magic-oriented badguy.[/INDENT]

I will update this post/thread, once I come up with more refined ideas, but please, in the meanwhile contribute your own thoughts and suggestions into this thread. Anything goes for this project this early. ;D

I honestly hope something [I]grand[/I] comes out of this...

[Shy]

[size=1]Exactly what category do I fall under? Hm?

Anyway, this seems like a really ambitious project. I have a lot of questions regarding how HP/MP/Levels would affect the role-playing itself. Perhaps members could gain XP by posting, and every handful of posts they would level up. Even with a small group of players it would be a nightmare to organize, but I'm sure you understand that already.

You'd need an Underground thread to manage all of the XP, and probably multiple threads in the Square. Each thread could be a separate location, like a dungeon or something. So you'd have [Grand: Forest Temple] or something. Maybe certain dungeons can only be accessed by characters once they reach a certain level, and those higher-level dungeons give players more experience for posting in them?

You'd want someone in charge of the individual dungeons (A Dungeon Master, if you will) to create the various challenges that the adventuring parties would take place in.

Players could organize their parties in the Underground thread, which could also serve as a tavern of sorts.

Um. Yeah. That's all of my ideas for now. It really needs a new title.

-Shy[/size]

[Japan]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]This reminds me of an OB version of .hack.

What about a job like wisemen? Shy would fit under that. Since Shy is no longer a moderator he would not be a knight. He would not fit under anything else.

I was thinking that a wiseman would be like a druid in a way. Since Druid would not be an appropiate job title for your idea, wisemen will have to do. What I was thinking was that druids have influence over nature. Oldies such as Shy are respectable people and have influence over OB. So, like druids, they are wisemen for the OB community.

I can see where catalyst comes from lol.[/COLOR]

[TheResplendent]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Seems like an interesting idea, and a good attempt at immersing the MMO elements with OB elements. Though the "Catalyst" job makes me laugh with it's description. I'm assuming major cities and places of habitations and other "zones" would be named after notable places on OB...something like [b]Hardwired Castle[/b] or [b]The Lounge[/b]. Where each member would have their respective hometown and guildmasters or what not.[/FONT]

[Jokopoko]

[size=1][color=teal]This may force me to make describe OB the same way I did for my "Enter the Game" project but give it a medieval theme ;). I'll see what I can knock together.[/size][/color]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Shy'][size=1]
Anyway, this seems like a really ambitious project. I have a lot of questions regarding how HP/MP/Levels would affect the role-playing itself. Perhaps members could gain XP by posting, and every handful of posts they would level up. Even with a small group of players it would be a nightmare to organize, but I'm sure you understand that already.[/size][/QUOTE]

In the game I used as an example, we (the players) get experience and gold from defeating monsters (specific monster always drops the same amount of both). The level-ups occur when a certain amount of experience is gained (for level 2, it could be a mere 10 experience, then for level 3, you'd need 30).

Certain levels at specific jobs gives the player new abilities and allows them to equip new weapons and armor. Simple but genius, in my opinion. The guy who created the system has put a lot of time into the game, so I'm mostly just copying his great effort.

There'd have to be, of course, a limit to how much players could attack in one post, so that one player couldn't make ten kills at once. I'm thinking about an attack per post, although that would encourage short posts especially during battles. I'll figure it out...

Anyway, I agree, it would be a nightmare (although partly a pleasant dream as well, at least to me) to organize, but with a proper table about all the players would make it manageable. ;D

And I wouldn't've asked for help if I didn't need it, too.

Big thanks for your input, [B]Shy[/B]!

And [B]Japan[/B], what type of abilities would a Wiseman have? Would it be an advanced job instead of a starter one? What would it wield as a weapon?

Hmm, I think I'll flesh out one of the jobs more as an example of what I'm thinking for you guys:

[COLOR="DarkOrchid"][U]Mangaka[/U] (starter job)
Basic HP: 5 (+1 every level)
Basic MP: 10 (+1 every level)
Basic Attack Power: 1 (+1 every level)
Basic Magic Power: 3 (+1 every level)

Some Weapons:
- Paint Brush (Required Level 1, Atk +1, Mag +2)
- Fountain Pen (Required Level 3, Atk +2, Mag +3, water element)
- Calligraphy Brush (Required Level 5, Atk +3, Mag +5)

Some Armor:
- Souvenir Kimono (Required Level 2, -10% magic damage received)
- School Uniform (Required Level 4, -20% magic damage received, protects from "Boredom"-status)

Magic Arts:
- Sakura Bud (Level 1, +2 flower elemental damage) MP Cost: 2
- Ink Splash (Level 2, inflicts "Blindness"-status, making target unable to see) MP Cost: 2
- Sakura Blossom (Level 3, +3 flower elemental damage up to two targets) MP Cost: 5
- Zipper Lips (Level 4, inflicts "Mute"-status, making target unable to cast magic) MP Cost: 4
- Withering Sakura (Level 5, +5 flower elemental damage up to three targets) MP Cost: 10[/COLOR]

So, I'm thinking about something like this. Anyone interested in creating more? Just don't create it too far ahead, the first 5-10 level should suffice for now.

[Japan]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]Each wiseman has their weapon that is personal to them. Whether it is a cat, cookie, plushie, or whatever. Over time, that weapon becomes something like a mod rod.

Each wiseman has an OB element ofl power that is personal to them. Discussion, Art/Beauty, Otaku Lore, CATitude, Writing, etc.

They draw power from the boards through their item/weapon. OB is like a religion to them.

This is not a starting class. They would have to reach a certain level before they can choose to obtain it.

(Thanks Shy)[/COLOR]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Japan_86'][COLOR="DarkRed"]Each wiseman has their weapon that is personal to them. Whether it is a cat, cookie, plushie, or whatever. Over time, that weapon becomes something like a mod rod.

Each wiseman has an OB element ofl power that is personal to them. Discussion, Art/Beauty, Otaku Lore, CATitude, Writing, etc.

They draw power from the boards through their item/weapon. OB is like a religion to them.

This is not a starting class. They would have to reach a certain level before they can choose to obtain it.

(Thanks Shy)[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

Hmm, as intriguing as that sounds, it also seems to be quite overpowered for one job. This would make a perfect "master job", the most potential job of the bunch, though.

Maybe we could refine these unique weapons/skills into one personal ability. Maybe the Wiseman ability could be something like "Familiar" or "Expertise", where they draw their powers from the OB forum they're most active in, and get a matching moveset (see my example about the Mangaka for what a moveset is, if you don't know).

However, I think we should aim to have the variety that your suggestion offers in individual jobs already. Like there's already a job for those who frequent the Anime Lounge and the Hardwired, there could also be jobs for those who're active in Otaku Lounge and Anthology etc. Maybe you could think about those too?

Thanks for the suggestion, nevertheless! Don't let it be your last! ;D

[B]EDIT:[/B] If you want to know the format of monsters (ie. viruses), here's an example I've been thinking:

[COLOR="Magenta"][U]Loveworm[/U] (Virus Level 1)
HP: 5
MP: 5
Reward: 2 Experience & 5 OtakuBucks
Ability:
- Leech Kiss (drain 5 HP from target to self) Cost:1 MP
Drops:
- Candy (restores 10 HP)[/COLOR]

And that brings me to another idea for a job: [B]Virusmaster[/B]. It can tame viruses and use them against the opponents. Or, it could act like FF's Blue Mage, and learn abilities from viruses for later use.

[Japan]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]Couldn't there be more than just brushes for weapons? Not all anime fans are artists you know. There could also be plushies and a katana.

Perhaps my original idea was overpowered a bit, however, I still like the idea of the personal item that they have to draw out their powers. It can be any random thing. However, it can bring out stronger skills of their former self. manga, etc. Spammer should not be able to get this job.[/COLOR]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Japan_86'][COLOR="DarkRed"]Couldn't there be more than just brushes for weapons? Not all anime fans are artists you know. There could also be plushies and a katana.[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

Of course. I already mentioned a Paper Fan for a weapon, but those would naturally come into use in later levels.

There could also be an advanced job for a proper Anime Fanatic as well, an upgrade to a Mangaka if you wish. Something like [B]Japanophiliac[/B] or [B]Super Otaku[/B], perhaps? That job could wield all kinds of zany katanas, nunchakus, shurikens and similar traditional Japanese weapons, couldn't it?

Heh, I'm totally loving this thread already! XD

[Jokopoko]

[size=1][color=teal]Maybe a sub-class could be something like "Fanatic", examples being Des with Zelda or me with Transformers. Could allow a special bonus of sorts or access to weapons/abilities related to whatever the character is obsessed with, heh.[/size][/color]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Jokopoko'][size=1][color=teal]Maybe a sub-class could be something like "Fanatic", examples being Des with Zelda or me with Transformers. Could allow a special bonus of sorts or access to weapons/abilities related to whatever the character is obsessed with, heh.[/size][/color][/QUOTE]

That idea could be worked onwards, as well.

The jobs should however be quite restricted in terms of variety of skills (some more magic-oriented, some focused on physical damage, some on disabilities etc.), so that there isn't just a bunch of jacks-of-all-trades. There still seems to be a shortage of a basic healer job.

I'd also like to see [B]Arena Mobster[/B] and [B]Hacker[/B] as advanced jobs in this game.

But besides jobs, there's a lot of other things people can contribute. I mentioned [B]maps[/B], by which I meant some sort of floor plans to various town, fields and dungeons - places where the players will meet, shop, fight and explore. I liked the idea that Shy suggested, to have separate threads for different places, but so that the game won't be too much to handle, the various places could be compiled into [B]regions[/B] that would have their own threads.

Here's another example of what I've been thinking:

[COLOR="Indigo"][U]The Town of Obrah[/U]
[B]Leader[/B]: Lady Clurr
[B]Description[/B]: Obrah is the media center of the whole Kingdom of Ob. It's massive TV Tower is a real tourist attraction, and it's hi-tech stores offer the most complex gadgets in Ob - too bad most of them are easily breakable junk. It's also under continuous attacks of the Spammers and the Viruses, because of it's communicating devices and energy generators.

[B]Buildings:[/B]
[I]TV Tower[/I] - protect the skyscraping tower from the attacks of energy-hungry viruses and Saboteurs.
[i]Lady Clurr's Movie Manor[/i] - hear all the latest gossips and meet the hottest celebrities at one of the lady's famous parties.
[I]Just-In Hi-Tech Store[/I] -buy various modern equipment and items with a high price but low quality.
- Example: "Wiimote" (Weapon. Required job: Gamer, Level 5. Attack Power +10, Break Possibility 25%) Cost: 100 OtakuBucks
[i]Movie Costume Outlet[/i] - buy clothes once worn by your favorite movie characters.
- Example: "Chewbacca Suit" (Armor. Required job: Movie Freak, Level 6. -20% physical damage received, protects from "Laughter"-status.) Cost: 200 OtakuBucks

[B]NPCs:[/B]
[I]Lady Clurr[/I] - the party-hardy mayor of the town, who seems to know everybody. Valuable source of information about almost anyone.
[I]Princess Paris[/I] - the air-headed royal heir of the faraway Kingdom of Hilton, who likes to flee to Obrah to have some fun.
[I]Jack Sparrow[/I] - after his pirating career hit rock-bottom, he retired to Obrah to bask on fame and gather some fortune.[/COLOR]

So, that's another thing people can create.

As for the possible future of this game, if this thread gets enough support and popularity, eventually I will start [B]beta-testing[/B] this game with a narrow group of test-players. If that goes well, the game will be opened to everyone.

Everybody's help and input is welcome!

[Allamorph]

[FONT="Arial"][I]*reads over list of occupations*[/I]

So, umm . . . which one would I fall into? :animedepr

[I]*hopes it's not a [B]catalyst[/B]*[/I]

[B]EDIT:[/B] (after realizing the jack-assyness of my post)

Why not have the Mangaka [I]be[/I] an upgrade class, from say a normal Otaku? To me, the title Mangaka already implies a good deal of specialization (manga author). I'm thinking along the lines of Fire Emblem class changes here, where a Cavalier could move to either Paladin or Great Knight; and a Knight, while also possessing the Great Knight option, could go to General.

Does that click, or am I just blithering again?

Basically, it seems like the 'good' class options are currently rather outnumbered by the 'bad' class options, and they don't (currently) seem to offer a good degree of versatility.

Also, as far as leveling is concerned, are you just using a coverall +1 for the stats in each class, or will you be setting things up so that one class advances [I]faster[/I] in some stats than in others? Take your Mangaka example. At level 20, they'd look like this:

HP: 24
MP: 29
Att: 24
Mag: 27

Seems a little too even, right? Wouldn't you expect something like this:

HP: 24
MP: 43
Att: 22 (or lower)
Mag: 37 (-ish)

Even factoring in the fifth- and tenth-level bonuses (just assumed...), advancing far enough would even out the stats enough to make choosing one class over another seem almost trivial. What about:

Mangaka (starter job)
Basic HP: 5 (+1 every level, +2 every [fifth or sixth?] )
Basic MP: 10 (+1 every level, +[2 or 3?] every third)
Basic Attack Power: 1 (+1 every level; 5% for +2, 5% for +0)
Basic Magic Power: 3 (+1 every level, +2 every third)

I'm just using logic and spouting off stuff I've gleaned from other RPGs in passing. If I'd actually studied the level-up systems I've come across, I'd be more comfortable going further with this.

Other than that, I don't know how much assistance I can be. I'll fart around with some stuff, though, and see what happens; and if you come up with anything you think I might could help out with, I'd be more than willing to give it a go.[/FONT]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT="Arial"][I]*reads over list of occupations*[/I]

So, umm . . . which one would I fall into? :animedepr

[I]*hopes it's not a [B]catalyst[/B]*[/I][/FONT][/QUOTE]

You could of course choose it yourself. ;P

So I've come up with some new ideas for jobs (again).

[B]Movie Freak[/B] would be one of the beginner jobs, along with Gamer, Mangaka and Spammer.

Advanced jobs are much more multiple, with the inclusion of a [B]Final Fanatic[/B] and a [B]Transformer[/B], both inspired by their respective source series. Joining the "dark side" is [B]Godmodder[/B], an overpowered s-o-b who thinks s/he's the best in everything and makes sure everyone else knows that as well. ;P

I've also started compiling lists for different terms, items and equipment as well. I'm gonna make this happen, dammit! XP ;D

[B]Edit:[/B] Allamorph, good call on the level ups. You just forgot to take the equipment and abilities into equation. In case of the Mangaka, it's weapons raise magic more than attack, thus making the final stats more different. The spells are also meant to be more powerful than the physical attack.

But I'll look into the levelling up more. Suggestions for that are always welcome, as well!

As for the Otaku-job, I'm planning to make "Super Otaku" an advanced job, with more powerful equipment and skills than a "mere" Mangaka could ever dream of. ;P

[Allamorph]

[quote name='Sandy][B]Edit:[/B'] Allamorph, good call on the level ups. You just forgot to take the equipment and abilities into equation. In case of the Mangaka, it's weapons raise magic more than attack, thus making the final stats more different. The spells are also meant to be more powerful than the physical attack.[/quote]
[FONT=Arial]Oh, I saw that, and it makes sense. That's why I wanted to be clear that I know only a little about what I was getting at. But still, let's take the L.20 Mangaka with a Calligraphy Brush casting Withering Sakura.

Calligraphy Brush (Required Level 5, Atk +3, Mag +5)

Withering Sakura (Level 5, +5 flower elemental damage up to three targets) MP Cost: 10

The previous stats alter to this:

HP: 24 --> +0 --> 24
MP: 29 --> -10 --> 19
Att: 24 --> +3 --> 27
Mag: 27 --> +10 --> 37

True, their Magic is higher now, but their MP pool is terrible for a Magic-based class. I know I'm only looking at temp changes, but the Mag jump isn't as pronounced without the spell being cast (only 32, with a 29 MP pool ? still a little low, IMO), and I'm still in favor of a marked difference between class stat increasing.

I'm also aware of the possibilities for doing ridiculous amounts of damage early on ? never cool ? which is why I liked FE's Def and Res stats. (I [I]think[/I] Res=Will, but I'm not sure. I'll check here in a second.)
[quote name='Sandy']As for the Otaku-job, I'm planning to make "Super Otaku" an advanced job, with more powerful equipment and skills than a "mere" Mangaka could ever dream of. ;P[/quote]
I saw that, too, which is why I drew the Paladin/Great Knight/General parallel.

The way I see it, an Otaku could progress to: Japanophile, who is [I]so[/I] much an Otaku that it borders on fan[gender]ism, and their knowledge of all things Japan is rivaled by few; Super Otaku, who retains their obsession with ... whatever ... but also dabbles slightly in the areas of fanart/fanfics/etc.; Mangaka, who has taken their fandom to a serious level, enough so that they have begun developing their own particular styles, or some such other, better description.

Also, some Gamers might become Super Otaku, while some [insert Anthology class here]s could become Mangaka, but each class would also have its own particular class that only it could progress to.

Yes? No? Maybe? [/[I]Johnny English[/I] French accent][/FONT]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]Oh, I saw that, and it makes sense. That's why I wanted to be clear that I know only a little about what I was getting at. But still, let's take the L.20 Mangaka with a Calligraphy Brush casting Withering Sakura.

Calligraphy Brush (Required Level 5, Atk +3, Mag +5)

Withering Sakura (Level 5, +5 flower elemental damage up to three targets) MP Cost: 10

The previous stats alter to this:

HP: 24 --> +0 --> 24
MP: 29 --> -10 --> 19
Att: 24 --> +3 --> 27
Mag: 27 --> +10 --> 37

True, their Magic is higher now, but their MP pool is terrible for a Magic-based class. I know I'm only looking at temp changes, but the Mag jump isn't as pronounced without the spell being cast (only 32, with a 29 MP pool – still a little low, IMO), and I'm still in favor of a marked difference between class stat increasing.

I'm also aware of the possibilities for doing ridiculous amounts of damage early on – never cool – which is why I liked FE's Def and Res stats. (I [I]think[/I] Res=Will, but I'm not sure. I'll check here in a second.)[/FONT][/QUOTE]

I think I solved the HP/MP-pool problem by replacing the defense-stat on armor with HP/MP boosts, like this:

[B]Souvenir Kimono[/B] – Mangaka Level 2, HP +5, MP +5
[B]School Uniform[/B] – Mangaka Level 4, HP +10, MP +10, protects from "Boredom"
[B]Chewbacca Suit[/B] - Movie Freak Level 6. HP +20, protects from "Laughter"

I also need to define what all these neat status effects do, but I'm thinking both "Boredom" and "Laughter" prevent the character from making [B]"actions"[/B], only different ones.

Btw, an [B]action[/B] is a special move that can only be done once per post, in my thinking. The action could be:
- attacking an enemy
- performing a special ability
- using an item
- unlimited shopping (buying and selling stuff)
- accepting a mission from an NPC

These actions will be separated in the game somehow, so that they are more easier to distinguish for the gamemasters (who keep track on everybody's progress).

How do people feel about this type of system for the gameplay?

[James]

[color=#606060]How are you going to keep track of all this? Sounds like you'd need a lot of gamemasters.

Also how would battles play out? Just in the general thread? It might get difficult to wade through (unless you used an alternative thread view, perhaps).

This does seem like a good idea though - I'm all for ambitious experiments. This MMORPG might really be benefited by the use of HTML to keep track of things.[/color]

[Allamorph]

[quote name='James][color=#606060']How are you going to keep track of all this? Sounds like you'd need a lot of gamemasters.[/color][/quote]
[FONT=Arial]That reminds me: how are the monsters going to be kept track of, and who'll be controlling them? Relying completely on the honor system just won't cut it, and the possible numbers could get daunting.

I'm not trying to talk you out of this, just throwing up something that just hit me.

....but I reflex-saved for half damage.[/FONT]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Allamorph'][FONT=Arial]That reminds me: how are the monsters going to be kept track of, and who'll be controlling them? Relying completely on the honor system just won't cut it, and the possible numbers could get daunting.

I'm not trying to talk you out of this, just throwing up something that just hit me.

....but I reflex-saved for half damage.[/FONT][/QUOTE]

Your concern is valid, as is James's, in fact those are the same concerns I have myself.

Yes, the game will need quite a many gamemasters (or at least a few very dedicated ones). Everything will be kept in track in a separate Underground thread, where everyone can see everybody's statistics and owned items, lists of monsters and weapons and such, and other general information. Those lists will then be updated when necessary by the gamemasters. At least that's how I envision it.

The other option would be to keep a secret list for the players that would be shared only by the gamemasters, but that would probably be quite tricky, and people would lose track of their own progress more easily.

[B]The battles[/B] will take place in the game thread(s), and they will flow with one action per post (see the list of actions above). The gamemasters would play as the monsters, so the speed of the battle wouldn't be so frantic. The player and the monster would of course take turns to attack (the initiative would be decided upon the levels of the opponents, ie. a level 2 Gamer would attack first against a Loveworm (level 1)).

Also, the players would have to either go solo against the monsters, or form a party to attack them in unison. If the monsters were fair game to everybody, they would probably have no chance to strike at all. ;P

Here's two of the viruses, one updated and one new:
[COLOR="DarkRed"][B]Loveworm[/B] (Virus Level 1)
HP: 5
MP: 5
Reward: 2 Experience & 5 OtakuBucks
Ability:
- Hug (2 damage)
- Leech Kiss (drain 5 HP from target to self) MP Cost: 1
Drops (1/2 chance):
- Candy (restores 10 HP)

[B]Hate Mail[/B] (Virus Level 3)
HP: 34
MP: 12
Reward: 15 Experience & 20 OtakuBucks
Ability:
- You’ve Got Mail! (6 damage)
- I Hate You! (10 damage and “Curse”-status) MP Cost: 6
Drops (1/10 chance):
- Chain Mail (armor)[/COLOR]

As you can see, the viruses don't have any attack or magic stats, but they rely solely on their skills. Some cost MP, while others don't. The item drops also have different chances of taking place. I'm thinking that the gamemaster playing as the viruses would notify the player through a PM whenever they gain a new item or a level.

Phew, I can envision that this planning stage will take weeks still! I'll try to keep things as simple as possible for the beta-test, however (maybe only a few job options and limited amount of equipment, viruses and missions).

[B]Edit:[/B] For a dessert to that rant, here's the layout of the Gamer job.
[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][B]Gamer[/B], whose interest in different types of games can sometimes reach excessive limits. It's battle technique is physical but quick.

Basic HP: 8, Basic MP: 2, Basic Attack Power: 3, Basic Magic Power: 1

[I]Weapons[/I]:
- Buffer Sword (Required Level 1, Atk +3)
- Wooden Sword (Required Level 3, Atk +5, Break Possibility 5%)
- Wiimote (Required Level 5, Atk +10, Break Possibility 25%)
[I]Armor:[/I]
- Junk Mail (Required Level 2, HP +6)
- Chain Mail (Required Level 4, HP +12)
[I]Gaming Skillz:[/I]
- Reset (Level 1, take yourself back to the starting point at any time)
- Dice Roll (Level 3, damage enemy randomly anywhere between 1 – 6 x basic attack power)
- Button Smash (Level 6, damage up to four enemies with equipped weapon with ½ chance of hitting each)[/COLOR]

[Allamorph]

[QUOTE=Sandy]The battles will take place in the game thread(s), and they will flow with one action per post (see the list of actions above). The gamemasters would play as the monsters, so the speed of the battle wouldn't be so frantic. The player and the monster would of course take turns to attack (the initiative would be decided upon the levels of the opponents, ie. a level 2 Gamer would attack first against a Loveworm (level 1)).

Also, the players would have to either go solo against the monsters, or form a party to attack them in unison. If the monsters were fair game to everybody, they would probably have no chance to strike at all. ;P[/QUOTE]
[FONT=Arial]And then a 50/50 initiative for equal-level opponents? Sure. Eliminates the need for a Speed stat.

Currently we have Player v. Monster and Players v. Monster scenarios, but what about multiple Monsters per battle: Player v. Monsters and Players v. Monsters?

Also, if the GMs are controlling the monsters, that opens up the possibility that a person may only be able to take one action [I]per day[/I], while others might be able to take four or five, depending on who is online at the same time as who.

It's an interesting dilemma. If you put Monster control in the hands of the players, you have the honor system problem I mentioned earlier. Now, I know there's be a good bit of honest players who'd make the system work, but there's always the possibility for one or two (or more) players who'd take advantage of that system and post crud to their heart's content. The GMs could drop them from the game, of course, but that raises the problem of banning members from [U]individual[/U] [U]threads[/U] instead of the site as a whole, and that's a nasty can of worms that just doesn't need to be opened.

Either way, you have bugs. GM control is the obvious way to go, but that's still a problem that would become irritating for multiple players.

----------------------

Ah. So monsters do static damage. That makes the HP problem a little easier to deal with.

What about attacks that decrease both the HP and MP pool?
[QUOTE][I][B]School Uniform[/B] – Mangaka Level 4, HP +10, MP +10, protects from "Boredom"[/I][/QUOTE]
I see.

I [I]am[/I] on board with the stat-supplementing items concept. I guess I'm just more inclined to be forced to work at both balancing and unbalancing my character at my whim, if that's clear. And still, a separation of five points grows less pronounced the higher the character grows.[/FONT]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Allamorph']And then a 50/50 initiative for equal-level opponents? Sure. Eliminates the need for a Speed stat.[/quote]

I was thinking that in equal-level situations, the initiative would be on the player, actually. Just to eliminate any unnecessary drawings.

[quote]Currently we have Player v. Monster and Players v. Monster scenarios, but what about multiple Monsters per battle: Player v. Monsters and Players v. Monsters?
[/quote]

I've already hinted of multiple monsters being in battle at the same time (see the Gamer's abilities, for example). The turn order would go with the levels in those cases as well. For example, a Hate Mail (level 3) would attack first, then a level 2 Gamer and finally a Loveworm (level 1). Rince and repeat until death.

[quote]Also, if the GMs are controlling the monsters, that opens up the possibility that a person may only be able to take one action [I]per day[/I], while others might be able to take four or five, depending on who is online at the same time as who.[/quote]

That is a possibility, yes, but since the individual players aren't exactly competing against each others (in general, at least), I see no harm in it.

[quote]Either way, you have bugs. GM control is the obvious way to go, but that's still a problem that would become irritating for multiple players.[/quote]

That's why I need multiple GMs. ;D Or at least Dungeon Masters who would take care of a single "region thread".

[quote]And still, a separation of five points grows less pronounced the higher the character grows.[/QUOTE]

That could be solved with a special stat increase every ten levels, or with consumable items that boost a certain stat for good (such as a Power Drink, which would add +2 points to the basic attack power, for example).

Uh, the complexity! XD It's a great thing, though, that you challenge me with your questions, Allamorph. Maintaining a balance in the system is crucial.

[Japan]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]What about players vs players? It would make things interesting.[/COLOR]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Japan_86'][COLOR="DarkRed"]What about players vs players? It would make things interesting.[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

Well, since there are two opposing alignments (working names "Bright Side" and "Dark Side"), there will be Player vs. Player situations, but [I]only[/I] on specific missions that require signing up to. I wouldn't want anyone to go on a slaughtering rampage on fellow players, after all. ;D

Besides, if my vision will be correct, all players can see each other's stats and such, so it wouldn't be very fair to allow killing between players.

Oh, and like in MMORPGs, to my understanding, if there's nobody around to revive your character if s/he is killed, the character will return to the town it started the adventure. Or do people have better suggestions on how to handle deaths?

[Japan]

[COLOR="DarkRed"]In the MUD that I play called Achaea, there are quite a few ways to get your character revived.

Priests revived, those with the grove skill can resurrect in their groves, and those who do not have another person to help them simply pray for salvation and after a few minutes they are alive again. Or, a person can throw them in a special flame to resurrect them too.

Well, I think that if someone dies, they will have to wait five posts to be able to continue. Or two posts when someone resurrects them. What do you think?[/COLOR]

[Sandy]

[quote name='Japan_86'][COLOR="DarkRed"]In the MUD that I play called Achaea, there are quite a few ways to get your character revived.

Priests revived, those with the grove skill can resurrect in their groves, and those who do not have another person to help them simply pray for salvation and after a few minutes they are alive again. Or, a person can throw them in a special flame to resurrect them too.

Well, I think that if someone dies, they will have to wait five posts to be able to continue. Or two posts when someone resurrects them. What do you think?[/COLOR][/QUOTE]

There will of course be items and spells that can revive a dead character, but I like your idea of a penalty for dying. Five posts, or even ten, seems like a good amount.

The item for reviving could be called something like Coke of Rebirth, or some other drink that geeks consider a life-saver. ;D Or maybe Life Insurance...