An overview of the accomplished

Okay, time to talk gameplay! What will AO offer that other text-based online RPGs won't? Here I will discuss two very distinct things: Ideas that have been implemented and ideas that WILL be implemented (unless someone gives me a really good reason to reconsider them). Let's begin with the former.

Implemented
Character Creation
Being that the game is heavily influenced by Dungeons and Dragons, the character creation process was the first thing I finished. To begin with, you select your character's race. At first, you only have access to six: Humans, Elves, Dwarves, Halflings, Tieflings, and the Eldarin (High Elves). However, as you play the game, you will encounter new worlds and, through questing, unlock the ability to play as new races.

Each race has its own strengths and weaknesses, although none of the latter are gameplay hindering. For example, Humans gain levels 1.5% faster than most races, while some sidequests are only available to Tieflings. Most of the unlockable races will be able to play through race-exclusive quests as they level up, to enhance replay value.

After you pick your race, a plethora of classes will be available. Multiclassing is allowed, and encouraged, with no penalty. However, spreading yourself too thin might prove to be problematic, especially if you desire the opportunity to play a prestige class. There will also be unlockable classes, such as Paladin and Blackguard.

Then, the server rolls 6 stats and you get to assign the values to STR, CON, DEX, INT, WIS, or CHA. If you don't like what you see, simply reroll until you're satisfied. Note that it's unlikely that you will get all 18s. This process is entirely server-side, so there's no chance of manipulating the results or creating a level 1 character with 200 STR or -64 CHA.

The next process in the character creation process is to select your feats. Some classes grant bonus feats at certain levels; others provide them automatically. Skills are learned from NPCs and automatically from leveling up (especially when you level Prestige Classes).

Ideas Yet to be Implemented


Cohorts

Suddenly 20 Ghouls swarm around you. Oh no! Luckily, you have 5 bodyguards with silver-coated weapons to help you dispatch them all.

Some NPCs will aid you in your questing. Some are useless VIPs whom you cannot let die, others are epic warriors who cut down hordes of enemies. Some will only accompany you for one battle, others will follow you beyond the ends of the earth until their dying breath. Some are summoned creatures and your familiar (if you're a spellcaster). The possibilities are endless. (Note: Most will want to stay in the level they joined.)

AJAX Arena

What's the fun in leveling up an awesome character if you can't kill your friends? Well, you can. Or at least, you will be able to when the AJAX-based Arena is completed!

The Arena will consist of a chatroom and a battle system in one. Private rooms will be allowed for RPing, but all fighting will take place on the Battlegrounds. That is, of course, unless the private room is opened by a GM for a special event. GMs-- either during special events or for general RPing in the Battlegrounds (main lobby)-- will also have the ability to grant experience points and conjure items into your inventory.

Okay, my writing is becoming less coherent, so I should end it here.