Almost every day we’re busy developing Advent of the Mists to try and build it to a point that we can move it to the next phase. During this time, it’s expected that players will run across issues, and even have complaints. Virtually on a daily basis, we get some valid complaints and alerts on bugs and other inconsistencies, but almost just as much, we get complaints that are not as valid. So much that I feel the need to clarify what exactly alpha phase means.
If you’re caught cheating during alpha phase, and it’s harmless, we’re not going to ban you. We -want- people to find bugs, but it’s only useful to us if you tell us about it. If someone repetitively exploits a bug for the benefit of their character because the game is still in-character, then we’re going to ask you to leave alpha testing and come back during beta. Alpha phase is not a time to try and create your most favorite character that you want to be absolutely perfect and flawless. And if you don’t tell us when you run across problems, because you want to advance your own character with it, then you are no good to us during alpha.
During beta, should the same thing happen, then our punishment policies will be in full effect.
During alpha phase, skills, spells etc will be tweaked for balance, for that’s essentially what alpha phase is for. We allow people to roleplay to give them something to do while we are balance-checking. If your character spent gold on a skill they didn’t want, or if something happened where you have to purchase the skill again, you will not be reimbursed. This is part of the testing that we need players to do. The more time we spend reimbursing folks who feel they should be, the less time is focused on development, which is the exact opposite of the purpose of alpha testing.
Alpha = Adding all the core elements of the game
Beta = Balancing of core elements of the game. Playable phase, roleplay enforced, but with warning to folks that things may still be unstable.
Fully Operational = The MUD is fairly stable, with no known complications
Some very crucial helpfiles that all players should review to ensure they do not break our policies are: help rules, help rp guidelines. You can also use the contact form to submit all logs, screenshots, or information on issues.
Important Note:
We’ve noticed after we re-opened the game in 2018 that players are putting a lot of focus on storylines and roleplay. Normally, this isn’t a problem. However, the staff is still busy doing behind-the-scenes building of the game, and players are expected to be focusing on playtesting. When we get complaints that a storyline has stalled or they’re bored with RP, it’s a bit against the grain in what alpha testing is for. The staff is not committed to advancing storylines right now because we are literally building the game. We do support RP when we can, but this should not be the expectation during alpha testing.
That said, here are some things to playtest when bored:
- Spells and skills. Is a spell doing what it’s supposed to? Does the spell act accordingly when closed or against cloaked figures/org members/flying players etc.
- Quests. Are they working correctly? Do they break at a certain point? Are they descriptive enough? Too spammy?
- Are we missing any objects to fill a skill void. Such as, do we have enough polearms, swords, dresses, boots?
