MUDS (Multi-user dimensions (or) dungeons)

First of all, to satisfy your curiosity, A MUD IS NOT THE BROWN DIRT MIXED WITH WATER! MUDS are actually very complex dimensions where people from different computers play in the roles of their created character. MUD stands for Multi-user Dimension (or) Dungeon.

A MUD is just what I called up there. But, I will write it again - A MUD is a Multi-user Dimension (or) Dungeon. MUDS usually have topics having to deal with fantasy or Sci-Fi worlds. In these worlds, you will navigate your created character to kill monsters, interact with other players, and buy and sell items. Although it may seem simple now, MUDS are actually quite difficult. Solution: Usually there are MUDS out there that are easy enough.

In the MUDDING experience, you will first start by creating a character. By opening the MUD you will give the name of the character that you want. It is always possible that there is a person with the name you want, so you have to make sure that you are flexible. For example, if you want your name to be "Taim", and when you type in that name next to "Name:" and it says "Password:", that is a sign that someone is already playing as Taim. Try for another name next. Usually, you will be given a variety of races (ex:elf, dwarf, hobbit, giant, orc, goblin human,etc.) and will be expected to choose one. Each race has its pros and cons, so you will be able to pick a race that fits your likes and dislikes. In most cases, you will then pick a class to be (ex:fighter(warrior),mage(wizard),etc.). Classes will decide what weapons you can wield in the game, and your special abilities. While picking your race and class, I would advise to read the help files on each, since it changes from game to game. MUDS are based around YOUR character as he becomes older and "levels." To level means to become a stronger player. This is acquired through gaining of experience and gold. These are gained when you kill monsters. This may seem like an advanced process now, but just wait until you get started...... : )

The Gods are the people who plan and build the MUDS. They are the workers who program in C/C++ to make MUDS a better place. Most MUDS have quests or certain levels to attain in order to become a God. The Gods are the people that you go to with your problems after consulting the help files and the players. It is often the goal of the MUD to attain Godhood (ultimate level).

To put it simply, a MUD is a place where you can retreat from the world. In MUDS, you can do unlimited commands, talk to hundreds of people. MUDS are often associated with Dungeons and Dragons because of their roleplaying and fantasy themes. This is a good comparison because in a MUD, you are playing the role of another character. The MUDDING experience is very mesmerizing, and often catches young gamers like me. Although MUDS are text only, they can be as entertaining as graphic adventure games.

To play a MUD, you need a few things. First, you need a computer. A PC or Macintosh will do fine. Then, you will need a modem, and an internet browser (Netscape works best!). Your web browser will need either Java or Telnet to connect to the MUDS. If you do not have either of these, you can search for them on the web, or give me an EMAIL, and I will see what I can find. With this equipment, you are ready to enter the world of MUDDING (and never come out!). The first thing to do is to go onto the internet, with your internet connection, and search for MUDS to play. If you search with "MUDS" on yahoo (www.yahoo.com) you will get a detailed list of MUDS to choose from. Once you find a suitable MUD, surf to its homepage where there will be links saying "Telnet to: ....." or "Connect with Java to .....". If your computer has telnet, you will click on the telnet link, and if you internet explorer supports Java, you will use that. From here, you will be in the world of MUDS, and this section does not talk about that.

The only reason you really play a MUD is to enjoy the interaction with the other players, who join you in the complex text-based world. Often, MUDS are entertaining because you can talk with many people who are logged on from other parts of the US. It is typical that you will make your online friends, the people you will party with when logged on. In the MUD, you might enjoy the mid-evil theme it is based upon. It is possible that you will find the retreat from the real world relaxing. Even if it is any of these options, a MUD is just right for you.

Finding a suitable MUD for yourself can always be difficult because oftentimes, you don't agree with some of the rules that the MUD is enforced with. There are also MUDS out there which are totally user-unfriendly, meaning they will be difficult to navigate, and frustrating to play. I would advise finding another MUD if you stumble upon one like this. So you want to find a MUD you like? The first thing you can do is log on to the MUDS as a "guest" Most MUDS have this option, and if they don't, that is a bad sign on their part. Once using the "guest" option, it would be wise to go ahead and log on and create a character. This process is one of the most important, and if it is easy to work with, the MUD is most likely going to be user-friendly. If character-creation process is frustrating and hard to complete, the MUD is often similar in that way. A common problem in MUDS is that they are too complicated. If they are too complicated, it is always an unorganized way to play.

Once completing the steps above, it is up to you if you like the game. It is always good to be critical of MUDS because there are so many to choose from. Don't ever worry about not being able to find a MUD suitable to your likes. Some things to keep in mind when deciding if you like the MUD:

Here are two of my favorite MUDS:

After two years of hard MUD-playing, I have officially announced Ancient Anguish and Two Towers to be my two favorite MUDS. They are the MUDS that I find most user-friendly, and have kept me entertained for two years straight.

Two Towers is what I would call my all-around favorite MUD that I have ever played. Two Towers is a very user-friendly MUD, with commands that make sense and Gods and players who are always helpful. As a newbie in the Two Towers world, the game is very intriguing, being the type that causes you to forget homework, and leave breakfast for later. It is a constantly growing MUD, with many programers and more rooms everyday.

The Two Towers is based upon the fantasy series written by JRR Tolkien. The world is tightly held together with fair laws, and balanced good and evil. There are a variety of classes and races to choose from, allowing you to choose one that you think fits yourself best. The world in which this MUD takes place is balanced because there are evil aligned people and good aligned people in the world. Even further, there are assasins, and sheriffs to balance them. The Two Towers is a well developed older MUD which is very fun and easy to use. As to make the game more interesting and long-lasting, there are many quests involved into the game. Every 5 levels that your character advances, you have to complete a quest. My personal advise would be to give this MUD a try. If you do, you can contact my characters:

Pros and Cons of Two Towers:

Pros:

Cons:

I will not be able to tell you exactly to do once you start playing a MUD since I haven't played all of the MUDS that are out there. First things first, you will have to create a character. Pick a name and password that are easy for you to remember since you will be inputing them everytime that you want to log online. When creating you character, make sure to pick a race and class that fit you well since you will be stuck with these too. (Sometimes it is possible to change your class, but it usually costs something.)

After creating a character, you will have the choice to enter the MUD and start to play. Once you have taken this option, you will be immediatly welcomed to the MUD with a bombardment of help messages, gossips, and lists of news and changes. Hint: Take some time to read this stuff. Help files are the only way to go about the world. Once finishing the help files, you will be eager to start the playing. Don't be to eager and run into a battle you will lose, because you are ONLY level 1.

Here's what I would do to start out in the world. If there is a MUD school, which is a growing thing in modern MUDS, visit it. Make sure to read all the signs and boards. Once completing the MUD school and receiving your diploma, you are ready to head out into the world. First, find a simple way to get free equipment. Most MUDS provide an easy way for newbies to get free equipment. Just ask another player where you can get the equipment, and then go fetch it. Once armed, go to the newbie fighting area or the newbie dungeon, where you can fight monsters that are your level. In some MUDS, you can deliver packages for experience, and if you can, I would advise doing that.

After playing around in the world for the first few days, you will get a feel of the commands and directions to go everywhere. Hopefully the people will be nice, and will answer any questions you have. If they can't, you can always consult the help files. The first time you start MUDDING, you will be flustered, and will probably think that they really stink because so much is happening that you don't understand. Don't be discouraged too easily, because if you survive the first few days and their problems, you will have fun once you get the hang of the game.

Work your way around the world; become accustomed to the directions and the feel of the game. Make yourself cozy, and get ready for a long stay in the world of MUDS. Your mission is to gain experience and become a higher level, so once you fight some battles, visit a trainer and advance your statistics.

In conclusion, always remember the golden rule: Make sure that you are having fun in the game, and if you aren't, look for another MUD. MUDS are there for your pleasure, so don't be forced to play ones that bore you.

If you are having any problems with your MUD, or need some help, just give me a message at: