It could be that I am on a ten day international business trip and bored to tears, but I have been back perusing the forums and thinking about DR again.
I have not played in at least five years or more, and probably not real active in seven years or more so I doubt I am remembered by many, but I see Dreamheart is back! She will remember me (I hope)!
I know that there are tons of changes and I know to read Elanthapedia, but I honestly doubt that I will circle much; I was never one for circling in the past. A previous requirement change had put me behind what I needed for my circle, so at my speed I would probably have to train for months now just to get to my current circle.
So... in addition to the typical question of what has changed, what do I need to know, etc, the main question I have is - what is the culture like?
The main thing that attracted me to DR way back was the culture of song, performing, history and lore. I loved song circles, storytelling around the fire, concerts and encouraging young bards to perform. I know its not everyone's cup of tea, but its what I loved. One of the reasons my return in 2009(?) failed was that this culture did not seem present any longer and with my health issues I no longer had the energy to do my part in trying to get it going again.
So perhaps it is just nostalgia, as we get older. I spent a lot of years ands hours in DR, and loved it, and I doubt you can ever 'go back'. But - while I don't mind hearing about mechanics changes - what is the social culture like (if any) in DR in general, and for Bards? What is Theren like? Is the Theren Theater still going? (I hate to say it, I still think of it as my theater!! :P ) Is it even worth it? The forums seem so less active now as well, and I see so little of those things.
And yes, I could log in but that whole 24 hour timer on making changes scares me a bit, so I need to do some reading before I jump in and make this commitment.
Sorry to bug you all, but any and all responses are greatly appreciated.
Daerlynn
Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 06:21 AM CDT
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 06:51 AM CDT
>> A previous requirement change had put me behind what I needed for my circle, so at my speed I would probably have to train for months now just to get to my current circle.
Part of the change to 3.0 involved all characters being grandfathered any skill below their current circle's requirements, so this may no longer be an issue for you.
I know next to nothing about the social scene outside of some random PvP so I can't help you there.
Welcome back, and hope you find DR fun again.
Part of the change to 3.0 involved all characters being grandfathered any skill below their current circle's requirements, so this may no longer be an issue for you.
I know next to nothing about the social scene outside of some random PvP so I can't help you there.
Welcome back, and hope you find DR fun again.
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 06:53 AM CDT
I'm sure a lot of people will remember you. I certainly remember climbing through the window to get to your story nights in the Arthe Dale inn. (All assuming I'm remembering the right name of course! xD)
And yes, I do believe the Theren theatre events are still going on approximately once a month under the purview of The Tavern Troupe. The population is quite a bit smaller than a few years ago but I'm sure there's still a market for your types of events, albeit maybe not as large as it once was.
Welcome (potentially) back!
And yes, I do believe the Theren theatre events are still going on approximately once a month under the purview of The Tavern Troupe. The population is quite a bit smaller than a few years ago but I'm sure there's still a market for your types of events, albeit maybe not as large as it once was.
Welcome (potentially) back!
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 07:30 AM CDT
<<And yes, I do believe the Theren theatre events are still going on approximately once a month under the purview of The Tavern Troupe. The population is quite a bit smaller than a few years ago but I'm sure there's still a market for your types of events, albeit maybe not as large as it once was.>>
Yes, the Theren Theater is still going, but it is not run by The Tavern Troupe. They are a Zoluren based order. It is run by the Theater Director Saslisena.
Yes, the Theren Theater is still going, but it is not run by The Tavern Troupe. They are a Zoluren based order. It is run by the Theater Director Saslisena.
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 11:09 AM CDT
>>And yes, I do believe the Theren theatre events are still going on approximately once a month under the purview of The Tavern Troupe.
>Yes, the Theren Theater is still going, but it is not run by The Tavern Troupe. They are a Zoluren based order. It is run by the Theater Director Saslisena.
Yup, the Tavern Troupe and the Theren Theater are two separate groups doing separate events. Both of which typically do at least one event a month in the theater that is in their home province.
A brief, unbidden thought crosses your mind that you just implicated yourself and Anjinson in the murder of Terald Sanfala. You wonder if anyone will notice.
>Yes, the Theren Theater is still going, but it is not run by The Tavern Troupe. They are a Zoluren based order. It is run by the Theater Director Saslisena.
Yup, the Tavern Troupe and the Theren Theater are two separate groups doing separate events. Both of which typically do at least one event a month in the theater that is in their home province.
A brief, unbidden thought crosses your mind that you just implicated yourself and Anjinson in the murder of Terald Sanfala. You wonder if anyone will notice.
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 06:07 PM CDT
I remember you, Daerlynn. :)
The culture is certainly different from what it was a decade ago. I remember the Bard guild being full at all times, and that's not the case any longer. The hangouts in game are fewer, and also less spontaneous and talkative (though they have their moments).
But as others have said, there ARE events happening in both Zoluren and Therengia -- and Ilithi too -- involving the theaters in each. They are generally performances, but there are also some interactive events (such as Ilithi's Biggest Liar), trivia events, etc. Sometimes there are balls as well -- I think the Tavern Troupe is doing a masquerade ball in July.
If you're looking to join a group, I think the Tavern Troupe is probably your best bet, as it's the biggest and most focused on performing. But you could also likely find a nice space in one of the other two provinces also.
I wouldn't worry about the 24 hour change issue. I think what you're referring to is EXP SWITCH. The main thing you should do there is make sure your Debilitation is in line with your combat skills (it acts kind of like a "weapon" in that it has to be at the right critter level to learn). The ordering of your other magic skills is not terribly important as a Bard.
I'd say, come on in and check it out, don't stress about circling too much, and just see if you like it.
-- Player of Eyuve (and, a long time ago, a Bard you may have known)
The culture is certainly different from what it was a decade ago. I remember the Bard guild being full at all times, and that's not the case any longer. The hangouts in game are fewer, and also less spontaneous and talkative (though they have their moments).
But as others have said, there ARE events happening in both Zoluren and Therengia -- and Ilithi too -- involving the theaters in each. They are generally performances, but there are also some interactive events (such as Ilithi's Biggest Liar), trivia events, etc. Sometimes there are balls as well -- I think the Tavern Troupe is doing a masquerade ball in July.
If you're looking to join a group, I think the Tavern Troupe is probably your best bet, as it's the biggest and most focused on performing. But you could also likely find a nice space in one of the other two provinces also.
I wouldn't worry about the 24 hour change issue. I think what you're referring to is EXP SWITCH. The main thing you should do there is make sure your Debilitation is in line with your combat skills (it acts kind of like a "weapon" in that it has to be at the right critter level to learn). The ordering of your other magic skills is not terribly important as a Bard.
I'd say, come on in and check it out, don't stress about circling too much, and just see if you like it.
-- Player of Eyuve (and, a long time ago, a Bard you may have known)
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/29/2014 10:49 PM CDT
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/30/2014 03:31 AM CDT
Heyo Daerlynn,
Of course we remember you!
I made the move back a few months ago (gosh, it might even be six) and I'm based in Therenborough. The Theater is still going strong. Saslisena does a fine job of writing scripts and wrangling a bunch of actors to perform. They perform each month, and the shows are well attended. Lady Shantelle, and even the Lord Baron himself are often in attendance. Between performances in Theren, Sesi schedules a number of impromptu style events in Shard, including storytelling and lots of off the cuff antics mostly involving glitter. Performance in The Crossing is presided over by the Troupe, who've commandeered the little Theater in Arthe Dale. The Troupe has upwards of 25 odd members and hosts all sorts of events. Just this month there is a pajama party, a ball, and a talent show (did I miss any Katso?). So, performance is alive and well in Elanthia! I'm sure you will again be welcomed.
Theren is still a place where security is taken seriously. The Theren Guard is probably the most well patronized militia, and has a brand new Order House, complete with a jousting arena and bar sports! But the Northern Watch and Cavalry are still around hosting spars and jousts (respectively). Again, these events are well attended by populous and nobles alike.
Culture wise, I think you'll find much of the same... Crossings is still a bustling trade town in the middle of a province that has a number long time residents as well as a few folks still developing their role play. Theren is still a little more mature, with great characters and deep plots. Shard... well Shard it weird (no change there). History and the 'epic plots' continue to evolve, and the rumor system is going strong.
Mechanics... well 3.0 has happened, and 3.1... which for Bards essentially means big changes to magic. It's a bit weird at first preparing and casting, but in general the ability to stack complimentary spells up is a big leap forward. Bards seem to have done well out of the magic changes, although I wish I'd spent more time on Magic Devices (Arcana) and Targeting as a youngan. Combat is similar, but with a lot more 'meat'. I find myself using tactics a lot... it's great to be able to work on Lore while you're swinging a blade.
Crafting was new to me, and it still seems daunting. The fact that there are folks out there with more crafting experience than I have total ranks, suggests I'm a long way from mastering anything, but I can knit a scarf, and carve a pretty good likeness of an elf into a mined pebble - for what it's worth.
I'm also staggered at how much money is in the Realms - auctions go for tens of thousands of plat... (gasp!)
Otherwise, still great people... still lots of fun to be had... still one of the most immersive games around.
Hopefully my little bit of insight helps.
It would be great to see you back.
Azkaban
Of course we remember you!
I made the move back a few months ago (gosh, it might even be six) and I'm based in Therenborough. The Theater is still going strong. Saslisena does a fine job of writing scripts and wrangling a bunch of actors to perform. They perform each month, and the shows are well attended. Lady Shantelle, and even the Lord Baron himself are often in attendance. Between performances in Theren, Sesi schedules a number of impromptu style events in Shard, including storytelling and lots of off the cuff antics mostly involving glitter. Performance in The Crossing is presided over by the Troupe, who've commandeered the little Theater in Arthe Dale. The Troupe has upwards of 25 odd members and hosts all sorts of events. Just this month there is a pajama party, a ball, and a talent show (did I miss any Katso?). So, performance is alive and well in Elanthia! I'm sure you will again be welcomed.
Theren is still a place where security is taken seriously. The Theren Guard is probably the most well patronized militia, and has a brand new Order House, complete with a jousting arena and bar sports! But the Northern Watch and Cavalry are still around hosting spars and jousts (respectively). Again, these events are well attended by populous and nobles alike.
Culture wise, I think you'll find much of the same... Crossings is still a bustling trade town in the middle of a province that has a number long time residents as well as a few folks still developing their role play. Theren is still a little more mature, with great characters and deep plots. Shard... well Shard it weird (no change there). History and the 'epic plots' continue to evolve, and the rumor system is going strong.
Mechanics... well 3.0 has happened, and 3.1... which for Bards essentially means big changes to magic. It's a bit weird at first preparing and casting, but in general the ability to stack complimentary spells up is a big leap forward. Bards seem to have done well out of the magic changes, although I wish I'd spent more time on Magic Devices (Arcana) and Targeting as a youngan. Combat is similar, but with a lot more 'meat'. I find myself using tactics a lot... it's great to be able to work on Lore while you're swinging a blade.
Crafting was new to me, and it still seems daunting. The fact that there are folks out there with more crafting experience than I have total ranks, suggests I'm a long way from mastering anything, but I can knit a scarf, and carve a pretty good likeness of an elf into a mined pebble - for what it's worth.
I'm also staggered at how much money is in the Realms - auctions go for tens of thousands of plat... (gasp!)
Otherwise, still great people... still lots of fun to be had... still one of the most immersive games around.
Hopefully my little bit of insight helps.
It would be great to see you back.
Azkaban
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 06/30/2014 08:28 AM CDT
>Just this month there is a pajama party, a ball, and a talent show (did I miss any Katso?)
Just one. The party we're throwing for Aayveia and Dahaita's making their 100th Circle. Gonna be a busy month for the Tavern Troupe.
A brief, unbidden thought crosses your mind that you just implicated yourself and Anjinson in the murder of Terald Sanfala. You wonder if anyone will notice.
Just one. The party we're throwing for Aayveia and Dahaita's making their 100th Circle. Gonna be a busy month for the Tavern Troupe.
A brief, unbidden thought crosses your mind that you just implicated yourself and Anjinson in the murder of Terald Sanfala. You wonder if anyone will notice.
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/03/2014 03:25 PM CDT
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/03/2014 08:24 PM CDT
Thank you all for all of your kind words! Oh my, I am such a noob now. And I am closer to circling then I was!! It has been so good to see people both old and new.
Good so far - people are still friendly, seeing Dreamy, Linett, Shenny, Azkaban and Kelela (kinda), and new friends I just met. I never was a huge fan of combat, but didn't mind it until those combos came that I hated - and they are gone!! My skills aren't as bad as I remembered and my bonus pools whatever they are seem big. All my items are there and I still love my unique Theren hauberk. I am sure I am missing other things.
Not as good - emptier, especially Theren, but that's based on a small time here. I don't what's good or bad as far as my stuff! And I am such a noob!
Also, I have to remove 193 items from my vault!
Oh and thank you, Simu! I downloaded Stormfront.... and many if not most of my song scripts are there so I can inflict them on people again. However, is there a new command to get PLAYACT to work?
Daerlynn
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/07/2014 10:04 PM CDT
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/14/2014 09:22 AM CDT
Meigs!!
How are you? I always get so excited when I see people I remember!
Its been fun being back, I will admit. The encouraging thing is that, at least according to Olwydd, I am closer now to gaining seven circles then I was to actually having the requirements for my actual circle when I left. The grandfathering was good; it took away one of my biggest frustrations when I left - even though I don't circle much, having no hope to circle was still a big downer.
The social scene is slow; I like to talk a lot and I think I tend to annoy people with that now. Perhaps I will get to know more people. I hope.
Now I will bug and ask some questions.
I have a nice weapon to train small edged, thanks to Taygar. However, my primary weapon currently (they are close) is Light Thrown. It doesn't seem my old throwing club or throwing axe are doing that well, and I haven't tried my throwing blades due to a remembered propensity for them to lodge and I am not ready to deal with that yet - swamp trolls add up on me quickly and I am not using any magic yet to help. What is a really good LT weapon to look for?
Secondly - I have adjusted my Magic skils and looked at my stats. Seem to be fairly comfortable hunting and stuff. I have read Elanthipedia but the Magic system still confuses me a little. I am not asking for an explanation of the system - but what spells do you like and why? I need to think about picking them and feats.
Generally I have always liked my stats and enchantes to fit my RP personality / strengths as I see them - does that work? That would lead me to the emotional tree... but well, I am clueless as always.
Thank you!
Daer
How are you? I always get so excited when I see people I remember!
Its been fun being back, I will admit. The encouraging thing is that, at least according to Olwydd, I am closer now to gaining seven circles then I was to actually having the requirements for my actual circle when I left. The grandfathering was good; it took away one of my biggest frustrations when I left - even though I don't circle much, having no hope to circle was still a big downer.
The social scene is slow; I like to talk a lot and I think I tend to annoy people with that now. Perhaps I will get to know more people. I hope.
Now I will bug and ask some questions.
I have a nice weapon to train small edged, thanks to Taygar. However, my primary weapon currently (they are close) is Light Thrown. It doesn't seem my old throwing club or throwing axe are doing that well, and I haven't tried my throwing blades due to a remembered propensity for them to lodge and I am not ready to deal with that yet - swamp trolls add up on me quickly and I am not using any magic yet to help. What is a really good LT weapon to look for?
Secondly - I have adjusted my Magic skils and looked at my stats. Seem to be fairly comfortable hunting and stuff. I have read Elanthipedia but the Magic system still confuses me a little. I am not asking for an explanation of the system - but what spells do you like and why? I need to think about picking them and feats.
Generally I have always liked my stats and enchantes to fit my RP personality / strengths as I see them - does that work? That would lead me to the emotional tree... but well, I am clueless as always.
Thank you!
Daer
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/14/2014 12:32 PM CDT
>The social scene is slow; I like to talk a lot and I think I tend to annoy people with that now. Perhaps I will get to know more people. I hope.
Right now a lot of players are on Taisidon as well, once that's over you'll probably see more socializing.
Vote:
http://www.topmudsites.com/vote-DragonRealms.html
Right now a lot of players are on Taisidon as well, once that's over you'll probably see more socializing.
Vote:
http://www.topmudsites.com/vote-DragonRealms.html
Re: Can I do this? Is it worth it? on 07/15/2014 03:07 AM CDT