browser-based ORPG
(This is more of an updated & fresh perspective of my original DT post from months ago…)
Since my mid-teens, I`d been involved with role playing games (RPGs) of just about all types: pc games (OMMORPG), pen & paper (D&D), and since September of 2008, Dragon Tavern. The latter is considered an online “browser-based” (or “text-based”) RPG adventure game. However, one of the more obvious differences is that there are no virtual 3D avatars to control…of course that isn`t, by any means, a bad thing. Just means you get to be that much MORE creative with your character, which is what RPG is all about.
Dragon Tavern is FREE browser-based, meaning that there is zero to install onto your computer and no monthly subscriptions. It`s text-based, meaning that all the characters you meet and locations you journey through are laid out in a read-only manner (okay, yes, reading is a requirement). All of the aspects of an RPG are there though: choosing your faction/realm, character creation, purchasing/upgrading weapons and armor, skill advancement, combat, healing (your wounds), and of course…adventuring! DT also gives you the opportunity to better your chances through what they call “advantages”, which you would purchase from creditsthat you earn throughout the game. DT also uses a system called “action points”, which is what allows you to move through the world. You are given a certain amount each day, and you can also purchase additional APs (via real money) if you feel the need to. However, that is strictly up to the player and wouldn`t change your game experience a whole lot other than the fact that you get more turns.
Once you`ve created a character, then the adventure starts out in the reknown Dragon Tavern, where you can shop, upgrade, heal, gamble your gold away (if you dare), or just head out into the vast expanse of the DT world to combat the evils of the land, collect treasure, and hone your fighting skills to fight another day! The best part about it all? There is a very small learning curve. The game mechanics might take a few times to figure out, but it`s basically calculating your enemies skill points to your characters and seeing who will win the fight. (essentially, when upgrading weapons, armor, and skills, it`s raises your chance of success)
Personally, I`ve enjoyed the Dragon Tavern game because its just simple fun, yet the monsters, territories, and overall story keeps you locked into it. Aside from the game itself, there is also a nicely put together forum, which players can sign into (separate registration, but freenonetheless) and interact with other players. I`ve been involved in the RP threads within the forums, writing storylines and also participating in other player`s storylines. Its just good fun with like-minded people.
If simple, family-friendly, yet addicting browser-based RPG game play is your cup o` joe…just click on either of the banners to check out Dragon Tavern for yourself. Read through the storyline they have on the main pages, and also check out all the different character classes and factions to see which one you would be interested in. Then, start the adventure!
