utopianways.com - the other guide - logo

Home :

Introduction

The world of Utopia is a fascinating environment, where reality and dreams meet, where simple and modest peasants can grow to be remarkable beings. This world consists of diverse creatures (defined as "races"), each determined to defend, and eventually expand, their territories. Naturally, these beings have different traits as well (defined as "personalities"). Any peasant can become leader of its own lands (defined as "province"), but only few have what it takes to survive. Every day this world will challenge every skill you have and demand you watch over your province carefully. As in any other society, you will be faced with decisions to make. There will be times when you must decide whether to be ruthless or compassionate, silent or outspoken, diplomatic or tactless. You should establish what kind of province you intend to rule: a realm of magic or deceit, might or discovery, shrewdness or treachery. Whichever your styles, as you prepare to enter this world, you will be asked to blend in with one of the races and determine your personality.

The Province

When you create an account in this world, the Utopian Lords - overseers of the environment - will give you a small plot of land in a kingdom of their choice. Your province will have a small population, some thieves and wizards, some money and a few buildings to get you started. Your province will be noted as "your province name (A:B)", where A is the kingdom number and B is the island number. You will be placed in a kingdom with up to 25 players. These players represent your team - you will work with them against all other kingdoms.

The Geography

It is important to understand how islands, kingdoms, and provinces are noted. For example, the province "Utopia (12:24)" is named Utopia, it is a member of kingdom 12, on island 24. This notation is used to maintain a record of the numerous lands around the utopian world. As this world is organized in islands, you will soon notice that interacting with provinces on islands close by is easier and faster than to go forth to islands that are more distant. As the utopian world is structured like a sphere, islands 1 and 50 are as close as islands 1 and 2.

The Time

Utopia is a real-time gaming environment. Your province will continue to grow while you are away. This world does not stop for you. While you sleep, eat, and attend to other duties, the people of your province will continue to go about their business. Your province will likely grow, people will flow in and out, buildings may be built, land might be explored, and your military may fend off attacks on your land, and so on. Your Council of Elders will keep up with all that is happening and report to you when you come back. Quick reference: 1 Hour = 1 Utopian Day, 1 Day = 1 Utopian Month, 1 Week = 1 Utopian Year. Days tick at the top of the hour.

The Currency

The currency in the utopian world is the gold coin, noted by "gc" or "$": 1000gc and $1000 both refer to 1000 gold coins. Gold coins are essential for the economy of your province. Your peasants will generate income in gold coins.

The Kingdom

The kingdom you inhabit is very essential in Utopia. Your ultimate goal is to grow to be part of the most famous kingdom of the utopian world, not simply the most famous, powerful or largest province within. As more provinces join your kingdom, it will be vital for you to reach an accord between provinces. Every kingdom should have a leader, for without one your kingdom will be overrun by other kingdoms that are organized. Each kingdom can vote for a monarch to carry out diplomatic affairs, and name the kingdom. Your King or Queen will have control over the kingdom forum to facilitate coordination and communication within the kingdom.

The Forum

The kingdom forum is the key to Utopia, and most of what you will do revolves around it. The forum is where you meet the other people in your kingdom - they will be, hopefully, your friends throughout your stay, and working with and talking with them is critical. While external forums may be set up through various other support sites, you should always focus on the in-game forum.

 

Print Page  Print this page

Introduction to the World of Utopia - Image

Teamwork is key

When you create an account, you will be placed in a kingdom with up to 25 players. These players are your team - you will work with them in a world of tens of thousands of players. Use the forum and message systems to contact them and get involved with your kingdom. This environment is the essence of Utopia.

Did you know?

Many satellite sites exist to enrich the Utopia experience. While not mandatory, visiting them may provide different perspectives and additional tools. Some examples are Utopiatemple and Utopiapimp. A frequently used and helpful support application is Utopia Angel. Real-time communication tools used by many players include MSN Messenger, IM, and Yahoo. Some communities are also using IRC.