Fulcrum's page

If our guild is more fun to be in than the other one, it wouldn't make sense for the spy to serve his master. I think we should be able to pull off some defections. We're going to be having more fun.

Well, if you want to be technical . . . but the point is . . . don't let your thinking cloud your judgment.

Look, MMOs have a tendency to self-destruct, but I am hoping that PFO is not one of those. In fact I was willing to be a backer, and am spending time in these forums, because I believe PFO will succeed.

I've been in guilds before. This is not new, and it isn't rocket science. I have never joined a guild to be selfish, and when folks have to pool resources and pay taxes it is hard to see where all the deep rooted selfishness is coming into play.

I'm glad that this Evil as Selfish stuff is being raised. I really do not see this being the case here. I see coming together as a community to be more selfless than selfish. If someone makes it clear that he or she doesn't get it and ends up not progressing the goals of the collective, then that selfishness will be addressed. Selfishness will not be institutionalized in this chartered company, nor in the nation that we build.

Philosophically, I think there are a bunch of things that count as evil on the table top, but which would be near impossible to translate into an MMO. On the other hand, it seems that if the organization has a firm set of laws, stands opposed to the expansion of the cause of good, and tolerates and encourages the belief in evil gods it's pretty much lawful evil. The idea of becoming powerful, influential, and owning items is not selfishly neutral; rather, these things will be essential to furthering the goals of evil.

I would think that devils would not do too well if the only thing expected of them was self-sacrifice in the name of their master. The machinations of evil are not always easy to assess from the outside, but I assure you that just because a follower of Asmodeus becomes powerful, it does not mean he did so for a selfish reason (unless it is selfish to serve to the best of one's ability).

(And I had already worked myself into a confused state before looking here. Definitely need to work on a cohesive theory of life, the universe, and everything.)

While you work out the particulars of what would make sense to you, you might be missing the inevitable gravity of the moment. Does lightning make sense when it sets a home ablaze? Does a wave make sense when it takes out a coastal community?

The undeniably menacing thing that exists just outside of your peripheral vision is very real, even if it doesn't always make sense.

(Edited to remove erroneous direction of post. Apologies)

I'll also try to think of possible names as well if you guys don't mind

If it's cool, we won't mind.

I fully believe that we can pull off Evil in a hugely successful way, and have the community really appreciate our presence in game. As I stated in my first post in the thread, I believe that we can have a very solid reputation by being lawful, while at the same time advancing the cause of Evil by increasing our holdings, power, and naturally the bad-assry of our standing army.

I would believe that certain good folks or undecideds will give us a wide berth, especially if we let loose our wrath upon the chaotics (CE and CN) from time to time (a police function). There is great utility in maintaining order. Anyone arguing otherwise would likely be a criminal.

Joining will not be the hard part. Organizing will take some work. Right now, Raijin and I (who are just newly acquainted) are discussing the basic structures that will dictate the rules of this guild. As stated above, Raijin has some solid experience in PvP; on the other hand, I have always been more of a PvE player and a crafter. We are going to develop something that works for a broad membership, which ought to ensure long-term viability and success.

(An aside: Honestly, I found it amusing that in the other thread my comments were taken to mean the we, the big bad PvPers, will be threatening the little guy for no good reason. I've never been a big bad PvPer and hate hate hate getting ganked (I have run into my share of griefers). Although PvP will be very important to having a strong and successful chartered company, we will be evil, but orderly. This is not going to be an association of dicks.)

This is a great place to "spitball" ideas, and in this way those with interest, like those who've recently chimed in (Rokolith, Kirstov, and maybe Nightdrifter's twin) can help shape this thing. Remember that your suggestions should be cold, menacing, or at least marginally unpleasant.

Nothing screams intimidation like net memes and Star Trek villains. I'm all for comedic evil, I like it.

Signed,

Horo: Independent Bread Maker

Thank you, Horo. I strive to get a nice mix of evil and whimsy.

Yes. You are correct. So, all the more reason to consolidate now.

We are going to put together a LE chartered company. We will be an organized force, and I believe that we will be able to have diversity enough to accommodate not only PvPers, but also resource gatherers, crafters, merchants, etc. As a lawful company, we would not promote PKing everything that moves.

Our thread is taking shape here.

For those who may have, in the excitement of the KickStarter campaign, purchased a guild package for what turns out to be you and 5 alts -

Your enthusiasm is commendable.

Your assistance in getting PFO funded and fast-tracked is appreciated.

That said, given your relative strength, and ultimate inability to defend a settlement, the following is inevitable:

All Your Base Are Belong To Us

However, all is not lost. An offer of asylum has been extended. Please review that offer here.

Thank you for your cooperation.

There are always meta-guilds who will be recruiting from a game's announcement in order to funnel new members to the MMOs that they are currently playing, and that's okay. I won't really be a part of that again (been there . . done that. . . got bored). Plus, the recruitment posts (bumps) tend to look like they're coming from bots, and that's just creepy (What's the point of coming off as mechanical or impersonal? I must have missed that chapter in How to Win Friends and Influence People.)

GW gas set up an odd predicament, in my estimation. They have 188 guild packages sold. That represents the first 188 picks in the hex lottery for settlement locations. Some of those guilds will likely be huge, while others probably were formed due to understandable enthusiasm but will remain limited to a few members. So, when the bell rings, and territories are no longer protected from attack, the largest chartered companies (who will have received the terrain advantage due to the earliest lottery picks) will be able to pick off the smallest guilds fairly easily (one might imagine). This means that the real land grab will occur when the bell rings and the guild of 1(plus 5 alts) Kickstarter territories open up.

Therefore, there is a reason to be concerned about getting member numbers to a suitable level for early access, because, by not having purchased a guild pack, we need to position ourselves to get between the meta-guilds and one or more of these guilds of 1(or 6 ;-) ) to grab some land for ourselves. I believe that just looking at the few folks mentioning a desire to come aboard within the last few days, this chartered company will pose a real and imminent threat to those enthusiastic but unguarded settlements.

***OFFER OF ASYLUM***
Anyone who currently owns a guild, and who knows in his or her heart of hearts that his or her small band of friends will find it disheartening to fall to the organized and evil force that my band represents, and would find it equally disheartening to be claimed by one of the goody-goody large guilds down the road, you have an offer extended now. Cede your guild to this organization, and you will be granted asylum within its ranks. You would not be viewed as weak, but as decisive and clear headed. Your guild could be massive before early access, instead of a noble (but hollow) signifier of your enthusiasm for PFO. You would demonstrate that you control your destiny (a powerful demonstration), or the loss of your settlement by force will ultimately be remembered by you alone. Decide now. Resistance is futile.
*********************

I believe that there are certainly many infrastructure issues that need to be addressed for us to get this thing shiny. I certainly don't think a big recruiting push makes sense this far out from release.

I am glad that there are signs of life demonstrating that the bad guys don't have to all live in the shadows in this game. From time to time I enjoy hiding in the shadows, but I refuse to live there.

As Raijin mentions, it can't hurt to get working on groundwork, so Meadhros and anyone else interested (you too Nonexistent) feel free to pm me or Raijin for now. Once we get our own site and forums this idea will have real legs.

Still need a name though. Something that distinguishes us from the backroom evil folks who are forming their contracting guilds. Plainly, our openness, pride, intimidating demonstrations of strength and, yes, honor, shall distinguish us. So, any suggestions on who we are are welcomed.

Also, although this chartered company did not buy one of the guild KickStarter packs, I do not foresee that as a real obstacle to grabbing some land early on. GW intended to introduce 200 guilds from the beginning of this game (month 1, and then another 200 in month 2), but did not sell 200 packages. Considering that we are one of the only groups actively discussing our place in PFO at this time, I imagine that if we maintain some consistent presence, our dedication will pay off.

I really think the game is going to need something like what you suggest and would be interested in supporting such a group. My main will be starting down the druid tree and I'm not sure I could keep my alignment set. There is however always my destiny’s twin, who I plan to roll as a cleric , if this takes off I'll be there ready to punish the weak lawless heathens for the glory of Asmodeus and your budding empire.

Healing duties negotiable and by contract only...

I certainly believe we will have this thing organized before the beta rolls out. Your "twin" certainly would be welcome. I'll make sure to update you when more information is available.

And so it begins . . .

Nice job, all. Five hours left and the KickStarter is over the million mark. I'll see you in the River Kingdoms.

Congrats!

I feel that the idea was somehow promoted by your actions, Nihimon. Thank you. I will let you know if enough interest is shown to actually come up with a name and specifics.

@Fulcrum,

Well met Lord Fulcrum.... I am the "face" of The UnNamed Company (no we are not searching for a name, UnNamed is our name). We are a company of operatives that contract out various services for suitable compensation. We specialize in being discreet, efficient and dauntless.

Taking note of your "lawful" nature, you may appreciate the fact that we too observe certain codes. The one that will interest you most is that when we accept a contract, will will follow through with it until it is fulfilled. Another that you may understand is that we will take multiple contracts at one time, but we will ensure that no two contracts will negate each other. A code that you will have to accept, we do not work exclusively for any one settlement, kingdom or empire.

Finally, we have one code that will cause our rejection of any contract.... We do not prey upon the weak, down trodden, the young or the very old.

I do appreciate your codes. Maybe we will be able to work together in the future. Personally, I think that the weak, old, and those having a bad day are fair game, but I am not in this to pick on them for no reason.

Your company would likely fit into a bigger picture of orderly evil. Assassinations are fine and all, but it takes a village.

I'm tempted to turn by destiny's twin into a hellknight, but I'm not positive yet.

I'd certainly like to see a strong Lawful, LE settlement be around, though.

You've got plenty of time to think about it. I simply want to see an orderly evil settlement or kingdom, and I am willing to put in some time and thought to see that happen.

Chartered Company Proposal -

We are a long time from seeing the game, so I am not insecure that I have no name for this company. Also, I am not so narcissistic as to feel that unless I assert myself as some sort of grand poobah right now, I will somehow lose ego points if someone proves more valuable in getting things going that I am. So, as it turns out, what I am proposing is nameless with no identifiable leadership (for now).
I have not noticed one chartered company proposal on here that resembles a generalized lawful evil social structure. I am proposing just that:

I would like to see a group of like-minded individuals come together around the notion that ruthless order through intimidation, force, clever negotiations, and tireless research can be the basis of a prosperous enclave worthy of fear and respect.

Our company---> watch tower - - - > fort - - - > settlement, and potentially, nation would cast out the disobedient and the disorderly. Our reputation must be protected. We should be seen as a beacon of strength and efficiency for those who serve the goals of evil. For example our community would understand that killing is not necessarily punishable (if it betters your reputation, then it betters ours), and would be comfortable with attacking an enemy settlement even if unprovoked (as long as a tactical, justifiable reason is identified).

Feared, Orderly, Ruthless, Cunning, Efficient . . .

Does anyone want to try and put some ideas together towards this end?

I have a shield mate invite available with all dailies. If you are pledging late, feel free to contact me on here. I will confirm to the first message I get that details the account info for KS.

Honestly, I understand that this is optimistic given the current funding, but hey, let's give it a shot.

Again, you will have to contact me if interested. I am not about to start guessing as to who on here has already paired up.

Ciao.

And the offer has been taken.

You want this to suceed ? Very easy : up your pledge.

If everybody up his pledge right now by 30 $ GIVEN (with no counterpart necessary), then it will fund.

Ask yourself : do you want it or not ?

I have already upped my pledge quite a bit, and I might still.

I've seen this suggestion more than once, and usually from someone who already increased his or her pledge (as you have). I find it odd that those folks seem to have trouble considering that the others here on the forums likely already increased our pledges as well. When I read these statements (you should add 30, I already did), it just demonstrates to me that some folks are just failing to see the impracticality in getting this to fund by having the same group of forum dwellers continuously increasing their pledges.

I hope this funds, but I have already backed to the extent that I am willing and able.

Fulcrum wrote:

I don't know why I keep hearing Eeyore's voice when I read DarkOne's responses. Actually, I do.

The game is years from release. The whole Linux client thing has plenty of time to shape up.

2 other things . . .1) a little optimism can be refreshing and 2) even if you are right about your idealistic view of how operating systems ought to be, to live is a perpetual state of disappointment due to the fact that your ideals are not shared by all has very little utility.

Why be the guy at the Walkman release party going around saying, "But it does't play eight tracks. . . I own music on 8 tracks." ??

there is absolutely nothing wrong with not wanting to back a project for a game that may or may not be supporting your system, why donate money to it if you can't play it?

That makes perfect sense.

Just consider. . . Most of the world is not backing this project, but, thankfully, most don't chime in to justify that choice.

I don't know why I keep hearing Eeyore's voice when I read DarkOne's responses. Actually, I do.

The game is years from release. The whole Linux client thing has plenty of time to shape up.

2 other things . . .1) a little optimism can be refreshing and 2) even if you are right about your idealistic view of how operating systems ought to be, to live is a perpetual state of disappointment due to the fact that your ideals are not shared by all has very little utility.

Why be the guy at the Walkman release party going around saying, "But it does't play eight tracks. . . I own music on 8 tracks." ??

It would seem that even outside of "fast travel" a road ought to speed up your character's standard pace. Naturally, it should offer the same benefit to any ambulatory creature. I don't think you should have to opt for cruise control to benefit from some pavement.

I appreciate your comments, and I have to go figure out what to do with all the Massive Business Decision Committee stationery I just got back from the print shop.

From Ryan Dancey's interview on TenTonHammer.com:

To make this work we need a level of transparency that is rare in the gaming industry. We can't have a lot of "secrets" or "surprises". And people will need to educate themselves on what can be done with the resources available; some of the best ideas are unfortunately impractical despite their merits.

I am all for the transparency of the crowdforging concept, but do not understand how or why GW would expect us to educate ourselves as to resource practicalities. I, for one, would find that type of self-education impractical or impossible (I do not know this stuff to start with, how would I teach it to myself ? ;-) ) I'm still hoping that the devs will take time to educate us where applicable.

I'm clueless when it comes to design/development practicalities, so I cannot be included in your "we," Being.

I think you are on the right track, Andius. If several people get to suggesting something (sometimes suggestion threads take on a life of their own), it would make more sense for the community to be given an idea of how the development and implementation might go; that would be far better than having a popular idea ignored or funtionally dismissed with a "maybe later" kind of comment.

I'm pretty sure player housing has been mentioned elsewhere.

From the main page of the present Kickstarter, "3. Player Structures- Build your own homes, taverns, farms, and even cities! The Pathfinder Online world will be filled with places players can use to build and customize their own homes, businesses and communities."

So, there it is.

I appear to have wishfully read player housing into that blog about structures. Honestly, I would happily live in a watch tower or a blacksmith's forge. I'm flexible that way.

I thought the NeXT was cool when it was released. It strikes me that the Linux folk are kind of like the NeXTers of yesteryear (certain of their superiority, but vastly outnumbered). For that reason, I hope that the Linux folks get what they want. Whether they have money or not, respect for the NeXT just seems due.

DarkOne, I doubt that you awaiting an announcement about Amiga compatibility or that you are intending to play on Wii-U? I don't want you to feel that anyone is forgetting about you, but I am not sure what it is you are actually looking for.

That is a great suggestion! Naturally, I imagine that it could be a DIY project for the insomniacs among us, but I wouldn't mind seeing an official offering (I'm not inclined to become a cartographer at this point in life (which feels decidedly post-cartography or pre-cartography; I can't quite tell which side that's on)).

I am all for playing housing, and was glad to see that the designers are thinking about that kind of thing. I was a tad disappointed when they mentioned that buildings would be present, but that actually having buildings with interior spaces would take time. I would think that having innards would be pretty important for a building.

When it comes to customization, I would prefer to see players have more stylistic choices than merely the one type that is paired with a particular terrain or settlement alignment. I don't think that every aspect needs to be player customizable at all, but I would dislike seeing a settlement where all of the buildings are necessarily identical.

I agree with Being as to using the home as a place to find somebody. Back in SWG, I do remember picking off the ornery critters outside of my house or crafting inside as I awaited my buddies.

I have to admit that the happy little trees in the environment experience did make me think of Bob Ross. I could just imagine the designers at GW discussing whether the world needs more happy little trees or pocket squirrels.

Once I realized that the spacebar worked as a jump, I started pressing each key to see if there was hidden functionality. Sadly, I could not find a way to get the catapults to fire, but I'm glad that I tried (I mean. . . what would you do if you just came across a loaded catapult?).

I have no problem with necromancy (as it pertains to undead) being evil. As far as I can recall, from the days when pen and paper first took on this fantastical strangeness, making a zombie has been evil. That's fine by me, and I cannot think of a single reason why somebody would choose to rock the boat on something so uncontroversial.

Similarly, I have no problem with "summon butterflies" or "create rainbow" being good (or at least NG to allow druids to have that kind of naturey wholesomeness. I would be fine with seeing both types of activities available in PFO.

At the same time, I am disturbed to think that Imbicatus views James Bond as evil. I must go think on this.

Imbicatus wrote:

Keovar wrote:

Being wrote:

Food and drink is also a factor for economic balance. It does offer strategic opportunity for seige warfare. It does burden the warmaster with thoughts of provisions and logistics. It also opens possibilities for poisoning and disease.

Not really. Smart settlements just have their members create a bunch of extra characters and load them and their banks up with lots of food, and log them out, creating a virtual 'refrigerator'. If you suspect the grain stores have been poisoned, you get your highest-Con dwarven paladin to try some. He'll probably save if there's poison, and if so, you log in 'John Dough the Provisioner' when it's meal time.

If the dev implemented food to the point where it's a valid tactic for seige warfare, then I'd call that an exploit. If a settlement were using such a tactic to avoid poisoning and or food embargoes, I'd expect foodstuffs to start aging while logged out shortly after.

Here's how I'd do it: Settlements require a certain type of food as "fuel" for the settlement. This is not the same kind of food your character would eat and would be required in quantities that individuals can't really store. The settlement would have a special storage for this fuel. Sure, your characters won't be affected on a personal level . . . until the settlement starts to degrade. (This could be implemented regardless of other types of food.)

I agree that food should be a resource tied to the settlement, fortress, etc. I remember enjoying MUDS, but don't remember thinking that eat/drink messages were nifty and fun. I also remember having fun with "Zork," but I would not advocate for ravenous grues lurking in every dark corner. I'm not looking for this game to remind me of something I've already played (especially something played in the text-only era).

This suspense is just horrible. I am so strongly in favor of many of the proposed design choices for this MMO that I am having trouble fathoming where the rest of the support is. I have backed only a handful of Kickstarter projects so far, and this would be the first to fail (should it), but this project is simply more meaningful than others I've seen succeed.

I hope we are not left asking 'what now' when the clock runs out. I was so psyched at securing a spot in the beta (a spot which really isn't secure yet, and may not be). Sorry for venting, but I just have my fingers crossed.

I just came on board at the $100 level. I did not know about the prior Kickstarter campaign, but I am glad to use my pledge to shorten development time. I cannot wait to see this come to fruition. Hmm. . . Now I just have to find my Goblin Squad badge. . .