The Zelaron MMORPG (Discussion thread)

Shinto Katana and I have discussed the idea of starting a Zelaron MMORPG development project, in which any member of Zelaron can contribute. In other words, it will be an open game development project void of financial interests, and an excellent opportunity for anyone who wants to practice their artistic, musical or programming skills.

The basic premise is for players to defend Castle Zelaron (a subsidiary of The Zelaron Empire) against waves of incoming attackers. Every wave of invading antagonists will become increasingly difficult to extirpate until The Zelaron Empire is eventually defeated by its adversaries and the game is restarted. To make things more interesting, the surrounding terrain will be randomly generated at the beginning of every round of the game.

The different waves (first, second, third and so on) will stay the same in strength and number regardless of the amount of players logged into the game, but will vary the strategy of their invasion. To survive as many waves as possible, it will become necessary to co-operate with other players in co-ordinated defensive strategies, and to get as many players as possible to join the game.

High score tables will be shown, and the top players logged into the game will have an opportunity of joining The Conclave. Players who choose to be part of The Conclave will see an overview of the battlefield, and will be able to expand Castle Zelaron with additional structures (which may be used as spawn points or defensive strongholds). They will also be able to co-ordinate defensive efforts by ordering (or suggesting) players where to go.

Thoughts? Feel free to state particular areas you may be willing to contribute in.