posted 09-17-99 06:43 PM ET        

"After showing Ascension at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in 1998, you took a beating both from certain fans like the Ultima Dragons [a 9000 member strong "social club"] and segments of the press. How much did this affect you personally as well as the project?"

Richard Garriott (Lord British):

"Isn't it good that at least people care? I have to keep telling myself that when things like this occur.

So the answer to your question is a lot�there's no question that I pay close attention to what people have to say, especially their critiques. It's funny, but all the fan mail I usually get is one paragraph of, "Hey, I really love your games," and the rest is pages of what I did wrong with that particular Ultima. You know they're taking the time to write because they really enjoy the games, and they just can't talk about them without saying, "Oh, I just didn't like this one thing." It's just odd they tell you more things they don't like than the things they do like. A lot of times when people become critical, they see a feature that creates a negative generalization. So you have to look for what sparked that negative thought. For example, we originally weren't going to put making bread into [Ascension] because it's not really relevant to the game. But the reaction was so strong we put it back in.

But we listen to the Dragons because they are the core audience, and for all of their extremism, they really are also our best allies and most enthusiastic fans. So we're actually releasing two versions of Ascension, one is the normal edition and the other is literally called "The Dragon Edition." The normal edition includes all of the normal stuff: cloth maps, multiple manuals, the whole shtick. The Dragon Edition includes even more, including the eight tarot cards [used by the gypsy fortuneteller in the beginning of the game], the previous eight Ultima games on a CD and the full orchestral score."

Jeff Morris:

"Oh, screw those hardcore bastards...bunch of whiners."

posted 09-17-99 07:19 PM ET            

Civ3 should also be released in a "Harcore" edition. Jeff, of course, would oversee its production. But just a few features for our extra money would include:

1) The CD isn't actually isn't included in the box! Imagine that extra tension that will build in you as you have to send in your special Hardcore request for the CD! (You pay the extra shipping and handling, of course.)

2) But don't worry, while you wait you can peruse the wonderfully written manual. But wait! Imagine your joy when you realize that half of the manual is WRONG! Oh, you'll never stop having fun guessing which half...only a Hardcore gamer could appreciate Jeff's extra effort on that one.

3) In addition to having none of the maps or historic supplementary material found in the regular version, the Harcore version simply includes an unsharpened pencil and a note from Jeff that reads: "Alright smartass, draw your own damn map."

4) And finally, a Hardcore gamer's dream: Jeff WON'T test this version for bugs! That's right! And if any Hardcore gamers submit requests for those bugs to be fixed, Jeff will simply reply: "Fun, ain't it?"***

Yes, the dream of Hardcore gamers everywhere.

posted 09-18-99 12:49 AM ET            

Buddy, I'll be laughing for a month.

Where do you find gems like this?

posted 09-18-99 02:52 AM ET            

http://www.cdmag.com/articles/022/190/garriott_interview2.html

posted 09-18-99 04:16 AM ET            

And Imran, Yin is many things, but not an idiot or moron. Hell, you should bow down and kiss his feet. He's the *Brian Reynolds* appointed Apostle from which all hardcore Civ fans were first appointed and encouraged to approach and deluge with enchantments, bugs, and general worshipfulness. At least, until they decided to form a religious split.

Yin is many things, but Brian Reynolds thought he trustworthy enough to play a vital role between BR and all Civvers. Remember that.

They thought you cool enough to have stated that they WISHED they could have used you for a faction leader in SMAC. Are you going to make them regret expressing how impressed they were with you? Tact is something all leaders need...

posted 09-18-99 05:50 AM ET            

"Hmm, I seem to recall that Firaxis put borders in because hardcore fans wanted it. I also seem to recall that people wanted aliens in SMACX.. they got it.
Sorry Yin, but your Firaxis bashing won't work among the vets of the SMAC forums.."

To which I said:

"Yes, those things were thanks to Brian Reynolds, whom I respect. This post was about Jeff Morris. Or did you miss the title?"

posted 09-18-99 06:06 PM ET            

Actually, he usually comes in with "I was only being sarcastic "

Isn't it funny how the Smacophants are always the ones with the foul mouths, ill tempers and a lack of tolerance for the opposing point of view?

But then again, if you make your living defending the indefensible, well I guess all you have left is to call names.

posted 09-18-99 08:57 PM ET            

Imran Siddiqui
Lieutenant posted 09-18-1999 04:24 PM

"Jeff Morris - CEO Firaxis
He was integral to getting those new features put in.."

yin26
Lieutenant posted 09-18-1999 08:55 PM

Imran, that's your best one yet!

Maybe the "SMAC Vet" should re-read the credits listed in the SMAC manual. Jeff Morris is credited with "Additional Programming"--he wrote the install program--and "Quality Assurance Director"--and we all know how that went.

All that aside, and even if they forgot to list Jeff as the CEO (ha!), my comments are based of Jeff's public musings about the hardcore gamer and what they (don't) mean to him.

"CEO"

That's hilarious!

posted 09-18-99 10:41 PM ET            

"Jeff Briggs - President and CEO
Jeff Briggs brings pure harmony to the FIRAXIS group. As president and CEO of FIRAXIS Games, Jeff leads the team in creating an open environment for teamwork and for the crafting of outstanding games. Jeff has 13 years of industry experience in producing and directing the creative efforts of some of the most successful entertainment software titles of all time including Sid Meier's Civilization II, Colonization and F-117A Stealth Fighter. As a classically trained musician, Jeff is the musical talent behind FIRAXIS' games."

Now watch me "twist" this around to make myself look like God. Ready?

**POOF!***

Jeff Briggs and Jeff Morris are actually two different people! Imran, if it's possible for you to feel stupid, this would be a good time.

posted 09-19-99 02:44 AM ET            

GAME, SET & MATCH!!!!

Still LMAO

posted 09-19-99 05:51 AM ET            

OW:

I concede that Firaxis does a lot of great work. Hell, I wouldn't spend time helping put lists together if I thought otherwise. Nor would I hang out on a forum for a company I hate. I'm here because I think Firaxis is an exciting company.

But I take issue with the QA director's attitude about bugs, etc. But do I think he's evil? Of course not. Jeff is obviously excited to be involved with Firaxis, and he clearly wants them to make great games. But his attitude about bugs and the manner in which he deals with complaints needs a lot of work. Those articles he wrote, though true enough in noting that the bugless game doesn't exist, are counter-productive to his leading role in the goal of making the bugless game. Frankly, when he puts out articles like this, it looks like he's trying to cover his own ass and teach us some kind of lesson. For the QA director to publically claim that hardcore gamers actually perfer to have some bugs to talk about goes beyond enlightening discussion--it's inappropriate and ultimately unwise venting. QA director is perhaps one of the hardest and most thankless jobs associated with making a game. Of course, it's also a vital one.

posted 09-21-99 10:29 AM ET            

Yes, assuming Octopus will ever open that thread again, I daresay we are in for a MAMMOTH, thoroughly footnoted, response that will chill you with its sheer magnitude and venom. I know his habits more than I care to mention--and he knows mine, and that's what drives him batty. Actually, I'm quite happy to discuss my faults with people who point them out in a rational, civil way without bringing up too much of the ancient past while ignoring recent history. Staying on topic is nice, too. To be honest, I've seen a lot of my faults on these boards looking back at old posts. I'm indebted to many people for pointing them out to me in a constructive way.

As a matter of fact, I've been on the receiving end of some OW wisdom, and if it makes you feel better, I don't think you were defending me as much as you were repeating that same advice you gave me weeks/months ago: Discuss things with civility. Don't crush somebody for his ideas simply because you don't like them. Encourage a rewarding debate, not pissing matches. I applaud you for that. Sometimes easier said than done, though...

Anyway, I'm really going to give some thought to this "vinegar and salt" point you make. It's counter-productive to my argument and invites all the loonies to come and try to bite me. But that style is so ingrained in me, it's going to be tough. Well, at least I haven't been threatened to be banned lately, so either I'm improving or I'm being utterly ignored. Either way, I'm safe. For now.

posted 09-21-99 05:00 PM ET            

You seem to just gather new fans. Maybe Octopus and Imran should get together to form the "Yin26 Appreciation Society".

You know, it always ticked me off that the Firaxian Forums crashed and I lost my knick over there. But that was a long time ago. If you need another pact brother in you fight, let me know. You seem to be doing alright, especially with Old Warrior pointing out to Octopus the problems with complaining about people who complain.

posted 09-21-99 06:14 PM ET            

I would be great to see more of the SMAC people over on the official site (firaxis.com). It's still a very small number of people there, which is too bad. Dan Magaha, the Webmaster we've been screaming for, is doing a really great job.

And yes, Darkstar, I can ALWAYS use the help of a pact brother!

posted 09-22-99 03:35 PM ET         

Man, I've been lurking here too long. I just wanted to say that over the history of this board I have enjoyed your posts quite alot. You certainly have contributed to it's character greatly.

But, I also would like to say, I kinda enjoyed the younger Yin, maybe a little more. The Yin of yesterday who was not the quite so hardened vet of many...many forum battles.

If it's even possible to identify on a forum like this, I would say that you are showing signs of the 1000 yard stare.

Today your posts are crisp, clear, precise, and too few. Your points are so solid that anyone who tempts them are bound to be humiliated. The defence of your posts/comments/ideas (not only by you but also by your "pact brothers") is astounding. Brutal facts...(your weapon of choice) the most dangerous and effective counter. Yep, a harded VET, who wastes no energy in the task...efficient.

Remember the Yin that use to temp fate, letting it all hang out and looking for a scrap, continously dodging bullets then sticking the upper jab? I do. I remember huge furballs and when it was all said and done there was a bloody, scarred, junk-yard dog (Yin) standing on top of the pile with a smart grin and a piece of flesh still in his mouth.

Man those were the good ol' forum days. Now You and your army are all thats left. Really, there are no more enemies to conquer cept the odd gorilla wanna-be. Such a shame too.

This post has everything to do with nothing. Just wanted to post to say howdy and to throw out this comment.

The Greeziest
GreasyPig

posted 09-22-99 09:34 PM ET            

Everybody:

In case you don't remember this guy or weren't around at the time, let me share a bit of history. While I and others were busy pulling each other's hair about this and that, GreasyPig here would quietly open a thread like the one below. This baby got 109 replies--unheard of in February. Notice how he brings up a quite valid criticism of the game but does it such a way that's it's actually FUN to discuss. Imagine. Thanks, GreasyPig. Come Civ 3 time I truly hope you are active once again.

The Post:

GreasyPig posted 02-22-99 01:27 PM ET
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here I am, UoP, big, have a comfortable lead over the rest in reseach, lots of land but not the most, first in production, and the wealthiest. I got this way by fighting hard, making truces when needed and picking my wars carefully. At this point I'm in a Pact with everone but the global war monger Yang and the Hive. He currently is at war with nearly everyone, and is the military and land leader. Since he's far away I'm enjoying my economic success and letting the other factions bare the weight of fighting him. In the latest council meeting he tried to lift the UN charter only to be shot down (BADLY.. no votes in favor).
I should seen it then. Cause in a few turns
later Yang looses no less than 3 Planet Busters on me. Thankfully I had 3 orbital defence satalites built as an after thought (I had a couple cities maxed and decided to use them for SOMETHING constructive). I successfully defended them at the loss of two OD sats.

Well if Yang wants to mess with the Bull he's gonna get the horn. I hurried a PB and set it's destination to a convenient spot in Hive territory where 4 LARGE cities were within blast range. A hole big enough to drive Nexxus through opened up. That'l show 'em.

EVERY FACTION TURNED ON ME! Now this aint a surprise. The surprise came when all the factions issued a truce with Yang so together they could get a piece of me!

THIS IS THE SAME YANG THAT PUSHED THE DANG BUTTON IN THE FIRST PLACE! I successfully defended his FIRST STRIKE and retalliated! SO WHY IS ONLY MY BUTT IN THE RINGER!

I love this game. Let me say that first. It models cold war behavior pretty well EXCEPT when it goes from cold to HOT. SHOULDN'T YANG GET THE GLOBAL SPANKING FIRST. Heck I should be given a dang MEDAL! With a single burst I rendered a PB weilding superpower to a blubbering child!

You fire nukes at me I fire nukes BACK. Aint that what the cold war stand-off was about?

My opinion
GreasyPig
_______________

Makes you want to reply, doesn't it?

posted 09-24-99 12:51 PM ET         

But as a qualifier, Yin, I also recall that the grand majority of responses wasn't so much about GreasyPig's dilemma than they were about the "right & wrong" of Hiroshima.

Geeeezzz, we gonna get started on that again?

posted 09-29-99 02:07 PM ET            

I think JKM is coming along in his PR education. We went from "whiny low lifes with no outside life" to mere "hardcore extremist that play the game on something higher then warlord... er, talent."

posted 10-03-99 02:09 AM ET            

The critics are Cordelia.