We all can agree I am sure that the virtual world mimics the real world in some way; otherwise what would we have to compare the two. I agree with you whole heartedly about the API feature Ferrel. I do believe it is lacking in all games. Being able to track my level and seeing my toon picture is so passé now. I want to be able to communicate with the virtual world as well and keep in touch with people. Also maybe have a “mini-game” feature to upgrade my toon in some way. I can’t believe the online market hasn’t tapped this revenue source.

Uh oh, that’s right I said it. Capitalism is king when it comes to development. You can’t have Art without making the money first. That is why some many artists in whichever genre you choose get the money first then will take an artistic risk, which is what I think API is. I also think that people would agree that people would and will find a way to exploit the API for their benefits. Yet, that will happen regardless of whatever path you take in the real world or the virtual one. This doesn’t mean the masses should suffer from functionality because of it though. Think of the IPhone, it was out on the street for a matter of hours before it was cracked, but they are still selling like hotcakes.

The way I envision a great API would be player content upgrade contests. From art, gear, and the almighty quest/quest lines that the fans of games could bring to the table, I think it would be an endless source. For example, why do you think you stopped playing the MMo’s available right now? I think it is because you feel most games have betrayed the players in some way. If we can figure out how to fly in space you’re telling me it’s too technical to have a game where players can vie for entering and entertaining everyone with their content?

Think about it for a second? Envision in your mind your favorite MMo of all time and you were asked to come up with some form of content and there was a contest. What fan of the genre wouldn’t jump at that chance? Whether you were a budding developer or just freelance artist it would be great exposure and fun. Even though I am a capitalist pig and I think Apple is the communist arm of a socialistic agenda, lmoa. I do believe they came up with something great. What is that, the IPhone!? You can develop applications for the darn thing and get your exposure out there. Just the other day someone came up with a Congressional Voting tracker for the phone free of charge.

I think we as a fan base force should ask for this in all future design games. I know the company I keep especially Ferrel would be great at formulating game design and writing content. One of these days when I’m done defending the country I promise you I am going to gather these people and try to throw our hat into the ring, so dev’s all around beware, lol. There is a force or movement I think on the horizon that is ready to tackle this hurdle we have somehow hit.

I have gone off on a tangent a bit but I think it was warranted and still on topic. I think API would be great for the future of gaming, and the truly dedicated masses are clamoring for it. Can you imagine you being able to “tweet” to a NPC master of your keep to make sure the stores are stocked and guards are paid? Talk about the endless possibilities of immersion! I have many ideas in these regards but I think it’s best to have an open discussion instead of rambling on.

Great post Ferrel, keep up the hard work and maybe I will hit the lottery and give a ton of cash to start the gaming company called The Sh1t! because you would, “Put the O back into Pwn!” 