You can make the pet do trick ( greet and dance at level 1 bristle).
It make it lose focus, but give XP.
You start with 99% focus. Focus regenerate over time
You start with 99% focus. Focus regenerate over time
Showing posts with label Taming. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Taming. Show all posts
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
More info about pets
Your pet start starved ( 1% fed), 100 nutrio bar fill 25%.
You can make the pet do trick ( greet and dance at level 1 bristle).
You can make the pet do trick ( greet and dance at level 1 bristle).
Entropia Universe 15.0 Release Notes
Taming
Version Update 15.0 includes the first phase of reintroducing Taming to Entropia Universe. Future updates will introduce exciting new Taming features such as pet buffs and equipment, as well as features specifically related to the ComPet app that will be released early next year.
In this first phase, existing pets will become active once again and each planet will feature one new low-level tamable creature:
Taming a creature
Tamable creatures are indicated by a heart-shaped taming symbol, to the left of a creature’s health bar. When you find a tamable creature, you first need to use a Whip to lower the spirit of the creature increase its respect. Once the creature reached the correct thresholds you will be able to use an action called “Attempt Tame” to command the creature to obey and become your pet.
Control
Pets are summoned from your avatar inventory. A summoned pet will follow your avatar around, and various information and commands are available from the pet dashboard that appears when a pet is summoned.
Mood
Your pet will have different moods depending on how it feels, so it is a good idea to keep your pet engaged while summoned.
Energy
Pets consume energy over time and gain experience over time while summoned. Energy indicates how well fed a pet is. Right click on Nutrio Bars in your inventory in order to feed your pet. Energy level affects a pet’s mood, so be sure to keep your pet well fed.
Affection
Depending on how it is treated a pet will gain affection towards your avatar. Keep treating it well and something good might be given in return due to the deep connection you have built up.
Experience
As you engage and care for a pet it will gain experience levels. Higher levels unlock different commands and tricks that a pet can perform. Additional commands will be added in future updates.
Focus
Focus is a measure of how well a pet can focus when performing tricks and other commands. Be sure not to push your pet too hard in a short time period or it will lose focus.
Ancient Pets
Existing tamed pets from the old taming system are operational in the relaunched taming system, and are indicated as Ancient pets. The old pet maturities have been merged into one of two maturities as follows:
Former pets with a maturity of Young - Guardian are now the default Ancient pet maturity, and have the parameters of the former Guardian pet maturity.
Former pets with a maturity of Dominant - Stalker are now known as the Ancient Strong maturity and have the parameters of the former Stalker maturity.
Whips
Two new crafted Whips have been introduced. The blueprints for these items can be found while crafting weapons on any planet.
Shrapnel
Shrapnel, a new stackable resource, has been introduced to hunting loot. All creatures on all planets will drop this new resource as a symbolic representation of salvaged battle debris, regardless of the type of weapon(s) used to defeat the creature. Shrapnel will replace a portion of the total loot value formerly dropped in the form of ammo, animal oils, tier components, paint cans, etc. Shrapnel is not used as a crafting component; instead, Shrapnel can be can converted to Universal Ammo at a ratio of 100:101, or sold to the Trade Terminal at face value.
Changes
The Target user interface has been improved
Graphical improvements have been made to the Message Center interface.
Friend and Society invites and channel invites now always appear at the op top of the Message Center for improved visibility.
Improved dissolve/appear transition effects in the social interfaces.
It is now possible to teleport from Monria to Planet Calypso for a fee of 7 PED.
Fixed Issues
Several Monria estate issues have been fixed.
The selected avatar portrait is now correctly displayed in the contacts list.
Fixed an issue preventing Motherships and Space Stations sometimes not appearing in the teleport destination list.
Fixed an issue resulting in the hangar entrance on Motherships sometimes not closing when restricted.
Fixed an issue resulting in new messages sometimes not appearing in the Message Center.
Fixed an issue with auction icons sometimes missing from Message Center messages.
Fixed an issue resulting in bank loans not displaying properly in some situations.
Fixed an issue interfering with sound effects for some BLP weapons.
General fixes to many sound events.
Known Issues
Pets do not disappear when dismissed in estates.
Clear shader cache should be cleared via the Client Loader in order for the new dissolve effects to display.
Pet items do not always reappear in inventory when a pet pet is dismissed due to teleportation. Relogging resolves the issue.
The Rocktropia Panther pet portrait is missing.
The Toulan Tabtab pet may cause the 64-bit Client to crash on Windows 8. Using the 32-bit client avoids the problem.
Version Update 15.0 includes the first phase of reintroducing Taming to Entropia Universe. Future updates will introduce exciting new Taming features such as pet buffs and equipment, as well as features specifically related to the ComPet app that will be released early next year.
In this first phase, existing pets will become active once again and each planet will feature one new low-level tamable creature:
- Arkadia - Nusul Puny
- Calypso - Bristlehog Puny
- Cyrene - Young Arret
- Rocktropia - Panther Puny
- Toulan - Tabtab Puny
Taming a creature
Tamable creatures are indicated by a heart-shaped taming symbol, to the left of a creature’s health bar. When you find a tamable creature, you first need to use a Whip to lower the spirit of the creature increase its respect. Once the creature reached the correct thresholds you will be able to use an action called “Attempt Tame” to command the creature to obey and become your pet.
Control
Pets are summoned from your avatar inventory. A summoned pet will follow your avatar around, and various information and commands are available from the pet dashboard that appears when a pet is summoned.
Mood
Your pet will have different moods depending on how it feels, so it is a good idea to keep your pet engaged while summoned.
Energy
Pets consume energy over time and gain experience over time while summoned. Energy indicates how well fed a pet is. Right click on Nutrio Bars in your inventory in order to feed your pet. Energy level affects a pet’s mood, so be sure to keep your pet well fed.
Affection
Depending on how it is treated a pet will gain affection towards your avatar. Keep treating it well and something good might be given in return due to the deep connection you have built up.
Experience
As you engage and care for a pet it will gain experience levels. Higher levels unlock different commands and tricks that a pet can perform. Additional commands will be added in future updates.
Focus
Focus is a measure of how well a pet can focus when performing tricks and other commands. Be sure not to push your pet too hard in a short time period or it will lose focus.
Ancient Pets
Existing tamed pets from the old taming system are operational in the relaunched taming system, and are indicated as Ancient pets. The old pet maturities have been merged into one of two maturities as follows:
Former pets with a maturity of Young - Guardian are now the default Ancient pet maturity, and have the parameters of the former Guardian pet maturity.
Former pets with a maturity of Dominant - Stalker are now known as the Ancient Strong maturity and have the parameters of the former Stalker maturity.
Whips
Two new crafted Whips have been introduced. The blueprints for these items can be found while crafting weapons on any planet.
Shrapnel
Shrapnel, a new stackable resource, has been introduced to hunting loot. All creatures on all planets will drop this new resource as a symbolic representation of salvaged battle debris, regardless of the type of weapon(s) used to defeat the creature. Shrapnel will replace a portion of the total loot value formerly dropped in the form of ammo, animal oils, tier components, paint cans, etc. Shrapnel is not used as a crafting component; instead, Shrapnel can be can converted to Universal Ammo at a ratio of 100:101, or sold to the Trade Terminal at face value.
Changes
The Target user interface has been improved
Graphical improvements have been made to the Message Center interface.
Friend and Society invites and channel invites now always appear at the op top of the Message Center for improved visibility.
Improved dissolve/appear transition effects in the social interfaces.
It is now possible to teleport from Monria to Planet Calypso for a fee of 7 PED.
Fixed Issues
Several Monria estate issues have been fixed.
The selected avatar portrait is now correctly displayed in the contacts list.
Fixed an issue preventing Motherships and Space Stations sometimes not appearing in the teleport destination list.
Fixed an issue resulting in the hangar entrance on Motherships sometimes not closing when restricted.
Fixed an issue resulting in new messages sometimes not appearing in the Message Center.
Fixed an issue with auction icons sometimes missing from Message Center messages.
Fixed an issue resulting in bank loans not displaying properly in some situations.
Fixed an issue interfering with sound effects for some BLP weapons.
General fixes to many sound events.
Known Issues
Pets do not disappear when dismissed in estates.
Clear shader cache should be cleared via the Client Loader in order for the new dissolve effects to display.
Pet items do not always reappear in inventory when a pet pet is dismissed due to teleportation. Relogging resolves the issue.
The Rocktropia Panther pet portrait is missing.
The Toulan Tabtab pet may cause the 64-bit Client to crash on Windows 8. Using the 32-bit client avoids the problem.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Developer Notes 9 - Version Update 15.0 Preview
Taming
As announced in an earlier Buzz article, Version Update 15.0 brings Taming back to Entropia Universe. In this first phase, each planet will feature one low-level tamable creature:
Existing pets work as they did in the old taming system, though those types of creatures cannot currently be tamed. Additional tamable creatures will be added in future Version Updates.
Shrapnel
Right click menu of Shrapnel in inventory
Shrapnel, a new stackable resource, will be introduced to hunting loot in VU 15.0.
All creatures on all planets will drop this new resource as a symbolic representation of salvaged battle debris, regardless of the type of weapon(s) used to defeat the creature. Shrapnel will replace a portion of the total loot value formerly dropped in the form of ammo, animal oils, tier components, paint cans, etc.
Shrapnel is not used as a crafting component; instead, Shrapnel can be converted to Universal Ammo at a ratio of 100:101, or sold to the Trade Terminal at face value.
Looted Stackables
The first phase of an effort to improve the distribution of looted stackable resources will be implemented in VU 15.0, starting with a majority of Planet Calypso creatures. Veteran participants will recall how several years ago most types of looted stackables could only be looted from particular creatures.
The benefit of returning to that method of distribution is a reduction in the number of different items looted in a particular hunting session, as well as more a more interesting hunting experience that allows hunters to leverage wisdom gained from previous hunts.
Loots for creatures on other planets will be adjusted in the upcoming partner releases after 15.0.
As announced in an earlier Buzz article, Version Update 15.0 brings Taming back to Entropia Universe. In this first phase, each planet will feature one low-level tamable creature:
- Arkadia - Nusul Puny
- Calypso - Bristlehog Puny
- Cyrene - Young Arret
- Rocktropia - Panther Puny
- Toulan - Tabtab Puny
Existing pets work as they did in the old taming system, though those types of creatures cannot currently be tamed. Additional tamable creatures will be added in future Version Updates.
Shrapnel
Right click menu of Shrapnel in inventory
Shrapnel, a new stackable resource, will be introduced to hunting loot in VU 15.0.
All creatures on all planets will drop this new resource as a symbolic representation of salvaged battle debris, regardless of the type of weapon(s) used to defeat the creature. Shrapnel will replace a portion of the total loot value formerly dropped in the form of ammo, animal oils, tier components, paint cans, etc.
Shrapnel is not used as a crafting component; instead, Shrapnel can be converted to Universal Ammo at a ratio of 100:101, or sold to the Trade Terminal at face value.
Looted Stackables
The first phase of an effort to improve the distribution of looted stackable resources will be implemented in VU 15.0, starting with a majority of Planet Calypso creatures. Veteran participants will recall how several years ago most types of looted stackables could only be looted from particular creatures.
The benefit of returning to that method of distribution is a reduction in the number of different items looted in a particular hunting session, as well as more a more interesting hunting experience that allows hunters to leverage wisdom gained from previous hunts.
Loots for creatures on other planets will be adjusted in the upcoming partner releases after 15.0.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Re-introducing Taming inside Entropia Universe
A long time ago in the virtual Universe colonists used to tame wildlife species to be a colonists best friend. And for fun!
In the next major update to Entropia Universe the profession of taming will once again be made available. Starting with one wild creature on each of the planets Calypso, Arkadia, Cyrene, Toulan and Rocktropia, colonists will be able to tame these to be a colonists new best friend.
Old time Entropia veterans with previous taming experience will have their old pets regenerated using a dazzling new DNA-technology. While not being guaranteed a 100% match of the previous tamed pet this technology will give veterans a unique way of displaying their skills and hard earned efforts of old times.
In the first stage of the taming system the basis for this growing part of Entropia life and economy will be laid out. Further additions to the taming system will be added in the outlined stages to come.
In this release your Pet, once tamed, will need your attention to grow in affection, learn to perform additional tricks and more. You as an avatar will learn new skills associated with taming and, as with many other systems inside Entropia be able to benefit from and take part in the related economy.
More details about the taming system will be made public in connection to the next Entropia Universe update.
In the next major update to Entropia Universe the profession of taming will once again be made available. Starting with one wild creature on each of the planets Calypso, Arkadia, Cyrene, Toulan and Rocktropia, colonists will be able to tame these to be a colonists new best friend.
Old time Entropia veterans with previous taming experience will have their old pets regenerated using a dazzling new DNA-technology. While not being guaranteed a 100% match of the previous tamed pet this technology will give veterans a unique way of displaying their skills and hard earned efforts of old times.
In the first stage of the taming system the basis for this growing part of Entropia life and economy will be laid out. Further additions to the taming system will be added in the outlined stages to come.
In this release your Pet, once tamed, will need your attention to grow in affection, learn to perform additional tricks and more. You as an avatar will learn new skills associated with taming and, as with many other systems inside Entropia be able to benefit from and take part in the related economy.
More details about the taming system will be made public in connection to the next Entropia Universe update.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
NEW TRAINERS SPEND OVER $58,000 IN AUCTIONS FOR VIRTUAL STABLES
NEW TRAINERS SPEND OVER $58,000 IN AUCTIONS FOR VIRTUAL STABLES
Trainers ready for upcoming competitive pet battles in Entropia Universe
Gothenburg, Sweden – August 13, 2014 /Entropia Universe/ – Entropia Universe AB, the largest Massively Multiplayer Online Real Cash Economy (MMORCE) game, announced today that it has completed its first auction of stable estates. The auction winners will be able to form a new business managing and training pets for combat.
The thirteen auctions for the stable estates were won at the end of July, and the stables are located at strategic points throughout Entropia Universe. These new estates will generate revenue through different channels for the stable managers by charging a small fee for services such as: selling, trading and specialized training of pets. Stables will also be the hub for future Pet Battle Arenas and Controlled Creature Battle Octagons where all pet and creature activities will be held. Stable managers can also earn PED by renting stalls to other avatars for their pets, and by providing specialized training only available at the stables. Stables provide housing and maintenance for stabled avatar pets, including food and energy. The better care provided by the stables will result in faster pet progress and better performance in competitions. These new trainers will play a significant role in the upcoming taming and pet battle content scheduled to be implemented over the next several Version Updates
List of Auction winners and locations:
Stables Estates on Planet Calypso
Cape Corinth Stable - Eugenio Anhithe Wilde - $5000
Emerald Lakes Stable - Gunnar MRmP Pettersen - $4280
Fort Ithaca Stable - Kassandra Blackwidow Draconis - $4300
Nate Valley Stable - Gandalf GandalfSzary Szary - $4800
Port Atlantis Stable - Jenna Star Mercury (for investors) - $6100
Twin Peaks Stable - Matek Matek Barbods - $6200
Stables Estates on ROCKtropia
City of Dreams Stable - Narfi Hungry Willam (for investors) - $2200
Tangerine Stable - Programer Doc Grey (for investors) - $2300
Stables Estates on Planet Arkadia
Celeste Outpost Stable - Maxihundred Max Power - $5600
Redoubtable Firebase Stable - Eugenio Anhithe Wilde - $5070
Resolute Firebase Stable - Lady Nadie Hawke - $5070
Stable Estate on Planet Cyrene
Suppy Depot Stable - Harmony bella Simpson (for investors) - $5200
Stable Estate on Planet Toulan
Guardian Village Stable - Wangxiang WangXiang Tuxing - $2200
Trainers ready for upcoming competitive pet battles in Entropia Universe
Gothenburg, Sweden – August 13, 2014 /Entropia Universe/ – Entropia Universe AB, the largest Massively Multiplayer Online Real Cash Economy (MMORCE) game, announced today that it has completed its first auction of stable estates. The auction winners will be able to form a new business managing and training pets for combat.
The thirteen auctions for the stable estates were won at the end of July, and the stables are located at strategic points throughout Entropia Universe. These new estates will generate revenue through different channels for the stable managers by charging a small fee for services such as: selling, trading and specialized training of pets. Stables will also be the hub for future Pet Battle Arenas and Controlled Creature Battle Octagons where all pet and creature activities will be held. Stable managers can also earn PED by renting stalls to other avatars for their pets, and by providing specialized training only available at the stables. Stables provide housing and maintenance for stabled avatar pets, including food and energy. The better care provided by the stables will result in faster pet progress and better performance in competitions. These new trainers will play a significant role in the upcoming taming and pet battle content scheduled to be implemented over the next several Version Updates
List of Auction winners and locations:
Stables Estates on Planet Calypso
Cape Corinth Stable - Eugenio Anhithe Wilde - $5000
Emerald Lakes Stable - Gunnar MRmP Pettersen - $4280
Fort Ithaca Stable - Kassandra Blackwidow Draconis - $4300
Nate Valley Stable - Gandalf GandalfSzary Szary - $4800
Port Atlantis Stable - Jenna Star Mercury (for investors) - $6100
Twin Peaks Stable - Matek Matek Barbods - $6200
Stables Estates on ROCKtropia
City of Dreams Stable - Narfi Hungry Willam (for investors) - $2200
Tangerine Stable - Programer Doc Grey (for investors) - $2300
Stables Estates on Planet Arkadia
Celeste Outpost Stable - Maxihundred Max Power - $5600
Redoubtable Firebase Stable - Eugenio Anhithe Wilde - $5070
Resolute Firebase Stable - Lady Nadie Hawke - $5070
Stable Estate on Planet Cyrene
Suppy Depot Stable - Harmony bella Simpson (for investors) - $5200
Stable Estate on Planet Toulan
Guardian Village Stable - Wangxiang WangXiang Tuxing - $2200
ComPet Bulletin 1
MindArk is proud to announce that the auction of ComPet deeds is going very well, with over 1 million PED worth of deeds already acquired by participants looking forward to being part of the ComPet project. The MindArk team has been both thrilled and encouraged by the great amount of interest shown in ComPet so far! In this announcement and throughout the development cycle we will be sharing lots more information about the ComPet system, including design plans and concept art.
We have also collected a number of relevant questions received from support cases and community discussions, which we hope to answer in this inaugural ComPet Bulletin.
Why is MindArk creating a separate game on a different platform?
We have learned from our marketing efforts that many potential Entropia Universe participants are lost before even logging in to Entropia Universe due to inadequate computer requirements, internet bandwidth, or other factors. ComPet will give potential participants who are interested in the concept of Entropia Universe’s RCE-MMO but are unable to play the full PC version a chance to experience at least some part of the uniqueness of Entropia Universe.
It was announced that in the free-to-play portion of ComPet, one can win points. What are the points used for?
There will be multiple currencies in ComPet. ComPet points can be obtained through lots of dedication to the game, and used to upgrade your pets or home as an alternative to using PED that can be bought for real money.
Can you provide more information about a release date for ComPet?
Though it is hard to know for sure so early in the development process, we are currently planning for a release of the ComPet app in early 2015.
Will there be an alpha test process for ComPet deed holders?
A new game such as ComPet requires lots of testing and feedback, so this is something we definitely are considering.
Does this new project mean that MindArk’s development priorities have shifted away from Entropia Universe?
MindArk’s vision for Entropia Universe has always been about making the universe deeper and broader, with a variety of experiences and features available for participants of all interests. MindArk wishes to expand the RCE universe to improve the user experience while also creating more opportunities for participants to invest and earn profits. Introducing ComPet as a standalone game and connecting parts of it with Entropia Universe accomplishes both of those goals.
That being said, rest assured that MindArk will continue to develop the core Entropia Universe platform and content as it has done for over 10 years. Development of Entropia Universe will not be negatively affected in any way by the ComPet project.
Why are there so many different types of deeds being introduced by MindArk lately?
Deeds are a great way for our participants to engage with the RCE model of Entropia Universe in a way that is totally unique in the gaming world. Previous deed opportunities have been a great success for everyone involved, and we plan to continue offering these opportunities to our participants in the future.
Will the ComPet app be available for iOS and Android devices?
The ComPet app will be offered as a standalone browser-based HTML5 application. This means it can be accessed from any platform or mobile device that has a modern web browser.
The original description of ComPet sounded a lot like gambling. Is this the case?
ComPet will be a skill-based game with some random elements included for balancing and entertainment value, very much similar to Entropia Universe.
Will all pets available in ComPet be inspired by Entropia Universe creatures, and will all pets used in ComPet be provided by Entropia Universe tamers and stables?
While the Entropia Universe taming system will definitely be a big part of the ComPet economy, not all ComPet pets will originate in Entropia Universe or be inspired by existing creatures. Many of the low-level ComPets will be generated by the ComPet system itself so that new players can get started right away. More details on the interaction between the Entropia Universe taming and stable systems and ComPet will be announced in the near future.
How does the ComPet app relate to the reimplemented Entropia Universe taming system that was announced not long ago?
As explained in the original ComPet announcement, the ‘traditional’ Entropia Universe taming system that was disabled after Version Update 10.0 will be reimplemented, with some exciting new features. In additon, the recently auctioned Entropia Universe stables will have the ability to sell pets and services to ComPet players.
Will Entropia Universe pets function in the traditional way, such as following your avatar, doing tricks, etc.?
As explained above, Entropia Universe pets will have all of their old functionality, along with lots of new features.
Will whips still be a part of the Entropia Universe taming process?
Whips will work as they did in the original Entropia Universe taming system.
What will happen to existing Entropia Universe pet deeds?
Existing pet deeds will continue to work, but the tamed creatures will have a unique status and cannot be tamed any further.
We have also collected a number of relevant questions received from support cases and community discussions, which we hope to answer in this inaugural ComPet Bulletin.
Why is MindArk creating a separate game on a different platform?
We have learned from our marketing efforts that many potential Entropia Universe participants are lost before even logging in to Entropia Universe due to inadequate computer requirements, internet bandwidth, or other factors. ComPet will give potential participants who are interested in the concept of Entropia Universe’s RCE-MMO but are unable to play the full PC version a chance to experience at least some part of the uniqueness of Entropia Universe.
It was announced that in the free-to-play portion of ComPet, one can win points. What are the points used for?
There will be multiple currencies in ComPet. ComPet points can be obtained through lots of dedication to the game, and used to upgrade your pets or home as an alternative to using PED that can be bought for real money.
Can you provide more information about a release date for ComPet?
Though it is hard to know for sure so early in the development process, we are currently planning for a release of the ComPet app in early 2015.
Will there be an alpha test process for ComPet deed holders?
A new game such as ComPet requires lots of testing and feedback, so this is something we definitely are considering.
Does this new project mean that MindArk’s development priorities have shifted away from Entropia Universe?
MindArk’s vision for Entropia Universe has always been about making the universe deeper and broader, with a variety of experiences and features available for participants of all interests. MindArk wishes to expand the RCE universe to improve the user experience while also creating more opportunities for participants to invest and earn profits. Introducing ComPet as a standalone game and connecting parts of it with Entropia Universe accomplishes both of those goals.
That being said, rest assured that MindArk will continue to develop the core Entropia Universe platform and content as it has done for over 10 years. Development of Entropia Universe will not be negatively affected in any way by the ComPet project.
Why are there so many different types of deeds being introduced by MindArk lately?
Deeds are a great way for our participants to engage with the RCE model of Entropia Universe in a way that is totally unique in the gaming world. Previous deed opportunities have been a great success for everyone involved, and we plan to continue offering these opportunities to our participants in the future.
Will the ComPet app be available for iOS and Android devices?
The ComPet app will be offered as a standalone browser-based HTML5 application. This means it can be accessed from any platform or mobile device that has a modern web browser.
The original description of ComPet sounded a lot like gambling. Is this the case?
ComPet will be a skill-based game with some random elements included for balancing and entertainment value, very much similar to Entropia Universe.
Will all pets available in ComPet be inspired by Entropia Universe creatures, and will all pets used in ComPet be provided by Entropia Universe tamers and stables?
While the Entropia Universe taming system will definitely be a big part of the ComPet economy, not all ComPet pets will originate in Entropia Universe or be inspired by existing creatures. Many of the low-level ComPets will be generated by the ComPet system itself so that new players can get started right away. More details on the interaction between the Entropia Universe taming and stable systems and ComPet will be announced in the near future.
How does the ComPet app relate to the reimplemented Entropia Universe taming system that was announced not long ago?
As explained in the original ComPet announcement, the ‘traditional’ Entropia Universe taming system that was disabled after Version Update 10.0 will be reimplemented, with some exciting new features. In additon, the recently auctioned Entropia Universe stables will have the ability to sell pets and services to ComPet players.
Will Entropia Universe pets function in the traditional way, such as following your avatar, doing tricks, etc.?
As explained above, Entropia Universe pets will have all of their old functionality, along with lots of new features.
Will whips still be a part of the Entropia Universe taming process?
Whips will work as they did in the original Entropia Universe taming system.
What will happen to existing Entropia Universe pet deeds?
Existing pet deeds will continue to work, but the tamed creatures will have a unique status and cannot be tamed any further.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Entropia Universe brings gameplay to Smartphone, Tablet and Web Browser
Entropia Universe brings gameplay to Smartphone, Tablet and Web Browser!
Finally you will be able to play the Entropia Universe(EU) on different platforms.
The new Competition Pet (ComPet) system will provide features of Entropia Universe, including creature clashes, and bring them together in an exciting smartphone, tablet and web browser application.
Smartphone, tablet and browser users will be able to compete with one another by selecting one of the many pets available in the ComPet application. There are various maturity and price levels available to fit players of all types, including a free-to-play version. Once a pet has been selected the user will choose a number of “buffs” and “add-ons” that can both personalize the pet and enhance its combat prowess. Next, users carefully prepare a unique battle plan; this is a set of special instructions for the pet on how to engage its rival. Once the user is satisfied with the pet configuration, the pet can be entered into the ComPet Arena or enlisted for defense duty at the user’s home base. In any battle, trainers can win real cash prizes. If players play for free they can win special pet upgrades and points; if played for PED (Project Entropia Dollars), they can win more PED, which can be exchanged for real cash.
Additionally, any player can be part of this revenue opportunity and earn PED when smartphone, tablet and web browser users play the new Entropia Universe ComPet App. Before launch, 200,000 ComPet Deeds, priced at 100 PED (10 USD) each, will be made available through the webshop and in the Entropia Universe auction. Deeds can be acquired by anyone with an Entropia Universe account, even those who may not have installed the full Entropia Universe PC client software. They can alternatively purchase deeds through the Virtual Tycoon Android mobile app and start earning revenue from ComPet activity, which is scheduled for launch in Q1 2015.
Deed holders will receive 30% of the gross ComPet revenue. In addition, the ComPet affiliate program will enable users to recruit their friends and earn a 15% share of their recruited users’ activity. The remaining 70% (or 55% in the case of an affiliate-referred user) of revenue will go toward marketing, operation and support for the ComPet App. In conjunction with MindArk’s accountants, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC), the ComPet App accounts will be available for inspection and published on the Entropia Universe website.
The graph below shows the annual return on the ComPet deeds as a function of the number of paying users (possible revenue share from affiliate program not included).
Assumptions underlying the graph:
1. That the average user lifespan will be six months
2. That 80% of the users will play for free and 20% will pay to play
3. That the Average Revenue per Paying User and month (ARPU) will be 3 USD.
Finally you will be able to play the Entropia Universe(EU) on different platforms.
The new Competition Pet (ComPet) system will provide features of Entropia Universe, including creature clashes, and bring them together in an exciting smartphone, tablet and web browser application.
Smartphone, tablet and browser users will be able to compete with one another by selecting one of the many pets available in the ComPet application. There are various maturity and price levels available to fit players of all types, including a free-to-play version. Once a pet has been selected the user will choose a number of “buffs” and “add-ons” that can both personalize the pet and enhance its combat prowess. Next, users carefully prepare a unique battle plan; this is a set of special instructions for the pet on how to engage its rival. Once the user is satisfied with the pet configuration, the pet can be entered into the ComPet Arena or enlisted for defense duty at the user’s home base. In any battle, trainers can win real cash prizes. If players play for free they can win special pet upgrades and points; if played for PED (Project Entropia Dollars), they can win more PED, which can be exchanged for real cash.
Additionally, any player can be part of this revenue opportunity and earn PED when smartphone, tablet and web browser users play the new Entropia Universe ComPet App. Before launch, 200,000 ComPet Deeds, priced at 100 PED (10 USD) each, will be made available through the webshop and in the Entropia Universe auction. Deeds can be acquired by anyone with an Entropia Universe account, even those who may not have installed the full Entropia Universe PC client software. They can alternatively purchase deeds through the Virtual Tycoon Android mobile app and start earning revenue from ComPet activity, which is scheduled for launch in Q1 2015.
Deed holders will receive 30% of the gross ComPet revenue. In addition, the ComPet affiliate program will enable users to recruit their friends and earn a 15% share of their recruited users’ activity. The remaining 70% (or 55% in the case of an affiliate-referred user) of revenue will go toward marketing, operation and support for the ComPet App. In conjunction with MindArk’s accountants, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC), the ComPet App accounts will be available for inspection and published on the Entropia Universe website.
The graph below shows the annual return on the ComPet deeds as a function of the number of paying users (possible revenue share from affiliate program not included).
Assumptions underlying the graph:
1. That the average user lifespan will be six months
2. That 80% of the users will play for free and 20% will pay to play
3. That the Average Revenue per Paying User and month (ARPU) will be 3 USD.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Stable Estates on the Entropia Universe auction
A limited number of Stable Estates will be made available on the Entropia Universe auction. These new estates will generate revenue through different channels, as described below.
As described in the Entropia universe roadmap published in the Buzz section, Pets will be released in Taming - stage 1 (autumn 2014) and the stables functionality in Taming - stage 2 later in 2014.
The stables will generate revenue for the stable managers by charging a small fee for services in the stables, for example, selling, trading and specialised training of pets. Stables will also be the hub for future Pet Battle Arenas and Controlled Creature Battle Octagons where all pet and creature activities will be held.
Stable managers can also earn PED by renting stalls to other avatars for their pets, and by providing specialised training only available at the stables. Stable managers provide housing and maintenance for stabled avatar pets, including food and energy. Better care provided by the stables will result in faster pet progress and better performance in competitions.
In addition, stables will have the ability to be upgraded with shopping booths, additional stalls, teleporters, terminals, visual additions and other unique features.
The Stables will be placed in strategic positions on each planet. Each planet will have the chance to auction these exciting and fun additions to the Entropia Universe starting on July 1 2014, with starting bids of 20000 PED.
Number of Stable Estates per Planet:
Planet Calypso - 6 stables in 6 locations
Planet Arkadia - 3 stables in 3 locations
Rocktropia - 2 stables in 2 locations
Planet Cyrene - 1 stable
Planet Toulan - 1 stable
Next Island - 1 stable
The stable estates will be implemented into Entropia Universe later in 2014.
As described in the Entropia universe roadmap published in the Buzz section, Pets will be released in Taming - stage 1 (autumn 2014) and the stables functionality in Taming - stage 2 later in 2014.
The stables will generate revenue for the stable managers by charging a small fee for services in the stables, for example, selling, trading and specialised training of pets. Stables will also be the hub for future Pet Battle Arenas and Controlled Creature Battle Octagons where all pet and creature activities will be held.
Stable managers can also earn PED by renting stalls to other avatars for their pets, and by providing specialised training only available at the stables. Stable managers provide housing and maintenance for stabled avatar pets, including food and energy. Better care provided by the stables will result in faster pet progress and better performance in competitions.
In addition, stables will have the ability to be upgraded with shopping booths, additional stalls, teleporters, terminals, visual additions and other unique features.
The Stables will be placed in strategic positions on each planet. Each planet will have the chance to auction these exciting and fun additions to the Entropia Universe starting on July 1 2014, with starting bids of 20000 PED.
Number of Stable Estates per Planet:
Planet Calypso - 6 stables in 6 locations
Planet Arkadia - 3 stables in 3 locations
Rocktropia - 2 stables in 2 locations
Planet Cyrene - 1 stable
Planet Toulan - 1 stable
Next Island - 1 stable
The stable estates will be implemented into Entropia Universe later in 2014.
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Taming – from NOT to HOT
Quick info for those that are not playing Entropia Universe for more than 9 years. In 2005 it was possible to tame certain species of the Calypso wildlife. To tame an animal you need to break its free spirit and subject them to your authority and leadership. This is done by using a whip. All tamable animals have three bars showing when they are targeted. These bars show the animal's level of Respect, Spirit and Health.
In 2009 when Entropia Universe moved to the new and better engine CryEngine 2 taming was disabled and never enabled since then. To be honest I really thought this system is never going to be reintroduced. But that was my mistakes because there are a lot of non violent people that want to participate in Entropia Universe, but don’t like to kill creatures or other players. They don’t want to drill for resources or stay at the crafting machine facing the wall all day. Now when I think of it when they reintroduce the Taming I will probably stop the other professions and focus on taming at least for few months. And who wouldn’t.
The promise for the new Taming system is almost too good to be true.
In 2009 when Entropia Universe moved to the new and better engine CryEngine 2 taming was disabled and never enabled since then. To be honest I really thought this system is never going to be reintroduced. But that was my mistakes because there are a lot of non violent people that want to participate in Entropia Universe, but don’t like to kill creatures or other players. They don’t want to drill for resources or stay at the crafting machine facing the wall all day. Now when I think of it when they reintroduce the Taming I will probably stop the other professions and focus on taming at least for few months. And who wouldn’t.
The promise for the new Taming system is almost too good to be true.
Taming Stage 1 - (Planned for Autumn 2014 Release)
In the first stage the core functionality will be quite similar to the original taming system, with added improvements to usability and fun-factor. Initially, pets will be to able accompany your avatar in its Entropia Universe travels, with more pet abilities and features planned for later stages (see below).
Taming Stage 2 - (Planned for Late 2014 / Early 2015 Release)
In this stage it is planned to implement additional skill-based taming abilities which will expand the capabilities of tamed creatures beyond the pre-VU10 taming system. In addition, a limited number of stables will be made available that will fulfill various roles within the taming system such as stabling, feeding, expert training, trading and more.
Taming Stage 3 - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Battle Arenas will be introduced which will allow tamed creatures to battle one another. Each battle will be unique, with a wide range of offensive and defensive pet buffs and upgrades along with customizable attack and defense profiles.
And there is a chance that this system will be linked to the Web-Based Battle Arena - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
A web-based Battle Arena game is planned for early 2015. The game will be developed as a cross-platform solution available on the web and for mobile devices, and will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe taming system. Players will have the opportunity to acquire, upgrade and customize their pets for battle against the pets of others.
Entropia Universe participants will have the ability to acquire Battle Arena Deeds and share in the revenue and excitement of the Battle Arena action. 200,000 Battle Arena Deeds will be offered via the Entropia Universe in-game auction and upcoming webshop at 100 PED each. Revenues generated from the Battle Arena Deed offering will be used exclusively for Battle Arena development and marketing. More detailed information about the Battle Arena Deeds will be made available very soon.
This line is very interesting: web-based Battle Arena game will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe Taming System. Now everyone is hoping to start farming pets and sell them to the kid on the Facebook app or playing on their Smartphone. This will be cool; one more option for Entropians to make money and people that will play the web-based game if they like it they will start playing Entropia Universe too.
The only thing that I wanted to see and didn’t see in the release notes is the ability to use your pets to hunt with you. Make team with them and hunt. This will allow solo players to go hunt big mobs and try to get some big ass HOF or ATH. Give your pet some pet armor some pet gun and make him shoot with you. Probably never going to happen but sounds cool. But if it is going to be possible to fight pet against pet it is not too hard to make it fight against mob or enemy avatar.
The only bad news here is for shop owners that dreamed to ell pets in their shops. Even now there is at least 1 pet shop in the game. But it seems pets will be traded in the stables that will be introduced in 2015.
From all this it seems that Taming System from abandoned for 5 years will become most desired, profitable and fun profession in 2014-2015.
In the first stage the core functionality will be quite similar to the original taming system, with added improvements to usability and fun-factor. Initially, pets will be to able accompany your avatar in its Entropia Universe travels, with more pet abilities and features planned for later stages (see below).
Taming Stage 2 - (Planned for Late 2014 / Early 2015 Release)
In this stage it is planned to implement additional skill-based taming abilities which will expand the capabilities of tamed creatures beyond the pre-VU10 taming system. In addition, a limited number of stables will be made available that will fulfill various roles within the taming system such as stabling, feeding, expert training, trading and more.
Taming Stage 3 - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Battle Arenas will be introduced which will allow tamed creatures to battle one another. Each battle will be unique, with a wide range of offensive and defensive pet buffs and upgrades along with customizable attack and defense profiles.
And there is a chance that this system will be linked to the Web-Based Battle Arena - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
A web-based Battle Arena game is planned for early 2015. The game will be developed as a cross-platform solution available on the web and for mobile devices, and will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe taming system. Players will have the opportunity to acquire, upgrade and customize their pets for battle against the pets of others.
Entropia Universe participants will have the ability to acquire Battle Arena Deeds and share in the revenue and excitement of the Battle Arena action. 200,000 Battle Arena Deeds will be offered via the Entropia Universe in-game auction and upcoming webshop at 100 PED each. Revenues generated from the Battle Arena Deed offering will be used exclusively for Battle Arena development and marketing. More detailed information about the Battle Arena Deeds will be made available very soon.
This line is very interesting: web-based Battle Arena game will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe Taming System. Now everyone is hoping to start farming pets and sell them to the kid on the Facebook app or playing on their Smartphone. This will be cool; one more option for Entropians to make money and people that will play the web-based game if they like it they will start playing Entropia Universe too.
The only thing that I wanted to see and didn’t see in the release notes is the ability to use your pets to hunt with you. Make team with them and hunt. This will allow solo players to go hunt big mobs and try to get some big ass HOF or ATH. Give your pet some pet armor some pet gun and make him shoot with you. Probably never going to happen but sounds cool. But if it is going to be possible to fight pet against pet it is not too hard to make it fight against mob or enemy avatar.
The only bad news here is for shop owners that dreamed to ell pets in their shops. Even now there is at least 1 pet shop in the game. But it seems pets will be traded in the stables that will be introduced in 2015.
From all this it seems that Taming System from abandoned for 5 years will become most desired, profitable and fun profession in 2014-2015.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
Creature Control and Taming
Communication and development roadmap
Dear Entropians,
Given the real-cash aspect of the Entropia Universe economy, it has historically been MindArk’s policy to be very careful when releasing information related to future development plans, mainly to prevent undue disruption of the economy. However, considering the plethora of information channels now available to participants to stay up to date on official Entropia Universe and Planet Partner announcements (the Client Loader, Facebook, Entropia Buzz, information from which is also syndicated on many community and planet forums), MindArk has made a decision to be more active in sharing its future development plans with participants.
And the sharing starts now!
Below is a summary of some of the projects the MindArk design and development teams are currently focused on. In future communications we will give increasingly more detailed information on each of these projects, and announce additional projects as they become closer to implementation.
Client & Server Stability
MindArk’s highest priority during the next several releases will be improving stability of the Entropia Universe client. Several of the most common causes of recent client crashes have been identified and our developers are hard at work on resolving those to improve the Entropia Universe experience for all participants.
New Player Experience
Ongoing improvements to the New Player Experience have been implemented with every platform and planet partner release so far this year. These efforts will continue to be a top priority during the rest of 2014 and into 2015 in order to maximise the marketing efforts of MindArk and the planet partners.
Creature Control System Stage 1 - (Planned for June 2014 Release)
You may already be aware of a new feature introduced not long ago which allows officials and planet partners to control various creatures during special events. This system will be extended to participants in the form of Creature Control Capsules, consumable items that will allow you to transform your avatar into a specific creature for a limited time. This fun feature will be made available exclusively through the loot system, and will be monitored closely to prevent abuse.
Taming Stage 1 - (Planned for Autumn 2014 Release)
Some of you will be happy to hear that we plan to (finally) reintroduce Taming to Entropia Universe. In the first stage the core functionality will be quite similar to the original taming system, with added improvements to usability and fun-factor. Initially, pets will be to able accompany your avatar in its Entropia Universe travels, with more pet abilities and features planned for later stages (see below).
PVP Improvements - (Planned for Autumn 2014 Release)
Various improvements to PVP combat have already been implemented this year and more are planned after the summer, including adjustments to the landgrab and fort systems.
Taming Stage 2 - (Planned for Late 2014 / Early 2015 Release)
In this stage it is planned to implement additional skill-based taming abilities which will expand the capabilities of tamed creatures beyond the pre-VU10 taming system. In addition, a limited number of stables will be made available that will fulfill various roles within the taming system such as stabling, feeding, expert training, trading and more.
Creature Control System Stage 2 - (Planned for Winter 2014 Release)
Through a new Battle Octagon interface, your avatar will be able to control various creatures and challenge other avatars to battle in special CCS octagons. With lots of options for attack and defense customisation, each battle promises to be unique and exciting, especially considering the possibility of creatures and robots from different planets engaging in reckless combat against one another!
Taming Stage 3 - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Battle Arenas will be introduced which will allow tamed creatures to battle one another. Each battle will be unique, with a wide range of offensive and defensive pet buffs and upgrades along with customisable attack and defense profiles.
Web-Based Battle Arena - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
A web-based Battle Arena game is planned for early 2015. The game will be developed as a cross-platform solution available on the web and for mobile devices, and will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe taming! system. Players will have the opportunity to acquire, upgrade and customise their pets for battle against the pets of others.
Entropia Universe participants will have the ability to acquire Battle Arena Deeds and share in the revenue and excitement of the Battle Arena action. 200,000 Battle Arena Deeds will be offered via the Entropia Universe in-game auction and upcoming webshop at 100 PED each. Revenues generated from the Battle Arena Deed offering will be used exclusively for Battle Arena development and marketing. More detailed information about the Battle Arena Deeds will be made available very soon.
Affiliate System - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Work is moving forward on the affiliate program mentioned in the State of the Universe Address 2014, though the expected release date has been revised to 2015 due to integration requirements with other planned projects.
Citizenship & Political System - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
The announced political and housing system is still in the initial design and development stage. As with the taming system, we expect to roll out this system in several stages during 2015. Further information will be made available as each development milestone draws closer.
Regards,
David Simmonds
CEO MindArk PE AB
Dear Entropians,
Given the real-cash aspect of the Entropia Universe economy, it has historically been MindArk’s policy to be very careful when releasing information related to future development plans, mainly to prevent undue disruption of the economy. However, considering the plethora of information channels now available to participants to stay up to date on official Entropia Universe and Planet Partner announcements (the Client Loader, Facebook, Entropia Buzz, information from which is also syndicated on many community and planet forums), MindArk has made a decision to be more active in sharing its future development plans with participants.
And the sharing starts now!
Below is a summary of some of the projects the MindArk design and development teams are currently focused on. In future communications we will give increasingly more detailed information on each of these projects, and announce additional projects as they become closer to implementation.
Client & Server Stability
MindArk’s highest priority during the next several releases will be improving stability of the Entropia Universe client. Several of the most common causes of recent client crashes have been identified and our developers are hard at work on resolving those to improve the Entropia Universe experience for all participants.
New Player Experience
Ongoing improvements to the New Player Experience have been implemented with every platform and planet partner release so far this year. These efforts will continue to be a top priority during the rest of 2014 and into 2015 in order to maximise the marketing efforts of MindArk and the planet partners.
Creature Control System Stage 1 - (Planned for June 2014 Release)
You may already be aware of a new feature introduced not long ago which allows officials and planet partners to control various creatures during special events. This system will be extended to participants in the form of Creature Control Capsules, consumable items that will allow you to transform your avatar into a specific creature for a limited time. This fun feature will be made available exclusively through the loot system, and will be monitored closely to prevent abuse.
Taming Stage 1 - (Planned for Autumn 2014 Release)
Some of you will be happy to hear that we plan to (finally) reintroduce Taming to Entropia Universe. In the first stage the core functionality will be quite similar to the original taming system, with added improvements to usability and fun-factor. Initially, pets will be to able accompany your avatar in its Entropia Universe travels, with more pet abilities and features planned for later stages (see below).
PVP Improvements - (Planned for Autumn 2014 Release)
Various improvements to PVP combat have already been implemented this year and more are planned after the summer, including adjustments to the landgrab and fort systems.
Taming Stage 2 - (Planned for Late 2014 / Early 2015 Release)
In this stage it is planned to implement additional skill-based taming abilities which will expand the capabilities of tamed creatures beyond the pre-VU10 taming system. In addition, a limited number of stables will be made available that will fulfill various roles within the taming system such as stabling, feeding, expert training, trading and more.
Creature Control System Stage 2 - (Planned for Winter 2014 Release)
Through a new Battle Octagon interface, your avatar will be able to control various creatures and challenge other avatars to battle in special CCS octagons. With lots of options for attack and defense customisation, each battle promises to be unique and exciting, especially considering the possibility of creatures and robots from different planets engaging in reckless combat against one another!
Taming Stage 3 - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Battle Arenas will be introduced which will allow tamed creatures to battle one another. Each battle will be unique, with a wide range of offensive and defensive pet buffs and upgrades along with customisable attack and defense profiles.
Web-Based Battle Arena - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
A web-based Battle Arena game is planned for early 2015. The game will be developed as a cross-platform solution available on the web and for mobile devices, and will have direct ties to the Entropia Universe taming! system. Players will have the opportunity to acquire, upgrade and customise their pets for battle against the pets of others.
Entropia Universe participants will have the ability to acquire Battle Arena Deeds and share in the revenue and excitement of the Battle Arena action. 200,000 Battle Arena Deeds will be offered via the Entropia Universe in-game auction and upcoming webshop at 100 PED each. Revenues generated from the Battle Arena Deed offering will be used exclusively for Battle Arena development and marketing. More detailed information about the Battle Arena Deeds will be made available very soon.
Affiliate System - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
Work is moving forward on the affiliate program mentioned in the State of the Universe Address 2014, though the expected release date has been revised to 2015 due to integration requirements with other planned projects.
Citizenship & Political System - (Planned for Early 2015 Release)
The announced political and housing system is still in the initial design and development stage. As with the taming system, we expect to roll out this system in several stages during 2015. Further information will be made available as each development milestone draws closer.
Regards,
David Simmonds
CEO MindArk PE AB
Thursday, December 20, 2012
State of the Universe Address 2013
State of the Universe Address 2013
Greetings Entropians,
While 2012 was an important and eventful year for Entropia Universe, the upcoming year promises to bring even greater opportunities for development of the EU platform and participant growth.
One very exciting milestone that will be reached early in 2013 is Entropia’s ten-year anniversary! The official “gold” version of Project Entropia (the predecessor to Entropia Universe) was released on Jan. 30, 2003, and MindArk will be celebrating the anniversary throughout 2013 with numerous special events and promotions. More details can be found in the 2013 Roadmap section below.
The MindArk team has spent much of December pinpointing the highest priorities and plotting our development roadmap for 2013. Some amazing improvements are coming very soon, and I am confident in stating that the future of Entropia Universe looks brighter than ever!
Before detailing MindArk’s development plans for the new year, I’d like to quickly share the highlights and progress achieved in 2012.
2012 HIGHLIGHTS
New Participant Experience
As mentioned in the State of the Universe Address 2012, MindArk made a conscious effort in 2012 to improve the overall Entropia Universe user experience, especially for newcomers. Towards that goal, MindArk and the planet partners put a lot of focus on refining the systems and content encountered by new participants during their first few hours in Entropia Universe. These improvements included revamping the Genesis new arrivals area to improve performance and ease the learning curve for newbies. In response to feedback from the community, creature loots were also adjusted by MindArk to dramatically reduce the incidence of ‘No Looters’. On the planet partner side of things, newly designed beginner areas were introduced on Planet Arkadia and Planet Calypso, with the goal of better educating and engaging new participants and helping them gain some early momentum in their Entropia Universe careers.
Marketing
In conjunction with the the improvements to new participant areas described above, MindArk gradually ramped up its marketing efforts during 2012, resulting in a 50% increase in the number of unique visitors to the EntropiaUniverse.com and planet partner websites. In addition, the redesign and optimization of the Planet Calypso website completed in early autumn helped to significantly improve the conversion rate of website visitors. The results of these marketing efforts are very encouraging indeed. Entropia Universe now has 2.5 times more new active accounts compared to 2011, and overall activity in the universe is increasing steadily. Without doubt, MindArk plans to build on this success by refining and expanding its marketing efforts during 2013, first by increasing the current Google banner campaigns, and later branching out to additional advertising networks. Finally, an exciting new Entropia Universe promotional video is being developed in conjunction with Arkadia Studios, to be released early in the new year.
Systems Development
While there certainly was a big focus on the new player experience in 2012, there were also tons of other enhancements and improvements introduced for existing participants, many of which were given priority based on feedback received through support cases and on community forums. Some of the highlights of those improvements include:
Platform Development
MindArk’s development team spent a large part of the second half of 2012 building the foundations to allow other types of client software to connect to Entropia Universe. The first of those new clients, Virtual Tycoon, was released in December and allows participants to connect to Entropia Universe through their Android powered smartphone. An iOS version Virtual Tycoon compatible with iPhone and iPad will be released in the very near future. More information about Virtual Tycoon can be found in this announcement. The effort invested in this project will pay future dividends as well, as it allows for much faster development to make Entropia Universe available on other client platforms such as tablets, additional mobile devices, along with various web-based interfaces.
Avatar Development
Another project that has kept the MindArk team quite busy in the latter half of 2012 focuses on improving avatar appearance and the avatar creation interface. Originally planned for release at the end of 2012, completion of this project has required somewhat more time than expected, and is now scheduled to be implemented early in 2013. The good news is that this allows MindArk and the planet partners to put the finishing touches of the new system, so your avatars will be looking better than ever!
2013 ROADMAP
Entropia’s 10 Year Anniversary
As mentioned earlier, Entropia will turn 10 years old on January 30, 2013, and MindArk will celebrate this historic milestone with some wonderful universe-wide events beginning on the anniversary date and continuing throughout 2013. As a token of thanks for the support we have received from our amazing community over the years, special anniversary edition items will be introduced in loots and offered as event prizes. These items will have enhanced stats and can be identified by the TEN suffix in the item name (Tenth Entropia New year).
Also in celebration of ten years of Entropia, there will be a major estate announced for auction at the end of January, with a completely new management/revenue model. More details will be released as the anniversary date approaches.
Veteran Appreciation
As another show of thanks, MindArk will focus lots of development time on improving the Entropia Universe experience for current participants and Entropia veterans. Many of the most common requests and wishlist items received from our participants via support cases and community forums will be addressed in the first two version updates of the new year. Issues that will be prioritized include:
Many other interface improvements and game system upgrades are also planned for the second quarter of 2013 and beyond, including items such as PVP combat, mission system functionality, vehicle system, removing exploits, expanding crafting, interface enhancements, bug fixing, and much more.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Major upgrades will be performed on the Entropia Universe platform infrastructure beginning in January. These upgrades will result in improved server stability and faster development and deployment times for future version updates. While these upgrades will require a few months for full completion, participants can expect better performance, fewer unexpected server outages, and much shorter VU downtimes.
In addition, refinements to the development and release procedures for MindArk and its planet partners will help improve client stability, reduce bugs and other unexpected system behavior, and generally improve the overall Entropia Universe experience.
Taming
Many of our more patient participants will be happy to hear that a completely redesigned taming system will be developed in 2013. The new taming system will include many of the features from the pre-CryEngine system, along with many new and exciting features that will expand the utility of tamed creatures. Additionally, one of the upcoming new Entropia Universe planets will make extensive use of the new taming system as a core aspect of the planet’s theme.
Financial
Several new payment provider solutions will be introduced early in 2013, including Paypal and Paypal’s mobile payment service, Zong. MindArk is also researching opportunities for supplemental credit card processing solutions, in light of the recent disuprtions and issues experienced with DIBS.
New starter packs will soon be offered on the Entropia Universe and planet partner websites. These packs are designed to provide new participants with a full range of appropriate starter gear at a reasonable cost, and help them start their Entropia Universe careers off on the right foot.
CLD Estate & Political Systems
Concept design of the Calypso Land Deed estate and political systems is already in full swing. While many of the core concepts are already in place, we believe it would be worthwhile to gain valuable feedback from the community on several proposed aspects of these new systems. Therefore, we will be contacting CLD holders with a survey early in the year to get their input. Once the design plans are finalized, actual development of the estate and political systems is scheduled to begin after the summer. We are very excited about the potential of the political system especially, and look forward to working together with the community to make it something truly amazing and unique in the computer game industry.
All in all, we leave behind a fruitful 2012 and set our sights forward to some very promising opportunities available to continue expanding and improving Entropia Universe in 2013. We sincerely hope that you join us in celebrating ten years of Entropia early next year, and in developing the future of virtual reality in 2013 and beyond.
Warmest holiday regards from all of us at MindArk,
David Simmonds
CEO MindArk PE AB
Greetings Entropians,
While 2012 was an important and eventful year for Entropia Universe, the upcoming year promises to bring even greater opportunities for development of the EU platform and participant growth.
One very exciting milestone that will be reached early in 2013 is Entropia’s ten-year anniversary! The official “gold” version of Project Entropia (the predecessor to Entropia Universe) was released on Jan. 30, 2003, and MindArk will be celebrating the anniversary throughout 2013 with numerous special events and promotions. More details can be found in the 2013 Roadmap section below.
The MindArk team has spent much of December pinpointing the highest priorities and plotting our development roadmap for 2013. Some amazing improvements are coming very soon, and I am confident in stating that the future of Entropia Universe looks brighter than ever!
Before detailing MindArk’s development plans for the new year, I’d like to quickly share the highlights and progress achieved in 2012.
2012 HIGHLIGHTS
New Participant Experience
As mentioned in the State of the Universe Address 2012, MindArk made a conscious effort in 2012 to improve the overall Entropia Universe user experience, especially for newcomers. Towards that goal, MindArk and the planet partners put a lot of focus on refining the systems and content encountered by new participants during their first few hours in Entropia Universe. These improvements included revamping the Genesis new arrivals area to improve performance and ease the learning curve for newbies. In response to feedback from the community, creature loots were also adjusted by MindArk to dramatically reduce the incidence of ‘No Looters’. On the planet partner side of things, newly designed beginner areas were introduced on Planet Arkadia and Planet Calypso, with the goal of better educating and engaging new participants and helping them gain some early momentum in their Entropia Universe careers.
Marketing
In conjunction with the the improvements to new participant areas described above, MindArk gradually ramped up its marketing efforts during 2012, resulting in a 50% increase in the number of unique visitors to the EntropiaUniverse.com and planet partner websites. In addition, the redesign and optimization of the Planet Calypso website completed in early autumn helped to significantly improve the conversion rate of website visitors. The results of these marketing efforts are very encouraging indeed. Entropia Universe now has 2.5 times more new active accounts compared to 2011, and overall activity in the universe is increasing steadily. Without doubt, MindArk plans to build on this success by refining and expanding its marketing efforts during 2013, first by increasing the current Google banner campaigns, and later branching out to additional advertising networks. Finally, an exciting new Entropia Universe promotional video is being developed in conjunction with Arkadia Studios, to be released early in the new year.
Systems Development
While there certainly was a big focus on the new player experience in 2012, there were also tons of other enhancements and improvements introduced for existing participants, many of which were given priority based on feedback received through support cases and on community forums. Some of the highlights of those improvements include:
- New and improved crafting interface
- Instance system - major improvements and expansion (beacons/dungeons)
- Improved creature loot balancing
- Mission system enhancements & rebalancing
- Mindforce improvements and new effects
- Dozens of critical bugfixes and user interface optimizations
Platform Development
MindArk’s development team spent a large part of the second half of 2012 building the foundations to allow other types of client software to connect to Entropia Universe. The first of those new clients, Virtual Tycoon, was released in December and allows participants to connect to Entropia Universe through their Android powered smartphone. An iOS version Virtual Tycoon compatible with iPhone and iPad will be released in the very near future. More information about Virtual Tycoon can be found in this announcement. The effort invested in this project will pay future dividends as well, as it allows for much faster development to make Entropia Universe available on other client platforms such as tablets, additional mobile devices, along with various web-based interfaces.
Avatar Development
Another project that has kept the MindArk team quite busy in the latter half of 2012 focuses on improving avatar appearance and the avatar creation interface. Originally planned for release at the end of 2012, completion of this project has required somewhat more time than expected, and is now scheduled to be implemented early in 2013. The good news is that this allows MindArk and the planet partners to put the finishing touches of the new system, so your avatars will be looking better than ever!
2013 ROADMAP
Entropia’s 10 Year Anniversary
As mentioned earlier, Entropia will turn 10 years old on January 30, 2013, and MindArk will celebrate this historic milestone with some wonderful universe-wide events beginning on the anniversary date and continuing throughout 2013. As a token of thanks for the support we have received from our amazing community over the years, special anniversary edition items will be introduced in loots and offered as event prizes. These items will have enhanced stats and can be identified by the TEN suffix in the item name (Tenth Entropia New year).
Also in celebration of ten years of Entropia, there will be a major estate announced for auction at the end of January, with a completely new management/revenue model. More details will be released as the anniversary date approaches.
Veteran Appreciation
As another show of thanks, MindArk will focus lots of development time on improving the Entropia Universe experience for current participants and Entropia veterans. Many of the most common requests and wishlist items received from our participants via support cases and community forums will be addressed in the first two version updates of the new year. Issues that will be prioritized include:
- Fixing bugs
- Reducing cost to play / increasing average TT returns
- Lowering the volatility of returns for many activities
- Increasing UL item tiering speed / lowering UL item tiering cost
- Removing the UL armor equipping fee
- Lowering the minimum usable condition of many items
Many other interface improvements and game system upgrades are also planned for the second quarter of 2013 and beyond, including items such as PVP combat, mission system functionality, vehicle system, removing exploits, expanding crafting, interface enhancements, bug fixing, and much more.
Infrastructure Upgrades
Major upgrades will be performed on the Entropia Universe platform infrastructure beginning in January. These upgrades will result in improved server stability and faster development and deployment times for future version updates. While these upgrades will require a few months for full completion, participants can expect better performance, fewer unexpected server outages, and much shorter VU downtimes.
In addition, refinements to the development and release procedures for MindArk and its planet partners will help improve client stability, reduce bugs and other unexpected system behavior, and generally improve the overall Entropia Universe experience.
Taming
Many of our more patient participants will be happy to hear that a completely redesigned taming system will be developed in 2013. The new taming system will include many of the features from the pre-CryEngine system, along with many new and exciting features that will expand the utility of tamed creatures. Additionally, one of the upcoming new Entropia Universe planets will make extensive use of the new taming system as a core aspect of the planet’s theme.
Financial
Several new payment provider solutions will be introduced early in 2013, including Paypal and Paypal’s mobile payment service, Zong. MindArk is also researching opportunities for supplemental credit card processing solutions, in light of the recent disuprtions and issues experienced with DIBS.
New starter packs will soon be offered on the Entropia Universe and planet partner websites. These packs are designed to provide new participants with a full range of appropriate starter gear at a reasonable cost, and help them start their Entropia Universe careers off on the right foot.
CLD Estate & Political Systems
Concept design of the Calypso Land Deed estate and political systems is already in full swing. While many of the core concepts are already in place, we believe it would be worthwhile to gain valuable feedback from the community on several proposed aspects of these new systems. Therefore, we will be contacting CLD holders with a survey early in the year to get their input. Once the design plans are finalized, actual development of the estate and political systems is scheduled to begin after the summer. We are very excited about the potential of the political system especially, and look forward to working together with the community to make it something truly amazing and unique in the computer game industry.
All in all, we leave behind a fruitful 2012 and set our sights forward to some very promising opportunities available to continue expanding and improving Entropia Universe in 2013. We sincerely hope that you join us in celebrating ten years of Entropia early next year, and in developing the future of virtual reality in 2013 and beyond.
Warmest holiday regards from all of us at MindArk,
David Simmonds
CEO MindArk PE AB
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