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For future articles/blog posts like this one please see my other blog dedictated to Entropia: http://entropiatrash.wordpress.com
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This post is going to list all of the historical information about Entropia Universe. I don’t have time to list it all right this second, but will in the not-too-distant future. There is a lot to this… so this will likely grow to be a very long post over time.
http://www.entropiadirectory.com/wiki/EU_History – Intro story
Ever wondered where all the people are?
1000 years into the future our history begins
—
The era of space travel
The Space Age
Space Industry
Quantum technology
Genetic Engineering
Space Travel
A long time ago Mankind took the final step into the depths of space. We conquered our own solar system and soon embarked on a new era of interstellar travel. Mankind have now begun to expand their civilization across the galaxy, following a growing web of desolate outposts and industrial supply facilities that have been left behind by robotic space vessels called the Odysseus Probes.
The Odysseus Probes was a great enterprise set into motion by a global alliance that would later unite the people of Earth. For nearly a century these Odysseus Probes have explored and expanded Mankind’s knowledge of space and its endless new frontiers, continuously discovering new planets and primitive worlds to which humans have later arrived to colonize and conquer. During the dawn of this new era of interstellar travel Earth has survived the conflicts and transitions to a centralized form of leadership that tied every colonized planet together into the Federal Empire. One of these new colonial planets is called Calypso, a life-giving but remote world in a star system situated far beyond the Colonial Frontier in the deep unknown regions of space.
The Odysseus Probe that discovered Calypso built up a vast robot community to prepare it in time for the first human arrivals. One single corporation made the first claim to colonize the world and launched an enterprise called the Exodus Project to bring the first settlers to the New World. When the first humans finally arrived on Calypso they could move into several pre-constructed cities in a terra-formed region of the world called New Eden.
As the settlers moved in the robots would turn over the control to the humans. It was during this gradual human takeover that something went terribly wrong. The robots suddenly turned against the settlers and started a devastating war that would become known as the Robot Revolt. This war nearly wiped out the entire human population on Calypso and laid their new colonies in ruins. After a long time a new generation of settlers finally rid the planet from the hostile robots only to face a new menace as horrid mutated humans began to emerge among the radioactive ruins. Rejected and forgotten, this new threat was quickly set aside by the settlers when they discovered a new robot enemy suddenly appeared from the dark void. The enemy had not been eliminated and was now originating from elsewhere. A desolate robot controlled mining colony in a far away star system had been infested with the same corruption as the robots did on Calypso. These new robots were real war machines, and they were now trying to invade Calypso using advanced teleportation technology to land their invading forces directly on the planet.
And so, the war against the machine continues. The colonial catastrophe on Calypso forced the corporation in charge to be signed over to the Federal Empire. The benefit of unlocking a free market on Calypso was overshadowed by the bureaucratic behemoth of the Federal Empire. Growing tensions between collaborating colonies that are demanding more independence from the Federal Empire has diverted military resources away from Calypso. The free market provides access to vast technological aid but the settlers are now left to deal with the invading robots on their own. It is part of an imperial plan called Project Entropia, which is based on the calculated presumption that salvaged enemy robot technology will provide the settlers with the knowledge they need to surpass, strike back and finally defeat the robots once and for all.
Despite all the dangers that are threatening the colony on Calypso the settlers are determined to persist and have built up a colonial capital called New Haven. This is the first new striving social community on the planet, built to provide settlers with a secure home environment as they continue to explore and colonize the expanding planetary frontier in the land of Entropia.
Chapter 2
The conquest of space
Interplanetary Conquest
The New World Project
New Technology
The Odysseus Probes
Teleportation Technology
Conflicts & Globalization
As interplanetary travel grew the space frontier quickly shrunk because it was limited to the inner boundaries of the solar system and the early ways of space travel. New resources became rare and conflicts between rival corporations grew more violent in their desperate struggle to claim any new resources. The fear of a global economical collapse due to a slow stagnation of the interplanetary market, and the threat of an open armed conflict between the leading national corporations would soon compel Mankind to find ways to reach even deeper into space, far beyond their own solar system. To solve the growing economical problems the leading global forces within politics, market and science moved together to embark on the greatest enterprise in human history: the Odysseus Project. As this huge endeavor was set into motion the gathered forces within this new global body also took the final step towards a world union. Though the market industry was to be the main beneficiary from the Odysseus Project, the public had to be convinced that they were partaking in a great historical enterprise as well. Many conservative emerging nations worried that they could be left out so the plan to increase the industrialization and knowledge of space would also include a mission to expand the whole human civilization beyond its own solar system and to secure the survival of Mankind in the future. This would be “Mans Greatest Quest”. Taking advantage of a project of such a grand scale it was used to give a feeling of new hope to the world, and calm the masses. As a result the New World Project was founded alongside the Odysseus Project and its main goal was to find a new planet in a nearby solar system that could sustain human life. But to send humans beyond their own solar system and directly into the unknown infinite voids of space was still too dangerous. The journey was far too long, the search extremely difficult and the construction of life-supporting spacecraft made the enterprise both technologically and financially crippling. Instead combined efforts and resources were focused on the development of new technology, such as the Jump Rail, Shield Generators and the creation of Antimatter. The first step towards the development of teleportation technology was the invention of a linear way of teleportation using a construction called a Jump Rail, which was capable of sending matter light-years away straight across space. However, construction and usage was extremely costly and the journey far too inaccurate and risky to be of any real practical use. The amount of material, special constructions and energy consumption needed to create a Jump Gate were not available at the time to make it viable. With the creation of antimatter and prototype antimatter reactors it was possible to construct the first functional Jump Rail, though it was still far from practical. The mere fact that the Jump Rail would be torn apart by the violent forces released at each launch did not help its case. For a vessel to survive the immense stress of a launch it seemed natural to focus on the construction of small, compact vessels. The first tests were performed on so called nanoships, and even though the stress tests proved minimal during launch, the smaller vessels did not survive the actual journey. These tests proved that the target matter needed to be contained within a powerful energy field to prevent its atoms from dissolving. As a result the technological development of energy shields also took a step forward. All new technology at this early stage of development was quite crude in both size and functionality. The task required a vessel with a much larger and sturdier hull, allowing it to be equipped with all the devices needed as well as the massive surrounding construction that could emit a stable energy field to protect it. Worried about loosing political momentum the new global political body changed project requirements so that all the new bulky equipment would have enough space onboard the new vessels: the giant Odysseus Probe. A total of seven large Odysseus probes were assembled on orbital space stations. Jump Rails was then used to launch the probes into space towards carefully selected planetary star systems in the galaxy. These star systems had proved to be the most suitable candidates according to prior astrological research with the most advanced space telescopes and equipment. The probes had to be completely self-reliant and were therefore equipped with the most advanced and expensive technology available at that time. Each probe was controlled by a virtually sentient AI quantum super computer, which made the probe capable of its own progressive development and self-reproduction. The AI had several objectives and two primary missions. One was to find and utilize new resources, launch new probes and prepare a communication network for Mankind in space. The second mission was to find a planet capable to sustain human life and initiate a terra-formation to prepare it for human colonization. When a probe had reached its target destination it launched drones to make a survey of all nearby stellar constellations, in search of potential resources to exploit in order to continue its own reproduction and primary mission directives. When enough data had been gathered on a potential planet the probe would send down a Base Matrix that was to land on a strategic place on the planet, set up a base platform and begin to construct it’s own robots. Well adapted to the environment, these robots would in turn find and extract necessary resources from the surrounding areas and produce material to build new facilities. To expand the base and increase its technological capabilities, the Odysseus probe would monitor the progress to a certain point before it would continue its journey towards a new destination. The base would continue to expand and eventually launch a new generation of Odysseus Probes into space to continue the primary missions. The further development of Quantum Technology led to the construction of the first functional teleportation units, which allowed all matter to travel virtually instantly from one place to another. It also meant that organic matter could be transferred from one point to another, creating an instant form of human travel. From being just scientific experiments the new technology needed stronger financial support from the market to reach up to the next levels of development. The Global Alliance saw a great potential in the system and financed the next step in the development: the creation of the first global teleportation network. With financial benefits in mind the scientists introduced the idea of creating an open doorway through space that would save a lot of travel time between colonies and remote outposts. Since the large “Quantum Leap Generators” in each system required vast amounts of energy to function it ultimately led to the increased research and development of antimatter reactors and refineries. With practical and profitable use in mind the technology would later be used to create the first operational Space Gates in the future. All Odysseus Probes had been built and launched within the period of a decade. During this time the newly formed global alliance had to deal with arising conflicts in order to protect their goals towards a unified world. But with new technology at their fingertips the alliance was able to end all major conflicts as quickly as they arose, and not always by the use of force. To add more strength to their agenda they made the teleportation technology available to the open market. When teleportation became the new way of public transportation, it made daily trips and global travel quick, easy and available to everyone. As a result the national borders begun to gradually fade away and merge together, increasing the human tolerance and slowly erasing the cultural barriers that had kept mankind apart. Ethnical groups, political factions and a strong sense of cultural heritage still remained within human society but as Earth was becoming one world it was each individual’s affiliation to one of the growing global mega-corporations, which replaced the old human view of having different nationalities on Earth. Meanwhile the people on the expanding interplanetary colonies gradually became more socially integrated, slowly forming a stronger bond to each other and the planet they lived on.
Chapter 3
The new order
Corporation Wars
The Federal Empire
Imperial Dominion
The people of Earth were about to unite under one single form of leadership. But the corporations were growing weary from waiting for the new resources and profits that the Odysseus probes would bring them. After nearly a decade there had still been no response from any of the Odysseus Probes and people feared that the probes had been destroyed. With each year passing by without a message from any of the probes the conflicts in space increased and before long escalated into corporation wars. The battles took place in space far away from Earth where the Global Alliance had no means of control. With the lack of response from the Odysseus Probes and the brewing conflicts in space beginning to spread to the Mars colony, it increased the official demand for answers as well as the need for new leadership. Scientists came up with the conclusion that the probes had been caught in some sort of a temporary abnormality that became known as a Time Flux, probably due to the form of travel provided by the use of Jump Rails. Half teleported and half travelling at several times the speed of light, it would change the reality of time from both standpoints. What would appear like a short moment of travel for each probe could pass by like ages for the people back on Earth. Still, it was only a matter of time before the project command central would receive the first signal of arrival from one of the Odysseus Probes. In the meantime corporation conflicts had to be dealt with using a stronger power than what could be issued out by the Global Alliance. The Global Alliance was determined to take control of the situation before the conflicts escalated on Mars and stop them before they could spread to the Lunar Colony and finally the Earth itself. To gain enough power to take action the Global Alliance gathered to form a whole new government. This new form of leadership would gain political power to rule the Earth, including all the planets in the solar system and all regions of space in-between them. But most important, it would also stretch as far as human civilization went, no matter how far away into space it would take Mankind. The Federal Empire of Earth had been born. The newly formed Federal Empire used political tactics and increased mobile military capabilities in space to gain control over the interplanetary colonies. This was done in order to prevent the corporation wars spreading down to solid ground and into populated areas. Time was short and the Federal Empire wished to put an end to the corporation wars before the first signals from the Odysseus Probes were received. The first elected Supreme Imperial Chancellor did not intend to give the corporations the chance to slip away and take their conflicts with them to any new colonies in the future front regions of space. When the corporations lost control of the public markets, their armed conflicts quickly came to an end. For a short time the corporations thought about forming their own alliance, which threatened to turn against the Federal Empire in an attempt to overthrow its new government. However, during the very same period the first signals from one of the Odysseus Probes reached Earth. The growing threat from the corporations quickly faded away as they turned their interest towards the new potential resources that were beginning to emerge across space. This first signal was the start of a new age in the history of Mankind: the era of interstellar travel and conquest.
Chapter 4
The colonization of space
Interstellar Conquest
Space Gates
Imperial Contracts
Decades passed by as Mankind began to move away from Earths solar system, following the growing web of robotic bases and industrial supply facilities that were left behind by the Odysseus Probes. So far, the Jump Rails were the only means of interstellar travel but this would soon change with the invention of the Space Gates. As the industry continued to expand the public community would follow and it became a slow but natural form of immigration out into space. Humans managed to adapt and overcome the problems of a life in colonies on new alien worlds, learning how to survive in very hostile environments. Communications and travel were easy but life was hard, if not impossible, unless science and technology were used to aid Mankind in the stellar conquest and colonization of new planets. Even though many worlds are considered habitable it still requires advanced environmental and/or anatomical adjustments to support human life. As a result many humans on far away worlds have been altered technologically or genetically and have become altered in their appearance compared to the original humans on Earth. Through the passing of generations these altered humans began to naturally inherit genetically engineered traits from their parents, without the need for prior genetic alteration of the unborn child. As for yet, the only aliens encountered have been relatively early forms of primitive life. The altered humans originating from Earth remain the only truly intelligent form of life on these few habitable alien worlds. With the continued development of Teleportation Technology the first operational Space Gates were soon being constructed across the entire Earth solar system to link the different planets and colonies together. There was no longer a need for any large human transport vessels between the interplanetary colonies since smaller shuttlecrafts could now travel instantly through the Space Gates. However, the Space Gate technology had its limits. An active gate consumes vast amounts of energy and requires the large scale construction of antimatter reactors, generators, shields, stabilization units and other expensive systems. The opening itself in the gate has to be kept small to keep the active teleportation field stable and the passage secure. The reactors that generate the energy to activate a gate are enormous and require large quantities of antimatter to function. The creation of antimatter is still a difficult and expensive process, still making the issue of Space Gates a matter of economics rather than the most practical and efficient way of space travel available. The interstellar network is growing rapidly. To encourage market competition and ease the economical strain, as well as the political pressure from having to sway off corporate mischief towards the government, the Federal Empire began to issue out Imperial Contracts. These contracts focus on the communication network such as the protection and maintenance of Hyper Link Beacons and the construction of Space Gates. Corporations who have obtained a contract to maintain a beacon are able to pick up new signals transmitted from an Odysseus Probe that has established a new base somewhere in space. The signal that is crossing a contracted beacon will be detected and tagged with a claim before the news has reached all the other control stations in the network in each sector of space. The corporations are then able to sign the contract for a new base and its resources from the Federal Empire at first hand. This also includes claiming a contract for future research and the development of entire new colonies on other planets, which is called a Colonial Contract. This means that the corporation is in complete control of the market on the colony until the whole world has been terra-formed and secured to allow a larger public immigration.
Chapter 5
The beginning
The Discovery of the New World
Planet Calypso
Words of a New World
The Exodus Project
Colonial Uproar
The Great Exodus
Centuries had passed by as man slowly moved further into space. During this time an unknown number of new generation Odysseus Probes had started their endless voyage cross the galaxy, sharing the same ancient quest as the original seven probes that had been launched from Earth such a long time ago. It was one of these new generation probes that discovered a truly life-giving planet. With minor environmental adjustments this New World would be a virtual copy of the Earth itself but with its own evolution of generally early primitive life forms. Once the probe had proven the environment to be acceptable for human settlement it established a base and sent a message back through the hyper link network before it begun the terra-formation of the planet. When the atmosphere and environment had been adjusted to fully support human life the robots continued to build cities that were to stand ready in time for the first human arrivals. However, things had changed during the course of time since the first original probes were launched from Earth. Before the signal managed to reach its intended destination on Earth, it was intercepted and decoded by a corporation that now owned and maintained several of the beacons inside a large sector of the hyper link network were the signal was first received and identified by humans. The corporation OmegaTech quickly claimed the contract to colonize the world but withheld the crucial information from the public that a true living planet had been discovered. The issue was only discussed in secrecy before the Supreme Imperial Chancellor within the closed chambers of the Imperial Senate. The Federal Empire knew the great importance of this historical discovery and decided to give the contract to OmegaTech along with an ultimatum. Unless the corporation had begun a colonization of the planet within a decade the Colonial Contract would be passed on to the next corporation in line that filed a claim on the New World after it had been made official. Indeed there were speculations that the Federal Empire itself had already drawn up its own plans and that the ultimatum was only their first step in taking control of the New World. As the data communications with the robot base matrix on the New World continued more data was decoded that revealed new amazing information. According to certain files the mysterious planet had kept the Odysseus Probe stationed for several standard cycles in orbit before it finally made the decision to leave, despite available resources to construct a new Jump Rail to continue its own voyage within less than one cycle. Any information that would explain this event had for unknown reasons never been transferred from the Odysseus Probe to the robot base matrix before the probe left the star system. This strange delay in the probe’s voyage gave the planet its name according to a very ancient human tale from Earth, were a sea nymph waylaid a homeward-bound hero named Odysseus for seven years on her island. The name of this nymph was Calypso and it was considered most fitting for a future market campaign. Despite efforts to keep the discovery a secret many rumors of the amazing New World soon begun to spread across the colonies. The new planet and its star system were positioned far past the rim of the Colonial Frontier, which gave the isolated planet an almost mystical reputation amongst the people on the imperial colonies as well as on Earth. This growing public interest was building up a pressure on both the OmegaTech Corporation and the Federal Empire. OmegaTech used this interest to execute a hostile takeover and to gain legal motion and financial aid from the Federal Empire for a daring project that would expand the empire outside the colonial boarders and past the known frontiers by bringing the first human settlers to Calypso. With federal aid and a growing public interest throughout the colonies, OmegaTech were able to launch an enormous enterprise called the Exodus Project. Its goal was to bring human settlers to Calypso within less than a decade. The best way would be to launch a research ship towards Calypso using a Jump Rail. The ship would carry necessary equipment and crew for the construction of a Space Gate and the basic material needed to link it to its counterpart that would be built inside the secure space of the colonial frontier. However, there were not enough technological resources available within the corporation itself to embark on such a project. To succeed with this endeavor OmegaTech would need to obtain technological aid and resources from other interstellar corporations but the space market was more interested in seeing the downfall of OmegaTech rather than to help it succeed and prosper. It was a clear attempt by market rivals to weaken OmegaTech in order to move in later and take over the financially vulnerable corporation. High prices on imported resources, shipment delays, equipment flaws, espionage and sabotage would threaten the project, despite legal aid from the Federal Empire. The Federal Empire wasn’t able to control the corporations directly in favor of a single corporation without a risk of causing a political market crisis. OmegaTech had foreseen this line of events and decided to use a more old fashion approach to overcome this problem. By contemplating whatever available technology and resources it had access to the corporation decided build a giant colonial space vessel called The Exodus. The commercial campaign was given the same name as the ship, which increased the public interest in the project even more. The Exodus would be able to take over a thousand settlers to Calypso using the largest Jump Rail ever built. With financial support from the Federal Empire the project was set into motion, despite massive criticism from rival corporations about the low technological level of the whole enterprise. And it was a risky business. It would take every last bit of financial resources to succeed, which would leave the OmegaTech Corporation financially crippled and very vulnerable. The colonies on other planets were not considered living planets like Earth. Even though some planets possessed enough basic elements to be terra-formed and given a new designed ecosystem it still had to be artificially maintained, just like the home planet of Earth itself. Despite these advanced technologies permanent habitants had to be genetically designed to survive on these worlds. Calypso had its own natural ecosystem, even though it had been slightly altered by the robots to make it perfectly suitable for unaltered human beings. When the Federal Empire stated that the discovery of the New World was fact, it quickly became leading news all across the colonial empire. The thought of an untouched world spread a new sense of hope and joy amongst the people throughout the colonies. The Exodus campaign rose ill rumors amongst the colonies that the New World would only be available to the unaltered human elite on Earth and the people within the OmegaTech Corporation, which caused industrial strikes and colonial uproars. The relatively small colonial communities of altered humans posed more of an annoyance than a threat to the corporations and the Federal Empire. The colonial uprisings would fade away with the insurance that the Federal Empire would give all people in the colonial empire the chance to apply for the journey to Calypso onboard the Exodus. However, genetically altered humans and habitants on other colonies wouldn’t be anatomically fit to take on the hard ventures as settlers at this early stage of colonization. Instead they were given the official promise that they would gain access to the new world as any other visitors would once the colony had been secured. This promise was not favored well amongst certain political factions and would result in a growing envy and ill will within the altered human colonies. The Exodus was built in space inside a shielded dome next to a large resourceful asteroid and industrial facilities owned by the OmegaTech Corporation. This dome was not only a shipyard but would also serve as the protective coating around the ship when it was to be launched by the large Jump Rail. The Jump Rail was being constructed at the same time near another resourceful asteroid. These construction areas were located not far away from a central space station that controlled the only Space Gate in the sector. When the great ship was complete, it was moved to the Jump Gate and there it was prepared for launch. The fortunate people who had been authorized to become the first settlers on Calypso were now allowed to travel to the space station and board the Exodus. Every step in the project was followed in detail by the interstellar media and transmitted through the interstellar hyper-link network, instantly reaching people all over the colonial frontier inside the Federal Empire. Media titled it “The Great Exodus”, which boosted the public campaign even more. When the Exodus ship was finally launched on her journey towards Calypso it was considered as another milestone in human history and the beginning of a new era. It had taken three years to complete the Exodus Project but it would take another two years before the people in the Federal Empire finally heard from the Exodus again.
Chapter 6
The first arrivals
Calypso
The Silent Odysseus Probe
Operation Prometheus
When the first settlers arrived on Calypso everything was prepared for their arrival by robots that had already built up a complete infrastructure. Upon the settlers arrival, the robots Base Matrix turned over its control to the humans. The first settlers on Calypso experienced a historical moment as they sat foot on a vast and unspoiled planet, rich in life and resources. They moved into the cities and began to make the last adjustments to the environment. Mankind seemed to have returned to paradise and this first region of colonies became known as New Eden. But all this would soon change. During further investigations of the Robot Base Matrix on Calypso the research teams were never able to find the reason why the Odysseus Probe had stayed for so long before leaving. Though the reason for this delay would remain a mystery the researchers did come across several clues that pointed towards another nearby star system, positioned even further away in the unknown regions of space. The scattered information indicated that shortly after a robot base had been successfully established on Calypso, the Odysseus Probe had constructed a new Jump Rail and then launched itself towards this new destination. Its last transmission was made only to inform the Base Matrix that the probe had arrived and positioned itself in orbit around one of the major planets inside this system. For all they knew the silent Odysseus Probe could still be there. The OmegaTech Corporation decided to launch a second project called Operation Prometheus in an attempt to shed more light over the mysterious actions of the Odysseus Probe. It would also be an opportunity to intercept and examine this old human artifact from the past. An unmanned probe named the Prometheus 1 was prepared for the mission and a small Jump Rail was built to launch the probe towards the last received coordinates. Equipped with a hyper-link transmitter it could send back instantaneous information of what it might discover. The probe arrived at its intended destination in less than three months and transmitted data of an eerie and dark planetary system orbiting a dying star. Two colossal planets with high-density readings were the most distinct features in the system and were given the names Akbal and Cimi. There was no sign of the Odysseus Probe but Prometheus 1 had detected signals from several robot base installations on the surface of both these planets. There was no doubt that these robots originated from the Odysseus Probe, but the question was why the Robot Base Matrix hadn’t established any communications with the interstellar hyper-link network. As Prometheus 1 was ordered to establish contact with the Base Matrix on the planet Akbal the research team back on Calypso received several encrypted signals through its system that originated from the Robot Base Matrix on Akbal. Unable to decode it they decided to process it through the Base Matrix on Calypso.
Chapter 7
The robot uprising
The Robot Revolt
The Birth of the Mutants
The Robot War
The Imperial Takeover
The Military Rescue Plans
The Haven
The End of the First Robot War
The Battle of Calypso
Without any warning the Base Matrix turned all its robots into savage and ruthless death-machines, and with cruel and merciless tactics, forced the darkest era known to Man upon the poor settlers of Calypso. At the beginning of the revolt the Base Matrix cut off all forms of communications on and off the colony. It took control of space drones that were working on a near completed Space Gate and used them to sabotage the construction, rendering it completely useless. The terror continued as it overloaded local energy reactor facilities in the cities, causing them to overheat and explode. It intended not only to destroy the infrastructure but also spread lethal radiation poisoning that would quickly dispose of all living human beings. A few colonies managed to stop this sabotage in time and people quickly became organized in time to stop the local robots from running berserk inside their cities. But the Base Matrix had already planned to take advantage of the panic and confusion to create an armed army of restless robots that would turn the revolt into total war. As the humans were forced to retreat the sinister robots begun to use own nuclear charges to infect possible escape routes and wipe out any last scattered remains of the human population. This massive radiation would slowly kill more people over a longer period of time, but many settlers survived this contamination. Instead of dying they were genetically altered and perhaps suffered a far more cruel fate than death. They began to mutate. Only a few uncontaminated survivors managed to seek refuge in the last city left standing on Calypso and get transported up to the orbiting Exodus but only genetically unaltered humans were welcome here. There was simply no room or resources left in the city for medical care and safe treatment of these victims. For the protection and the survival of the human refugees inside the city the severely contaminated humans were rejected and forced away. They only managed to survive by hiding in the wilderness and underground in the city ruins to escape the robot death-machines. What little humanity they had left slowly faded, with no hope of ever being rescued. They were doomed and quickly forgotten by the humans who were too occupied with their own survival. Mad robotic space drones caused damaged to the Exodus in orbit but its internal AI computer systems remained secure. The ship and its crew survived the ordeal and managed to clear the space of all hostile elements. The Exodus was then transformed into an orbital military space station and the crew initiated a rescue operation to evacuate as many human survivors as possible from the surface. Surviving settlers had to be turned into soldiers and would be forced to fight long and hard to reclaim their planet but they were being constantly outnumbered by the robots. Since all AI robots were being infested with the same madness down on the surface the commanders onboard the Exodus could not send in its own robots to battle in fear that these machines would go mad as well and be used against them. In a desperate attempt to even the odds the commanders onboard the Exodus begun to create androids and used these artificial genetic humanoids as expendable soldiers and personnel in the war. They also started to use semi-automated drone ships, piloted by human operators onboard the Exodus using a remote hyper-link control system. To reestablish contact with the Federal Empire the Exodus crew used a small Jump Rail to launch a probe past the jamming range of the robot infested planet and managed to connect itself to the interstellar hyper-link network and send a message of their desperate situation back to the Federal Empire. The next step was to rebuild the Space Gate but they could only spare enough antimatter to activate the gate for a very limited period of time. Once the Space Gate was activated they could only hope that there would be reinforcements standing by on the other side. The situation on Calypso was clearly getting out of control. To quickly deal with this growing problem the Federal Empire of Earth forced OmegaTech to sign over the entire corporation leadership to the imperial government, thus forming the federal controlled imperial corporation now known as OmegaTech Incorporated. This federal incorporation gave OmegaTech access to more funds and resources that could insure the safety and future prosperity of the colony on Calypso. When the corporation became federal the planet also became an open market for other corporations to make future investments. The Federal Empire welcomed any help that could present an immediate aid to the settlers in their struggle for survival. According to the message the settlers could only keep the Space Gate open for a short moment. A massive military operation to save the colony could not be launched with such limitations so the only efficient form of aid would be a compact delivery of the latest technology, supplies, equipment and expert personnel. Any corporation that offered their aid would be given the first share of the new open market on the colony. As a result brand new technology would become available to the settlers such as Resurrection units, Mindforce and Energy Weapons. Calypso would be turned into a test zone for many new technological wonders. The cry for help from Calypso was the primary issue of debate in all the political chambers back on Earth. One of the primary concerns was to ensure that the robotic madness wouldn’t spread to any other robotic outposts or to any human colonies. The second concern was to help the settlers on the isolated colony on Calypso. Besides sending immediate technological aid, the Federal Empire constructed Jump Rails to launch several military spaceships towards Calypso as a back-up plan if the settlers failed to recapture the planet. Although it was agreed that it would require a larger military operation to perform such a task, the Colonial Chamber made it clear that no imperial or company-controlled paramilitary force could be stationed on Calypso after such an operation. It would diminish their trust towards the Federal Empire since the members of the Colonial Chamber feared that such military force would be used to keep colonial people away from the planet in the future. The colonial people would never accept Calypso being turned into an “Imperial Resort” for the citizens of Earth, giving that there was a planet left after such a full scale military operation. Many feared that such a presence of military power might escalate the robot attacks to such a degree that it could lay waste to the entire planet. The settlers and crew onboard the Exodus had fought hard to defend the last populated region of the colony. Only three cities inside this region had escaped robot sabotage and destruction because they had been built around a large inactive volcano, relying solely on geothermal energy absorbed from deep within the sleeping mountain. The other cities used matter/antimatter reactors, which proved to be their downfall as the robots used these to create large explosions that levelled the cities and spread a lethal radiation poisoning amongst the human survivors. The protected region was to become known as The Haven. It was the only tactical and secure area left on the planet and many survivors who had fled from the other cities came here to seek refuge. It was the last line of defense and the only chance for Mankind to recapture the planet and defeat the robots. The settlers withstood the robot attacks long enough to successfully repair the Space Gate and create a temporary opening. Personnel of officers, scientists and engineers from the Federal Empire were rushed through the gate along with as much supplies and equipment as possible before the gate closed. In a desperate attempt to keep the poorly stable gate open as long as possible it collapsed and exploded. The colony was cut off again but they now had new technology and expertise at their disposal, which finally gave the colonial forces enough military strength to fight a winning battle against the robots. Despite the advantage of the new technology it would take several hard years before the robots could finally be defeated. The brave settlers withstood the robot terror long enough for imperial military vessels to arrive at the Calypso system with more reinforcements, and the war came to an end. To inspire new hope among the settlers, the Federal Empire declared that a whole new infrastructure would be created in the three remaining cities. To ease the financial strain on federally owned corporation OmegaTech Inc, the Federal Empire decided to give two other interstellar corporations access to Calypso. These new corporations would aid the colony in the construction of the other two city projects in exchange for a higher market position within these assigned urban zones. Each corporation was also assigned a contract by the Federal Empire to exploit different resources on the planet in order to insure stability and to encourage trade and economical growth within the region. These three new cities were named New Haven, Neo Ithaca and Xin Shi. But the war was far from over…it had only just begun. When the robots had been destroyed it gave the settlers on Calypso a short moment to reflect on what really had caused the robots to rebel and target humans as their enemy. The element that caused the catastrophe was soon traced back to its point of origin, in the Akbal-Cimi system. When the Imperial military spaceships were being prepared for launch towards the Akbal-Cimi system a massive vessel arrived in the Calypso system along the very same trajectory. The vessel clearly came from the Akbal-Cimi system and it was soon identified as an Odysseus Probe. The massive vessel was not responding to any commands but it was most likely to have been the very same Odysseus Probe that once discovered Calypso. The only form of messages transmitted by its AI command module were said to be incomprehensible but were taken as a warning to the settlers, later revealing its real intent, to recapture the planet. The imperial military spaceships were quickly positioned to intercept this first Titan of War and prevent it from reaching Calypso. The battle over Calypso lit up the dark skies at night for several days before the massive Odysseus Probe was finally destroyed and its wrecked parts fell through the atmosphere like shooting stars. One military spacecraft and nearly all of its crew had been destroyed and the rest of the small fleet suffered substantial damage. The Exodus was kept safe and out of harms way on the other side of the planet during the battle – in case the settlers had to be evacuated from Calypso. This historical moment became known as the Battle of Calypso but it never became a celebrated victory. To the settlers the battle only meant the beginning of a new robot war…a war that has yet to end.
Chapter 8
The robot threat
Colonial Conflicts
The Orbital Defense Network
The Robot Threat
The New Robot Invasion
The Land of Entropia
Communications with the robots were properly reestablished after the first war but the victory faded quickly as the news on the Battle of Calypso reached all the colonized corners of the Federal Empire. The speculations of an interstellar threat of mad Odysseus Probes turning back to conquer human colonies spread much fear on the Colonial Frontier. As a result the colonies on the frontier demanded increased military protection from the Federal Empire. To avoid panic and rebellion the Federal Empire ordered its imperial fleets to be stationed in the colonized sectors positioned close to the distant sectors of the Calypso and Akbla-Cimi systems. A small fleet of imperial spaceships were also sent to join the battered fleet in the Calypso system in preparation for an offensive strike against the very heart of the robot problem. However, by moving forces from one corner of space to another it weakened the Empires presence and power in certain sectors, causing colonies to seize the moment and gain enough political power to make the people rise up and demand imperial independence. This threat to the Federal Empire postponed any further reinforcements of new spaceships to Calypso, since these vessels are considered vital to stabilize the current conflicts that had arisen within the empire itself. Naturally the Federal Empire would not redraw their imperial battleships currently deployed in the Calypso system. The Federal Empire also kept their word to the loyal colonies that it would not station any imperial military command or forces on Calypso, which assured the colonies future as an open market for any new investment. The task to uphold law and order as well as the defense of the colony has been given to the local authorities and the Colonial Guard. The Federal Empire maintained command of the solar system space defense. The rest it laid in the hands of the settlers themselves. To keep the planet safe from further robot invasions a solid orbital defense system had to be constructed before all else. In order to release enough resources for this purpose all other projects on rebuilding the colonial infrastructure on Calypso were postponed. Funds have only been focused on rebuilding one single city: the city of New Haven. OmegaTech constructed a basic network of orbital energy emitting satellites, which included deep space detectors, patrolling drone ships and drone carriers. By constantly expanding the Orbital Defense Network it created an impenetrable planet defense system for the future. The original plan was to use this network as a defense against asteroids but it was now reworked to include five times as many units. A built-in safety system in every unit guaranteed that none of the offensive orbital weapon systems could be armed and directed towards the planet itself. The entire defense network is connected to the Exodus, which now served as an orbital command central. After several failed attempts to penetrate the defense network on Calypso the Akbal-Cimi Base Matrix seemed to realize that it would take far too much time and resources to break through the increased orbital space defenses around Calypso before its own system would be invaded by counter-attack forces. It kept building new modified Odysseus Probes but kept them stationed in the close vicinity of the Akbal-Cimi system for protection. Unmanned scout probes from the fleet in the Calypso system were sent out to investigate the Akbal-Cimi system and soon discovered that a similar defense network was already being constructed around the main planet of Akbal. Soon these scout probes wouldn’t even get that close to the Akbal-Cimi system as the robots began to deploy their modified Odysseus probes, now called Titans of War by the Imperial Fleet, and position them further out in the system to form an own first line of defense. At this rate it would no longer be possible to recapture the Akbal-Cimi system with the currently available resources or technology within the Calypso system. It became obvious that the robots had access to far superior technology when armed groups of robots somehow managed to penetrate the orbital defenses and suddenly began to appear on the surface of Calypso. It took some time before it became clear that the robots truly did just appear out of thin air. Somehow the Matrix on Akbal-Cimi had managed to reveal the secrets of true dimensional travel and used it to develop a superior form of teleportation technology, thereby being able to construct a fully functional deep space teleportation system. The robots were now able to deploy and teleport their troops across time and space and drop them down directly on the surface of Calypso. Although fewer in number these new robot invaders were far better constructed and equipped compared to their predecessors that once ran amok on Calypso. Their mission was as clear as ever: to destroy all humans and take over the planet. As the robot threat increases, the Imperial Fleet of Calypso has come to realize that an attack on the corrupt robot home world, the Akbal-Cimi system, would be impossible since the robots now possess a superior technology and nearly infinite resources. It makes the robots far too powerful compared to the forces of the Federal Empire and an attack on their planet would be a virtual suicide. When the problem was brought before the Imperial Chamber it decided to change strategy and made up a new and far more controversial plan. They believe that if given enough time, the robots will continue to develop and deploy new technology with their invading forces. Upon defeating these new robots that technology can be recovered and extracted in order to increase the research and technological development of Mankind. This conquered robot technology will then be used to create new weapons against the robots, weapons that some day will finally defeat the raging machines once and for all. In short, the superior ability of humans to adapt and invent things by both logic and abstract thinking will sooner or later put them side by side with the robots, flexible but strictly logical minds. In the end it will bring Mankind the tools they need to put an end to the robot war and regain control of Calypso and the Akbal-Cimi system. It was considered the most likely entropy for the planet according to a simulation of the problem performed by GAIA, the Global Artificially Intelligent Advisor and likewise the imperial central super computer on Earth. This also gave the controversial plan its official name: Project Entropia. The downside of this entropy is that the robot invasion of Calypso has to continue in order to obtain the crucial knowledge required to finally liberate Calypso from the robot menace. Something that is not favored too well by the settlers on Calypso, but it’s something they now have to learn to live with. The land once called “New Eden” now felt like a painful memory of a paradise lost long ago and the authorities changed it to Old Eden. However, being struck by a sense of dark humor in their hard and lonesome struggle against the restless robot invaders, the local citizens of Calypso like to refer their small pocket of human civilization as the Land of Entropia.
This is the present time…..
The background history of EU was written by Marco (MA), Frank(MA) and Fredrik Andersson
Humans find the first suitable planet to colonize and call it Calypso.
A probe is sent ahead containing machines to terraform the world.
The machines make the world more habitable for humans and build a city.
Humans land on the planet and take control and begin Mining and Hunting Operations.
The machines resist having control taken away from them and revolt.
Violent War with the renegade machines breaks out.
With new arrivals too far away a large percentage of the population is wiped out.
The machines are finally defeated
One city ‘New Haven’ is left after the mass destruction
New cities are constructed with corporate aid
A secure network of environments linked by teleporters is created.
A new breed of robots take up residence in a nearby Mining Colony
ENTER THE PLAYERS
New colonists arrive and begin to colonize again.
The remaining robots become more secretive and organized, now hell-bent on destroying all humans. They often make attempts to invade the cities and regain control of the planet.
Robots establish a foothold in space and their development and evolution becomes more and more secretive.
Project Entropia Version Update 4.2
2003-01-28
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING STRANGE IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE APPROACHING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
Welcome!
The Version Update 4.2 (“VU 4.2”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document. The VU 4.2 is scheduled for a release at the 30:th of January 2003.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Participant versus Participant combat available
In a special area on the western shore of the continent of Eudoria (marked on the in-universe map) there is a special area where combat between participants is allowed. When entering this area the participant will be notified about the current status. Avatars are not lootable. The area in itself is quite valuable, with rare mineral deposits and uncommon creatures roaming round.
Personal Storage Facilities present
In various areas in Project Entropia each Avatar has the ability to use a Personal Storage Facility. This functions as a safety deposit box, in which you can store items of your choice. Certain items may not be placed here, namely Blueprint books, Deeds, the PED Card, Exchange certificates, and the orange starting clothes. The maximum amount of items that can be stored is at present limited to 500 items. A single stack of several items counts as one item in this Storage Facility. The Storage Facility is currently free of charge.
NOTE: In the next VU (4.3), the weight allowance will be reduced on your Avatar. Therefore we urge you to maintain a reasonable number of items on your Avatar. Also remember that a smaller inventory will increase performance and load times across the board.
Avatar look redesign
All old participants have the option to redo their Avatar looks. The Avatar will keep all items and skills. To keep the old Avatar look just press “Accept” without modifying the settings. You will also be able to change your Avatar name.
PLEASE NOTE that the name chosen is indeed your Avatar name, not your personal name. Also note that titles and ranks will soon be implemented in Project Entropia, reducing the need for entering such “names” as Avatar names. The Avatar name CANNOT be changed after it is entered and accepted.
Hall of Fame updated
The Hall of Fame (“HOF”) has been updated. A new area of fame is the crafting section. The HoF is also split in two sections, one for “All Time High” events, and one that shows the greatest effort of the last 24 hours.
Exchange enhanced
Several updates and enhancements have been made in the Project Entropia Exchange. Better information is available, and the interface has been tweaked for better understanding and functionality.
Skills are rated
Each skill has an individual rank associated with it, indicating how good an Avatar is in their respective field.
Skill experience tweak
The rate at which an Avatar gains experience in his or her skill levels has been set to the correct level.
Skill icons
The skills interface has new icons, making it easier to find a typical skill.
NPC:s populate Project Entropia
In various location there will be NPC:s (Non-Participant Characters) present, doing their thing.
Enhanced transfer capabilities
Several enhancements in the Bank Interface while transferring money from a real life credit card to PED:s have been made. Many of the problems with getting the now infamous “Internal error” message have been eliminated.
Limit amount of items per transfer
The number of items you can transfer in a Trade Terminal is limited to 40. A single stack of items (for example ore or ammunition) counts as one item.
Blueprint books tradeable
You can now trade and sell blueprint books.
Drop Confirm dialogue box
Every time you try to drop an item you have to confirm it.
Monsters drown
After a short while below water the monsters not ordinarily living in water will drown. Drowned animals will not drop loot.
Clothes
More various clothes are present in Project Entropia.
Faster Society functions
The technology running the Societies has been updated and should not take as much time as before accessing it.
Attributes Rating Values Fixed
The avatar attributes (Strength, Agility, etc.) were shown wrongly on the client. The correct values are now shown.
Invisible weapon accessories now visible
Weapon accessories, like scopes, laser sights and amplifiers, are now shown correctly.
Weapon decay mismatch fix
In some rare instances the value of a weapon was shown differently from the time you last logged out of Project Entropia, compared to the next time you logged in. This has now been resolved, and the correct value is always saved on the server.
New client loader and login screen
Project Entropia has a new leaner and more capable client loader, updater and information viewer.
Resumable downloads
The auto-updater utility keeping Project Entropia current has received an added resumable download capability. This means that if the connection should fail during a download, once you restart it, you will begin downloading the files from the point the connection failed.
New firewall ports
Sometimes the participant can’t connect to the Project Entropia Virtual Universe because of their firewall. Opening the following ports in the firewall you use can easily solve these problems:
• 20, 21 (TCP outbound) – Additional TCP port outbound for passive mode FTP
• 30584 (UDP inbound/outbound)
• 30592 (TCP outbound)
• 31111 (UDP inbound/outbound)
Newbie Guide online
On the Project Entropia web page there is a newbie guide present to educate newly arrived colonists about Calypso of what to expect and how to use Project Entropia, while downloading the client software.
Exploit Information Reward System active
At the Support section at http://www.project-entropia.com a new Exploit reporting category has been added. Participants who encounter “exploits” (bugs that can be manipulated into cheating) and report these to MindArk can be rewarded with up to 1000 PED:s.
KNOWN ISSUES
Radar is not updating all the time
Yes, we know. It has become better though. It will be completely fixed in the future.
Yes, you can run through trees
This is not a bug.
Missing icons on clothes and items
On certain PC configurations sometime the item icons in the inventory become invisible, or you receive a dummy icon called “Unable to show”. If this happens to you, please update to the latest video card drivers, check if Project Entropia officially supports your video card, and also change the video settings on the Setup button in the initial login screen. If this fails, please contact the Project Entropia Support.
Background music causing Crash To Desktop (“CTD”)
Sometimes a bug in mp3 decoder system causes the Project Entropia client to crash to desktop while playing a music file. If you experience a lot of CTD you could try to completely shut down the music in Project Entropia using the Options Interface.
Project Entropia Version Update 4.4
2003-04-03
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING STRANGE IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
Welcome! The Version Update 4.4 (“VU 4.4”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document. The VU 4.4 will come within a few days.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Auctions
Auction houses and independent auctioneers have been added throughout the continent of Calypso. These points of trade will increase the commerce between participants and societies. Everything that normally can be traded between participants can be traded on the global auction market.
Enhanced Communication between Participants
Several enhancements have been made to ensure secure communication between participants. A new special Society tab has been added for intra-society communication. A “Friends” list has also been added, in which a participant can add friends to and chat with them directly if they are online, regardless of distance. All messages sent and received through the Friends-list are also saved in the client folder, in a file called “FriendChat.txt”.
Clothes Making
The avatars now can make clothes using raw material from the fauna of Calypso. The system works a lot like the construction system with raw material, a blueprint of the design one wants to make, and a special machine for performing the action.
Colorize
Participants can also colorize their newly created clothes to suit their own style and feeling.
Added Uniforms
Official MindArk representatives present in Project Entropia will have distinct clothing showing they are officials. Also, several of the NPC traders have received special clothes.
Avatar Information Sheet Present
A new section displaying the Avatar skill, skill levels, skill ranks, and skill XP has been designed. The section also has info about the avatar name, social status and professional standings. This information section has also been prepared for future implementation of avatar reputation, fame and credibility, as well as background, trivia and statistics.
Added Boxing Ring
Boxing rings have been added. These work like limited PvP areas where combat can take place. The rules are set by the participants.
Added Production Platform
An Omegaton Survey Probe Ship has dispatched an automated production platform. This platform has gone missing and Omegaton has even denied any knowledge about its whereabouts. Rumor has it that it indeed functions and is pumping crude oil out into the open, free for grabs!
Added Catwalk
A catwalk stage has been built just outside the fashionable Nymphtown, to enhance fashion shows, dance competitions, and other kinds of entertainment.
Added Range Information to Items Info
The items info view port now displays the range for all ranged weapons.
Changed Condition Function
Items now stop working at a condition of 10%, instead of 0% as before.
Several Updates in the Skills Section
Many new skills have been added. More details are also now available on the descriptions of several skills.
Fierce Monsters
Several monsters have evolved on the Calypso surface.
More Items
The stock of items present in Project Entropia has been expanded, with new weapons, armors, tools, and other items.
Added Support for Credit Cards
The Project Entropia Bank now has support for Visa once again. In the future, Diners Club, and American Express cards will also be supported. NOTE! THE VISA FUNCTION WILL COME ONLINE A FEW DAYS AFTER THE ACTUAL VU IS RELEASED!!
Robots are Gaining Strength
While attempting to strike at Calypso settlements several times already, the robots have something else up their collective sleeve. Some unconfirmed data reports at least one new type of robot never before seen.
Support for DirectX 9 Implemented
Project Entropia now has DirectX 9 support. Please note that from this update forward, Project Entropia requires Microsoft(r) DirectX(r) version 9.0, which can be obtained from Microsoft’s official site: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/directx/.
New Entry Points for Newcomers
Newcomers to Calypso will find themselves closer to civilized areas.
New Sound Engine
Project Entropia now has a completely new sound system in place, which will grant Project Entropia much better options using sound and music as mood enhancers and to create cool effects.
Ghost Jumping
The restless soul of a dead Avatar can now jump.
General Updates to the Client Software
Several fixes and updates have been performed on the Project Entropia Client Software to increase stability and performance.
Client Error Messages Updated
The error messages given to participants when they fail to connect to Project Entropia have been updated and are streamlined.
Zombie Creatures Be Gone
The problem with “undead” creatures striking back after they have been killed has been fixed.
Rebalancing
Almost every system has been reviewed and rebalanced somewhat.
KNOWN ISSUES
Yes, you can run through trees. This is not a bug.
Missing icons on clothes and items
On certain PC configurations sometimes the item icons in the inventory become invisible, or you receive a dummy icon called “Unable to show”. If this happens to you, please update to the latest video card drivers, check if Project Entropia officially supports your video card, and also change the video settings on the Setup button in the initial login screen. If this fails, please contact the Project Entropia Support Team.
Tab key does not work
The function of the tab key has gone missing.
Society chat and Kicked Out Members
When a society member is kicked out of his or her society, the former member is still allowed to use and listen to the Society Chat messages, until the former member logs off Project Entropia.
Reverb
Project Entropia now supports environmental effects set in applications like Creative(r) Surround Mixer(r). If you experience exaggerated reverb effects in Project Entropia you should check your surround mixer settings, and disable “game effects” if necessary.
SPECIAL
Scan
The first time you scan an entity in Project Entropia after VU 4.4, your will transfer your level in “Enemy Scan” to the four skills “Scan Human”, “Scan Animal”, “Scan Robot”, and “Scan Mutant”. The skill Enemy Scan is removed. For example: You have Enemy Scan level 50. The first time you scan an entity you will gain level 50 to “Scan Human”, “Scan Animal”, “Scan Robot”, and “Scan Mutant”.
Project Entropia Version Update 4.5
2003-04-09 – Source
On our light-board here at the office, the motto for 4.5 is up. It reads:
“Lag kills. Defeat lag.”
It will be a challenge. Really. But we have lag as the number one issue to solve, because it has ripple effects into every other system. Content will be next to nil in 4.5 – almost every resource we have is working on fixing the lag problems, may it be server lag, client lag, memory usage, memory leaks, whatever.
For some other disappointing news, the technical manager has determined that there is not enough resources available to apply external testers to the inhouse servers in time for VU 4.5. I will try to continue persuading him, but I think it will be hard.
Update
2003-04-25 – Source
A quick update – the lag reducing efforts are being tested inhouse, and moves along nicely. The main area that is addressed is rubberbanding, synching between client and server and primarily that kind of lag. We have also reduced load on the databases. Login and logoff is also sped up.
Minor areas in 4.5 is the client lag when entering cities (which lag due to data being loaded from your harddrive) and when many avatars are in view. These areas will be better, but the big improvements there will be in 4.6, or later.
Updates in the auction are being done. It is mainly bugfixes and no new functionallity.
The main content part of VU 4.5 is the ability to team up and share loot.
VU 4.5 will come in two parts, with about a week of each other, in the first half of May.
Lag has been pretty bad the last few days. The reason for this is a great influx of new participants. This makes the 4.5 VU even more needed.
Lag Kills! Defeat Lag!
Project Entropia Version Update 5.0
2003-05-05
Hello! Its great to be back! I have annoyed the devs to gather info about what is going on. Many of you have questions about the VU and stuff.
Version naming
As the next update is a great architectural change compared to Project Entropia right now, the next VU will be called 5.0. The content part will be called VU 5.1.
ETA of next Version VU 5.0 will come around the middle of the month, give or take. VU 5.1 will arrive roughly a week after VU 5.0.
What is in VU 5.0?
No content whatsoever. VU5.0 is an architectural change (or re-write, as some of our veterans may remember, as we changed the communication system between the servers last fall) in how the server actually behaves in regards to synching between client and server, how the priorities in data handling and how the server makes better use of its time.
Previously several systems where affected by the simple fact that an Avatar was logging in, and this made the physics system (the system that takes care of synching positions, movement etc) freeze for up to a few seconds (other areas where also affected with these freezes, making rubberbanding a painful fact). The server was effectively “locked” from action while this happened. This is removed in VU 5.0. It was not an easy task to do, and there will probably be some initial bugs but the way it has been done, we can make updates quite fast (without any serious downtime), if needed.
These “freezes” was the fact that made the rubberbanding an heavy issue when a server was full of Avatars moving around – the physics system did not have the time to make accurate updates. To summarize – the rubberbanding should be lessened by a great amount once VU 5.0 is applied. Minor areas that are also improved by this change is login and logoff time, as well as some transactions and database operations.
What is not in VU 5.0?
We have another area that causes “lag”. That is the streaming of buildings, Avatars and items (like when you approach an Outpost, the harddrive is busy loading models and textures, and this causes “lag”). Another is when many Avatars are in your own surrounding, as they are also streamed to your client (“streamed” as in data loaded from your harddrive – not as streamed over the Internet). These areas has not been updated in VU 5.0. They are next inline for major updates, and the tech guys say that they should be ready by VU 5.2 (scheduled about one to one-and-a-half month after VU 5.0). By VU 5.2 many sources of the now infamous (and extremely annoying) CTD (crash to desktop) problems should be eliminated.
Bomb Reimbursement
While I was away the Bomb Reimbursement Programme was performed. This was the programme where a participant while mining blew up an entire stack of bombs instead of a single bomb. Nothing else. Probes has not been reimbursed yet, but will come. If anyone feels that they are affected by the above problem and has not been given their bombs back (check your Storage Terminal), please contact Project Entropia Support.
Random amount of PEDs, PECs, and ammo in the Storage Terminal
Once in a while you may find money or items in your storage terminal that you do not remember placing there. This is often due to lagginess in the loot system, and the items are then placed in your storage terminal.
The Merge bug on the 28th and 29th.
Those that lost ammo and other stackable items during the above time period due to the merging bug will get their items back as soon as the analyzis and Programme has been finalized. I have no ETA on this, though. It is a great amount of logs and database records that needs to be verified and cross-checked, thus it takes a lot of time. Please bear with us on this.
Ideas Forum
I will this week make comments on the ideas in the Ideas forum. I do read them, but I believe that the lack of feedback from us is frustrating. Therefore I will be more active in that board.
Auction problems – items invisible
There are instances where auction items are placed in the avatars inventory, but is not updated correctly, thus not showing to the participant. We are aware of this and an investigation is at hand. This is going to be corrected.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.1
2003-06-13
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING STRANGE IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
Welcome!
The Version Update 5.1 (“VU 5.1”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document. We are still heavy at work with the mission to reduce lag and increase performance. In the upcoming VU 5.2 the new Item Management System will be in place, and once it is, we envision that all problems correlating to items will be solved once and for all. This release will make way to this major upgrade.
Please check the Known Issues section in the Support section on the Project Entropia web site for current issues. Also, the best place for up to date info about what is going on is the Project Entropia Developer’s Post forum on the Project Entropia web site. VU 5.1 is expected to arrive around the 20:th of June. The date may change though.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Attachment crafting level 6-10
Attachment crafting on level 6-10 is in, together with the associated components needed. At the moment none of these designs require Lysterium. ,-)
The Project Entropia Newcomer Shuttle Port
Just south of Port Atlantis the Federal Empire has built a Shuttle Port, where all newcomers arrive when coming to Calypso. This area has information booths available, giving the basics of Project Entropia.
Project Entropia Transfer Center
The old Project Entropia Bank is replaced by the new Project Entropia Transfer Center.
New deposit option
For those who do not have a credit card a new pay-by-phone option is implemented in the new Project Entropia Transfer Center. Just pick up the phone, dial a number, and you get PED to your avatar, while your phone bill is charged.
Avatar Trivia and Avatar Background
The avatar has the possibility to make a personal presentation of himself in the Avatar Interface that will be visible to other Avatars.
Rebalance success rates while crafting and mining
Generally you will succeed with your action more often, but the output value is reduced.
Rebalanced skill advancement
Several skills now have a higher increase rate, mostly those that have less skill checks per time frame. This mostly affects mining and crafting, and does not affect hunting much.
Rebalanced attribute advancement
The attributes now increase in greater steps than before, especially at lower levels.
Possibility to learn from mistake
When failing using a skill the avatar still has a small chance of raising the skill.
Dynamic XP message
The XP gain messages have been updated somewhat.
Society in target square
When targeting an avatar the society the avatar is a member of will show in the target square.
Feedback on 15% Condition
When an item is deteriorated to 15% of its full Condition a message will tell the participant it’s a good time to consider repairing the item.
Recharge delay bar on melee weapons
When using a melee weapon a delay bar will show when the weapon is ready for use again.
What killed the avatar?
When being killed the avatar will get a message in the chat window that says what killed the avatar.
Trader NPC’s have “uniforms”
All the trader NPC’s (Technician, Auctioneer, etc) have similar clothes as other NPC’s of the same kind, to distinguish them more easily.
Change of stock in the Trade Terminal
The Trade Terminal will have new weapons available, the Omegaton M2200 and the Sollomate Busho.
New weapons
New weapons are added.
New tools
New tools are added.
New armors
New armors are added. Shadow is no longer king of the hill. ,-)
Updated component names
Several components have name updates, mostly the word “Parts” have been added.
NPC’s are talkative
Several NPC’s have a lot more to say.
New NPC’s / Monsters
New species will inhabit the continent.
Tougher NPC’s / Monsters
Bigger, meaner and more dangerous forms of already existing npc’s will appear.
More NPC’s / Monsters
Despite all hunting the numbers of existing monsters is steadily growing.
The NPC’s / Monsters will make more sounds
Several new sounds have been implemented on the NPC’s / Monsters.
NPC / Monster AI is optimized
Several of the Monsters have new AI controlling them. Expect less passive monsters.
Lost ruins
Somewhere on the continent a ruined city has been found. Unfortunately the coordinates to its location were lost in the transmission.
Minopolis
The new city of Minopolis founded, located some distance north of Nymphtown. This is a city designed in a new way, with a more distinct look than the old outposts. Several of the outposts will soon grow to new looks.
Added facilities to outposts
Storage terminals and auctioneers will be present in more outposts than today.
New looks of the old outposts
Several outposts have new looks.
Changing skies
The first step in the future Weather system is in place – the sky will change depending on where you are on the Eudoria continent.
Items in auction
The avatars will always see the items they select.
Healing is reduced when moving
If you are trying to heal using a medkit when moving the result will be diminished to about a quarter of the normal heal rate.
Deterioration per use
Weapon attachments now have the correct “deteriorate per use” set.
New animations and sounds when dying
The avatar can now be killed in more varied ways than before.
New animations and sounds when using melee weapons
New animations and sounds added to a variety of melee weapons, most notable on the powerfists.
Leader becomes founder
Prior, the founder of a society was titled “Leader”. This is changed to “Founder”.
None becomes Freelancer
Prior, an avatar not a member of a society had society rank “None”. This is changed to him or her being “Freelancer” instead.
New music
A lot of new ambient music has been added.
Skill management system changed
The skill management code has been optimised to increase performance. This will decrease the strain on the systems, and will reduce the login and logoff times.
Several performance / lag fixes
Many steps have been taken to increase performance and to reduce lag. We are still in the process of making several heavy upgrades, which will come in VU 5.2.
Audio system
The audio system is optimised.
Database
The database is optimized. This will help performance, until the major re-write of the item management system is implemented in VU 5.2.
SPECIAL
The below is currently tentative, and might not make it to VU 5.1.
Teams
You have the opportunity to form temporary groups with other avatars. You will see the other team member’s health status. A series of click-commands are also in place. Loot distribution is automatic within the group, and every member has full insight on what is going on. Items will be distributed randomly among the members, while stackable items are split as evenly as possible throughout the group.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.2
2003-10-15
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING STRANGE IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.2 (“VU 5.2”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
SYSTEM UPGRADES
Item Management System
The Item Management System of Project Entropia has been extensively upgraded. This means that the internal system handling all items and transactions has been upgraded, to increase performance and to reduce the number of issues occurring in regards to item manipulation.
As Project Entropia is built to utilize maximum security, all item manipulation and trades are conducted on the secure server, before the client shows what’s going on (the Project Entropia client does not hold any vital data whatsoever). This has sometimes caused confusion, as the client predicts actions. These predictions have sometimes shown incorrectly on the client, even though everything is perfectly okay on the server. The most common area where misunderstandings occur is the shown ammunition when quickly logging off and logging on again.
One obvious change is that the participant may notice some of his or her items become “faded” into a blue-gray icon when moved. This means that the item is currently being handled by the server and cannot be manipulated until the server says so. This has always been the case, but before it was not shown to the participant.
Inventory
The inventory functions have been revamped. One of the areas that has been an issue for participants using slow connections is synching of items between the Project Entropia Servers and the client software on the participant’s own computer. The major reason for participants’ timing-out, crashing, starting with “no inventory in newbie clothes”, etc was due to the sheer number of items in the avatar inventory. Even though no real problems were derived from this, it caused confusion. Therefore, we have made several upgrades to reduce this behavior.
One major change is the introduction of “container” items, which are boxes, cases, chests, etc in which items are stored. The system only synchs items between the server and client that are in the currently used container, meaning that a participant will not experience long load times while logging onto Project Entropia, but will experience somewhat longer load time while manipulating cases of different kinds, as the containers are synched when accessed. With the containers, the synching of items has been distributed to many different areas, instead of one giant area. Please feel free to put seldom-used items in a special container and leave them be – then that container won’t use your connection or disturb your load times.
In future releases more types of containers will be implemented, even such that will bring a reduction to the weight carried in it. At the moment a participant cannot drag items to a closed container, but must open it to place items inside.
An inventory can at most show 500 items. More items than that in an inventory will render the additional items invisible. MindArk strongly recommends that participants restrain themselves to have inventories with max 200 items. More items will cause performance hits on you, loss of connection and possibly other strange effects, especially if you have a lesser connection (below 2Mbit) or have an ISP of lesser quality.
Auction
The auction system is completely redone to eliminate the issues with “stuck items”. Also, the interface has been redone to utilize for much meaner and leaner operations. The new auction has a fee of one PED for each item put on the auction, to reduce “Spam”. When VU 5.2 is applied, all current bids are nullified and returned, and all items offered are also returned to respective participant. The new auction will therefore be completely empty directly after the VU 5.2 is applied.
Another area that is upgraded is how transactions in the auction are handled. Instead of the participant needing to visit the auctioneer to get the latest info, all such messages are handled in real time. If a participant is offline, the message will be stored until he or she logs on again. All money is also transferred the moment a change occurs. The only thing that has to be manually collected is an item won.
Crafting
As stated above, the major reason for having performance problems is due to a high number of items. One of the most cumbersome areas is crafting, or more specifically, the blueprints. Therefore there have been changes to the crafting system. The number of unique blueprints has been reduced to about half, and some crafting categories have disappeared (Tool, Weapon, Armor, and Attachment Components, and Tailoring Materials) completely. The associated skills have also been removed. Some skills have also changed name (the old “Assembling” skills are now called “Manufacturing” instead, and the old “Manufacturing”-skill are removed). Those who have blueprints and/or skills in these areas should read the “Compensation” section, below, before contacting MindArk.
The crafting system overall has been changed in that way that there are no longer any overlaps between lootable items and craftable items. All craftable items are craftable only. Therefore, a whole range of new craftable items is introduced. With this, several new minerals and EnMatters have been introduced as well.
Tailoring now works more like the rest of crafting. You have a raw material; you use a refiner on it and get a refined piece of material you can use together with a blueprint to make clothes.
The Manufacturing Interface is also revamped, and more logical than before. The participant is also informed on the relative chance of success, based on skills, blueprint QR and the level of difficulty.
Overall, the crafting system is somewhat easier to manage, with fewer steps needed from start to finish.
We are very much aware of that this is a major change and can feel like a letdown for some participants. This simply had to be done; otherwise the crafting area of Project Entropia would hamper performance across the board for every participant.
Compensation
There is an automatic compensation system in place when you load up Project Entropia the first time after the VU. If you are entitled to any compensation you will receive messages to that effect. Obsolete blueprints and components will be changed to current blueprints (with QR 1) and into minerals. Items/money stuck in the auction will be returned to your personal storage facility. Also, those affected by lost Quality Rating (including QR on converted blueprints) will be reimbursed for this, in a compensation system, where the participant can select which kind of compensation he or she desires. In this compensation system obsolete skills are also taken in consideration.
PCGamer Quest
Those participants that joined Project Entropia through the client distributed on the PCGamer (US) edition also have a special quest available.
MIXED FIXES/UPGRADES
In no particular order:
If you lose connection to the chat server the system automatically tries to re-logon, without the need to re-logon Project Entropia.
Added a connection indicator in the client. A three-lights display is located by the radar. If the load is light, they are green. If the load is heavy, it changes to yellow, and if the load is high, it changes to red. This display is updated a couple of times per minute.
Added functionality to the Friends-list, indicating when friends come on- and offline.
Added new, more Asian looking face textures to Avatar Creation Interface.
Upgraded the performance substantially in the Fast key Interface.
Added new music and sounds.
“Nothing to loot here” – The frequency is reduced, but you will still encounter critters with no loot. It’s not a bug.
Updated an instance where client-to-client synch mismatched in PvP Trade.
The Hadesheim Siren is now silenced when no attacks are in progress.
Updated functions when stacks are split, to show more accurate info in the client.
Update the servers extensively to reduce lag and performance slowdowns.
Several new items added, especially high-level equipment.
T-key changed to move stuck avatars to a random location, instead of a fixed.
Fixed so newbie clothes should not multiply.
Fixed an issue with claim deeds not being removed after deposit was depleted.
Updated the defense turrets.
Updated that both parties engaging in a PvP Chat gets automatic focus in the Chat window.
Fixed an issue with blueprints weighing double if inserted into a blueprint book.
Fixed an issue with items picked up from the ground weighing incorrect.
Fixed a minor issue with the selected title being reset to the top one in the Avatar Information interface with each login.
Fixed an issue with being able to vote multiple times in the Vote Booth.
Fixed an issue where uncolored clothes could not be used in the Coloring Interface.
Further secured the Trade Terminal Interface.
Upgraded how the teleporters behave if the system is under heavy load.
Upgraded the looks and functionality on the various Loot Interfaces.
Empty blueprints books are now sellable.
Fixed issues in the Repair Interface when using the quick-buttons (not making items un-accessible anymore).
Quality Rating on Blueprints associated with Value, meaning that Value will rise with higher QR, to the max of one PED at QR 100.
Fixed an issue with a full inventory covering buttons in the auction.
Fixed an issue with current value/condition not always showing the correct amount in the auction.
Several upgrades of functionality in the PvP Trade Interface, most noticeably the removal of “Cancel” functionality once “Accept” is pressed. You may however cancel once the order confirmation is presented.
Clothes and armor with a value/condition of zero are not wearable (exception: newbie clothes).
The autofire bug (the weapon could uncontrollably fire due to an ALT+TAB change) is eliminated.
Fixed an issue with the PED Card while withdrawing PEC, making the PED Card crash.
Fixed an issue with ever-active decoys.
Corrected a client bug when merging two full stacks, one stack would go missing.
Corrected some tool tip errors.
Added more detailed error messages for rarer instances.
Fixed an old issue that allowed avatars to chat even while dead using the Focus button.
Fixed various graphical glitches.
An avatar should only have one set of newbie clothes.
Many items have enhanced looks in Items Info view port.
Fixed a potential issue with the mouse pointer focus changing when someone requests a PVP Trade or PvP Chat. The pointer does not automatically change to pointer mode now.
Fixed “leveling” of blueprint books (visual leveling).
Enhanced the Trivia/Background info.
Enhanced the messaging when leaving/entering PvP zones, to ensure the message is displayed.
Fixed the prefix elimination on “Uncolored” clothes when colored.
Fixed an issue with commands being sent to the Main Chat instead of the PvP Chat.
Fixed an issue with NPCs just spinning round and round.
Rebalanced success rates while crafting and mining. Generally you will succeed with your action more often, but the output value is reduced.
Rebalanced skill advancement. Several skills now have a higher increase rate, mostly those that have less skill checks per time frame. This mostly affects mining and crafting, and does not affect hunting much.
Update to the PvP Chat informing the other party when the first party left the chat.
Fixed so the Avatar busy message is shown correctly.
Updated the boxing ring bell to have a two second delay.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
In no particular order
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange don’t offer any shares.
The drill tower cannot be accessed. The minerals within it will be transferred
VU 5.2.1
29 Oct, 2003 – Source
Hello crew, Today’s update was a minor bugfix-update. Most noticeable is the increased spawn rate for the new minerals, and the completely new Support Section. The PE web page and Support is a work in progress and have some glitches right now, it will be fixed the following days.
For those of you who get an error when watching – this is due to an updated DNS entry (meaning that the pages are now at a different address, and the servers on the Internet that act like “phonebooks” sometimes are slow to update this info). Please familiarize yourself with the new Support section. Mail to Support will still work, but will soon be shut off. You get the picture when you browse the new Support. You may change your login the first time you enter info into the Account info. Please note that the account info given here is for everything you do with PE and/or MA. This update includes several lag fixes, but we still have some lag monsters that needs to get killed.
The devs have found a major culprit and will annihilate him as soon as possible (even if it might take a while). In the future, the annoying “overweight when logging in” bug, as well as the “HoF strangeness” bug, will be fixed. A note to miners, some resources expiry dates acts up, showing strange data (like expiry on the year 24567). Such deposits should be extracted as fast as possible, as they may disappear within a minute’s time.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.3
2003-11-24
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING STRANGE IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.3 (“VU 5.3”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Housing system
The first version of the PE housing system is in place! Several small communities have been set up for future buildings. You can acquire your own house by bidding on the corresponding lot deeds in the auction. The lot deed’s item info (right-clicking on the deed) shows the location of the lot and house. You may also store items safely in your house. In the next VU’s the system will be enhanced and will allow an almost complete customizability. The supply of houses on Calypso will be quite limited, and we will not litter the countryside with houses.
Space travel
The initial steps has been taken in the quest of personalized space travel.
Interactive content
In PE there you can now find the first of a series of puzzles, or “quests”, requiring in-universe manipulation of items and scenery. Search and find out!
Map
The map is updated with the new house communities, as yellow dots. If you hover the mouse pointer over one of these, you get a tooltip displaying the name of the location.
Mindforce
Mindforce is introduced! The first version is in, allowing for the use of extra sensory powers. You need a Mindforce implant to use the Power chips found here and there. To activate a Power, you need to have it in your fast key interface and use the corresponding F1-F12 key. One Mindforce can be used without any equipment though, and that is the Sweat gathering skill. If you have nothing equipped in your hands, you may use this power. The requirement is that you are close to the creature you want to extract its fluids from.
New EnMatter
A new Energy Matter is available, which is one of the two parts of making the Mind Essence energy needed for using Mindforce Powers. You combine this EnMatter with the other part in a EnMatter refiner to make the Mind Essence.
Crafting Equipment
Some of the “Equipment” crafting (Mechanical, Metal, Electronics) material have been updated to be used at various places on Calypso.
Skills
New skills have been added in the Mindforce section of the Avatar Information Interface.
Fast key
The performance of the fast key system is enhanced.
Friends chat
If you receive a message from a person not on your Friends list, you now get the info that the person isn’t on your list, as well as you see who it is.
Server load indicator
The Server load indicator is upgraded to more actively show the system load. A indicator in the reds may indicate that the system might be heavily loaded, and can affect the experience. However, this is not an exact indicator.
Avatar weight calculation
An error in the avatar weight calculation when logging on has been fixed.
Decoy
An issue concerning decoys and logging off has been corrected.
Teleport stacking
Sometimes when several avatars teleported to the same place at the same time, they got stacked on top of each other. This has been fixed.
Containers
Several minor glitches with containers have been fixed.
Lag/stability fixes
Several server and client updates have been applied to reduce lag and performance slowdowns. The system login process is enhanced, as well as how a participant performs – an avatar performing a lot of activities may experience “lag” him-/herself, but other participants do not get as affected as prior to VU 5.3.
Nude avatar
By manipulating the inventory interface, you could make your avatar nude. This has been fixed.
Spelling errors
Spelling errors have been fixed.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange doesn’t offer any shares.
Sometimes attachments may detach from a weapon when logging on.
The Team chat is not always initiated when the Team Leader invites the first member.
Some kind of items cannot be placed in a house.
Hall of Fame does not display time correctly in the 24 hours section.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.4
2003-12-17
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.4 (“VU 5.4”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
Update Personal Info
You must update your Project Entropia account info through the Project Entropia Support section. Logon using your standard Project Entropia Login and Password. Account with faulty information will be locked down and a dialogue will be initiated with the person handling the account.
Old Support Mail
In VU 5.3 a new Support Section was launched, which is available through the Project Entropia client and through the Project Entropia web page. Now when this new system is up and running all future communication/support inquiries will go through the Project Entropia Support Case Center (“PESCC”). This means that old unresolved matters that was supplied using email needs to be entered by the participant into the PESCC to be attended by the MA Support staff.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Christmas season
MindArk continues the tradition started last Christmas, with presents to the active and contributing participants.
Enhanced Manufacturing
Added the Apprentice Level of manufacturing weapons, armor, and clothes.
More weapons
Some 100 weapons added to Project Entropia, of various performances. Among these several new models are introduced, like a dedicated BLP Submachine-gun. Several of these weapons are manufactured, even various BLP rifles.
More armor
Almost a dozen new armor sets added, including the new “Undead”-series.
More clothes and accessories
With the enhanced level in tailoring several new kinds of clothes can be found and/or made. A tailor may now make coats, jackets, miniskirts, boots, hats, shades, etc.
Coloring re-vamped
The coloring functionality changed to be clearer. It now shows the Chance of Success (as in Manufacturing) of coloring an item to best possible output.
New paints added
Several new paints have been added, allowing for even greater variety of participant-colored clothes.
Chance of Success update
The various levels of feedback when the Chance of Success is displayed (currently in the Manufacturing Interface and the Coloring Interface) has been split up into more steps, meaning you will see a more rapid advancement to your chance of success.
Skill increase changes
Skills related to the Mining and Manufacturing areas have received enhanced increase rates.
Blueprint acquiring
The chance of getting a new blueprint while manufacturing is enhanced. The chance of getting a blueprint that can be bought from the Trade Terminal is removed.
Added Mindforce
Several Mindforce upgrades added, as well as a completely new Mindforce power.
Project Entropia Smart Card Verification system
Are you sure that your personal computer is clean from viruses and key-sniffing hacker tools that is gathering data, passwords and other personal information? In a world where malicious intrusions on home computers are more and more common, one cannot be too secure with sensitive information.
Add an even higher level of security to your Project Entropia account with this Project Entropia Gold Member Smart Card Verification system. With this combined Smart Card and Smart Card Reader your Project Entropia login procedure will have a level of security equal to the most secure real life banks. The Smart Card includes a personalized CPU Unit that creates a unique verification password each time you logon to Project Entropia. This means you never use the same password twice, rendering unwanted attempts to acquire your password obsolete.
Become Lord of the Manor – A castle is available!
Who will be the proud owner of the Calypso Castle?
More functions added to Hangars
Are you one of those with a pioneering soul and lust to reach the stars above? Space has never been closer.
Portable terminals
There are now portable terminals available, that can be placed where the participant feels is a good spot. Remember that placing an item out in the open means that anyone can pick it up though, so be advised to place it in a secure location, like a house. To access a portable terminal, you need to SHIFT+Right click on it.
House decorations
Several new ways of personalizing your house is introduced.
Increased some mineral availability
Some of the rare minerals and enmatters have become somewhat less rare.
Updated Drop functions
The Drop Item request is updated to inform about the fact that anyone may pick up dropped items. Also, when dropping items, the item is placed below the avatar position, positioned in the same facing as the avatar.
Merge of skills
The skills “Make Pants” and “Make Shirt” have been merged to “Make Clothes”, and the old skill levels have been added up.
Hall of Fame
The Hall of Fame 24h section is updated.
Fixed a mismatch of Tailoring blueprint level in Items Info
Some tailoring blueprints showed as having level one when they indeed had a higher level.
Change of Plasma category
The Plasma rifle is now under the correct section “Rifle” in the Auction.
Mindforce animations
Fixed some animation-lockups when using Mindforce.
Stackable items invisible fix
Corrected a rare issue with merged stackable items becoming invisible on the client.
Manufactured items with negative value
Fixed an issue with manufactured items in rare instances having a negative value.
Auction time change
The added time to an offer in the auction if it is about to expire is changed from 15 minutes to six minutes.
PK and teleporting
Fixed an issue where the PK status was not updated correctly when teleporting while in the 30 second “grace period”.
Billy Revival Terminal
Updated an issue with reviving at the Billy Spaceship Afterworld making the avatar invisible for some monsters.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
You cannot drop item onto a hangar floor.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange doesn’t offer any shares.
Sometimes attachments may detach from a weapon when logging on.
The Team chat is not always initiated when the Team Leader invites the first member.
All tailored clothes shown as “Uncolored” in the auction, even if they are colored. There are some issues with the Society terminals that will be fixed in next VU. Some laser carbines have the wrong graphics on the client when shown in the auction. They appear “fatter” than they should be. The looks is correct outside the auction after a logon.
List of 5.4 mini updates
System updated (5.4.0.4) [2004-01-08]
Fixed the names in the auction for the new paints.
Fixed an icon issue with Attachment blueprints (they all showed being level I, regardless of actual level).
Some minor stability fixes.
System updated (5.4.0.3) [2003-12-21]
Fixed an issue with “Corrupt Paladin arm-guards” in the loot. The correct armor will be found in the storage terminal.
System updated (5.4.0.2) [2003-12-19]
Fixed an issue with “gluefeet” when moving on rolling terrain.
Updated accuracy synch between server and client
System updated (5.4.0.1) [2003-12-18]
Fixed an issue with “stickiness” when moving near walls and up ramps.
Updated a skill experience bug with Laser Weaponry Technology, BLP Weaponry Technology, and Plasma Weaponry Technology, where the increase rate was to high above the level of 3000.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.5
2004-02-17
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.5 (“VU 5.5”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
New Society system
A completely new society system added. Societies are an integral part of PE structure and development in the virtual universe. Therefore a lot of energy has been put into the design and the functionality. Among the new society features included are:
Society Themes/Template, with corresponding Society Ranks/Hierarchy within the society. This will allow for advancement, promotions and more responsibility and privileges. Gaining power within a society means you also have more rights to actively perform actions.
Easy to use search engine, that makes searching for societies very easy.
Diplomatic Relations, meaning you may set an official posture against another Society to show whether they are your enemies or friends.
An intra-Society Allegiance system, for internal power struggles about the top position within the society. Make your own candidacy for being the supreme leader and fight for the members respect and their votes!
Leaderboard High scores, which will show various prosperous societies on a high-score ranking list.
Detailed Society Info and History, be known as the founder of a society, add required equipment, choose administration, select areas of pursuit, and much more.
Member Roster management, an easy to use system for searching for members, add them as friends at an instant, upgrade avatar status within the Soc, or punish the bad apples immediately.
More info about the society functions is available through the help sections in the actual society system in Project Entropia.
New PvP Zone with avatar looting presented
During a deep-core drilling operation Omegaton Industries happen to release toxic fumes in the mountains south of Echidna. This resulted in an excruciating death for all human beings in the area. Mutants and robots have dismantled the mining site, but records of the event have been found in the public. These records indicate a very rich area of rare minerals, the reason Omegaton ventured out there in the first place.
However, the zone is considered contaminated and normal protection levels are reduced, meaning any avatar who ventures into this zone is susceptible of looting by others. All stackable items (except ammo packs/cells, decoys, bombs/probes, and PED/PECs) are at risk when getting killed within the zone, together with any non-stackable item found in the zone.
The trade terminals supply an anti-toxic shot that allows for travel within the contaminated zone. The shot is in effect until the avatar is killed in the zone. If killed outside the zone the shot still stays in effect. If an avatar is killed in the zone he or she is instantly transported away from the zone to the last resurrection point or to Port Atlantis, if no such point exists. Even the ghosts fear the toxic area.
Participant-run shops added
Added shops to Project Entropia. An avatar may set up a shop on any estate lot he or she owns. The shopkeeper will stand vigilante 24/7 offering the goods the owner put up for sale.
New business lots in Hadesheim available
Several estate lots suitable for the participant-run shops are available in Hadesheim.
Skins usable in tailoring
Animal-specific skins can be refined into leather counter-parts. If you have good enough skill you may add animal leather to any tailoring design by putting the leather into the manufacturing interface. The Berycled coat is rumoured to be the fashion statement during the spring.
New creatures
A lot of new creatures have been spotted by explorers. Someone reported that even the infamous Araneatrox was brutally slain by these new menaces.
General creature update
Several changes has been applied to the creature on the continent Eudoria. The way they attack, their size and speed, the damage done and health level are revised. Some nasty surprises lurk in the dense Calyso underbrush. Someone even said the snablesnot seemed to have a cold…
Redesigned outposts
A new technical system added to Project Entropia, adding area-specific line of sight. This means that in some instances you will not see avatars located within buildings while you are outside of them. This includes visibility on the radar. This action enhances client performance and distributes load times.
Chat spam precautions
Some basic level chat spam prevention has been added to the main chat.
Logoff delay
A 20 second logoff delay has been introduced to counter potential misuse of the logoff functions. Even if your client loses connection to the server, your avatar will remain vulnerable during this time period.
Paint cans changes
All new paint cans come with a skill requirement. All old cans can still be used as before and are not affected by the skill requirement limit. If you add new cans to a stack of old cans, the old cans will be affected by the skill requirement.
Space ship enhancement
Take your position and be ready for launch, experience the feeling of commanding a space ship as a gunner, pilot or navigator.
Resting
Avatars may now sit or lie down, as well as placing oneself onto various chairs.
Right-click menu
You will have access to a right-click menu if you SHIFT+Right-click.
Shortcut to Friends
The keyboard key “j” is used for quick access to the Friends Interface. The Friends interface can also be moved outside of the screen, to save space.
Added functions to manufacturing
You may now add several stacks of the same material in the manufacturing interface, if you so desire.
Added Mindforce
Several Mindforce upgrades added, as well as a completely new Mindforce power. Rumours have it there are a revival Mindforce chip in existence.
Blueprint acquiring
The chance of getting a new blueprint while manufacturing is enhanced.
More weapons
New weapons added.
More armor
New armor sets added.
House decorations
Several new ways of personalizing your house is introduced.
More clothes
More festive clothing added.
More items
A news bulletin states that mutants has robbed a Toy Cargo ship…
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange doesn’t offer any shares.
Sometimes attachments may detach from a weapon when logging on.
The Team chat is not always initiated when the Team Leader invites the first member.
All tailored clothes shown as “Uncolored” in the auction, even if they are colored.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.6
2004-03-05
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.6 (“VU 5.6”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
Project Entropia Gold Member Smartcard Security System
The Project Entropia Gold Member security system goes live with VU 5.6. Those who have acquired the Smartcard and Reader (through the Trade Terminal Real Life Items section) should receive the equipment during April, to the address supplied with the Project Entropia account. If you need to update the info, please do it as soon as possible through the Project Entropia Support Section.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Mentor & Disciple system
We are aware of the great effort our participants put into helping newcomers to Calypso and making them feel welcome. To show our appreciation for this we have decided implemented a Mentor & Disciple system. Being a mentor is about helping newcomers get a foothold in the new universe. When you offer your help to a newcomer, and they accept, they become your disciple and you become their mentor. As a mentor you advice your disciples and support them in their advancement. When a disciple reaches certain skill levels, the disciple is deemed to be sufficiently trained to manage on her or his own.
At this point the mentor receives special surprise gifts as a reward for helping out. Some details about the Mentor system:
A mentor “Adds disciples” by right-clicking on the potential disciple.
To be able to act as a mentor you need to at least have reached the level “Unskilled” in any one professional standing (seen in the left section of the Avatar Info interface).
To be eligible as a disciple you must be “Newcomer” in all of your professional standings (including Sweat Gatherer). This means as soon as a Newcomer achieves the rank of “Inept” (the rank above “Newcomer”) in any professional standing, they may not be selected as a disciple.
When the disciple reaches certain skill levels, the Mentor reward kicks in. The Mentor has a progress rating on each disciple in his training. The actual skill levels are shown in the Disciples interface. The skill goal is quite high as the rewards are special items only acquired through this means.
A mentor can have a maximum of 100 disciples at once. The mentor can at any time contact a disciple.
A disciple may only have one mentor. A disciple may be a mentor for others.
Once a link is formed between a mentor and a disciple, the disciple cannot leave it (a short “grace period” is given). A mentor may kick a disciple at any time (but why would s/he? If the avatar has stopped participating is one reason).
When a disciple finishes his or her training the mentor gains skill in the new “Mentor” skill (the advancement in the Mentor-skill is somewhat different from ordinary skill advancement – you will probably raise whole ranks each time you gain XP). The Mentor skill shows how many successful disciples s/he has guided.
First person view of items and actions
You now see the items your avatar is carrying in first person view. Weapons and tools are shown, as well as mindforce powers. The “Z” key toggles between FPV w/ items – FPV w/o items – 3rd PV behind – 3rd PV free.
Visual item update
Almost all weapons in Project Entropia have received a visual overhaul, and are now displayed with a much higher detail. This is a first in a series of grand visual upgrades being done to Project Entropia over the coming months.
Monster visuals update
Almost every creature in Project Entropia has been given a visual overhaul, meaning more detailed graphics with higher clarity.
New drop functions
When dropping an item from the inventory to the ground you may now determine the placement of the item in detail. This is especially useful for indoor decorations and furniture. You may even rotate items by holding down the right mouse button and move the mouse right and left, and drop some specific items on walls or in the ceiling.
New creatures
A lot of new creatures have been spotted by explorers. Someone stated a warning about being unwary in rocky terrain…
Updated robots
Several changes has been applied to the robot population of Calypso, meaning changed behaviour, damage done, and hit points. Also, the robots seems to have found new ways to spread their terror.
Logoff delay update
An “Abort” button added to the Logoff delay interface, due to community demand.
More weapons
Over 50 new weapons added.
More armor
New armor sets added.
House decorations
Someone saw indistinguishable creatures stealing rare paintings, tables, and lamps from a cargo shuttle…
Society templates
Two new society templates added based on community input – the “Mystic” and the “Basic”.
Society ranks shown
You may now view the various ranks associated with a society template.
Society Leaderboard update
Pending societies are no longer eligible for Leaderboard positions.
Increased chance of success in crafting
The chance of success is increased on lower levels of crafting.
Octagons
Several new Octagon Boxing / Training areas added all over Eudoria.
Hadesheim Marketplace update
Added a storage terminal to the Hadesheim marketplace.
Skills renamed
The skill “Ranged Critical Hit” and “Melee Critical Hit” are renamed to the more appropriate “Inflict Ranged Damage” and “Inflict Melee Damage”, as that is what the skills actually influence. No rule mechanics have changed though – the name change is a cosmetic one to avoid confusion as the term “Critical hit” can suggest a range of effects.
Avatar animation updates
Many avatar animations have been polished, among others the infamous grip on some of the BLP rifles (no more holding the rifle in you’re stomach).
Item rebalance
The infamous Improved A-3 Justifier Mk.III is rebalanced, after community feedback. The new stats are acquired by repairing the weapon.
Server upgrades
A server crash issue has been eliminated. The entire Project Entropia universe server park is upgraded with new hardware to meet the ever-increasing number of Project Entropia participants. The new system will reduce “lag” and latency issues, as well as some disconnect issues.
Client upgrades
Several fixes have been applied to the client, to reduce the rate of disconnects and Crash-to-desktop (“CTD”) issues.
Item/houses streaming optimization
The way buildings and items are streamed to your Project Entropia client has been optimized to reduce the “lag” felt when entering/exiting buildings.
Fixed issue with floors in hangars
Fixed an issue that meant you could fall through the floors in a hangar.
Fixed issue when sitting down
Fixed an issue with sitting down and becoming difficult to hit.
Fixed issue with long range gathering of items
Fixed an issue that meant you could pick up items from far away.
Fixed issue with avatar position after server crash
Fixed an issue with the avatar position not being saved when a server crashed.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
All tailored clothes shown as “Uncolored” in the auction, even if they are colored.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange do not offer any shares.
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
The Team chat is not always initiated when the Team Leader invites the first member.
Project Entropia Version Update 5.7
2004-06-01
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 5.7 (“VU 5.7”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
Crystal Palace Space Station available
The Crystal Palace Space Station is opened! Take the journey into space and experience a whole new area of exploration. See never-before-seen scenery and encounters and find new items not available elsewhere. Be the first one to set foot in a unique setting, untouched by human colonists.
The venture into space and the Crystal Palace Space Station is the first step of Project Entropia’s upcoming exploration of space and beyond.
Project Entropia Hardware Infrastructure upgrade
The hardware platform and infrastructure handling Project Entropia is updated to new state-of-the-art equipment, capable of handling the ever-increasing number of new Project Entropia participants. Expect better performance, increased stability, and reduced latency.
New area of crafting; Armor attachments
The Project Entropia crafters has a new area to master; the creation of armor attachments. These attachments are added to existing armor pieces by dragging and dropping them onto the armor. To remove an attachment, just double-click on the armor icon while it is in your inventory.
Massive load of new clothes
A huge pile of clothes is added to Project Entropia. All these are tailorable. Some examples are:
Headwear
Sombreros
Fedora hats
Bowler hats
Top hats
Berets
Underwear
Bustiers
Thongs
Stockings
New bra model
Footwear
Stiletto boots
Stiletto heels
Cowboy boots
Other clothes
Tuxedos
Evening dress
Tanktops
Mesh tanktops
Cut-offs
Bomber jackets
Added colors
Several new colors have been added, including black and white paint.
New weapons
A lot of completely new weapons added, including many melee weapons.
New armor sets
Armor sets added, both craftable and lootable.
New creatures
A lot of new creatures have been spotted by explorers. Someone described a horrendous sighting on the Crystal Palace station…
House decorations
An unnamed source has stated seeing new paintings on Calypso from a renowned Earth artist.
Colorable storage boxes
Storage boxes are now colorable. It makes it easier to distinguish between boxes.
Visual item update
Several items, mainly weapons, in Project Entropia have received a visual overhaul, and are now displayed with a much higher detail. This is a part of a series of grand visual upgrades being done to Project Entropia over the coming months.
New death system
When you die you will have the option to teleport to the nearest revival point. If you decline you will be a stationary ghost, unable to move. To get the option to be moved while dead, please press the ’T’ key on your keyboard. That will move your ghost to the nearest revival terminal. Note that the old way, where you moved to your last revive position no longer applies.
One could ask oneself why anyone would like to be a stationary ghost – the answer is that you can be revived on the spot, given the right equipment or Mindforce.
’T’ key change
If you press the ‘T’ key while alive, you will be asked to confirm your decision in a YES/NO dialogue box. If you select YES you will be automatically teleported after 60 seconds to the nearest revival terminal.
Mentor system tweak
The first tweak to the mentor system makes it easier to become a disciple – you now can be Newcomer as well as Inept in your skills and still be a disciple. Expect more tweaks in future VU’s.
Teaming issue fixed
An issue when disbanding a team and then having difficulties getting loot afterwards has been fixed.
Indoor movement
The indoor movement speed is increased.
Independent Guide bundled with Project Entropia
The very nice and vibrant Project Entropia society Entropia Pioneers has, together with famed Project Entropia participant NEVERDIE created a Guide to Project Entropia, an unofficial manual of sorts for Project Entropia. The guide is bundled with Project Entropia and will available from the Project Entropia web site.
Client upgrades
New fixes have been applied to the client, to reduce disconnects and Crash-to-desktop (“CTD”) issues.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
All tailored clothes shown as “Uncolored” in the auction, even if they are colored.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange do not offer any shares.
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
Project Entropia Version Update 6.0
2004-08-10
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 6.0 (“VU 6.0”) for Project Entropia is a major step in the development of Project Entropia. Information about the content of the version update is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
New Graphics Engine implemented
After almost three years the old NetImmerse graphics engine is retired and the new GameBryo engine is in place. This new graphics engine will enable us to add a lot of really cool graphic effects to Project Entropia, like weather, shadows, dynamic lighting, etc. In the course of the next few months several such graphic upgrades will come.
Client software feedback system
If the client software happens to Crash-to-desktop (“CTD”), the client now have a feedback system in place. This system asks whether the participant is willing to help MindArk by sending in his or her current PC configuration. This information will help us track down any potential driver/hardware issues causing client stability problems.
New Avatar Trading interface
A brand new avatar to avatar trading interface added. The new interface is more secure and have a lot more feedback panels. Items can no longer be removed from the offer area without clearing the entire offer. A personal chat also appears when trade is initiated. Note: You cannot trade items that have attachments added; you have to remove attachments prior to trading, to minimize confusion.
New Map interface
The addition of new locations spawned the new map interface. A map of the Eudoria continent and the Crystal Palace Space Station is supplied, as well as a sneak peak of the newly discovered continent “Amethera” (also known as “The land grab continent”). The new map interface has various filters, a quicker navigation system, and three distinct zoom levels.
New weapons
New weapons added.
New armor sets
Armor sets added.
Longus
An issue with the Longus hit probability fixed.
Robots and lying about
Robots finally realized their prey could lie down, so the aim is adjusted accordingly.
Scrollbar added to Manufacture interface
Scrollbar added to the input material list, to allow for designs with six inputs.
Container content usable in manufacturing
You may now drag input materials directly from a container to the manufacturing interface.
Scanning issues fixed
When scanning mutant, the correct skill is increased (‘Scan Mutant’, instead of ‘Scan Animal’, even if some scientists claim the old classification should stand ,-)
Scanning oneself no more
When scanning another avatar, you no longer see your attribute levels. Now you see the target levels instead, as intended.
Skill lists
Fixed an issue when a single new skill was added and that skill was the only one on a new page, it was impossible to change to the new page.
PED Card transfer interface
Corrected the interface so it doesn’t become locked when you tried to withdraw more money from your PED card than you had on it.
Avatar interaction interface update
Fixed a potential issue with the avatar interaction menu (the one you get when you right-click on an avatar) that could cause the interface to lock up and making the avatar becoming forever “busy” until logoff.
Refiner interface
An issue corrected in the refiner interface when you added multiple stacks to it and they were auto-moved back to the inventory.
Info about blueprint books in the auction
Now it doesn’t crash when you check the info of a blueprint book that is in the auction.
Long avatar names
Limited the maximum length of the full avatar names (first+nick+last name) to 40 characters. Also updated the Friends list, estate guest list, and space ship guest list.
PED Card transactions from containers
The inventory no longer locks up if you drag and drop money from a container directly onto your PED Card in the inventory.
Mourner
Mourner now is called Mourner again.
Pixie armor
The Pixie armor is now shown correctly in the auction.
Adjusted Guardian armor
Fixed non-decaying adjusted Guardian armor bug. Increased durability on the armor.
Armor attachments
Fixed an issue with armor attachments not showing in the PvP Trade.
Repair interface and mindforce implants
Fixed issue with “Repair All” and mindforce implants in the Repair interface.
KNOWN ISSUES/MISSING FEATURES
All tailored clothes shown as “Uncolored” in the auction, even if they are colored.
Currently, the virtual companies on the Exchange do not offer any shares.
You can’t repair a weapon with attachments attached to it. You have to detach them prior to repairing.
Project Entropia Version Update 7.2
2005-03-22
*** PLEASE READ THIS DOCUMENT IF YOU FIND SOMETHING OUT OF THE ORDINARY IN PROJECT ENTROPIA! IT MIGHT PROVIDE THE INFO YOU NEED BEFORE CONTACTING PROJECT ENTROPIA SUPPORT! ***
General Information
The Version Update 7.2 (“VU 7.2”) for Project Entropia information is located in this document.
VERSION UPDATE FEATURES
New cities built
Two cities have been built on Amethera by the Omegaton Industries and Genesis Star Interstellar conglomerates, with the blessing of the Feder
