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Origins of Malu has more plans on the horizon
If you're a long-time fan of sandbox gameplay, Origins of Malu is most likely on your short list for games to watch. The developers are promising that the game will allow players to experience a true sandbox environment, and from their early discussion of the game, it's certainly promising thus far. Of course, the real verdict is going to come when the game goes live, but until then, the team at Burning Dog Media is planning more updates to keep players hooked. An earlier posting on the official Facebook page claims that there are two major announcements about the game coming this month as well as information about how PvP will work and exactly what the team is doing for it. There's also the promise of official forums on the site and developer videos, both chances for future players to get engaged in the development and refinement process. If you're following the sandbox field, this may be worth keeping an eye on. [Thanks to Halldorr for the tip!]
Some Assembly Required: Diving into details of Origins of Malu with an exclusive interview
"This will be the world's best game ever ever ever!" -Michael Dunham. You tell 'em! Honestly, we have heard it before: MMORPG feature lists that promise what our sandbox-loving hearts desire. Try as we might, we cannot escape those sneaky tendrils of hope that find the chinks in our +10 jaded armor of cynicism as we read about the return of a true virtual where actions have consequences, personal choices dictate gameplay, and individuality is a matter of principle. Sadly, time and time again those hopes are dashed by titles that either cannot deliver on their promises or never even survive until launch. The same is true for the developers at Burning Dog Media; they too have ridden the roller coaster of sandbox dreams and harbored in their hearts a vision of their ultimate game if only they had the wherewithal to produce it. The difference between them and us is... they do! Welcome to issue #6 of Some Assembly Required -- an exclusive interview with Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank -- Lead Developer and Art Director of Burning Dog Media, respectively -- who are in the midst of developing the new sci-fi/fantasy MMORPG Origins of Malu. Originally called just Origins (the change was to help avoid confusion with other projects that were cropping up with similar titles), this game previously teased sandbox aficionados with a glimpse at some hope-stirring features. Today, we have the privilege of expounding on "coming soon" and revealing more features that not only are planned but are for the most part implemented. So why should we check out Origins of Malu? And what tantalizing tidbits of sandboxy goodness can we expect? Grab onto that hope and dive past the cut -- if you dare -- to see what Michael and Dave have to share.%Gallery-134056%
New Origins sandbox MMO wants your creature concepts
There's a new indie sandbox in town -- or at least in development -- and the team at Origins is looking for a few good fan submissions to help them populate the game. Actually the devs are looking for one good submission, but that didn't have quite the same ring to it. Anyway, the Origins website was recently updated with a new Create a Monster contest, and the lucky winner will get to see his design incorporated into the gameworld (and the lore) of Burning Dog's upcoming MMORPG. Submissions should be in the form of artwork, images, or text, and are limited to a single entry per person. You'll also need to like Origins on Facebook or follow the game's Twitter feed prior to submitting your work. The contest is currently accepting entries and it runs through September 14th, so don't delay if you think you've got what it takes to make your MMO mob concepts a reality.
Origins website hints at lofty sandbox goals
"Let's face it. MMO companies have found a cookie cutter formula," boasts the new Origins website. "It's time for something new." That something is a sandbox title shrouded in a fair bit of secrecy but bold enough to make some lofty claims as to its genre-changing design. The title is the brainchild of Burning Dog Media, a Canadian development firm founded by Michael Dunham and Dave Cruikshank. While specific gameplay details are left to our fertile imaginations, the newly revealed website does hint at a feature set downloaded directly from the minds of starving sandbox fans everywhere. No classes? Check. The ability to change the game world? Check. A conspicuous lack of scripted boss fights? Check. And would you believe mob AI that stalks players over a period of several days, waiting for the right time to attack? The world itself seems to be a mixture of fantasy and sci-fi, and the Origins website contains its share of screenshots, concept art, and bestiary info. [Thanks to James for the tip!]
