An Alternative to Reality

I think most of us have all been looking for alternatives to reality since humans began scribbling on things. From cave drawing to virtual worlds, our imaginations have been captured by the mystery of mythology and the fantastical as an escape from the hum drum of our place in society.

In today's reality I find my escape in online games. But something both wonderful and horrific happened one day, I went from happy consumer to restless researcher when I unwittingly threw the curtain aside revealing the designs and designers that pulled the strings of my virtual existence. 

My curiosity lead me to the well of game design. No one was there to warn me that a single sip from the well would dissolve my innocence, my ignorance, and give me new vision with which to see my beloved games. Games were no longer convincing illusions. With my new found knowledge I saw through the illusion as if the opacity had been lowered to display the inner workings.

I still love games, but in a different way. Now my fascination is with the inner workings and the designers that weave worlds that welcome those that yearn to escape this place for a time. 

I have read tomes scribed by those that have come before me in hopes to learn what I can about the art of game design. Theirs is a saga of victory and crushing defeats, both of which are critical to the future successes of online gaming endeavors. 

Organizing my thoughts has always been a chaotic affair. So in this realm, dear reader, I will be laying open my opinions and discoveries for your benefit and mine.