With the ambitious attempt to reopen the Red Devil Auction House this past week it made me reflect on my personal history on Great Lakes and characters that once were and the characters that still are.

Then there are all those characters that still remain but are played by different people either by rebirth or by the purchasing and selling of accounts.

There are just as many reasons why players have left the game as there are players. We have all had friends come and go.
Shakespeare was the first close player/friend to leave the game for me. He was a rares collector. Several expansions ago ruined the game for him after years of playing and he left. Collecting was 50% of the game for him. After showering me with many generous rare gifts he departed for good. He would be even more sickened if he were to learn that ML made those rare gifts now worthless. They are still dear to me though as it was always the gesture and thought that meant the most to me.

It was sad to see a player leave that was so involved in this game. Shakespeare was featured in several gameing magazines about UO. He sold his account and I get an odd feeling in my stomach whenever I see his old character in the realm.

This expansion tradition of players leaving continues. A perfect example of that is the latest, ML. The owner of one of the largest museum collections, a regular patron of MOA and a very involved character that I featured just a few weeks ago has sold his account and quit. Captain America is his name and he was discouraged with several aspects including the deflation of items worth.

His departure reminded me of other famous characters that left the game, the original ULTIMA and DEADPOOL.

ULTIMA made me think of characters that we love to hate. Though ULTIMA had his fair share of friends and players that liked him he had a huge following of players that hated him as did Loca. A current player that holds the title of characters we love to hate is Sir Bart. Pratt, Kuan Ti, Reno and even Lady Lava have fallen in this category from time to time.

I ask why do we love to hate them? That is a loaded complex question with many answers. Is it because they are evil? Is it because they are too artificially sweet? Is it because they are powerful? Is it because they are rich? It is just one of those things that mirror real life but one thing is for sure, these characters are not wall flowers. They are full of life, personality and involvement.

In recent weeks, since the launch of ML, I have seen more young players than I have in a long time. I was at the Brit Bank the other day waiting to meet up with a newb that I was helping. Looking at the young players I thought to myself, I wonder which one of these players will be the next Bart, Nemo or News Reporter.

Drunken Master was standing next to me as I waited for the new player to show. I had not seen the Drunken name in a long time. Asking where he has been he told me he has not been on much, real life has been keeping him busy plus he was bored with the game. Of course I can never understand with so much to do how a player could be bored. Drunken and I had a wonderful conversation full of philosophy and the state of the real world. He has been playing for six years and stated he has been bored for three years. When his paid account runs out he will be gone. Another one bites the dust.



He did show a glint of excitement when I informed him I would be quoting him on Stratics.

I have stated in the past that new players are the future of this game and that is why I have always helped the young. Even when I was a newb myself I would try and help others. For many Vet players it is frustrating to help the young. I must admit it can be trying on ones nerves so I wait until I have the time and correct state of mind.

This brings me to todays guest. This player knew the world as it once was as he had played years ago and recently has returned, and what a new world it is. I present to you, Apostle.



You recently started playing UO. You had played in the past and now are back. When did you play, why did you leave and why have you returned?
I played about 7 years ago, I don't remember what exp it was. I left cause I was spending more time online then with my currently Ex wife, lol. I returned because I tried 3-4 other games and none of them we as versatile as UO.

Name several big changes that are part of this game that you have noticed since your return.
Things are just different. Back then you get Famed or high karma and you were cool, lol. Now it seems to be items and tames mostly.

What type of character is Apostle and why that name?
Funny you should ask, I was starting a Tank mage, then tamer, then provoke, so now I think he will be rebirthed. I am a Christian, and I used to have all names like that, Apostle, Revival, Jobe (not biblical spelling though).

Which types of characters do you plan to develop first and why?Started a Mage, Archer/Disco/pally, True pally, Bowyer cause arrows and bolt are to danged expensive.

Do you ever plan to play on the Fel facet in the future?
Possible, back in the day we would hunt in packs and try to take on the Pkers. They normally had big creatures tailing them so we would recall. It's possible.



You have worked hard in your short period of time back. I know players have helped you but you are a dedicated player it appears.
You have a small tasteful house. In what part of the realm is it? That's a really good question. Its in Tram I think. I was wondering fighting stuff and met a Lady that showed me where a house might fit.


Lady Lava and Apostle chatting in his new home

How long do you think this smaller size plot will fit your needs?
Well for a few months anyhow depending on my skills. The more stuff I get the more room I will need.


Lady Lava on Aposles roof as he prepares for interview on lower level

Do any of your real life friends or family members play this game?
Not currently.

Would you ever consider purchasing an advanced character and what do you think of players that have?
I myself would not, UO is or was a game of time and skill the more time you put in the better your skills. I don't like games you can just type something in and you can go through the whole game as God.

I heard you have trained parry on one of your characters by using a flock of sheep. How was that experience?
Looooooong... but it worked so good. GMed in about 7-9 hours or so took 2 days and lots of healing and anatomy gains as well.

On the subject of sheep.... your personal online profile has a very interesting photo of a sheep. Tell us about this photograph and what it means to you.
I have not looked at my profile in a while, but if it's the one I,m thinking of that was sent to me labeled "Montana Hooker".

When not playing UO what are your other hobbies?
Spending time with my Gf, and her daughter, softball, basketball, work.

What was the last movie you saw?
Kindom of Heaven.

What was the last book you read?
I have a really good imagination, but I don't like to read. It was like 8 months ago and I think it was The Purpose Driven Life.

Have you turned to Stratics at all in learning about the updates to this game since you lasted played and if so has it helped?
Oh yes I have printed off a number of things. Its helped alot since stuff you use to do or skills you use to want high aren't as necessary anymore.

What is your motto?
God,Family,Self in that order Live in the world not of the world.

Apostle, thank you for your time.
When I have new players as guests I meet up with them six months later and re-interview them. I'll be keeping my eyes on you. :)

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