Underlight

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Underlight
Developer(s)	Lyra Studios
Platform(s)	Windows
Release date(s)	1998
Genre(s)	Role Playing Game
Mode(s)	Multiplayer
Rating(s)	NR
Media	Download
System requirements	Pentium 90 MHz CPU, 16Mb RAM, 14.4k Modem or better, 16M SVGA Video Card 640x480, DirectX 6.1 or higher.
Input methods	Keyboard and mouse

Underlight is a fantasy massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG). Underlight was Lyra Studio's first product, launched on Mplayer in 1998.^[1]

1 Gameplay
2 Demise
3 Critical response
4 External links
5 References

[edit] Gameplay

Underlight focuses on character development and interaction rather than combat or items. The game has enforced 'in-character' roleplaying, gives players the power to teach skills to other players, has player-driven monsters, and allows higher powered players to gain experience from subordinates. Underlight's setting is a shared dream state. Gameplay revolves around the interactions of numerous guilds, each with a different take on the dream-space they inhabit. There are no non-player characters (NPCs) except for a few monsters (or "nightmares".)^[2]

[edit] Demise

In November 2006 it was announced the game will be shut down on New Year's Eve 2006 due to a dwindling user base and chronic understaffing. A statement released by Lyra Studios that announced the shutdown is available on-line.^[3]

[edit] Critical response

GamesFirst retrospective of Underlight highlighted its unusual setting, potential for social interaction and low system requirements. However, in comparison to more modern MMORPGs, the graphics and playing area seemed poor. Other criticisms included an unfulfilling combat system and lack of depth-adding elements (for example, there was no indication that additional equipment could be found later in the game.) Overall, Underlight was awarded 2 out of 5 stars.^[2]