There are several
types of MUDs. The very common type is TinyMUD, these MUDs are more social, the players tend to gather, chat, meet friends, make jokes, and discuss all kinds of things. The LP- family of MUDs, including Diku and AberMUD, are
usually based on roleplaying adventure games; the players on those MUDs tend to
run around in groups or alone killing monsters, solving puzzles, and gaining experience in the quest to become a wizard.
There are still other types of MUDs, such as MOOs, UnterMUDs, and so forth. Each type has its own unique style, and players are rarely forced to stick to one type of playing - there's no rule that says an LPMUD _must_ be a combat-oriented MUD, or that a TinyMUSH _must not_ be a combat-oriented MUD. I suggest that you experiment around with several different types of MUDs to see what you find is the most interesting. If there's one thing MUDdom has, it's variety. MUDs are run on many fine computers across the world. To play, all you have to do is telnet to the MUD's Internet Protocol Port, and you're in business. Some MUDs have a policy called registration to cut down on abuse of privileges; you might have to
send mail to the administrator of the MUD in order to obtain a
character. It's important to note that MUDs are not a right, and your access is granted out of trust. People usually have to pay to use processing time on the large, expensive computers which MUDs often run on, and you're being given a special deal. Which brings us to another point: MUDs can't really be run on anything less than a largish workstation (currently), so they're usually on academic or corporate workhorse machines.
To connect, use telnet or a MUD-client like zMUD, entering the MUD's address and port, and you're in business. Once you connect, find out what the deal is with respect to you getting a character. Some MUDs allow you to create your own, and others require you to send off for one via email. If you have to send off for one, send one e-mail request and cool your heels. MUDding will be around forever, no need to rush it. But let's say you've now gotten a character, and you're connected up, and things are starting to get interesting. At this point, you should do what is probably least intuitive: type help, read the instructions and directions, and understand them. Then, type news, read the information, and understand it. Then (yes, I know, I know... it'll be fun, soon!) practice using the commands given to you until you think you've got a good enough grip to be able to start in on exploring, questing, socializing, or whatever else tunes your engine.A MUD (Multiple
User Dimension, Multiple User Dungeon, or Multiple User Dialogue) is a computer program which users can log into and explore. Each user takes control of a computerized character. You can walk around, chat with other characters, explore dangerous monster-infested areas, solve puzzles, and even create your very own rooms, descriptions and items.
This is just a short explanation of what a MUD is, to get you started. I'm sure, once you dive into this interactive world, you won't be able to go back. Good luck, the Light illumine you
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