A mysterious place with a history full of secrets, the exotic, organic world of Atys is made up of five distinct bio-diverse ecosystems ranging from parched desert to temperate forest, unspoiled lake lands, lush jungle and the eerie caverns of the Prime Roots. It is populated by four races that are collectively known as homins. Each of these has a different genetically predisposed role, and therefore its own society reflecting its particular values. The Fyros are warriors who maintain a constant vigil in order to protect the planet against its greatest threat, fire. Theirs is a relatively austere culture built upon a strict code of honor. The Matis are decadent aristocrats and skilled biologists dedicated to maintaining the flora surrounding them. The Zorais are mystics, with powers shrouded in secrecy, and the Trykers are playful spirits who seek only freedom.

These are the four playable options available in The Saga of Ryzom, developer Nevrax' imaginative persistent state title. In commercial service since last fall, it builds on these inventive elements by incorporating many other features of interest. For instance, it has a story aspect designed to permit the narrative on each server to diverge, taking its own path and creating its individual saga. Another is a flexible skill-based character advancement system. A third is an unusual modular scheme that allows players to join various components in a building block-like manner so as to create spells and special attacks that are, in effect, customized according to their particular personal preferences. Of course, these are merely a few selected highlights; in reality, there's much more to know. Luckily, the team has agreed to tell us about its intriguing project in more detail.