Jonric: As an introductory overview, what kind of game is Vendetta Online? With respect to its high-level design goals, what types and balance of gameplay can we expect?

John Bergman: Vendetta Online is a persistent space-based massively multiplayer online game for Windows, MacOS X and Linux. Fundamentally, it melds the concepts of fast-paced space combat with the backdrop of an extensive RPG universe. In part, it draws upon several aspects of the classic single-player space games of the past, but places them in a massively multiplayer setting. One of our bigger goals has been to integrate the real-time twitch-style (first-person shooter-like) combat model with the character progression and other role-playing aspects traditionally associated with an RPG.

The basic tenets of the game, at release, will be combat, missions and trading. Missions are one form of character progression, with both combative and non-combative types to choose from. Trading is also primarily non-combative; however, there are always pirates and other possible dangers. While peaceful roles are possible within Vendetta Online, the universe is never entirely a safe place.