Aadarian Realms shows a great deal of promise. Currently, the playerbase is still rather small, as the mud is in a rebuilding phase, but both the players and the immortals are working together to introduce new features, ensure class and skill balance is maintained, and grow the mud into a place where long-time veterans and new mudders alike can have fun. Returning to the beloved hack-and-slash powerlevelling muds that have been popular since the early 90s, Aadarian Realms provides a world where players can plow through 101 levels at breakneck speed. Twice. This fast-paced progression gives players opportunity to explore all facets of the mud without having to grind for hours upon end. If that's where it ended, players would leave as quickly as they came. During the 3rd tier, progression slows down considerably (about 25x slower), allowing for a more prolonged (but not begrudginly so) levelling experience as players approach the level cap. After reaching the level cap, Aadarian Realms provides a system of further growth, where players continue to benefit from gaining experience as their stats improve. These additional 'devotion' levels are permanent to the character, so even if you choose to start the 3rd tier over and explore another class, the time spent improving your character is not lost. Along the way to the level cap, players can participate a variety of activities. Earn special equipment by completing autoquest and global quests. Craft custom equipment using mining and tailoring, part of the unique tradeskills system. Personalize equipment through the automated restringing system. Fill and expand your storage vault, which provides a place to keep all your unused or sentimental stuff, safe from theft, accidental loss, or damage. A built-in map system provides players a unique look at their local surroundings. Traveling around the world is simplified by the use of commands that allow locating and running to specific areas with ease. The immortals are very responsive and communicative, and are frequently seen interacting with the players via chat and in-game appearances. Suggestions and recommendations from the players are encouraged as the staff is dedicated to building a game that provides the greatest amount of fun for the players, while still maintaining a fair and healthy balance. Although I've only played for a few weeks, I already feel at home here. If you enjoy the simplicity of a hack-and-slash mud, but also enjoy experimenting with various classes and customizations, Aadarian Realms might just be the place for you. Come quickly and be a part of shaping the future as your voice will be heard and your dreams can become reality!