Shattered Isles is a medieval-themed fantasy world where vast oceans have separated Archai into five inhabited islands and a number of smaller ones in between. Four of the large islands represent each of the world's elements: Air, Earth, Fire, or Water. Located centrally is the fifth and newest isle, New Archai--the melting pot of the world.

In Shattered Isles there are 16 different races from which to choose: one of four different Elven races severed by The Great Shattering, Dragons, Dwarves, Goblins, Gargoyles, Humans, a giant canine race known as Vukasins, faerie-like Sylphs, a giant humanoid race known as the Argali with horns much like a ram, giant Gavial lizards, and the Bolinau, a race of bipedal river creatures; think Otter meets Hobbit.

The player classes consist of Air-mages, Earth-mages, Fire-mages, Water-mages, Diviners, Arcanists, Thieves, Assassins, Scouts, Barbarians, Warriors, Templars, and Priests. Players do not have an overall level to rank up. Instead each skill has its own individual level to be raised, with a max level of 100. Skills are gained in a skill tree system where advancing in one skill unlocks a related skill. There are no trainers or limits to what you can learn. You can specialize in a specific branch of your class skill tree, or take a more balanced approach.

The merchant system of Shattered Isles is a huge aspect of the world. All players regardless of class have the opportunity to learn most gathering skills and some basic crafting skills. Additional crafting skills are unlocked as you progress in your overall trade ability. Even more crafting skills are available to those who portray their character as a merchant and have paid proper fees to the New Archai Trading Company. Player merchants may purchase shops for buying and selling goods and are entitled to custom orders throughout the year.

Role play is strictly enforced by a dedicated and available staff, while conflict and fighting between players is always encouraged! What you won't find in Shattered Isles are flashing colors, annoying Out Of Character channels that take away from the environment, having to track down your dead and looted body, or a MUD straight out of the box with nothing unique to offer. In Shattered Isles we've spent more time than we would like to admit focusing on the smallest of details. We take pride in providing a world in which you can truly immerse yourself.

Shattered Isles is best enjoyed using the MUD clients MUSHclient or the Mudlet. See what plugins and tips our players have added at http://shatteredisles.com/forums/viewforum.php?f=83.