I don’t know about you, but I have a vivid memory of sitting in front of my computer screen with a sandwich in one hand and my mouse in the other cruising through the results of “Online computer games” during a break at work several years ago. There I would ride my motorX bike across a dull landscape for a while, or dodge obstacles in maze like games, trying to waste the rest of my break and dull my workspace mind. Then suddenly I had an epiphany- “This Sucks!” From that day forward I turned a cold shoulder to all web based games and wanted nothing to do with them. I would only play the most system demanding software with insane graphics requirements, intricate story lines, an mind blowing video engines. I considered myself to be above all online games and would snicker when someone forwarded me a link to a “Fun game” and immediately delete the message. This has gone on for several years now and I remained obstinately against reading about the newest web game or online trend.

However- I was about to experience a revelation.



I don’t know why I clicked the ad. It must have been VERY late or I must have liked the gorgeous princess like face displayed over the bold face type reading “Evony.” But no matter why I did it, through whatever ever haze I was in- I signed up for an account on server 56 of this web based game Evony. Immediately I was transported to a familiar and easy to understand layout of a mid-evil city that needed my attention. The basis of the game is simple. Build your town into a city, into a castle, and conquer as much as you want. There is nothing unique or mind blowing about the basis of this game. It really is straightforward and easy. However- as I began building and seeing just how all the upgrades are connected and tied to each other in a much more thought out and elegant representation of the era, I became absolutely hooked. I began reading online help posts, wiki pages, and user recommendations on strategies to building the strongest city. I upgraded my buildings, reinforced my structures, trained my soldiers, and prepared for a world of war, alliances, and Fun. After my seven day protection ended (which is a brilliant way to keep new players safe while they learn the ropes) I was immediately attacked, plundered, and in all other ways defeated by some bully who lived right next door. At first I was so upset and mad at the guy for being too ruthless- but afterwards I realized I had spread all my resources between multiple cities so none of them were strong and I was just waiting to be destroyed. It was all my fault. I thought I was being aggressive and going out to conquer the world- but in fact I was just ripening myself up for the plucking.

So, after sending an email to the lord who had so thoroughly plundered me, thanking him for his first lessons- I was on my way to a new account and city.

Now I reside in my stronghold and I building myself up every day and just LOVING this game. It is always so much fun to check back in on my city to see what upgrades have finished, what my latest attack report brought back, and how my alliance is doing in their current war!

I realize many of you have given up on web based gaming but I urge you to check out Evony. Its Free, its real time and continues to grow as you are offline, and it is FULL of fun, helpful people who Love this game. Give it a try. You will be surprised at how entertaining it can be to see your town become the stronghold of power you have always desired. And if you are ever in Saxony- find lord Athos and send me a hello!

Author: Athos