A Tale in the Desert

For those of you who don’t particularly favor the combat-oriented MMORPG, there is an alternative! Over at eGenesis they have an interesting title called A Tale in the Desert. Rather than explaining it badly, I’ll just put a helpful snipit from the FAQ here:

Q. What kind of game is A Tale in the Desert?

A. Like most online games, you have a character with stats and an inventory. But your goals are completely different:

1. Advance in the seven disciplines by passing difficult challenges called the tests.
2. Manage an interconnected network of workshops and factories - your financial empire.
3. Leave your mark on civilization by completing great works.

The game is a blend between city-building games and games of guile like Diplomacy and Illuminati. There's no combat - you must win by smart management and sharp-witted negotiation, not by weapons. The game has a plot that unfolds in response to player actions, and when the story is over, the game ends.

Apparently the game does have an actual ending, but how you go about getting there is up to you and you don't have to finish it until you're ready. What that ending is, I couldn't find out... so those of you who are curious, they are in Beta 3 right now which is open. You can sign up and download the client here:
A Tale in the Desert Beta Sign Up!

That's all for now!

-Kenti