GateWayMUD is a Fantasy-themed LpMUD (Multi-User Dungeon) founded in 1990.

GateWay has begun plans for it's 20 year anniversary celebration. Come check us out and why we've survived where other MUD's have long gone to the bit-yard.

– MudConnector.Com Review by Ivan on Apr 28, 2009

This MUD is not for the faint of heart or those easily frustrated. If you think you're up to the challenge of a MUD that will punish you for the smallest of errors then this is the MUD for you! The quests here are TOUGH, nothing is spoonfed to you like on other muds. You will have to think hard as well as take terrible risks to succeed. Advancing levels is not too hard as long as you play it safe. Explore at your own risk. There are few players online at anyone time but they are all quite happy to talk to you. It is a HUGE mud, good luck trying to explore it all.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Long time MUDder on Feb 5, 2006

I'm a ranger. I know nothing else, though I have come across several different guilds. I was once a goblin, competing across gateway with other races for equipment, money and status. I am now an Avatar. I am greater now than I have ever been. Come and try your mettle within the ranks of the players who call Gateway home. http://www.gatewaymud.org We have a small playerbase compared to some of the monster muds out there, around 100 active players at any time, with 10-20 players on at once. Gateway has a good mix of oldies and newbies and newbies are always welcome. They are free to ask basic questions from any player and wizards that are lurking about. I found the mud quests quite interesting. There is a good mix of easy ones to get you intrigued, and hard ones that will keep you guessing for quite a while. You gain a experience bonus according to how many quests you achieve and earn exploration points for your wandering. I am of mid, high level character that has been on Gateway for around 4 years. (though i did play for awhile back in '92, pushed my first allnighter on gateway back then) I'm still learning new techniques and even places to check out on the mud. I've never guild hopped, remaining only as a ranger, so I'm continually interested in the goings on of other guilds. You'll find that several guilds can offer something to you whatever guild you play, i.e. priests can feather your equipment, making it lighter, vikings can cast runes upon your weapon, making it cause increased damage... Gateway has several realms, or domains as you will, each one having it's own challenges, banking, stores and the like. You can pass between the realms using various 'portals' of different types (gateways if you will). If you can explore a realm totally you will receive a bonus to your gained experience. I mentioned before that I have become an Avatar. After you prove yourself in game experience you can apply to become a wizard if you have the gumption and imagination necessary. If accepted you have to pass a probational apprentice wizard status. If you've never mudded before, or you have and are looking for a homey, exciting, interesting mud, feel free to come by and check us out. Take your step through the Gateway! http://www.gatewaymud.org

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lost Ranger Bassy, Master Bowman on Sep 23, 2005

" ... wouldn't ya like to go, where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came ..." While short on smart alecky bartenders and know-it-all postal employees (unless you look hard enough in Crystal), Gateway continues to be the single friendliest MUD on the face of the planet after a full eleven years of existence. I know this because I have played every other MUD in existence and have deemed them to be sub-par and lacking compared to the shiny goodness of Gateway. Honest. Boasting a robust guild system and enough quests to make you say "sweet sassy molassy, that is a whole lot of f$%!ing quests", Gateway continues to surprise players young and old alike. While RPing is not enforced, the room to develop your own unique character is boundless. Swashbuckling Vikings mingle with noble Knights, both masters of the blade. Devil Worshippers wage a dark and arcane war on the Priests of Cianna, who are protected by Magicks of Light. The Monks of Marik strive to hone their chi to unspeakable levels of power. The Celtic Druids of Gwydion strike a critical balance of good and evil on their quest to find The Way. Insidious Serpent Warriors slither across the lands, spreading their venom via fang and steel. The Rangers of Salairyk ... well, we are still trying to figure out what they are up to, but it involves green tights and doing it in the woods, apparently. And the irrepressable ShortBred Clan bring their own zest of life and faerie charms to help spread cheer and happiness (translation: annoying tricks) to each corner of the realms. Maintained by a friendly (if not heavily medicated) assortment of wizards, Gateway has over 22,000 rooms of *unique* coding to baffle and mystify players who dare to cross over the thresholds of the six Domains. Face death in the scorched dunes of the Haven Desert. Delve deep into the Drow City of Callis. Dare to face the dreaded Vicia-Heinox at the crux of Underground. Explore the wondrous cities of the Orient. Flit across the mountain faces of Crystal. Bask in the mediterranean delights that Shadow has to offer. And, above all else, visit SpineShire and buy a funny hat. So if you are tired of playing MUDs filled with utter morons and chock full of stock coding, give us a whirl over here in the Gateway. Did I mention it's free? Because it is. Hope to see you soon. On the MUD, I mean. ShortBred Quex, Fey Magician of Spineshire xxx ps - Mention this review and get a 10% discount on your first purchase of Fungus Cakes! Offer not valid in MD, FL, GO or Quebec. Nova Scotia residents please add a 17% beer tax.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Quex on May 11, 2005

Fantastic LP Mud. Everything has is well planned and the players are friendly and helpful.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Sam on Apr 26, 2005

"It's all about the fun, the game, you see," the stranger says to you after a long pause. When he moves you can hear his joint creak and crackle. You figure he's an old timer, but maybe not so old as to be totally useless. "If it's no fun, what's the point, natch?" He shifts position again. "COlaks is the name. Darn O always seem to stay capitalized." He shrugs. "That's just the nature of the beast, I suppose. "Speaking of beasts, you should come over to our place - Gateway - and check out the monsters here! They'll be a challenge, no doubt, but it's so much fun to make it, to be on top, and say, 'You're mine, beastie!' "But really, it's about the people, our little community. Crazy people, kind people, fun people! It's been a whacky 200 days of playing time, a life full of exciting adventures, challenges galore, and friends that just might last a lifetime!" Gateway. The worlds converge there, one for every taste, every type. www.gatewaymud.org

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by COlaks on Apr 20, 2005

Through this shimmering portal lies...An ADDICTION waiting to happen! Gateway can be played for it's ease of use or for it's complexity. Come and see what we mean. You can simply slay things or you can try your hand doing quests. And boy! some of them are doosies, did I say some? lol, most of them are head bangers! I've been around and played a lot of muds, but this one has had me hooked for going on 6 years, some people actually have played Gateway way back in the early 90's, wow! Varied, well balanced guilds, filled with newbie-friendly VARIED people and wizards and elders. Newbies are always welcome and all have a special place here at Gateway. Have fun with the people, slay a few nasties, grab a wench or two or three. Come try for yourself...if you've got a few years to spare... http://www.gatewaymud.org/

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Soth the Invisible on Apr 20, 2005

http://www.gatewaymud.com/ Peering out from behind the Oak tree, Lost Ranger Bassy looks at you. "Welcome!" He says. "welcome to one of the oldest muds out there, we've been around awhile, won't you stay and enjoy yourself?!" "Gateway has something for almost everyone, we keep it simple for those who enjoy hack and slash and we offer some complexity for those who prefer to use their brains as well as brawn. I'm referring to our quest and exploration system of course." Bassy pauses and pulls a bottle from his cloak, taking a swig he offers you a pull. "It's good stuff, brewed here in St. Camille. It'll help what ails you too. Or do you prefer a good tobac?" "Come in and visit us, we like to believe that wwe are quite friendly and helpfull to all and especially to our newest members. Even in my mid-age, players still help me out. I still find Gateway a good place to come and kill time (and the occasional dragon, lol)." Sitting down on a nearby stump Bassy unstrings his bow and relaxes, poking a stick into the creek, looking for the purple fish. "Our wizards are a friendly bunch too you know. They try to make time for us when they can, though they tend to be busy troubleshooting and the like. Come and share a jest with them, or cast a barb their way, they aspire to keep their wits sharp, not just their quills." You look at Bassy and inquire, "What race are you?". He replies "Well now, I'm what you would call an Avatar, though in my humble beginnings I remember being a goblin. I've shared many an adventure with other races, elves, dwarves, pixies, gnomes and the like. After much adventuring and exploration though, I was raised to Avatar. Now I use my knowledge to mentor my young proteges." "Well now, I'm off to my guild, I'm a ranger, why don't you join us. We help out everyone. Or maybe you strickly prefer the hack and slash? Join the vikings. Lol, or you prefer a little poison with that? Joing the Serpent guild. You like to lead people into the like? Join the Priests. We have something for everyone." Bassy stands up from the stump, promptly trips over his bow, falls face first into the creek and gets nibbled on by some friendly fish. "Gosh darned it!" he sputters. "Hope to see you soon friend, hope to see you soon!". http://www.gatewaymud.com/

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lost Ranger Bassy on Mar 17, 2005

The one thing that people seem to not like about Gateway is that your equipment does not save when you log out. That complaint is a silly because equipment is so very easy to get. The guilds are designed to give you a good start even when you are naked. Also many of the items you pick up in the game are saved, and do load when you log in. Further, you gain experience for killing the monsters that have your favorite equipment, so killing them every day is to your benefit. Many of our players have been around for years, and we look forward to getting our eq each day, and choosing from a variety of ensambles. As a monk i dont even need much equipment, but i will be glad to help you obtain some things when you are a newbie. I am not the only such helpful person. There is also Earthmother, Bassy, Quex, Kane, Juliette, and Glorfindel just to name a few. And if none of us are on, which is rare, the wizards will actually help you. It just so happens that our wizards are cool. But dont get me wrong, this is a trying and challenging game. It is not for the weak of will. It takes patience and time to prove your worth in these domains. Not much will happen for those who are just passing thru. Although passers-by are welcome, I would rather gain one person with too much time on their hands, than 100 people with one day to burn. The rewards are many. Once your resolve and toughness is proved, you may decide to register for playerkilling such as i have done. This takes the challenge to new hights... trying to explore and quest and gain experience while being hunted... or hunting someone who is just as smart or smarter than you are... What a rush! We have a well established wizard and player base, register only PK, and an open-arms approach to newbies. If you need help starting up, or need to ask someone a few quick questions, you can feel free to ask any of our wizards, or one of the many players! We have 6 large domains, each with their own theme and flavour, 9 active guilds, a multitude of quests, and an 'exploration quest point' system! We hope to see you there! Be a brave soul and step through the Gateway to our realms. Bring your luggage and some snacks, you're gonna be here for a while. Stump

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Feb 19, 2005

Gateway is one of the most unique and warm playing environments you will find in a mud. Unique not only because of the way it was created, but because of the playerbase, as well the high caliber of quality you will find of it. Warm because everyone cares for eachother, helps eachother, and lends a listening ear when needed. Full of jest and enjoyment from the players, the game will fuel not only your addiction but laughter as well. I have been playing Gateway for seven years and I have never been able to leave because of the great people here who will brighten my day in the darkest hours. The realms' diversities of theme and avenues, keep you from falling into pitfalls of the certain death of boredom. You will love the hundreds if not thousands of hidden secrets there are to find. One thing is certain here, you always have many choices for your journeys through the Gateway.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Merlin on Jan 23, 2005

http://www.gatewaymud.com/ I first encountered Gateway back in the year 1992. It was a bunch of crazy engineers who introduced me to it. One of these engineers was a 'wizard', an entity that could and would 'code' the world of gateway. I became immersed in the world of Gateway. I pulled my first allnighter because of the addictive allure of this game. And it's grown since then. Gateway is now comprised of 6 large domains. What can be said that isn't in the info page. A lot and yet not much. We're a close net family of friends and brethren. Around 10-22 people could be on at once. If you are a newbie, we have a mentor-protege system that will help you along. There are numerous newbie areas to develop your skills. For the more advanced mudder, well, we have everything your heart could desire, there is registered PKing, numerous quests (get out your pen and paper, you'll need the notes, lol) and a bonus system based on the quests and exploration of gateway. There are 9 guilds to chose from and the standard races to mix it up a notch. The races range from pixies and gnomes to goblins and ogres. Come on by and check out one of the oldest MUDs out there. Don't forget to say 'Hi'. Seeyou there. http://www.gatewaymud.com/index.htm

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lost Ranger Bassy, Follower of Salairyk on Dec 8, 2004

Well life does not revolve around equipment on this mud, that is for sure. It is exploring and strategy that matters most. While some muds put great emphasis on eq for even simple things like vision, GW is about exploring and stratagizing. A very powerful alias system and complete newbie training make this the easiest mud to learn and the most dificult to master. You dont need to PK and most dont, but those who do will make the challange for you great indeed. Your choice of race and guild will determine your powers and your method of playing will determine your success. There isnt much opportunity to make such a mistake that you must start over, or that someone could be so mighty that no one can touch them. If you are good, you are good. It takes much of your time and patience and resolve and will and gut power, but Gateway is a challange and if you like that sort of thing then step through the portal to our realms.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Nov 27, 2004

Play at Gateway or wish you had! No pansies! Survival of the fittest and the swiftest as we gear up each day anew, and arm for battles. Ok, sometimes pansies are succesful. We take all kinds. :) But the ruthless have more fun! You can just pillage the monsters in place for your entertainment and PAIN. Or try your hand against other players. The choice is yours. Either way fun and frustration is gauranteed. And its FREE. Our Wizards are very cool. And if they get a chance to know you before the holidays... you never know what could turn up in your stocking. If you have the courage to step through Gateway, there may be no help for you :) But many of us will try to help you anyway! And if you like to read we have more help and info files than you can shake a sabre at. BAH!! You are probably not worthy to game with us. I am wasting my valuable Gateway time just to type this. I'm going back in now. If you have any problem with me... Now you know where to find me! gatewaymud.org 6969

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Randor the Wretched on Nov 6, 2004

This place is the opposite of overcrowded. If you feel like a number on the mud you are trying, play at Gway and stand out in our small community. Even though the Mud is HUGE. Many of the great mudders have spent their years here and wizzed up, or moved on. Now its your turn to prove your worth. Can you handle Gway? Go ahead, make our day! free, yes of course, free. addictive, time consuming, all you could want with no standing in line.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Oct 26, 2004

Welcome adventurer to the Gateway, a portal to high fantasy and adventure. Pick your race and join a guild then step forth to explore the many domains that lay before you. I first set foot through the Gateway back in the year of '92, leaving behind many sleepless nights. I left my beloved MUD behind for several years to refind it 2 years prior to now. It had grown, the characters had changed but the atmoshere was the same. All welcomed me as a newbie and helped me to restart my life as a new adventurer. If I needed information, weapons and equipment all was close at hand for a newbie since many helpfull scrolls were near and a good ole man by the name of Contar was a perfect help for me. He led me by hand to the many newbie areas to be explored and he even has a chest of equipment that a newbie can avail himself of. As I grew older and bolder the challenges grew with me. I explored more and more, exploring the great world of Gateway. There were many quests to be solved, where even the easiest of them needed a sharp mind and sense of puzzlement. Come join the community of the Gateway fellow adventurer, there is something for both new and seasoned adventurer. http://www.gatewaymud.com/

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Sir Lord Bassy, the Lost Ranger of Salairyk on Sep 26, 2004

Its difficult. Challenging. Its good brain fun in the fantasy setting. We have a well established wizard and player base, register only PK, and an open-arms approach to newbies. If you need help starting up, or need to ask someone a few quick questions, you can feel free to ask any of our wizards, or one of the many players! We have 6 large domains, each with their own theme and flavour, 9 active guilds, a multitude of quests, and an 'exploration quest point' system! We hope to see you there! Once you learn how to get around quickly, you'll never want to leave. Stump

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Aug 22, 2004

After playing some 30 MUDs, I happily stumbled upon Gateway about 4 and a half years ago. Ever since then, I have been a loyal player. It is a mud that I have found to be a thrilling challenge, and one that keeps me going. With it's leveling system, you are always able to see how close, or how far, you are away from leveling. The best parts of this are the bonuses you can get in assistance of leveling. These bonuses are like the Quest Points bonus. Quest Points are not only gained by accomplishing quests, but by exploring too. Yet, the quests we have in play are ones that make you think. They are ranked by difficulty. Which is extremely helpful when deciding to enter into one. Exploration points are gained by entering rooms that you have yet to be. Merely by walking around, you are gaining exploration points. Even with this system in play, I have to say the one thing that keeps me going are the people. The player base that is around is one that has some of the most friendly people in it. While friendly is great, we have some.. mean people that are fun to attempt to Player Kill.. Which is a blast if you're willing to put your neck out there. Player killing is also optional. So if you don't sign up to be one, no one can kill you. Starting, this is a great thing.. but once you are confident enough, I reccomend going PK.. It makes it a bit more interesting. I love GW. It's one of my favorite places to log onto, whether or not I want to play that day. I reccomend you stop in and have a chat, kill a mob or two, and look around. It's not something you'll regret.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Tymeless on Aug 7, 2004

I have been around GateWay for about 3 years. While this is not nearly as long as other players/wizards, I have come to love this outstanding MUD. When I first started playing, the first thing I noticed was how nice everyone was. Everyone greeted me as I first entered and offered to help me in any way they could. I love this MUD because along with the nice people and challenges of the game, it also provides me with a place to go to get away from it all and hopefully relieve some stress. After about two years of being a player, I have advanced to the ranks of the wizards. I now try to contribute to the MUD as much as possible and make GateWay the same great place for newbies as it was for me when I first started. Hope you'll give it a shot and pop on to say hello. I'm sure you'll like what you see and will want to continue to play here. -Berserker Thunderdude, Viking King

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Thunderdude on Aug 4, 2004

feel free to read all the reviews of gateway! Gateway by Quex " ... wouldn't ya like to go, where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came ..." While short on smart alecky bartenders and know-it-all postal employees (unless you look hard enough in Crystal), Gateway continues to be the single friendliest MUD on the face of the planet after a full eleven years of existence. I know this because I have played every other MUD in existence and have deemed them to be sub-par and lacking compared to the shiny goodness of Gateway. Honest. Boasting a robust guild system and enough quests to make you say "sweet sassy molassy, that is a whole lot of f$%!ing quests", Gateway continues to surprise players young and old alike. While RPing is not enforced, the room to develop your own unique character is boundless. Swashbuckling Vikings mingle with noble Knights, both masters of the blade. Devil Worshippers wage a dark and arcane war on the Priests of Cianna, who are protected by Magicks of Light. The Monks of Marik strive to hone their chi to unspeakable levels of power. The Celtic Druids of Gwydion strike a critical balance of good and evil on their quest to find The Way. Insidious Serpent Warriors slither across the lands, spreading their venom via fang and steel. The Rangers of Salairyk ... well, we are still trying to figure out what they are up to, but it involves green tights and doing it in the woods, apparently. And the irrepressable ShortBred Clan bring their own zest of life and faerie charms to help spread cheer and happiness (translation: annoying tricks) to each corner of the realms. Maintained by a friendly (if not heavily medicated) assortment of wizards, Gateway has over 22,000 rooms of *unique* coding to baffle and mystify players who dare to cross over the thresholds of the six Domains. Face death in the scorched dunes of the Haven Desert. Delve deep into the Drow City of Callis. Dare to face the dreaded Vicia-Heinox at the crux of Underground. Explore the wondrous cities of the Orient. Flit across the mountain faces of Crystal. Bask in the mediterranean delights that Shadow has to offer. And, above all else, visit SpineShire and buy a funny hat. So if you are tired of playing MUDs filled with utter morons and chock full of stock coding, give us a whirl over here in the Gateway. Did I mention it's free? Because it is. Hope to see you soon. On the MUD, I mean. ShortBred Quex, Fey Magician of Spineshire xxx ps - Mention this review and get a 10% discount on your first purchase of Fungus Cakes! Offer not valid in MD, FL, GO or Quebec. Nova Scotia residents please add a 17% beer tax.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Aug 3, 2004

" ... wouldn't ya like to go, where everybody knows your name, and they're always glad you came ..." While short on smart alecky bartenders and know-it-all postal employees (unless you look hard enough in Crystal), Gateway continues to be the single friendliest MUD on the face of the planet after a full eleven years of existence. I know this because I have played every other MUD in existence and have deemed them to be sub-par and lacking compared to the shiny goodness of Gateway. Honest. Boasting a robust guild system and enough quests to make you say "sweet sassy molassy, that is a whole lot of f$%!ing quests", Gateway continues to surprise players young and old alike. While RPing is not enforced, the room to develop your own unique character is boundless. Swashbuckling Vikings mingle with noble Knights, both masters of the blade. Devil Worshippers wage a dark and arcane war on the Priests of Cianna, who are protected by Magicks of Light. The Monks of Marik strive to hone their chi to unspeakable levels of power. The Celtic Druids of Gwydion strike a critical balance of good and evil on their quest to find The Way. Insidious Serpent Warriors slither across the lands, spreading their venom via fang and steel. The Rangers of Salairyk ... well, we are still trying to figure out what they are up to, but it involves green tights and doing it in the woods, apparently. And the irrepressable ShortBred Clan bring their own zest of life and faerie charms to help spread cheer and happiness (translation: annoying tricks) to each corner of the realms. Maintained by a friendly (if not heavily medicated) assortment of wizards, Gateway has over 22,000 rooms of *unique* coding to baffle and mystify players who dare to cross over the thresholds of the six Domains. Face death in the scorched dunes of the Haven Desert. Delve deep into the Drow City of Callis. Dare to face the dreaded Vicia-Heinox at the crux of Underground. Explore the wondrous cities of the Orient. Flit across the mountain faces of Crystal. Bask in the mediterranean delights that Shadow has to offer. And, above all else, visit SpineShire and buy a funny hat. So if you are tired of playing MUDs filled with utter morons and chock full of stock coding, give us a whirl over here in the Gateway. Did I mention it's free? Because it is. Hope to see you soon. On the MUD, I mean. ShortBred Quex, Fey Magician of Spineshire xxx ps - Mention this review and get a 10% discount on your first purchase of Fungus Cakes! Offer not valid in MD, FL, GO or Quebec. Nova Scotia residents please add a 17% beer tax.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Quex on Aug 2, 2004

Ahh, GateWay. I might as well try to review my own soul. 10 years after I was introduced to GW, here I still am. Finally made it to the top of the heap, if only for a short while…things are competitive here these days. As far as MU*s go, GateWay’s pretty Old School. Stuff’s pretty ‘simple,’ players from newer MU*s who are used to guilds/classes/whatever with a thousand skills to max out tend to complain we don’t have all the fancifications of character development. I, however, beg to differ. We’ve got ‘em, just not like folks may be used to. Let’s put it like this…I still have a lot to learn, and I’ve been around a while. GW tends to be more focused on exploration: if you want to succeed, you’ve gotta read. You’ve gotta get out there, in the tunnels, forests, castles, and waterways and find your way around. No easy task, with over 20,000 rooms, umpteen of which are the “GateWays” between 6 realms. You may not even realize you’ve changed realms until you are 40 rooms in and going…”Gee, nothing looks familiar, and I can’t seem to go back the way I came. Hmm.” Quests? We’ve got ‘em…in fact, I think the staff just instituted a new one, and so far, only four people have solved it. And it’s a relatively easy one, or so they say. FINDING quest areas, now…that’s the difficult bit. Does being a newbie suck here? Nah! I must say we are one of the more newbie-friendly MU*s I’ve ever checked out…the regulars will greet you, and probably be falling all over themselves trying to become your mentor. We tend to value every player, and newbies get treated like royalty by the populace, because being small (or, starting from scratch, if you’re a big dog somewhere else) is daunting. We’ve got a great newbie system in-play, as well, so you don’t have to worry about getting just slaughtered. There’s no perma-death, so dying is only xp loss…and xp’s plentiful. PK is optional, by registration only, so you don’t have to worry about me and Blackstar whupping up on you just for the heck of it, either. Our ‘help’ system is a bit rough (more unwieldy and less intuitive than some I’ve seen), but just ‘gossip’ on our open line, and someone will almost always give you a nudge in the right direction. Role Playing is encouraged only, as we’re a Hack and Slash MUD at the core. Still, many of us have worked to develop ‘roles’ for ourselves, and many guilds offer skills that improve armor, weapons or whatever…so playing and working together here is quite useful. (I am always hounding the ShortBreds to cobble up my boots, the Vikings to rune my staves, or the Knights to adjust my armor, and in return, my Priestly feathers lighten their armor loads considerably.) Being H-n-S, equipment does NOT save when you leave, and learning to equip yourself each session is essential. WHOLE... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Earthmother on Jul 22, 2004

http://www.gatewaymud.org/ Welcome to Gateway and the many characters that reside within! With 8 races and 9 guilds there are lots of combinations that a player can choose to be. Take Airplane for instance, he's a crazed, once human, now avatar, Knight. As a knight Airplane relies on his skills and might of his weapons. To show his skill Airplane regularly beats one of our nastiest creatures, Aritex. Aritex is a catapult guard of the highest order, refusing access to our means of transportation to other realms unless we pay him extravagent fees. With the aid of his Deadly attacks, Airplane removes this filthy scum from his post, allowing us free use of the catapult. With the use of the catapult and other portals we have access to the 6 realms that comprise Gateway. When you enter the game you have the choice of underground, crystal, orient, callis, haven, shadow or being sent to your guild. Though it is highly recommended that you join a guild you do not need to. However being a member of one of the nine guilds gives you abilities that help you advance through the game. Gateway also has bonuses based on your exploration and questing. Quests range from the simple to the extreme headbangings. Some quests rely on teamwork. Being a member of a team will allow you to fight your way through otherwise impossible areas and usually gives you insites that you wouldn't realize alone. Though you may find yourself wandering the mud alone, you will always be part of the family that calls Gateway home. http://www.gatewaymud.org/ Drop by and say 'heyo'.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lost Ranger Bassy on Jul 18, 2004

What do you seek here? Adventure? Risk? Reward? Gateway has all this and more. And its Free! A young new player might want to start as an Ogre Viking for great early success. Or try playing as a monk and crush enemies with your chi. For greater complexity; you may have always wanted to play a halfling trickster... the Shortbreds are for you. Have a hero complex? Try the Knights of Callis and serve up justice with a sword. Do you prefer to serve evil? A Gnomish DevilWorshiper might do that very well. Or perhaps a stout Dwarven Serpent Warrior isssss more to your liking. With 8 races and 9 guilds to choose from, there is a combination for any adventurer. Travel (carefuly) through the six vast realms. Play as hard or as easy as you want and make friends while you do it. From the toughest of challenges to tripple hot fudge sundaes, Gateway is just plain rich. Come on in. Whatever trouble you may get into there will be a helping hand from a priest like me, or someone else, until you are ready to rock on your own and help others. For those who truly enjoy living on the edge, GateWay has several options for players to match themselves against one another in combat. GateWay offers "registered" player-killing, which means that only players who have registered themselves as player-killers may attack one another. If you want just some occasional extra action, GateWay periodically hosts player-killing contests, such as capture-the-flag style Guild Wars, and Battle Royals where you can participate if you choose. I have played here about a year and its just fun fun fun all the time. You can learn more from the website at www.gatewaymud.org But dont wait long to jump right in and try it! Stump

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Stump on Jul 10, 2004

Wow. Talk about nice MUDs. You have to come on down and check out Gateway. I tried it out a little while ago and boy, am I hooked. It's a friendly place where everyone gets to know your name. The players welcome you and the wizards, well the wizards are a mischievous bunch. Gateway has the usual races, elves, dwarves, goblins, halflings, ogres and 9 active guilds. My preference is a goblin ranger. Sweet! However you could be a dwarf monk, a halfling knight or a gnome shortbred to name a few combinations. Gateway has been around since 1990 and it shows. It's large, with 6 large domains and over 10000 well descripted rooms. Though don't dispare, it's age doesn't mean this is a stale place. The players and wizards strive to keep gateway lively. The wizards are continuously coding away in their little workrooms for our gaming pleasures. We can obtain bonuses by exploring the realms or by completing any of the numerous quests. These are for fun only, you don't need to complete any quests to play Gateway, though it certainly makes it interesting and worthwhile. So come by and check out Gateway, you'll be glad you did. Say 'hi' when you seen me around. :)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by lost ranger bassy on Jul 4, 2004

Are you looking for a refreshing mud that can be as challenging or as easy as you want it to be? Gateway has been around since 1990, making it one of the oldest muds around. However we are hardly stagnant, our wizards are constantly working on improving and adding to our world. It's fun, challenging and social, as much so as you want it to be. As you first join Gateway you'll be greated by many hellos and offers of help. We have a mentor/protege system that helps both the newbie and oldtimer. You don't need a mentor though, we all are willing to lend a hand as needed. Gateway is a light medieval fantasy world. It's a huge (10001-20000 rooms) original mud with accepted roleplaying. Roleplaying adds much spice to our world. Playerkilling is allowed though you must be a registered playerkiller. You can work through Gateway's bonus point system, if you want, by solving numerous quests and by exploration of our many domains. So come on by and check us out. Don't forget to say 'Hey'. It'll be great to see you! bassy

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by lost ranger bassy on Jun 27, 2004

*Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name….and they’re always glad ya came* Whenever I describe Gateway to another person, I always think of that theme song. Gateway is a very close knit community which creates a fantastic and unique environment in which to play. Wizards interact with players much more here than in many other muds I’ve visited. First time I ever logged on to the mud I found myself in the middle of a discussion about 80’s rock bands; a heated discussion ensued. It was a fabulous conversation and I found myself coming back to Gateway day after day and before I realized it, I was hooked. Come for the killing and stay for the fun! Do you like to roleplay? Then come be an Ogryn Ranger with me or a Goblin Monk with Triken. Be a Shortbred and stick buttons on people that make their pants fall down! There are 9 active guilds and 8 races. Come find out which combination will suit you best. Do you enjoy exploring a large mud with thousands of rooms? Gateway contains all original rooms with rich descriptions and loads of hidden treasures to be found. Do you like to quest? No problem! Gateway has plenty of quests to keep that investigative mind busy. Are you the competitive sort? Great! I need someone to come give me some competition on “toplist unique kills”! There are lots of toplists that you can attempt to climb to provide an additional challenge to yourself and the other players. Having an identity crisis? OKAY! See why Hotel Fantasia’s sex change potions are the best around. Do you like killing other players? Great! Join the player-killing system and beat our Gnomish Druid, Blackstar, over the head with your favorite weapon for fun. Be careful, he bites back! Wanna get into real estate? Perfect! You can build your very own house or buy commercial properties at auction and build your own specialty shop. Find out why Gateway is obsessed with goats! Learn why, “Rangers do it in the woods!” Discover why Xoltrix’s sports bra was running around the mud last week. See what it means to be a cliff-surfing champion. Uncover the sordid past between the Knights and the Serpents that causes the two guilds to despise each other to this day. Come to understand what happens when you kiss a frog on gateway. Ribbit! Seek out Dukis and find out why he sometimes needs a good, swift kick to get moving. These and other strange questions just waiting to be explored when you Enter the Gateway. So come to Gateway! You’ll find friendly players who are glad to assist you in getting started. Hope to see you soon! The following is a paid advertisement for Bassy’s Lost Ranger Tavern in crystal. The views and opinions expressed do not represent those of the writer. *Have a hankering for food or beer, come on by. I highly recommend the garden cocktails and pork chops rice.... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Ranger Grimalkin on Jun 7, 2004

Thinking of joining the rangers, then come to Gateway! The rangers are by far the humblest of the guilds, but we are always there to help and to team up to fight the large fight. Grab your snakeskin or good ole leather armour. Pick up your bow or staff, it's time to head out for a good old slaying. Tired of that slime or gelatinous cube slithering around your tunnels? Well, kill them, it's good for you and the environment. You're a ranger now, but you are tired of those high suede boots? Well grab some iron boots, just don't forget that you need the flying ring to get there. What do you mean you don't want to explore our large number of rooms, places, closets, parks, motels, towns? Sure you do, come to gateway and take a cruise on any of our several boats. Want to visit crete, egypt or even take a flying boat to the orient. You'll catch the exploring bug quite fast. Whether or not you are exploring any of our numerous tunnels or getting lost in a sewer, there is always a place to see and be. So grab a torch or cast yer spell and come on down to the Gateway. We're friendly and don't bite, but do watch out for those who lick. Don't forget to say hi. Popcorn

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by lost ranger bassy on Jun 6, 2004

I first entered the gateway back in my university days, around 1992. It was my first alnighter and computer sex. Yes, we have a motel with private rooms. I was caught up in the interaction between people. Here I was sitting in the computer lab, supposed to be doing work, talking to people from all over Canada and the States, Europe and Australia. Very cool Unfortunately, after I graduated from Waterloo, I was deprived of a telnet connection, no internet, argghhhh! What's a guy to do. I wasn't connected till around '95, but had forgotten my dear Gateway. A few years later I had a steady girl so I wasn't active on the net. Around '02 I was back, back with a fury. After coming across a mud listing, I took a chance and did a search for Gateway, lo and behold I found her! With great excitement I created my character. My old character I was to find out was deleted some 4 years prior, what bad timing. However, I recreated it. I was bassy once again. I chose a goblin race, with our infravision, dexterity and constitution, I knew i would be a great player. Upon entering the gateway, I rapidly found my way to the ranger guild where I joined with great glee! After figuring out some basics, like talking to people, examining rooms, attacking and fighting, I was eager to check out the meat of gateway, exploration. With great help from all the other players, I went to 'newbie' areas, checked them out, gained experience and grew as a player. Some things I didn't figure out till I was a much older player, but this only meant that I had earned my stripes. I am now an avatar, having greatly explored the domains of gateway, and forgotten just as much as I remember, lol. I have risen through the ranks to number 9 on our toplist, yet there is still so much for me to learn and explore. After two and a half years of steady playing I still see years of fun and excitement ahead for me. Come by for a visit and don't forget to say 'hi'.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by bassy on Apr 10, 2004

Gateway. With a core number of 20-30 players, Gateway is home to a couple of hundred characters. It's been my home for the last 2 and a 1/2 years, though I originally logged on back in 1992, give or take a season. I was a ranger then and I'm a ranger now. You have lots of choices of guilds, such as rangers, knights, monks, priests, devil worshippers and serpents and more. As well you have different races to chose from , goblins, orcs, humans, ogres and more. Gateway is always growing and changing. Our wizards are given tasks and areas to work on and to develop. Gateway is composed of many realms, Underground, Haven, Crystal the Orient...each one has it's own character and quests. Speaking of quests, not only do you get an experience bonus for the amount of exploration you do, but you get bonuses when you complete quests, not mandatory at all, but range from fun to hard to knock your head on brick walls, still interesting all around. The player base has it's hard core players plus moderate players and newbie players. Everyone is willing to help one and another. Team work is always allowed. It's great when you see a new player log on for the first time and know that you could be the first ambassador of gateway to that player. Gateway has a mentor/protege system in place. That means that an older player can mentor a younger one, obviously I guess. Mentorring can be kind of redundant given that we all are willing to help out new characters :) . If you get tired of killing the multitude of creatures inhabitating Gateway, you can register to become a player killer and have at it with other PKs. This can lead to hilarious fun, chasing the other player down, or trying to hide from him/her. It means you always have to keep your eyes open as to where you come to rest. I've enjoyed Gateway for quite a while. Wish I could give more to the game, but alas, I'm just a player. I've met several great people here and have seen many come and many go. It's always great when an old friend comes back for a visit. The elders and wizards I give much thanks for their hard work, volunteering, dedication and understanding. I also apreciate their putting up with me. Come and enjoy Gateway. Make it your home, you won't regret it. Hope to see you soon. :) the lost ranger, bassy

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by lost ranger bassy on Mar 16, 2004

I'm not new to GateWay, in fact I have been there for a very long time under various names and faces. Currently, I am enjoying the Monk guild. It's easy to play, and has a lot of theme, thanks in part to the hard work and research of our guildmaster. Hats off to you. Perhaps next I may try the Serpent Warriors, or even the Druids. The admin of GateWay makes sure that the mud is generally bug-free, and one can play there in peace, witout being harassed by people who hide behind the guise of 'role-playing'. You (the admin) have my thanks for making GW better and better. Don't let the taste of one bad, sour apple spoil the entire bag. Try GateWay!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Calliope on Feb 21, 2004

I feel limitlessly disappointed with Spleen's misleading and incomplete comment. If one studies the enforcement of the rule, one will find that the rule is dead. The punishment did not follow the rule of the Gateway. It is an abuse of power of the mud administration against a player. According to "Warrant Process-2)Discussion and Signing Period, the accused has the opportunity to present his defense on the Warrant Office discussion board.", However, I did not given such an opportunity. Obviously, it is the mud administration BREAKING its own rule. Moreover, according to "Warrant Process-Intended Use, "simple dislike of another player, his ideas, thoughts, or words, is not a sufficient reason to swear a warrant." Again both the mud administration and the non-role-players worked AGAINST the rule for humiliating a disliked player. Spleen, please make your last comment complete! If an evil character stealing a club from a good character need punishment, what should be done to the wizards who breaks the rule of its own mud? Spleen, You owe the public one answer! Also, does the mud administration of Gateway violate any role-playing principles? Spleen, You owe the public another answer! At last, is Gateway still a role-playing-encouraged-mud or a role-playing-allowed-mud? You owe the public one more answer! Thank you for reading

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Antoinette, Priestess of Yitskar on Feb 17, 2004

I just read a review of Gateway, which provided a misrepresentation of the MUD. I want to explain the process of what happened with a player who is a loose cannon. GateWay provides a system that allows a group of players to punish a misbehaving player by branding him as an "Outlaw". There are a number of disadvantages to being branded an Outlaw; The Warrant Process In order to have a player branded as an Outlaw, a process must be followed to create a Warrant for the player. Warrants are issued from the Warrant Office, part of the legal complex in Chaomonous City. There are several steps in the process: 1) Swearing of the Warrant To create a new Warrant for a proposed Outlaw, one player must "swear" the new warrant. This player will be considered to be the "sponsor" of the warrant. When the warrant is sworn, the sponsor must provide a brief reason to justify the warrant. The sponsor should also post on the Warrant Office discussion board providing a detailed accusation to justify the warrant. See "Intended Use" below for a discussion of valid reasons. There is an administrative fee for the creation of a warrant. 2) Discussion and Signing Period Once a warrant has been sworn, it will be in a "Pending" status during a discussion and signing period. During this time, the accused has the opportunity to present his defense on the Warrant Office discussion board. To complete the warrant, at least 10 players must sign the warrant to indicate their support. These signatures must be gathered within a 3-day period of the warrant's creation, otherwise the warrant will expire and will be invalid. Signers should carefully consider the evidence before them, discussing the case with the sponsor and the accused either on the board or in person. Players who have reached a 40% ability rating and spent a minimum amount of time on GateWay are eligible to sign a warrant. An administrative fee is assessed to each signer of a warrant. 3) Approval Period Once the required 10 signatures have been added to a warrant, it is considered to be "Complete". More than 10 players may continue to sign the completed warrant to lend additional support. A warrant will not expire once it has been completed. However, it must be approved by the GateWay legal system. Judge Jhasper regularly reviews completed warrants and will stamp the warrant either as approved or rejected. 4) Serving the Warrant Once a warrant has been approved, it must be "served" on the accused in order to brand him as an Outlaw. The warrant must be served by one of the signers of the warrant, while the Outlaw is present in GateWay. At that point, the Outlaw will be branded and the punishment will begin. Of course, there is an administrative fee to serve a warrant. Intended Use Warrants are intended to be a way for players to respond to legitimate grievances of wrongdoing by other Valid... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Spleen on Feb 6, 2004

Critical Review on Gateway¡¦s role-playing degeneration I have been in Gateway for a decade. I am a deep role-player. I am in an evil guild that serves Yitskar, the Snake Goddess. According the guild background, Yitskar would come back to conquer the realm eventually. As a Yitskarian, one should prepare for the ground for her return. This is a campaign role I assigned to myself for ten years. The campaign itself is not my own innovation, but a collective creation of all Yitskarians during the last decade. In the last ten years, I tried my best to preach and manifest the theology of Yitskar. As an evil character, I naturally dislike characters with good alignment at character level. Role-playing actions are sometimes done to materialize that alignment role-playing. However, thing changes when the population of the mud goes down. The administration finds some of my role-playing is too complete. On the other hand, some non-role-players, though role-playing good characters, begin to complain about my role-playing, as they take my action at player level only. At last, when I stole a club that belongs to a priestess of Cianna, who serves a guild with good alignment, a non-role-player asked a wizard to get the club back to her from my guild hall. Later, other unrole-playing wizards even punished my role-playing by making my character powerless until I was killed by other players or monsters. I have talked to the muds administration about my opinion. I think that they are exercising thought control on my role-playing. I think that I should have some room to punish the sinners of Yitskarianity in the mud context at character level. However, they confirmed that ¡§you can do that again but you will face the punishment again." I don't know what role-playing principles they had violated. I have found that if everything happens in the muds are understood as interaction among PLAYERS, not CHARACTERS, or if any role-playing style in the muds will be liable to be subjected to the PUNISHMENT by the mud administration, there will be no fun. Now, I am seriously considering whether Gateway is still a role-playing-encouraged-mud or a role-playing-allowed-mud. Thank you for reading

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Antoinette, Priestess of Yitskar on Feb 2, 2004

Long ago, in a quiet reception center, an unsuspecting elf materialized into an ominous and unfamiliar realm. Immediately a torrent of welcoming gossip messages flooded his vision, and he staggered back slightly. However, his friend from the world above quickly guided him through the first steps, and with the help of many other kindly adventurers, the little elf was soon on his way toward immortality. I was fairly new to MUDs then. I had played a few others, but they didn’t catch me. I was about to quit MUDs when my friend introduced me to GateWay ("Make sure the ‘W’ is capitalized," he always reminded me.) With its friendly staff, encouraging players and readable help files, it quickly caught my attention. GateWay is a great MUD with something for everybody. With a great array of guilds and races and an ever-improving quest system, GateWay is an excellent choice for the role-player, though it is not required. Also, player-kill is optional. The player and wizard community of GateWay is one of the main attractions for me. The immortal staff is continually improving every aspect of the game while maintaining a casual and friendly correspondence with the lesser adventurers. Meanwhile, we mortals socialize, fight, explore, quest and show off our war trophies (I have one of the top wizard’s skulls. Hehehehehee.) Join us, friend. - Damaztar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Damaztar on Feb 16, 2003

Greetings and salutations! Verily, though I am more accustomed to crusading for my realm with sword and shield than with quill and scroll, it is with a great sense of honour that I set down my testament to the world of GateWay. After many years as a Knight Errant, wandering far afield, I returned to find a land much changed, so much so that I needed to learn everything anew. Yet, by Cianna's grace, I was fortunate to find many brave and noble wanderers willing to help speed me along the path. I encountered many foes worthy of my skill, strange and wondrous creatures, and sights beyond mortal ken. Through my travels and adventures, I grew strong in the ways of Knightly virtue and strength. Yet I met with many who had chosen to devote their lives to other paths -- casters of arcane invocations, humble postulants to Cianna's light, seekers of personal balance, savage warriors, merry pranksters, noble woodsmen, communers with nature, even vile worshippers of a vicious goddess. Verily, the realm offers a haven for all. There are those among us of great power, passing easily between this world and the next, who have set down daunting challenges. Not for the faint of heart or mind, they are yet another means by which the courageous adventurer may test his or her mettle. When I grow weary during my travels, I find sanctuary in the companionship of the realm's fellow denizens. Yea, many a happy hour have we spent in a cozy tavern or inn, toasting our health and spinning tales of our exploits. Fair adventurer, if ye seek an experience of surpassing richness, ye need look no further than GateWay. Be ye friend or foe, yet I look forward to the day when we meet. Art thou ready? A new world awaits...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Arch DuchesArch Duchess Amalia, The Noble Champion of the Lost Knightss Amalia, Baroness of Callis on Jan 27, 2003

I love this MUD! I want you to come play! Just thought I'd be upfront about it from the start. Now, as for a review: Huge world, 6 domains, 9 guilds, 8 races, medieval fantasy theme. Old school mud, experience gain based on hack-n-slash, but roleplay is encouraged. Quests? Tough as NAILS, imho, but you might chew through them. Want power? Well, sortof, cause, you gotta earn it. We have Superplayer status, our beloved Avatar race/class...and every one of those folks has played his or her heart out. Wanna wiz? Come see what we're all about, we encourage players to join the immortal ranks when and if they meet the requirements. Humor abounds here, newbies are encouraged from the get-go, and the character creation is straighforward. There are no set character "skills," as you get your abilities when you join a guild, tho, you *could* run around guildless. (You'll be missing out on some camaraderie, but what the hey, right? ;> ) Our help files are detailed and generally up-to-date, the staff is incredible and available. Basically, I've played since '94, I still suck, and this game challenges me all the time. I doubt I've even seen over half the MUD, in total. I *do* laugh every day, though, and the people here just can't be beat. GateWay is a different MUD, all original, and was started in Canada, so... the amusement factor just never ends! Easy to start, easy to play, tough to leave, advancement potential unlimited, solid server and staff, Old School Killin' at its finest! Come on over, bring a friend! We'll help you out, I promise. The Cardinal Earthmother, Cianna's problem child

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Earthmother on Jan 22, 2003

First, I have nothing to gain by writing a "come join us we're the best!" type of review. I'm a solitary type of player, I like uncrowded hunting grounds and figuring things out for myself, so recruiting players is not my thing. But I've been having so much fun at Gateway, this is my way of giving something back, to bring interesting players to a great mudding experience. I believe GW is one of the best MUDs out there, and here are some of the reasons: - Good Quests - Before GW I'd come from a MUD with a pretty much broken quest system; all the players complaining, whining, and giving out the secrets. At Gateway, though, each player can quest as much or as little as he or she wants to, and choose easy or difficult, thought-based or combat-based, all of them interesting and well-made. - Rooms to Roam - Here too, there is a lot to choose from. Not only are there zillions of rooms and enough space for the most far-ranging player, but the rooms have richness and color, deeper levels to explore, perhaps leading to a pleasant reward, a nasty surprise, a bit of humor, or whole new unplanned adventures (or misadventures!) - Responsive Staff - The wizards here contribute to the lively atmosphere, both behind the scenes and in the chatlines. I've seen new suggestions made on the board by a player be implemented within a day. - Interesting Guilds - you might choose a particular guild just because of the spells they have, or you could get into the whole story of that guild, with interesting characters and history, because like most things on GW the guilds are made with creativity and with care, and provide great variety for the player. I could go on and on. But I'll put it this way: its often said how friendly people are on Gateway. Well its true...and why? Because they're STOKED! They're having a great time, and you're welcome to share it. Swordadept Sikander, DiamondBack Warrior

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Sikander on Aug 29, 2002

Hi all. Glad you could come and visit. Sit down and stay awhile. I'm here to tell you about Gateway, one of the oldest muds about. Gateway has many guilds to pique your interests. From the mighty rangers to the slap happy monks, we include vikings, alchemists, devil worshippers, priests and serpent warriors amongst others. Our world is large and diverse. You'll never tire of exploring and finding something new everyday. We have quests to keep you going for a long long time. Try them out. Points for exploring, points for quests add a bonus to your experience points. But you don't have to finish the quests to play. Even as a mighty goblin or a trudging ogre, to a flighty pixie or halfling, elf or human, you'll find variety is indeed the spice of life. The wizards of our world are constantly working away in their workshops, improving the existing to creating the new. Don't be shy to let the know your thoughts and concerns or even your ambitions. Do you strive to be more than just a mortal? Do you have what it takes to be an Avatar? Rise above the madding crowd, let your powers grow and flow upon the commoners. Or maybe you wish to be a wizard of this world, with your own domain to mould and shape into your vision of what should be. Come by, don't be shy, newbies are always welcome, with open arms and bright smiles. Tell them bassy sent you and asked you to step through the gateway. http://www.gatewaymud.com/

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by bassy, the lost ranger on Aug 24, 2002

I have been a player on Gateway for a long time, collectively. No other mud has ever compared. I have been a player, I have been an Avatar, and recently I was promoted to Apprentice Wizard. I am now trying to do my part to make Gateway a more enjoyable place to be. New features, areas, skills, and such are being added all the time. We have a very motivated staff of wizards, of which i will hopefully be a part someday soon, and that would mean another new area to check out. So, come join us at Gateway, or come back and try us again if you have been with us before. Friendliest, most unique, and all around best mud around. Silverfrost

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Silverfrost on Aug 17, 2002

Just in case you haven't read it before. Gateway ( http://www.gatewaymud.com/ ) has been providing over 12 years of Mudding. 20,000 + all-original! Role-Playing is encouraged. We have a well established wizard and player base, register only PK, and an open-arms approach to newbies. If you need help starting up, or need to ask someone a few quick questions, you can feel free to ask any of our wizards, or one of the many players! We have 6 large domains, each with their own theme and flavour, 9 active guilds, a multitude of quests, and an 'exploration quest point' system! We hope to see you there! Come visit Gateway and make us your new home. ( http://www.gatewaymud.com/ )

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by bassy, the lost ranger on Jul 14, 2002

I just started playing GateWay, and am really enjoying the experience! I'm a Ranger, and that means I get to use a heart bow (very much like the old Dungeons and Dragons cartoon, if anyone remembers that!). My guild is really cool; there are a lot of high level rangers that leave all kinds of goodies in our guild hall for me to use, and I am always finding new places to explore! I was a monk before I was a ranger, and the monks are a really good guild too! And I enjoyed playing a Serpent Warrior, fighting for the evil Priestess Yitskar. The players are really friendly, the wizards are great, and the atmosphere is wonderful! You should try out GateWay, and see what it is you're missing! -Jaenelle.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Jaenelle on Jul 10, 2002

Hello people! Looking for adventure and fantasy with a cohort of friendly fellow adventurers, come and visit Gateway. http://www.gatewaymud.com/ It's been around for 12 years and still going strong. It has several guilds to satisfy your needs and interests. With a couple of evil guilds, the serpent warriors and devil worshippers to a bunch of 'good' guilds, like the vikings, monks, priests a new one, the alchemists and the best of course, the rangers. The rooms are intricately descripted with something new to be found everyday. With new areas being added over time, gateway grows as you grow. Feel like taking on another player, go PK. You register as a player killer and go at it with numerous others, willingly or through ambush. Come and visit the friendly mud, get your fix and call us home. Gateway, http://www.gatewaymud.com/ . bassy, the lost ranger

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by bassy, the lost ranger on Jun 26, 2002

I've lived here, on Gateway and its many realms, for many years. I take pride in knowing where to find things, and how to acquire things with the least amout of effort. I have ascended to avatar status and it might be thought that I should have done it all, been everywhere, and explored everything. This simply is not the case. Even with my love for mapping, poking, exploring, climbing, tweaking, tieing, dragging, clearing, diving, moving, pushing (and all the other possible things one must do to find hidden and secret areas), I still find places that I've never been to before. This doesn't even take into account the times I've thought I've had a realm just about complete and then some mischeivious wizard goes and puts in a whole new area that's as easily mapped as stepping around in it (for the most part :) ). Since 1995, I've been a happy and fulfilled citizen of Gateway, and it's only getting better as the years progress. If you're looking for someplace that won't get tired, boring, and/or limiting, I'd recommend Gateway. Hope to see you near Contar soon!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Vituperative Rufus, Yitskar's Vengeance on Jun 17, 2002

Hello out there gang. This is bassy the lost ranger. Come and visit gateway. It's a home away from home. http://www.gatewaymud.com/ It's large enough to keep you busy for years of exploration. The quests range from easy to whoosh, I can't figure that one out. Well descripted rooms will keep you coming back, finding something new everytime you look. The wizards are continually recruiting players into their ranks. These new wizards bring with them a fresh insite into what should be added to gateway. The site keeps growing and changing, day by day. The people playing gateway are a tightly knit bunch. They welcome newcomers to gateway and even put up with some of the not so friendly or politically incorrect players. It makes for an interesting arena to play in. The players are a diverse bunch, from the slightly sadistic serpents to the glowing bunch of priests to the whacky shortbreds to the gruff vikings to the newest, the alchemist to the best of them all, the rangers. Those of us who love the rangers find us a well balanced if slightly weak guild, with our weaknesses and alas no major strengths we adapt and overcome. We work hard for what we earn and we learn to help each other and others as we can. The rangers have nothing flashy, so it's not a guild for those who need to impress. We have no major strenghts and really do not need them, though of course who wouldn't mind being able to kill a dragon in one blow or spell eh? Join the rangers but don't complain. See the world and explore your adventuring heart. Set in a fantasy setting you'll find goblins, halflings, humans, elves, trolls, orcs, gargoyles, kings and slaves, princesses and what not. Wield a sword or grab a bow and staff. Pick your pleasure and ensure the victory is yours. There are several domains, each interconnected. Learning to traverse the multitude of lands is a life long ambition. To become an avatar you must explore the majority of them, do you have what it takes? Come to gateway and find out. Come home to gateway. Find a guild you love and play to your hearts content. You'll be glad you did. Don't be shy. When you are here you can ask anyone to lead you on your way. Don't forget to say hi. :)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by bassy, the lost ranger on Jun 9, 2002

Gateway is the most friendlest mud out there i have been playing it for out 4 years and i always come back its a place were everyone is welcomed.There are Many guilds for all types of people. There are vikings for the warrior types and Priest for the good healing type. I myself is a priest because they rock. Gateway will help solve your problems if your kind, because they are evry kind to everyone. The mud is larger then most i have played and it keeps getting better. They dont force you to pick a name they like they let you and its a great place to just sit around and chat with friends. This mud is ranged for all ags from 10 to 60 people of all ages play because its designed for fun for everyone doesnt matter whoor were you are. Arcannas

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Arcannas on Jun 9, 2002

This is game is cool. play it now or i'll sick y dragon on you!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Dask on Jun 6, 2002

Gateway is, hands down, the friendliest MUD around. I have only been playing for a short period of time, and already I feel at home. The players are all extremely nice, the wizards extremely friendly and approachable, and quick to help when it is needed. I was new to MUDs when I started at Gateway, and the amount of help I received was immeasurable. Everyone was very kind and very patient with me, and helped me in anyway possible. I have learned so much, I have already started helping people myself. If you’re up for good killing, good fun, good conversation, puzzling quests, or maybe just a good pie fight, Gateway is the place for you. A great team of unique, original, creative, and motivated wizards are implementing changes all the time. Come see what Gateway has to offer, then stick around for those things you just can’t get anywhere else. Koordyn, Viking Warrior

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Koordyn on Jun 2, 2002

I have recently returned to Gateway after a 6-year hiatus in the real world and upon my return found what I remembered Gateway to be, I place where I could relax, have good conversation, while letting off my frustration hacking and slashing the many evil characters of the realm all. I was immediately welcomed back with open arms by friends of old like it was yesterday. This made remember what the place was really about: ‘The close knit community of people’ For the new to GW it’s not hard to find help, all you need to do is ask. The players are very friendly, approachable and is always looking lend a helping land. There’s also a mentor system (which has been added since my old days), where an experienced older player takes on a newer one and show them the ropes of the games. Offering advise on the many range of things that GW has to offered ranging from getting around the 6 domains of Gateway (Underground, Callis, Crystal, Haven, Shadow, Orient), the 9 guilds (Knights, Serpents, Clerics, Devil Worshippers, Monks, Rangers, Vikings), the questing system, and any other information that is needed to get yourself going. While I’ve been to many of MUDS in my time Gateway is definitely and will always be my online home. While I’ve managed to get reacquainted with some old friends I’ve also managed to make some new friends along the way. With such a relaxed atmosphere everyone talks with each other, there’s always something going on, and there’s lots of land to explore. What else could I ask for? Don’t take my word for it, come by check it out meet some people and I’ll bet you’ll be back for more. Nissassa (AKA Assassin)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Nissassa (aka Assassin) on May 31, 2002

For seven years GateWay has provided me with a home away from home, a circle of friends and companionship on long rainy nights and a general all-around sense of fun. So many things have been added to the game in the past month. From real estate, to avatar powers (be ready to work for it!) to stat changes, great things are happening. This place is like home, everyone talks to one another, there is always something going on. Come check us out for yourself, stick around and make a friend or two. Nudiebar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Nudiebar on May 30, 2002

I guess it is my turn to review Gateway. I started playing Gateway almost 9 years ago, and have never spent more than a week playing any other MUD. Gateway is my home, and it is no matter to what other lands I adventure, I always return to the familiarity of the place I grew up. Gateway has more to offer than anywhere I have ever adventured. If you are looking for diversity, you will find it in Gateway. There are around 20,000 + rooms, nearly all of them with a rich unique description. There are just under 300 active players from all parts of the world and all age groups that come together to help weave the rich tapestry that is Gateway. You will surely make many friends, and you may just as readily make some enemies. If you are out to destroy evil in the world, the Lost Knights, the Rangers, or The Priests of Cienna will surely welcome you with open arms. If you are seeking a home for the evil in your soul, seek out the Serpent Warriors or the Devil Worshippers. If you wish to not take part in the battles of good and evil, you might seek solace in the depths of the forest among the Druids, or you might while away your day in the trickery of the Short Breds. If you wish to help maintain balance in the world, you are welcome to join me and my Brothers and Sisters in the ranks of the Monks. Or you may be one of those souls who wants nothing more than to just crush everything that gets in your way, in which case I am sure you will find a happy home among the Vikings. If you have never adventured in lands the likes of Gateway before, have no fear. You will receive a warm welcome and many offers of assistance, not only from the stalwart adventurers, but also from younger players still in their quests for knowledge. This is not a MUD that has a group of indifferent high level players. We are one big family, with many players at every level, and we always welcome new members to our family with open arms. Come and join us... Sensei Silverfrost, Disciple of Marik

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Silverfrost on May 30, 2002

Are you looking for the best MUD out there? You have found it: Gateway. I began playing Gateway about 2 years ago. I have not once since then played another MUD continuously. Why? Because I never stop having fun there. Not only is the MUD HUGE with over 10,000 rooms, All original coding might I add; But its the overall atmosphere of the MUD. I usually find myself chatting along with other people, from all around the globe, about certain kills or just in general. You can never get bored on Gateway, there are 9 active guilds, each with their own special capabilities, and very intricate systems of playing. Log on and discover what many consider the 'Friendliest MUD on the 'Net.' Tell em Gud sent ya!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Prince Guderian the Holy Lost Knight on May 27, 2002

This mud is simply put, incredible. I am not exactly one of the youngest players on Gateway, but I am still in total awe of things that they are doing. There are a total of 9 guilds in this game, each of which has special abilities. All of the guilds are pretty balanced power and ability-wise, making things even more fun. Serpents - Some of the most feared players on the mud. These players prefer sheer number to kill off players. They can sustain themselves with different poisons that they can secrete. Some poisons damage, others paralyze, and still others heal. They also gain the ability to use two swords. Knights - The counter to the Serpents. They are holy and powerful indeed. Each knight has quests that they can go on to earn Honors. With each Honor they recieve, their skills as a knight increase! Clerics - These priests know that they are not great in hand to hand combat, yet they do have some tricks up their sleeve. They have the ability to cast "stoneskin" which protects the cleric. They also have magnificent healing powers, and even the ability to raise the dead when they become powerful enough. Devils - The devil-worshippers have crazy powers. They can invoke death on other monsters, and even gain control of their mind. Using this power they have the ability to control it and do their bidding. They can also protect themselves against magical attacks with an anti-magic bubble. Druids - The druids use the magic of nature to their ability. They are able to fight well, but prefer to use plants, animals, and elementals to help them out. The power of nature is a very high power, so balance of alignment must be kept! Monks - The monks are trained in the art of fighting, but with no weapons and armor. The monks have the ability to buff themselves up for protection, and strike fast and hard against enemies. Killing does come easy, but only after spending a large amount of money on training their skills. Rangers - Need a good weapon? How about a free bow? The rangers work with bows and rely on much magic to keep themselves alive. They gain the ability to confuse and manipulate others. They strike hard with the bow, and always someplace vital... so the bow remains their best weapon. Shortbreds - Tricks, tricks, and more tricks. Then on top of that there are more tricks. These tricky players love the art of illusion. They are quick and nimble and can sometimes attack many times while a foe only strikes once. Sometimes you may think you see 10 of them at once, but you will soon realize that the Bred has created just an illusion to fool you. Vikings - The Vikes are maybe the strongest on the mud physically. They have the ability to spin themselves into a berserker rage and fly into battle. Thsi gives them a huge advantage it... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Vidalison on May 19, 2002

I just started playing Gateway after trying several other muds first. Gateway is awesome. There is something for everyone: unique guilds, a voluntary player-killer system, numerous quests, and so many different areas that I don't ever think I'll find them all! Its easy to get started with helpful newbie commands and gracious veteran players who help you get started. But even as a more experienced player you keep coming back to try to conquer the next area, finish the next quest, or just to see whats going on with all the new friends you quickly make. In short, Gateway is my favorite mud, and the only one I play now. Stop by and say hi!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Tacrolimus on May 5, 2002

Greetings and salutations! Verily, though I am more accustomed to crusading for my realm with sword and shield than with quill and scroll, it is with a great sense of honour that I set down my testament to the world of GateWay. After many years as a Knight Errant, wandering far afield, I returned to find a land much changed, so much so that I needed to learn everything anew. Yet, by Cianna's grace, I was fortunate to find many brave and noble wanderers willing to help speed me along the path. I encountered many foes worthy of my skill, strange and wondrous creatures, and sights beyond mortal ken. Through my travels and adventures, I grew strong in the ways of Knightly virtue and strength. Yet I met with many who had chosen to devote their lives to other paths -- casters of arcane invocations, humble postulants to Cianna's light, seekers of personal balance, savage warriors, merry pranksters, noble woodsmen, communers with nature, even vile worshippers of a vicious goddess. Verily, the realm offers a haven for all. There are those among us of great power, passing easily between this world and the next, who have set down daunting challenges. Not for the faint of heart or mind, they are yet another means by which the courageous adventurer may test his or her mettle. When I grow weary during my travels, I find sanctuary in the companionship of the realm's fellow denizens. Yea, many a happy hour have we spent in a cozy tavern or inn, toasting our health and spinning tales of our exploits. Fair adventurer, if ye seek an experience of surpassing richness, ye need look no further than GateWay. Be ye friend or foe, yet I look forward to the day when we meet. Art thou ready? A new world awaits...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Arch Duchess Amalia, The Noble Champion of the Lost Knights on Apr 27, 2002

Recently, there has been some controversy on GateWay. I don't know what happened, so I really can't say anything about it. However, I do know that: What is illegal, is illegal on the street, illegal in your home, and just as illegal on a MUD. GateWay remains a great place to play. After being in existence for more than a decade, it has fostered a close-knit family, where everyone knows everyone else. This creates a really friendly atmosphere. Players care enough to continually help newbies integrate into the game, giving their assistance and their knowledge of the game, accumulated through thousands of hours playing. You could probably ask me for help, I'm usually sitting at the Newbie Stand. If I'm not, type "honest" and pretend I am. ;-)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Honest on Apr 27, 2002

GateWay Mud is the single most intoxicating and addictive experience I’ve ever had. And that’s saying something. Me? Oh, I’m Dragyn the Valkyrie, Proud Viking Ogre, at your service. The time has come for me to add my Review of GateWay, and I find the task arduous and daunting. I’m not sure I can even begin to do it justice—I _am_ sure to leave substantial amounts of Important Stuff out, and I humbly beseech you to check out the other GateWay Reviews—you’ll get a taste of us, of the Minds you will meet, before you ever set foot on GW’s hallowed *hee hee!* ground. Be warned, however, that I am writing this Review at a time of great and painful Realization, Growth, and Healing among the Minds of GateWay. Twelve years is a long time, and we, the Community, are a passionate lot. The world is changing around us, and we must deal with reality somehow. You will see our passion, in all its forms, in Our Reviews. What do I love about GateWay? What draws me back after years of absence? The people. The humor. The parties! The games! The AWE-INSPIRING MAP! (I still know less than a third, probably less than a quarter, of the place, and I have played quite seriously at times. Plus, people have shown me around, helped me out. A LOT. Thanks, All!!) I’ve studiously explored, and earnestly Quested. I, to my shame and chagrin, am a rather unfortunate Quester on GW—The Tome of Quests is a miraculous compendium of creativity and frustration. The politics, the emotion, the passion of the Wizards and Players is something that transcends my ability to write—I am in awe of the people who surround me. It is a MUD of and by the dedicated, full of secrets and intrigue. The devoted are here, making GateWay a living place of the human soul. I come here to learn, to be near to others who sometimes seem so far away, and to kill thousands of incredible Mobs in amazing ways. I play GateWay exclusively, but from watching years of Newbie reactions to us, I can assure you we are unique. If you’re particularly keen on playing the same character you usually do, I’d keep looking, because GateWay is something else. Though the races may be fantasy-familiar, the Guilds of GateWay are motley crews of original tradition and lore. The guilds empower players with diverse skills useful for gaining the Holy Grail of MUDding—XP. Our guilds are an incredibly complex web of interlocking characteristics that bind the Minds of GateWay together into a community of power—people are devoted to helping others, and pushing themselves/their characters to achieve excellence, to maximize the experience. The literary experience of GateWay is one of the great joys of my life. It is to my sadness that I have not explored the Land further, for I am missing some of the greatest stories I’ve never read. I love the “typo” feature of GW, I... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Dragyn on Apr 27, 2002

This is more of a responce to Grr. Just two things really: 1.) Grr, you said it yourself, you don't know what happened. How can you pass judgement what so ever? You can't, so get off the soapbox. 2.) I've played gateway for 8 years, and it has been a great place. It was once very lively with tons and tons of players. I can remember sitting there trying to log on over and over again cause the game was too filled. Now it's just dying. I come on and there are 20 people max, 15 of them are like 20000% and know the game by heart. Ehhh....whatever, play, just watchout for trigger-happy wizzes. -Bluman-

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Bluman on Apr 24, 2002

Grr climbs up on her soap-box. This is more of a response to the House/Rainman review. First, I would like to say I am not a Admin or Wizard on this mud, just a player. I also do not know what was said in the tells that got him kicked off the mud. Obviously, your freedom of speech was not denied. You freely expessed yourself, and just like in real life, if something you said is questionable or raises suspicion, you must be responsible for your actions and accept the consequences. This mud is not run by the teeny bopper crowd who decide to run the mud on a whim, just to close it when they get tired of it a year later. The mud has been up for twelve years, and some of the admin has been around a long time. They are responsible enough and old enough to realize if something very wrong is going on. From what I understand, it wasn't just one Wiz who banished you, it was only after a group decision. And, since you have been on the mud a long time, you should know that so called hidden rule you talk about is readily available for anybody that bothers to read the help files. We should applaud the efforts of the Admins for wanting to keep GateWay as a friendly game with morals and dealing with a unwanted situations quickly and fairly. Hopefully you can learn from this experience and maybe be thankful that your biggest worry in life is being kicked off a mud. Grr steps off her soapbox Grr - Viking Queen

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Grr on Apr 24, 2002

Over the years, i became part of the gateway community. NOt only as a play but as a friend to many and foe to some. I grew up here, learned here, came here when i needed somewhere to get away from it all or even get some handy advice. I know just about everything there is to know about Gateway, or thought i did. Memorized quests, knew the landscape nearly completly, and achieved avatar status numerous times. I can say that i was a Gateway-Pro. I became board with gateways repetetiveness, and slow moving changes. I decided that i would try and become a wizard and code for gateway, because of my level of immatureity and various other reasons i was asked to re-apply at a later date. Which i did, and was accepted and became an apprentice where i would learn to code. Then, it became clear to me. I was nuked and put out of gateway for a rule that had been established in secrecy. My once friends had stabbed me in the back. Over all my advertising, bringing people to the mud, and helping the mud grow and prosper, i was destroyed and told never to return. What a fool i was, i now regret all the good things i could have ever stated about this mud, for it is all just a mask to cloak the true nature of the Hierarchy. If they do not like you, or your personality, they will do anything, including violating your MUD rights to free speech through the use of "tells". It was sad that it had to come to this to end me, it was sad that they would go through so much effort to extinguish such a promising young apprentice who has spent so much of his time for gateway. I scoff at your MUD. You should have a banner when one enters the Gateway that states that, "The Elder council will use any means nessasary to expel you from the MUD when we do not like you." Good luck to anyone currently involved in playing Gateway, just keep in mind that htey my turn on you anyday with backstabbing, hypocritical secrets that they refuse to make clear. Bah.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by House/Rainman on Apr 24, 2002

I originally started mudding trying to find something similar to text adventures of old, as I was going through Zork withdrawals when infocom went defunct. ( yes, I know, I'm showing my age here) GateWay was the first mud I have tried, and even though I try a couple new muds a week, this is the only one I really play regularly. From the start, I was warmly welcomed into the world. It is made up of six totally separate domains, yet they flow together nicely making a believable world. Many muds boast having thousands of rooms, and then all you see is you are in a forest as the room description for half of them. I would say at least 90% of the rooms on GateWay have a very well written, original description. And it pays to read them completely, for you never know what might you might find by moving that curtain, or searching a puddle. I have been playing for about three years, and I am not even close to finding all of the secrets this mud has to offer. There are some pretty decent items just laying around if you take the time to look. GateWay is also one of the more friendlier muds around. I have logged on to muds that have 80-100 players on, and not even get one hello, or welcome from anyone. Even if there are only six players on GateWay, newbies are likely to get six welcomes, and probably at least a couple offers to help you on your way. Becoming an Avatar (high level player) does not just consist of killing everything in sight. You must also prove your questing prowess, and help some of the young'ns along the way. Only the very well rounded player is rewarded with this great honor. It will take some work. Never mudded before? No problem. There is a mentor/protege system in place. You can have a high level player mentor you to learn how to mud, or help you adapt to LP commands if you are use to a different code base. Or, they can just show you around, or direct you to a guild. In return for helping you, the mentor gets a bit of experience as you advance. Its a win/win situation. There is usually always someone willing to mentor, as it is a requirement to become Avatar. GateWay is suited for many different types of mudders. Hack n Slash all you want. Don't like a certain player? Then register for PK and finish him off. Role play is not enforced, but if you start, someone is bound to play along. Are you the questing type? 32 maddening quests to drive you insane. Fun loving? Come for a pie fight or trivia contest. Like being in a group? Team up with your friends and go after that big kill. Guilds for all alignments. Become evil devil worshipers, goodly priests, fun loving shortbreds, or mighty vikings. These are only some of the 9 guilds. I'm sure there are a lot of things I'm leaving out. Now if I could just get that Dragyn to do her review. She is so much better at this. Sigh Come, step through the GateWay.... If you dare.... Grr, Viking Queen gatewaymud.com 6969 [64.242.77.153] http://www.gatewaymud.com GateWay - The safe addiction!

– MUD Magic Review (Archived) by Grrr on Apr 22, 2002

Are you a player that likes to be at the bottom of a 100 player list, where no one is talking, no one talks to you, and all you see is a little (1) beside your name? Don't you love it when you have to quit and they don't let you save your character because you haven't spent enough time on the game? Don't you love that no one talks to you because you are a newbie? Don't deathtraps rule? If you are none of the above and share none of the opinions above, you should come check GateWay out. We are a fun community of players, many of which who have found love and wonderful friendships among their mud friends. We are not the smallest mud out there, we are not the biggest. We aren't boasting about the 500 numbers, er, I mean players that are on at one time, we are about having fun. We are about having players say hi when a new player logs on. We are about player and immortal run trivia contests. We are about dragons and history. We are about people that have been here for 12 years running. Most of all, we are about fun. Our immortals are working hard on the game and making improvements. From what we hear, there are many new things soon to be implemented, come see us, we like newbies (you watch when you log in). Guidant

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Guidant on Apr 21, 2002

I originally started mudding trying to find something similar to text adventures of old, as I was going through Zork withdrawals when infocom went defunct. ( yes, I know, I'm showing my age here) GateWay was the first mud I have tried, and even though I try a couple new muds a week, this is the only one I really play regularly. From the start, I was warmly welcomed into the world. It is made up of six totally separate domains, yet they flow together nicely making a believable world. Many muds boast having thousands of rooms, and then all you see is "you are in a forest" as the room description for half of them. I would say at least 90% of the rooms on GateWay have a very well written, original description. And it pays to read them completely, for you never know what might you might find by moving that curtain, or searching a puddle. I have been playing for about three years, and I am not even close to finding all of the secrets this mud has to offer. There are some pretty decent items just laying around if you take the time to look. GateWay is also one of the more friendlier muds around. I have logged on to muds that have 80-100 players on, and not even get one hello, or welcome from anyone. Even if there are only six players on GateWay, newbies are likely to get six welcomes, and probably at least a couple offers to help you on your way. Becoming an Avatar (high level player) does not just consist of killing everything in sight. You must also prove your questing prowess, and help some of the young'ns along the way. Only the very well rounded player is rewarded with this great honor. It will take some work. Never mudded before? No problem. There is a mentor/protege system in place. You can have a high level player mentor you to learn how to mud, or help you adapt to LP commands if you are use to a different code base. Or, they can just show you around, or direct you to a guild. In return for helping you, the mentor gets a bit of experience as you advance. Its a win/win situation. There is usually always someone willing to mentor, as it is a requirement to become Avatar. GateWay is suited for many different types of mudders. Hack n Slash all you want. Don't like a certain player? Then register for PK and finish him off. Role play is not enforced, but if you start, someone is bound to play along. Are you the questing type? 32 maddning quests to drive you insane. Fun loving? Come for a pie fight or trivia contest. Like being in a group? Team up with your friends and go after that big kill. Guilds for all alignments. Become evil devil worshipers, goodly priests, fun loving shortbreds, or mighty vikings. These are only of... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Grr on Apr 8, 2002

I have played GW for about 2 years now. I love it a lot. It keeps me occupied on those rainy nights when I just want to huddle at home at the computer. Its a fun world, with lots of friendly people who are always willing to help you with anything. A number you will not be on GateWay. There are usually about 20-25 people logged on, sometimes more, sometimes less, but we always look to help newbies get stronger and welcome them right in to our world! Gateway has about 20,000 rooms, and not a speck of them are stock. Everyone has been hand-coded over its 12 year history. One of the first LP muds ever, some of the original founders still log on on a regular basis. Its a great place, so many things to do: quests, mentoring, guilding, teaming - totally wonderful MUD. Come see us. Shaya :)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Shaya on Apr 7, 2002

Ok I've played on Gateway for quite some time now although it has been on and off. Gateway was one of the first muds I ever played on and it got me hooked to them. It wasn't the awesome graphics or any of that BS that is going around now, rather it was the people many of which still play till this day 5-6yrs after I started mudding and the terrific staff and gameplay that to this day I have yet to see duplicated. Gateway has a very kool skill system which is guild specific meaning each guild has their own unique set of skills which overall keep the mud balanced as well as keep interguild relationships thriving. However one of my favorite features that I for one am very surprised to have not seen on more muds is putting items into rooms which can only be discovered by reading the room descriptions. The one thing I've come to notice on many muds is people just breeze through rooms and rarely read the room descriptions but GateWay changes that aspect of mudding. Another aspect of Gateway which is rather interesting is the side events which they have many of, such as their tag game where you literally play tag with other participating players on the mud and their wars;guild wars(captured the flag),race wars,and mudwide wars. All in all I have played many a mud achieved the maximum level and ranking and gotten bored and left but Gateway has managed to grab and hold my attention so much so that after years of mudding I have returned to Gateway. Gateway takes away that tediousness of leveling and offers the chance for people to really enjoy themselves and have a good time while allowing the players for the most part to regulate their own behavior. The extremely friendly playerbase and atmosphere, coupled with its unique style of gameplay and fun factor get Gateway a ***** rating from this mudder. So come on down and give us a try, I think you will be pleasantly surprised, afterall 12 years may not be a very long time in life but for a mud in 12 years legends are born, heroes are made, and kingdoms rise and fall.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Reislin616 on Mar 27, 2002

GateWay is my home away from home. If you are looking for an escape from the stresses and outrages of your every day life, you should definitely give this mud a try. I have been a part of GateWay since early 1994. The breathtaking descriptions and heartstopping battles have kept me entertained and coming back for more for 8 years. The community of players, avatars, wizards, and elders has become a haven for me. Role-playing is actively encouraged, but the gossip lines provides for revealing your true personality. High fantasy rules over a variety of races and guilds. GateWay has recently come under new management and the changes have all brought about improvement. If you've visited us before, be prepared for some great changes!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Sunny on Mar 24, 2002

Hi, my name is JJ. I have been playing Gateway for roughly 4 years, under many different characters. I must say, it has been quite the experience. I have made very many friends, as well as spent countless hours adventuring through the beautifully crafted domains. Gateway has turned me on to reading fantasy as well as creating some of my own fantasy adventure books. Here, we have many different type of players, from the role players, to the experience players, I have played as both, and from each point of view, I can say it is one of the greatest MUDs out there. As a mostly retired player, I enjoy sitting back, relaxing, helping newbies and talking with my good friends. Every now and then, I get an urge to go and venture through one of Gateway’s many quests, as well as see if I can explore to find a room I haven’t seen before. Enough about me, Gateway has been around for more than a decade. How could a MUD be around for a decade and NOT be amazing? Exactly, you don’t know, because it’s not possible. Gateway has had many different Gatekeepers, Elders, and wizards, and is run now by what I can say is the best Council I’ve played under. Every one of them has spent their free time editing old code and revamping old areas, as well as helping player problems and creating areas from scratch. Not only the wizards, but many of players are helpful. As soon as you come on Gateway as a new character, players are throwing themselves at you begging you to let them help. If you don’t enjoy talking to players for help, and prefer to be independent, Gateways numerous help files will send you on your way. Exploring, adventuring, and questing all give bonuses to players. Even helping newbies can benefit players. And, for the willing, there is even a restricted Playerkillering System. Overall, it’s the only mud for me, the only one I have continuously returned too, and even now, after four years and I still play. I now hope someday to venture into the wizard staff of gateway, and ad a bit of my own twist to Gateway. Step through the gateway, it could change your life, it’s changed mine.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by House on Mar 13, 2002

I can think of no higher praise for a MUD than to point out that it has engrossed me for hours at a time in all it has to offer. From the traditional (gallant Knights going on quests of honour) to the unusual (you haven't lived until you've been on the receiving end of a ShortBred taunt), to the possibly mythical (I have yet to see a wombat), GateWay is richly detailed. The players are very friendly and helpful; I've spent many a happy hour over port and cigars with some of them in the Gents Club. To really appreciate GateWay, though, you need to discover it for yourself -- hope to see you there!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Amalia, Amazonian Librarian on Mar 8, 2002

Tired of the same old MUDs? Had enough of maps that all look the same with stock characters and boring-ass coding? Then look no further than GateWay MUD! I've been with GW for some time now, and just when I think I have done all there is to do, I find a whole new realm to explore. GateWay is a meticulously coded MUD, with over 20,000 *handcrafted* rooms spanning six stunning realms of all original code. Online since 1991, Gateway boasts a large assortment of guilds and races to choose from, from the standard fighter classes to mysterious spellcasters to tricky thieves and disciplined monks. GateWay also has a great quest system that rewards players accomplishments with XP bonuses. Trust me when I say that some of these quests are challenging enough for even the most MUD-hardened players! GateWay also has a great administration that is always ready and willing to help with any problems that might arise. The Mentorship programme is a great way for inexperienced players to get help from senior players so that you don't spend three hours trying to find a shop to buy some food. GateWay sports a multitude of interesting options to persue, from guild wars, advanced skills training, owning pets and houses, playerkilling for those interested, hyperball matches, contests and much more than I can get into here. It's never dull, that's for sure! Perhaps the best part about GW is the fun aspect -- GW is a MUD that takes itself seriously, but is not rigid or narrow in it's scope. We boast a healthy player-base, but it's never too empty or too crowded. The people who play regularly are a fun bunch, and it's always a pleasure to log on. So, if you are looking for a fun place to MUD in a relaxed and professional atmosphere, give us a try! You won't regret it! Quex the Faerie Trickster King

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Quex on Feb 28, 2002

Long ago, in a quiet reception center, an unsuspecting elf materialized into an ominous and unfamiliar realm. Immediately a torrent of welcoming gossip messages flooded his vision, and he staggered back slightly. However, his friend from the world above quickly guided him through the first steps, and with the help of many other kindly adventurers, the little elf was soon on his way toward immortality. I was fairly new to MUDs then. I had played a few others, but they didn’t catch me. I was about to quit MUDs when my friend introduced me to GateWay ("Make sure the ‘W’ is capitalized," he always reminded me.) With its friendly staff, encouraging players and readable help files, it quickly caught my attention. GateWay is a great MUD with something for everybody. With a great array of guilds and races and an ever-improving quest system, GateWay is an excellent choice for the role-player, though it is not required. Also, player-kill is optional. The player and wizard community of GateWay is one of the main attractions for me. The immortal staff is continually improving every aspect of the game while maintaining a casual and friendly correspondence with the lesser adventurers. Meanwhile, we mortals socialize, fight, explore, quest and show off our war trophies (I have one of the top wizard’s skulls. Hehehehehee.) Join us, friend. - Damaztar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Champion Damaztar, Eternal Defender of the Mystic Bow on Feb 22, 2002

Its been a while since I last reviewed Gateway. Lots of areas have been added and many new quests have opened. The player base is growing, so I am almost never alone in the over 20000 hand-coded rooms that make up the mud. There is almost always something going on and something to find, kill, or quest for. I really think this mud is moving up the chain. Our cadre of wizards are dedicated to improving the mud - making areas better, coding new ones and new quests and generally being there for questions and comments. I like the role-playing aspect of the mud that has entered over the past 6 months. While RP is optional, I have found more and more people asserting their personal or guild powers through thematic means. Come check out the rivalry between the Knights, the Serpents and the Priests if you want to check it out and add your role-playing skills to the MUD. Come see us, chat with a player, let them help you. Chat with a wizard, let them steep you in the history that is GW, all 12 years of it. Guidant

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Guidant on Feb 19, 2002

Lets see, lets see, there are so many aspects of Gateway that I do not know where to begin. I'll start with my character, Arch Duke Guderian, Lost Knight, regular player. I began playing Gateway about a year and a half ago, because I wondered what that little telnet box thing was. At first, I found it confusing, for it was my very first MUD, ever. But soon, I was getting the hang of it. Soon I began to really enjoy Gateway, but not JUST Gateway itself, but the wide range of peoples that played alongside with me. Pretty soon, I was one of the top players on the MUD, and yet it still wasnt boring. I experimented from guild to guild, Monk to DevilWorshipper(DW),DW to Priest, Priest to Lost Knights, where I stand now. Some of the real attributes which make Gateway excel is it's staff. Gateway has a staff of Wizards, each containing their own rank, each adding fundamentel elements to Gateway. All original Coding, over 10,000 rooms, each with an original description. More essential features of Gateway are the 9 active Guilds, each with their own theme and traits. From evil spell casters to neutral spell casters; Evil fighters to Saintly Fighters, you name it, Gateway has got it. Another feature of Gateway is its 6 Domains or Realms. Each has it's own theme, monsters, and elaborate storylines. One key feature which seperates Gateway from other muds is the list of intricate 'Quests'. In order to advance onto the race of 'Avatar', which is only accomplished by few, One must complete a certain amount of Quests, ranging in difficulty. Another aspect which helps new players, and is relatively new, is the Mentor/Protege system, Where experienced players can 'Mentor' newbie players, they becoming their 'Proteges'. In return for helping the younger player, whether it be in advancing in level, earning money, or learning specifics, they receive a little bonus of their own. If you have read this far, you must have liked what you have seen, If so, Visit www.gatewaymud.com to see the real thing. Once you come on, help will be thrown upon you, so you need not worry. Sincerely, Arch Duke Guderian the Avatar Champion of Honour

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Arch Duke Guderian the Avatar Champion of Honour on Feb 15, 2002

The silence of the featureless room seems to mock me as I stand, momentarily indecisive, before the six portals. Where shall I wander this day? The first of the portals, a massive doorway of carved stone, is inscribed with the name “UnderGround.” Through this portal, I remember a place to get maps and scrolls as a hapless newbie, along with equipment and friendships that set my feet upon the paths of adventure. In the realm of UnderGround dwells a fierce two-headed dragon who preys on the unwary: my sword-arm itches for another challenge against this awful beast, even as my ears seem to hear the faint screams of those helpless victims of the Iron Hand Raiders, the scourge of the land. Yet not all is darkness in UnderGround, for a band of merry folk known as the ShortBred clan dwells within, a band known for trickery, deceit, and above all humor. ‘Tis said two groups of nature lovers, Druids and Rangers, share the dark and silent woods of this realm. Turning my gaze to the next of the portals, I notice the name “Crystal” written in mage’s script next to a delicately shaped arch of wrought metal. Within lies a realm forever suspended in a state of anticipation, like an unending twilight. A besieged city there awaits those who can free it from its captors. Within the city, priests of the goddess Cianna seek to spread the warmth of Goodness and Light to all needing succor. The realm is bordered to the North by fierce warrior Vikings, and to the South by the unspeakable horrors of dark Elves. The portal to the Orient is carved of dark wood, with many strange symbols interlaced with delicate leaves and flowers. A mighty emperor sits upon the throne, and his imperial city is filled with many strange and wonderful things. A monastic order dwells within, teaching disciples much about combat and following their Way. Beware, adventurer, for darkness lurks in the Orient, as well. Plague keeps a small village in eternal torment, while a strange group of black-clad fighters stirs menacingly in the distance. Haven’s portal awaits me next, like a stout wooden doorway into its walled capital city. The countryside is littered with strange caves, ensorcelled castles, and a vast desert which challenges even the most seasoned adventurers, although the city beyond the desert is said to be filled with treasures and magical items. Rumors contend a dread society of evil mages dwell within the city of Haven, with their fiery eyes and fatal spells. Fluted stone columns topped with acanthus leaf capitals beckon me toward the Mediterranean cities found in Shadow, full of rich feasting and monsters from myth and nightmare. Yet no myth, no nightmare ever gripped my heart with as much dread excitement as can be found in the city beneath the Parthenon or among the neighboring islands. Finally, my gaze is drawn to a portal of black obsidian, the entrance to the Isles of Callis. my... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Galadriel, Lady of Callis on Feb 14, 2002

I have been a player on Gateway for several years now, and the game has lost no entertainment value over the near-decade I have spent there. Gateway is a very large mud in terms of rooms, but far larger in terms of flavor, atmosphere and adventure. The thirty-two major quests have given me hours of fun and frustration, challenging both my mind and my character's combat prowess. Unlike other MUDs I have played, Gateway has a somewhat small but dedicated and growing playerbase. I, however, feel this adds to the enjoyment, as the MUD is a tightly-knit community, where players can interact with eachother on a personal level. People on Gateway, both players and wizards, are quick to offer help to newbies, be it directions or maybe a little help getting started with equipment. The PK system on Gateway is also a fine feature. Registered players can hunt eachother, play tag and engage in other wholesome activities. By far, however, the most fun aspect of Gateway is the War system. Essentially a temporary PKifying of all the players on the mud, wars pit teams of guilds or races against eachother, and can even plunge the MUD into temporary total-PK chaos! Money is retained through deaths in a war, and no experience is lost, so players have nothing to lose by participating. After being a player on Gateway, I found myself unable to play any other MUD. None of the others could measure up to the ease of play and just the plain old fun of Gateway. This, combined with the community feeling and the great features and quests makes Gateway a MUD that's hard to beat. If you ever log on, just give me a tell, I'll be sure to help you out. Bolt, Marik's Avatar Champion.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Bolt on Feb 11, 2002

I began my MUDing career almost 10 years ago. It started with a friend telling me about a MUD that was based in the university I was attending called Gateway. I tried it out and quickly became hooked. The lands of Gateway are expansive and the atmosphere of each of the six realms (Underground, Crystal, Haven, Callis, Shadow and Orient) are all unique... owing to the fact that each room has been hand crafted and oozes of character. There is a guild for every player type. The Lost Knights of Callis are honourable warriors, the Monks with their martial arts, The Druids and Rangers who use nature's might as their allies, the mighty berserking Viking Warriors, the invaluable Priests of Cianna with their ability to heal and raise the dead, the Merry Pranksters that are the Shortbreds, the evil mages of the Devil Worshippers... and my own guild the vile Serpent Warriors of Yitskar. I've tried dozens of MUDs over the years, and where the others lost my interest relatively quickly, I have always come back to Gateway. It is a MUD with a good mix of role playing (the stories of inter guild rivalries are the stuff of legend) and humour (take a lick on the Dreamer Frog). This MUD is by far the most newbie friendly I have ever played on. Most players are more then happy to lend a hand to newbies who are trying to make sense of what is going on around them. There are numerous newbie areas and the invaluable Contar will guide you to each of them. Most guilds actively recruit and odds are even the most shy person will find themselves with numerous people looking to bring them within the fold of their own guild. The Wizards are an extremely dedicated bunch who work hard day in and day out to make the MUD better. The MUD is ever growing with new areas to explore popping up fairly often. They listen to their players and have boards all over the place where a player can post on a variety of subjects... including a suggestion booth for anyone who has a new idea to implement or something they don't like and would like to see changed. Scavanger hunts and Trivia contests are not unheard of with the rewards ranging from money to unique items for your enjoyment. I hope you choose to come and join us on Gateway. I have no doubt that you will enjoy your time there. Darklord Hettar, Yitskar's Venomous Blade

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Darklord Hettar, Yitskar's Venomous Blade on Jan 31, 2002

If your reading this, take time to read the entire note, for I write it in hopes that you will visit me on one of the fastest growing muds around. GateWay has existed for 10+ years, that predates almost any mud out there, and you can tell from its vast, well-coded, well-thought out Domains. Most muds use room-generators to make huge areas in almost no time, GateWays room are all done by hand and you can feel it...there is a texture there that exists on no mud that I have ever visited. The playerbase used to peak at around 75 back in the day, I mean you were lucky if you could get on, but today as the older players grew up, had families, and new responsibilitys that number has dropped. So as you can see, I feel as if GateWay is a well kept secret...only recently have they started advertising the mud...so come check it out and add to the history that is GateWay. Airi.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Airi on Jan 25, 2002

I've been MUDing here and there for the last 5-6 years, usually as a means to kill time in class or at work. During my travels, I've seen a lot of MUDs that looked very much alike, and sometimes I really had to look around to see any differences bewteen them at all. Many of the players on these MUDs were hostile, the wizards were always absent or ill-tempered. New MUDs were generally a very frustrating experience, and I would find my interest in each one waning within minutes. Then, about a year ago, a friend of mine casually suggested I try out Gateway. I looked into it as a lark, and immediately I found myself engrossed in a much better gaming experience. There were enough players on to make it interesting, but I didn't feel like I was lost in a sea of 400 people. Right away I was assailed by people wanting to help me out, asking me if I needed directions or anything. Suffice to say, it was a nice change from my previous MUD encounters, where most people tried to trick me or kill me. Gateway is an utterly massive MUD, with well over 20,000 rooms. Each room is *hand crafted*, with many intricate details which really adds to the experience. No random room generators here, as you will find yourself fully immersed in one of the six rich domains Gateway has to offer, ranging from the harsh desert climes of Haven, to the hustle and bustle of medieval Underground, to the mystical lushness of the Orient. It's easy to see why this MUD has been around for over 10 years! There are nine guilds to choose from, each one with it's own unique flavour and abilities. Within each guild are lots of people ready to help you become accustomed to your powers, which can really help a younger player out. The guilds feature swashbuckling Vikings, evil Serpent Warriors and Devil Worshippers, honourable Knight and Monk guilds, altruistic Priests, Ranger and Druid guilds that are fully aligned with nature as well as the ever popular ShortBred guild for those interested in playing the occasional prank on their fellow players (my personal fave). Whether you are into hack & slash, stealthy or spellcasting combat, there is a guild for you. By combining the truly diverse experiences of each guild with one of the many races available on Gateway (including Ogres, Pixies, Halflings and Gnomes), you get a rich and unique MUDing experience. Gateway also has a great mentor system, where a more experienced player is paired with a newer player to show them the ropes of the system and good places to adventure in accordance with the newbie's level. If Gateway had a flaw, it might be that its' players can be a little TOO helpful! The Quest and Exploration system on Gateway is really something else, as players who invest considerable time and effort are rewarded with healthy experience bonuses as well as treats.... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Quex on Jan 25, 2002

Gateway Mud (Gatewaymud.com) If i had to sum up Gateway in 2 just to words it would have to be "laid back". Never have i ever found another Mud where everyone was so generally easy going, friendly and relaxed. I have played many a mud in my days but all greatest memories are from Gateway. (Like that time me Honest and Lucifer got eaten by a Neo-Otyugh while riding in the carriage). The Wizards and Admin very friendly and reasoniable. There are also very open to players ideas and have a board to openly discuss them Gateways gameplay has appeal on many levels, Its simple enough for a player new to muds start very easily and yet still offers much to a veteran Muder. Its has many newbie areas,A Newbie Guide named Contra(4 n,2 e,n of newbiestand) and even a newbie school all of which are completely optional. Gateway offers 9 completly unique guilds all of varying Alignment, Fighting Styles and Difficulty Another strong aspect part of Gateway is the quest/exploration ranking system. Players on Gateway are not ranked simply by the amount of Experience points the have amassed from killing but also from how well the have Explored then mud, Also there are over 25 active Quest, The Quest are all well written and take a fair amount of time and thought(What the heck am i supposed to do with those damned Dragon Scales anyway.) Gateway also offers 6 very larges Domains to be explore each has it own general theme and style. All are very well written and has its own unique feel. There are areas on the Mud for every level Player to enjoy and explore and you will spend endless hours in each trying to explore the vast exspanse of each domain Gateway is in my mind the best Mud out there, Its my home away from home, There are many people there i consider good friends and have created ever lasting bonds with that i will have for the rest of my life....And i hope you to will join out little Gateway Community to, Hope to see ya soon! Viking King Egarrage the Insane Ogryn (Berserking)

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Egarrage on Jan 23, 2002

GateWay. I started on Gateway in 1995. I was in university and a friend introduced it to me after a late night cramming session, at about 330 in the morning. I didn't play much at first. I didnt understand what was going on, I didnt know what to do. But I stuck around. GateWay went up and down , sometimes for months, or almost years at a time. I found it again late in 1996, finding friends in RL and here that taught me things about the MUD, and about life. A lot of things about life. I rose through the ranks of the players, killing Dray and Druss repetively, battling and jostling for power with players that are no longer even here. I got bigger, and meaner. I watched the Foxboro kids grow up, I killed them often in PK. Balrog tortured me, I tortured Balrog; eventually tricking him into a couple of deaths. I found Halmouth in all its bs glory. I found bugs and reported...most of them...immediately. I got bored, I built my bare-hands skill by beating on castle guards for literally months. I avatared under a system that would make the whiniest of the whiny here now fold in two and wink out of existence. I made friends, I made enemies. I found the love of my life, and will marry her. This is one life of thousands that has been touched by Gateway. How will it touch yours? Come find out. Nudiebar ("Nudie" to my friends) www.gatewaymud.com telnet.gatewaymud.com

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Nudiebar on Jan 22, 2002

Playability -------------------- Score: 9 Gateway provides simple to read help files that do not consume too much time. All to often, we see an over- abundence of information in help files. As a newbie on the Gateway I was up and running within a few moments after I read and followed the newbie info-packet, which led me to some great areas to advance. Originality -------------------- Score: 10 All orginal. I've never seen a Mud this big with so many original rooms. It is refreshing to see a Mud that isn't full of stocked rooms. I've explored only a few of the domains. There are six unique areas, each could be a Mud on its on. Friendliness -------------------- Score: 9 Can a Mud be too friendly? Well Gateway comes close. :) Within the first 30 seconds, I received 7 welcomes on the public line and about 6 personal tells providing their assistance if it would be necessary. The only reason I don't give it a 10, is because people wanted to help me out "too much." I feel this hurts players in the long run. Enjoyment Factor -------------------- Score: 10 I stayed on for over 12 hours the first time I logged on. I need to take Adderall to stay on task for anything more then 30 minutes. Diffrent themes, good storylines all equal a good time. A hidden treasure I found was the amazing library filled with Gateway lore and history. It took me a while to read it all, but I understand the place a bit more. Overall -------------------- Score: 9.5 Original, nice players and wizards. From the records and a search on the 'net, I found out that Gateway has been around for about 11 years. I understand why. Gateway is what many Muds strive to be. They may not have the prettiest Mud, but the Mud has character and it breathes. Toblerone

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Toblerone on Dec 16, 2001

GateWay, what can I say. GateWay is a MUD, and certainly one of the best ones out there. Actually, currently, I believe it to be the best one out there. I've MUDed (Yes, the correct term is MUDed, not mudded I tell you!) for eleven years, played RPGs even longer. This place has no level requirements for equipment, which is a rule I always hated. Yeah, if you can hold it, you can weild the strongest weapon in the game at level 1!. Unlike many MUDs, one can interchange guilds as many times as they want, and PK is by registry. A great unique feature is the tag game, just register and you can sneak up and tag anyone and dash off. What could be better? The immortals (Wizards) are (almost) always willing to help out. Look for Darkman and Lucifer especially, they're the coolest (Prepares to be whacked by Cougar and Nudiebar). No irritating necessary Newbie School, so veterans like me can just instantly get in to the game. But newbie help is supplied in great quantities. Wonderful guilds from ShortBred to Serpent give this game true charm, great for newbies and vets alike. This expansive world never seems to end, with six enormous domains. The size is comparable to Ultima Online and (My first and favorite MUD) Zork Online. I do hope to keep playing GW for a few more years, and hope it never gets lost in the mainstream of online games. It's wonderful, and the only glitch I've found was that the west wall of some place was marked as sou- MMph! (Watcher slaps a hand over Inthedark's mouth and drags him off). ~Inthedark, the lovable cat-guy-thing PS: Missing: Inthedark. If you have any information leading to his whereabouts, contact Watcher so he can throw you in the baseme- MMph!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Inthedark on Dec 13, 2001

Gateway... What praise can be given now, that has not been in its eleven years of existence? Gateway in as amazing mud, easily said, but what makes a mud amazing? Player Base Gateway is home to a loyal and friendly player base. It is too often that a new player is forgotten on a larger mud with one hundred plus players, but here, on Gateway, the words 'Quality over Quantity' certainly apply. With the number of players averaging between twenty and thirty, there is more the feeling of a close knit community. Most everytime a new player logs on, they are greeted by a chorus of welcomes, and more often than not, he or she is greeted personally by players and offered the choice of becoming their protege, a part of the mentorship program designed to teach the new players the intricacies of Gateway in a one on one learning environment. I have personally played on this mud for what must be nearing three years now, and I have met many people who are now close friends of mine. Gateway is home to some incredible people. Game Play Gateway appeals to players of all levels, it is an excellent starting place for those new to mudding and still offers and exciting challenge to the battle hardened veterans. There are a plethora of Newbie areas designed specifically for the advancement and enjoyment of new players, but also to teach them the basics of Gateway. Just as there are areas for those just starting, there are areas for the Avatars, An avatar is a proven player of Gateway, one excelling in both physical and mental attributes. Also for those strong of mind and eager to put their wit to the test, there is a system of quests, many of which must be completed to attain the rank of avatar, and for those who wish to find that which few others have, a system of exploration points. Gateway offers adventure and excitement for all level of players, and for those who may be weary from their travels, there is a club in which you can sit and chat in comfort. Variety The six realms of Gateway each offer a unique flavor to the mud, creating an amalgam of fantastical themes and atmospheres. Players are free to adventure in the expansive ten thousand plus rooms, offered in the Orient, Underground, Callis, Crystal, Haven, and Shadow. Whether you want to battle with Bokemonos, slay mighty Dragons, or test you sword against the Dorlyth's soldiers, Gateway delivers. Just as there are different enemies to hunt there are different methods to hunt them. There are nine distinctly different guilds on Gateway. Varying from good to evil, from physical to spell combat, you are sure to find a suitable manner in which to dispose of your opposition. And if players are your enemy of choice there is a player killing system in which registered PKs may fight until the fatal blow. Finally there is the people... Read More

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lucifer on Nov 26, 2001

Back in the early days of mudding, the famous LPC coder, pseudoname Watcher, and his team collaborated with a few other programmers and churned out a MUD that combined their two ideas, Haven and Underground. Over the years, this new-fangled creation grew in popularity and complexity, as new areas were imaged and new players entered the realms. Today, GateWay mud is a bustling place great for newbie and experienced mudders alike. Players and wizards create a newbie-friendly, as well as competitive, atmosphere in which everyone strives to advance the quality of the MUD. A new system has been implemented in which players have to become the mentor of a newbie in order to attain the highest rank, Avatar. The PK system has also be redone to acchieve a fair, equal system. Come join the community at www.gatewaymud.com!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Damaztar on Nov 24, 2001

If you are looking for a place to get addicted to, this place is it. It has tons of rooms, areas to explore and people from all over the world to chat with. You won't be a number. People will talk to you, not treat you like a dirty newbie. People will mentor you and take care of you and get you on your way with a smile and a wave, you won't be disappointed. I have had several characters on this mud, its all fun, I love logging on and dropping a couple hours a night playing this game. Swing by, have fun, you won't regret it. Lordak

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lordak on Nov 20, 2001

Why would you want to leave your MUD? Your home away from home, the place you go to escape from the real world. What could be better? What could be so different that you would allow yourself to become addicted, yes, addicted to yet another game? I think that this place is GateWay. I have been mudding for about 5 years. I explored many MUDs, many of which have long past. I explored CircleMUDs and DikuMUDs and LPmuds of all different flavors and charateristics. I camped out at a few, spending a few hours there a week until I got bored. One day I went to the topmudsites.com to see if there were any new games added. I saw the banner, and instead of clicking on the next mud in the recently added list, I went to GateWay. The website was cool enough that I decided to check out the game. 6 people said hi to me in the first 5 seconds I was on. One took me to an in-game newbie helper who then took me to an area that allowed me to gain equipment, money and a little bit of insight of the game. I was well on my way in less than 20 minutes. Its fun, I like it a lot. I look for friendliness when I look for a MUD. I don't want to be player number 400 on. Where's the fun in that? An immortal even said hi to me for pities sake! There were about 20 people on when I logged on, and I have heard there are a few more than that on. I am only 28% but I am moving up quickly! Zolance

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by zolance on Oct 27, 2001

Seven Years.... Seven long years I have been mudding and playing GateWay MUD. It was my first introduction to MUDs in general, and over the years I have tried a few other ones; but home is GateWay. Friendly.... You won't be in the game 5 seconds before players are greeting you and asking you if you need help. GateWay IS the friendliest MUD around - at least in my experience. Call me crazy, but GateWay is SO friendly that I count many of the players and immortals there to be among my closest friends. Call me crazy again, but GateWay is the place where I met my wife-to-be. GateWay's mentoring system is an in-game (you need to mentor in order to achieve certain goals) way of getting older players to help newbies get to know the MUD. Many of the mentored newbies become successful so quickly that they are able to mentor newbies even just a few hours after they log in. This is not to say that GW isn't a challenge, more a testament to the mentors that help newbies! You dont HAVE to mentor, but its encouraged. Role Play.... We are moving towards a role-play environment - if you like to role play and want a fresh start, this is the place for you - help create a grand, role-playing environment in an game with over 11 years of history. GateWay does not enforce role-play, however you will find many chars that virtually refuse to come out of character. Talk to Slog, the immortal, Toro, the King Cobra Warlord, you never know what they are going to say, but you can be assured its not going to be, "hey, how are ya?". Quests..... The quest system is unique in the fact that it caters to every players desires. It has thinking quests, where one wrong answer means death. It has thinking, fight, exploring quests, some of which can be done in minutes, some of which will take you days or sometimes even weeks of trying. The exploration quest point system rewards players who like to explore every nook and cranny of a mud - in this case all 10,000 plus rooms of it. Our immortals try to be as fair as possible when dealing with the players. We try to be personable, while endeavouring not to interfere with in-game disputes. GateWay is a great place to fall in love with (and to fall in love;-) ). Come check us out at gatewaymud.com 6969, or httP;//telnet.gatewaymud.com. Nudiebar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Nudiebar on Oct 24, 2001

When the latest trend in computer games seems to be Bigger Louder Faster, MUDs provide a welcome change, requiring players to use their imagination as much as their chosen weapons. Of the many available to choose from, my personal favorite is GateWay. In existence for over ten years, GateWay is large and well-established. The player areas provide enough variety that the newbie and the experienced player can have fun exploring. You can play as a simple adventurer, or join one of a variety of guilds to gain additional skills. As well as the usual creatures to hunt, GateWay has many challenging puzzles and quests, as incentives to explore the realms. If you choose, you can also register as a player-killer. What I find most enjoyable, however, is the friendliness of the player community – there is always someone willing to help those who get stuck, or even just have a conversation. Newbies will find the newly created "mentor" function, which allows them to pair with more experienced players, especially helpful. The wizards take an active role in monitoring game activity; avatars I can offer no higher praise than that this game has kept me up many a late night, pondering its puzzles or participating in the inspired silliness of a late night chat with fellow players!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Amalia on Sep 23, 2001

I recently logged back into Gateway after several years of not mudding after college. I was very surprised to have more than 5 people greet me both on the mud-wide chat line and personally. I did not expect that sort of welcome. I poked around a bit and found most of the things that I liked about GW years ago; a hammock to swing in, a hotel room to chat in, a couple old wizards that I knew back in the day (the founder is even still there 11 years later!!!!). Even the great Dragon Vicia is still there! Anyway, I had a great return to the MUD, so I thought that I would post here and tell you about my experience! Thanks, Zolance

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Zolance on Aug 6, 2001

Gateway is the only mud i've ever really gotten into, although i tried others after having already tried gateway, and there was no one to offer assistance, or help explain things to me. I find that Gateway is a very friendly mud, and it's fairly easy to get into. It can also get addicting, but that's not so bad, unless you have to do something :) . There are many places that newbies can go into, that more powerful players cannot enter, which is good for newbies because then they don't have to worry about a stronger player coming in and killing all the easier monsters. Older players, with few exceptions (I haven't talked to any), will help the younger players with getting equipment, and if they have any questions. As I said, it's a very friendly mud, where people help each other out, which is what draws me to Gateway the most. ~*janna*~

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Janna on Aug 2, 2001

Gateway in one word - EXEMPLARY Gateway is a mud that is definitely worthy of imitation, this coming from a player of many muds, who now resides solely on Gateway. The breadth of Gateway is astounding, its realms are not only all massive in size but they each contain a distinctively different theme which is well thought out and provocative for role playing. Each realm immerses you in its lore, and each contain quests and mini-quests which keep even the most stubborn adventurer interested and yearning for more. Another advantage to Gateway is registered Player Killing. If you feel confident with your ability on the mud, or want to just spice up your mudding a bit, you can register for PK and hunt out other players. There is nothing like hunting the most dangerous of all things, other players. Do not worry, if you do not like player killing, you need not register and you are safe from others. Finally my favorite part of Gateway is the quest/exploration ranking system. Players are ranked by their experience on Gateway, but not only on experience raised from killing. Questing and also exploring the realms of Gateway count towards your ranking, and causes those would-be mudders who just mindlessly kill the same thing all day to not be ranked as high as those who expand their knowledge and might through discovery of unknown regions. Avatar King Viking Balrog

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Balrog on Jul 9, 2001

Long ago, in a quiet reception center, an unsuspecting elf materialized into an ominous and unfamiliar realm. Immediately a torrent of welcoming gossip messages flooded his vision, and he staggered back slightly. However, his friend from the world above quickly guided him through the first steps, and with the help of many other kindly adventurers, the little elf was soon on his way toward immortality. I was fairly new to MUDs then. I had played a few others, but they didn’t catch me. I was about to quit MUDs when my friend introduced me to GateWay ("Make sure the ‘W’ is capitalized," he always reminded me.) With its friendly staff, encouraging players and readable help files, it quickly caught my attention. GateWay is a great MUD with something for everybody. With a great array of guilds and races and an ever-improving quest system, GateWay is an excellent choice for the role-player, though it is not required. Also, player-kill is optional. The player and wizard community of GateWay is one of the main attractions for me. The immortal staff is continually improving every aspect of the game while maintaining a casual and friendly correspondence with the lesser adventurers. Meanwhile, we mortals socialize, fight, explore, quest and show off our war trophies (I have one of the top wizard’s skulls. Hehehehehee.) Join us, friend. - Damaztar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Damaztar on Jul 7, 2001

Greetings and Salulations! I am Tansy Mossflower, and I am so very pleased to meet you! I am the new Shortbred guild master on GateWay. Ahhh, but I see you asking.. what are Shortbreds?! We are generally a band of wee folk like halflings, and pixies.. but we accept everyone! We have many powers most would call...cheating... but we prefer to call them mischievious! We can taunt monsters and make them cry, we can train (with the help of our wonderful skillmaster, Frodo) in things like being sneaky, dodging attacks, and being speedy, so we even get in two attacks! When we are being sneaky, we can steal equipment right out from under a monsters nose! Perfect for when you want to annoy a pesky Goblin, or a rude Ogre! Oh, we have such a rich history, being one of the oldest guilds on Gateway, that I simply can not go into it here! Please, come visit our humble guild, and we will welcome you and make you comfortable. We might even offer you some of our special poutine, and strike up the minstrels... just for you!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Tansy Mossflower on Jun 15, 2001

Gateway is my first MUD, and i've been playing on it since late last summer. This MUD is so addictive, I need not search for another. Gateway has a GREAT player community. Players interact with eachother on a regular basis,whether it is killing certain Monsters together,or merely chatting it up. Gateway also has over 20,000 rooms with ALL ORIGINAL CODING, Which means you will never be bored exploring. There are also 6 Domains, each is a world in it's own,and each has a reoccuring theme throughout it. Gateway also has a very elaborate quest system, which adds more suspense to the gameplay. There are a choice of 8 Races when you are first born on Gateway: Human,Elf,Dwarf,Gnome, Halfling,Pixie,Ogre,and Goblin. Each of these races has it's specific advantages, such as the Ogre is very Strong, and the Elf is very dexterous. There is Another element to you character on Gateway. There are 9 Guilds which you can join,and with each guild comes different abilities for your use.These Guilds are The Priests of Cianna,The Monks,The Vikings,The Serpent Warriors,The Lost Knights,The Devil Worshippers,The Shortbreds,The Rangers,and last but certainly not least,The Druids. If you Encounter any problems while adventuring,you can call upon a wizard,if one is available. Wizards on Gateway are VERY interactive with the player community,so if there is a problem that needs to be addressed,it can be within at the most a few days. So Come on and visit the Gateway Community and experience the BEST MUD ever created. Gateway has been running for 11 years now, yes 11! So she is surely here to stay. justinofhp@hotmail.com

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Guderian on Jun 8, 2001

I've been mudding for over two years now and never have I found a mud as good as Gateway. Despite its excellent coding, immense size, and incredibly diverse realms, that is not what makes Gateway special. It is the friendly wizards and players that make Gateway such a great place. Gateway is the most newbie friendly mud I have encountered. There are a number of help file provided to familiarize you with the mud and get you started on your way. Also many of the more experienced players are more than happy to answer and questions or lend a helping hand, especially, if you belong to the same guild. All in all Gateway is a great place. I'll leave you now with some words from Melvin the Golden Goat... Grandmaster Lucifer, the Philanthropic Disciple of Marik Heya! My name is Melvina nd I am a Golden Goat, I was Lucifer's pet for a while but I needed to take some time to myself. I asked Lucifer if he could let me get in a few words here, he is such a great guy >=D . Anyway, despite the fact that sometimes I get killed or sacrificed to Yitskar, I don't mind too much 'cause Gatewway is such a cool place and has some really cool players. Gateway has a great atmosphere and is a lot of fun, I hope you come check it out sometime :) Melvin

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Lucifer on Jun 5, 2001

GateWay is a MUD I find unique unto itself. It has sucessfully captured the 'just right' mix of races, guilds, quests and theme. There are 9 active guilds. Not so many as to overwhelm a player, but yet enough to provide variety. Indeed you will find Fighters, Mages, and hybrids of the two. You can choose to fight for the forces of Good, Evil, or stay on a neutral path. There are 8 active races. Again, not too many, but again, enough so that each character isn't a copy of the next. The races available complement the guilds that the players may join, and indeed there are enough combinations to satisfy the most demanding player. For those who require more than hack-and-slash killing, GateWay has an *extensive* number of quests available with which to engross the most experienced player. Questing is purely optional, and may be completed at each individual players discretion. However, sucessful completion of quests and exploration does hold its own rewards. Finally, we arrive to theme. This is where GateWay truly excels. From each individual realm (there are 6 in total) having its own taste and flair, to the guilds demanding their own loyalties from the players, You will never be bored with us on GateWay. Registered Player-Killing, Mud-wide tournaments of brawn and skill, GateWay is as a rich and diverse environment as you will find on a MUD. I have been a part of GateWay since 1993 - As a player, an Avatar, and now as a Wizard. I have tried other MUD's and truly, GateWay is in a class by itself. Stop by and try us out. You will find us to be a friendly group, just having fun. Give us a chance, and certainly, you will find something about GateWay to enjoy as well, and to bring you back! Hydro

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Hydro on Jun 5, 2001

Gateway is my first MUD, and i've been playing on it since late last summer. This MUD is so addictive, I need not search for another.Gateway Has a GREAT player community. Players interact with eachother on a regular basis,whether it is killing certain Monsters together,or merely chatting it up. Gateway also has over 20,000 rooms with ALL ORIGINAL CODING, Which means you will never be bored exploring. There are also 6 Domains, each is a world in it's own,and each has a reoccuring theme throughout it. Gateway also has a very elaborate quest system, which adds more suspense to the gameplay. There is a choice of 8 Races when you are first born on Gateway:Human,Elf,Dwarf,Gnome,Halfling,Pixie,Ogre,and Goblin. Each of these races has it's specific advantages, such as the Ogre is very Strong, and the Elf is very dexterous. There is Another element to you character on Gateway. There are 9 Guilds which you can join,and with each guild comes different abilities for your use.These Guilds are The Priests of Cianna,The Monks,The Vikings,The Serpent Warriors,The Lost Knights,The DevilWorshippers,The Shortbreds,The Rangers,and last but certainly not least,The Druids. If you Encounter any problems while adventuring,you can call upon a wizard,if one is available. Wizards on Gateway are VERY interactive with the player community,so if there is a problem that needs to be addressed,it can be within at the most a few days. So Come on and visit the Gateway Community and experience the BEST MUD ever created. Gateway has been running for 11 years now,yes 11! So she is surely here to stay.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Grandmaster Guderian on Jun 3, 2001

After reading several of the other reviews about Gateway I noticed a reoccuring theme. Many of the posts discuss the friendly atmosphere and the variety of experiences available to players on Gateway. The reason people feel this way is because that information about Gateway is 100% TRUE. Gateway is a user friendly mud by offering generous amounts of support for the introduction of new characters. This support is found in the form of help files (there are many help files and areas specifically designed to help newbies adjust to Gateway) and through interaction with other more experienced characters. When confused, all anyone has to do is ask for help and usually several responses will follow. The exception of course is asking for quest info :) Once a player becomes comfortable with Gateway's commands and learns thier way around, they may join one of a variety of guilds. Gateway has guilds that revolve around being good or evil, using swords or spells. No matter what path you want your character to follow, Gateway has a guild suited for you. From this point the doors is wide open for where you can go. Gateway has a wide variety of monsters to test your bravery and quests to challenge your intellect, but if you just want to sit and chat... you can do that too ;) Go ahead and give Gateway a try now. You will be happy you did!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Apprentice Deathstalker on Jun 1, 2001

Since the summer of 1998 I’ve been on an Elven Serpent Warrior, spreading the message of Yitskar throughout the realms of Gateway. During that time, I’ve participated in some of the most devious schemes at undermining the progression of order and lawfulness. As a seasoned player I have two sides. One side is the consummate role-player of my character. The second one is the “newbie” Serpent Warrior Helper. I find it more enjoyable to help out members of my guild, then the general public. I leave the general public to some of the other seasoned players. New players on Gateway will find that once a player chooses a guild, they are met with open arms and they will find several seasoned and even some newer players to help them out. Gateway has a good player base. There are always about 15-20 players on. During the evening and on Weekends – it can jump up to about 35 players. Gateway has a large international playerbase from other English-Speaking countries, so there is always a good chance there will be someone on the MUD. The wizards at Gateway are excellent. They allow suggestions and even hold contests for players who can submit the best idea for a new area. One player submitted and area, and was made an Apprentice due to his excellent proposal! Come to Gateway, you will not be displeased.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Yitskar's Left Hand on May 31, 2001

i like this mud! i get to play a monk and be monkly and pious... everyday I fill up a newbiechest for people who are too little to get their own equipment. the other monks are great too! We pose (throw fire into the sky!) to let the other guilds of Gateway know we are a force to be reckoned with! I like the damage messages you get when youre a monk! hook kick! THROAT PUNCH! those are the best! Theres no violence like virtual violence!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Rupert Avery on May 29, 2001

I love Gateway! I can't seem to get away from it... even after months of no mudding, I still came back. The things that attracted me the most were the little details that really enriched the mudding experience. The piece of glass, mood rings, hyperballs, banana pies (I love bananas), and especially the Slog Fan Club. Unlike other muds, Gateway isn't focused on hitting harder, or leveling, or strict role-playing, although a light amount is necouraged. Gateway is simply focused on having fun. The guild that is the most fun is the Shortbreds. Even killing NPCs was always different, with 'taunt'. In fact, I'm thinking of rejoining Shortbreds soon (don't tell my fellow druids ;-). But what's a Mud without players? Now here is this how Gateway really shines: through its players. They are the most interesting, diverse, and (usually) nice people I have ever seen on a mud. From Poison pulling pranks on me, Sunshine offering me help every time she's on, House pkilling me once a day, Bassy mooning the mud, it's been a great experience. And then there's the wizards. An emote that I suggested absent-mindedly actually got implemented. I was a little shocked at first, but now I'm quite proud of the whimper emote. And then Maarken fixed every typo I reported. But the best thing that wizards do is start parties of course =) That, and one special one will give out sock monkeys. *wink wink*

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Honest on May 26, 2001

I sit down to write this review and I realize I’ve spent the last 7 years of my life on a computer game. During that entire 7 years, I have dedicated myself to only one MUD. Gateway. There are several reasons why I stay on Gateway, but the short and curlies are: I like the MUD. Gameplay: Gateway has a good help file system and recently, one of the new members of the Administration has begun work on a new system. According to him, the help files will not only be available MUDside, but also through the website. They are working on porting the help files into an Adobe Acrobat file that will allow you to print out a simple book with the help files and rules in it. Domains: There are six individual domains, each domain is larger then some of the other MUDs I read about here. Gateway prides itself on using all original code and areas. You will not find any stock areas on the MUD. Each domain has their own specific theme – from a Greek theme in Shadow, to an Oriental theme in the Orient, a player can find their fancy and play exclusively in that domain or go from one domain to the next with no problem. Guilds: Gateway is filled to the rim with great guilds. Players have begun to add atmosphere to their guilds and have begun to slightly role-play. This is something I would love to see more of! Gateway has a guild that will interest you; from the Monks of Marik to the Serpent Warriors and Vikings a player will fit in somewhere. Wizards and Administration: The coding staff of Gateway is receptive to hearing new ideas. They are not stuck in the MUD, holding onto the past, they are willing to grow and change. This is evident by their open dialogue they have with the players on a regular basis. The Administration is a combination fresh wizards mixed with old season mudders – a great mix, which is benefiting GW. Overall: Gateway is a great MUD. I have been to other MUDs, always to return to GW before the night is over with. Gateway has a stable host, large areas and a medium size player base. A smaller playerbase allows the characters to get to know one another and work with each other on quests and tackling the big monsters! I do wish there was a bit more role-playing in GW, but I think people are not sure how to role-play ATM, hopefully we can get some seasoned RP into the guilds to help in this area, until then, I’ll continue to work on adding my little bit to the MUD I call home. www.gatewaymud.org

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Babba Booey on May 25, 2001

this is a very great game. i am personally a player and there are many friendly players and wizards along with great guilds. if you can you should seriously become a player on this mud however only play if you are going to actually play and kill mosters instead of just sitting around and talking without doing anything else.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Swordadept Poison on May 23, 2001

Hey all! Im new to GateWay and mudding in general. I just ended my freshman year at college and during it I needed something to fill all my idle time. When a friend told me about 'muds' I had no idea what he was talking about, but I looked into it and decided I would give one a try. I must of went through about 20 muds, but couldnt get the hang of any. I finally stumbled upon GateWay on topmuds and was blown away by how easy it was to get a hang of. The help files and players advice quickly got me out of newbie status and I realized that GateWay wasnt so simple as I had thought. It actually is a large diverse world with many secrets and wonders to behold. With my newfound skills, and encouragement from others, I was able to meet these challenges headon and succeed. Although I still have a lot to learn, I highly recommend GateWay to anyone who is searching for a mud. To me, MUD's are like wine, they get better with age, and the rich history and flavor of GateWay exemplify my saying...go take a look and see what I mean. Also stick it out for awhile! Airi

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Airi on May 23, 2001

Tho I have played many muds over the years since when I first went to college in 1993, and over that time, GateWay is still the best one of them all. From the original and unique domains and rooms, to the helpful and friendly admin and players, its just an all around great place to mud. Even tho until recently I hadn't mudded regularly in 2+ years, when I returned to GateWay, it was like I had never left. Check it out at least, you'll be glad you did. :) Erod Erod.com

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Erod on May 23, 2001

Welcome, I am Brother War and I would like to introduce you to Gateway. We are a society made up of many races and guilds. Within any society you have a range of personalities that can lead to many unique and interesting scenarios. When you enter our society you are greeted by many adventures offering answers to your question and help within their powers. You will start off in the Realm of Underground, where you will begin your adventures. Within this Realm is the City of Chaomonous where you can meet Contar, you will also run across the Serpent Warrior, Shortbred and the Ranger Guilds, which you may choose to join, but are not limited to these guilds or this realm. Next we bring you to the Realm of Crystal; Crystal is the home of the Dreaded Vikings and the Peaceful Priests. There are many hidden adventures in this realm, but before warned, many of dangers lurk within this mysterious place. These might not be the types of Realms you are looking for, so let me introduce you to the Realm of Shadow. Shadow is a dark and misty place where you will find thieves and murders lurking around the corner, but don’t be frightened, the Captain of the Guard along with his henchman are on the prowl for these murdering thieves. Along with these named Realms we have the Realms of Callis, which is home of the Holy Knights who struggle to overcome their battle against evil. While we are on the subject of evil, lets take a trip to Haven the home of the Wicked Devil Worshipers, their purpose in life is to create chaos among the many Realms of Gateway. Before I go let me show you what I think is the best Realm of all, The realm of Orient is the home of the Famous Monks; it is filled with wonder and mystery. Beware this Realm is so vast you may need to leave a trail of breadcrumbs to find your way home. In general I have play many MUDs and I find this to be one of the better to play. The Realms are full of Wizards dedicated to the MUD and the Players. The Players are friendly and help out all new adventures within the boundaries of rules and their knowledge. I highly recommend this to all Adventures of any age, it is a place to relax and escape from your known reality. So put the schoolwork away, take of the suit you wear to work and bring your imaginations, enjoy and experience the wonders of this world. War, The Humble Monk

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Grandmaster War on May 23, 2001

Gateway MUD has provided extraordinary Mudding services for the mudding community for the last 11 years. Recently several new changes have taken place on GW. GW moved to a new server, (www.terrabox.com - tell them GW sent you if you are looking for a new server. They will take care of your hosting needs!) the new host is reliable and is providing almost zero amounts of lag. Secondly GW shuffled some of their Administration staff and Wizard/Immortal staff. This shuffling streamlined the responsibilities of the Wizards, thus providing open dialogue with the wizard who is responsible for your question. Many new changes are coming to GW. Whereas many MUDs add on room after room to make the MUD better - GW is trying to make the rooms come alive with good descriptions and adding atmosphere to the current 7 domains. GW is a large MUD with an average sized player base. This allows the players to enjoy one another's company and it allows for the forming of great teams from different guilds. Several new quests have opened up and several new ones are planned. GW has a two part quest system. One is the traditional quest, the second is questing for "exploration points." These exploration points reward players who explore the MUD. If you haven't tried GW - here is your chance to buzz on over and see why we are still open after 11 years. www.gatewaymud.org telnet: gatewaymud.org 6969 -Elder Cougar...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Elder Cougar on May 20, 2001

Someone who is fishing for a new mud to throw a new or used lure into is probably not looking for a review from a player who has been on the mud for quite some time and I understand that. However, here is the salesman catch! The mud was down quite a while ago for a tiny bit and I went fishing on my own for a new pond. This is what I found: Compared to other muds the style of LP to Diku,Merc,Circ,and others... deems to be the best in player ability and also just the format of the mud commands. Although Gateway differs from the generic LP mud format and gives each player a Percentile rating instead of a Level rating. The advancement is made easier due to the auto leveling of stats based on guild/race. Who wants to run to the adv shop to advance their stats anyways? Area wise the mud is is not as big as some of the HUGE muds, but then again who needs that unless you grew up on the mud. Gateway is of great size for anyone new and it will be more than you can handle most likely. Trying to learn a new mud that is too big seems fruitless anyhow. Even the thought of coding on other muds seem to be like walking into a huge spiderweb with a black widow spider in the middle of the web. Gateway has made a point of keeping active aggressive coders at high wizard levels positions to maintain speed and hopefully bug free play. To make a long story long, the realms are big enough, the coding is unique and very friendly, the help files are abundant,player base is big enough to have a lot of friends but small enough to actually see them on the who list,PLAYER KILLING is very active (One of my specialties), Guilds are coded extremely well compared to any mud, and when you get older you see how much fun you should have had when you were a newbie stressing on learning the mud. Oh Sorry that was me. Being a newbie is easy and fun though. ~~~~~~~~Blackstar

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by K.R. on May 11, 2001

GateWay has been my home since 1991. I enjoy the people here, and the way the game flows is the best I have ever encountered. I've tried other muds, but I always come back to GateWay. I think it's the subliminal messages encoded within the rooms, or the fact that its highly addictive... like chocolate covered coffee beans for your computer.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Maarken on May 10, 2001

I have only been playing Gateway for a few months. I am brand new to mudding and I guess that I come on mostly to chat and maybe kill a few monsters from time to time. I have found Gateway to be one of the friendliest on-line places I have ever been to, including the web-based chat rooms and IRC. When I first logged on, everyone that was on said hi to me and asked if I needed help, and did I ever! Everyone was really patient. I'd actually gone to another MUD right before this one and everyone simply ignored me so it was nice to be paid attention to. I guess Gateway really has something for every one. If you want to kill monsters there's lots of that, if you want to just idle and chat, there's room for that too. Some people also role play, which can be kind of neat (try and get them to break out of character!:) ). Anyway, I tried it, I hang out there, I think you'll like it too. Guidant

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Guidant on May 8, 2001

Gateway is one of the best LP MUDS out there. With All original rooms,weapons,mobs,etc.The Player community is very friendly and everyone is a part of the game, with 10-20 players on a night, help is available almost always.The Admin is also very friendly,and very interactive with the players. They can be of service almost 24 hours a day. There are a multitude of quests which need to be completed in order to gain "Avatar" status.There are also a variety of guilds,ranging from basic warriors,The Vikings, to evil spell casters,The Devilworshippers. There is also a PK system,which can be fun once you've mastered the basics.Overall this is a very enjoyable,simple but fun MUD,with constant interaction with other players,making it always fun. So come and Enter the Gateway Visit www.gatewaymud.org or log on to telnet port gatewaymud.org 6969

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Guderian on Apr 27, 2001

Gateway is best mud i think for people to get started on for the first time. Everyone on Gateway help out everyone else. The mud is all orignal example... Guilds, Mobs exc. The Admins are very genours and are there for you if you have any player problems. They exp. chart is set up different from most other muds, insteed of having exp chart telling you of the exp to next level it will tell you something like "You are midway onto your next level." Exp for all the mobs is in a random and mobs range from a level 1 kill able mob to a level 200 kill able mob. The guilds are all orignal from Monks to Shortbreads. Each guild has different spells or special attack from Gugnir to Venoms. Each different from the next in the guidl Devilworshippers the use there mind to kill the mobs Monks use ther fist. Serpents use posions and viking use broadswords. Priest use heals and flame attacks and shortbreads use there thief abilities to kill.Then Druids use the elements and Ranger use bows and arrows to knights with 32 attacks.These are the Guilds and what they are classed by. "The Clerics of Cianna (Good Healers) DevilWorshippers (Evil Spellcasters) Druids (Neutral Spellcasters) Lost Knights of Callis (Good Fighters) The Brotherhood of Monks (Fighters) Rangers (Good Spellcasters /Fighters) Serpent Warriors (Evil Fighters) The ShortBred Clan (Good Tricksters /Fighters) Vikings (Fighters) Each Guild also has restrictions either cant wield sertan weapons or drink beer.Gateway has an asorted amount of runs ranging from Evil to Nuetral to Good mobs to kill. Although i have only been playing for a year this mud has made me think as it as THE BEST MUD ON THE NET today. -Amarant!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Amarant on Apr 22, 2001

I haven't played Gateway for the longest time, only about a year, I've played many other MUD's in my time, but the reason I like Gateway the most is the players. Gateway may not have the biggest player base, but we are all friends (well, mostly). Gateway is also very newbie friendly, if you ever try it out, send me a tell or anyone else, you will useally always get help starting. -Zidane Gatewaymud.org 6969

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Zidane on Apr 21, 2001

I've been playing on GateWay (GW) for over 7 years. GW itself is over 10 years old - making it one of the oldest LP-MUDs that is still around. Within the last several weeks, GateWay has undergone a transformation, making it a more stable and faster MUD to work and play on. Through-out the years I have played several roles on GW - from a player, to wizard, to Lord of a domain to my current position of Administration. There has been one reason why I have stuck with GW - I like the atmosphere. GW allows people of diffrent backgrounds and from diffrent parts of the world to play themselves - roleplaying is not enforce - but some players like to stick with the roleplaying and it is fun to watch them do that. I could probably go on for hours on why I like GW over the other MUDs - that I have played on - but I won't in fact - I would just invite you over there to take a look yourself. If you see me on, feel free to give me a tell and I'll point you in the right direction. Hope to see you there soon! www.gatewaymud.org -or- telnet gatewaymud.org 6969 -Cougar...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Cougar on Apr 21, 2001

Don’t be fooled by the cheap copies or uses of the Gateway name and login phrase – Gateway MUD (www.gatewaymud.org) is the real deal! I’ve been playing on Gateway for over 6 years, on and off as different players. I have tried every guild and done just about ever quest – there is a new one I haven’t tried yet, but I will. I can say that Gateway is dedicated to the development of their MUD and their players. The administration recently honored a request by some players who want to “learn” how to code on a MUD, so they can some day open up their own MUD. Now these people are not official wizards on Gateway – the administration opened up a TMI site for them to teach them the basics of coding. This goes beyond the call of duty and shows how gracious the administration of Gateway is. I chuckled when I heard about it, because they were training people to become competitors in the future. But it makes sense to me now; Gateway has always been dedicated to helping the players have fun, providing a social environment and an opportunity for people to learn. They do this all for free. There is no payment system, you are never asked to donate money. When I inquired about this, I was told that the MUD is there for fun, not profit. Gateway has many guilds, with a new guild opening soon – the Alchemist. Several of the current guilds are getting recodes, so I’m excited about the upcoming events on Gateway. Gateway is a place that people come to have fun. No one takes themselves to seriously, which I have begun to notice is a big problem on many MUDS. The wizards, administration and players are all down to earth people, who are there to have fun! Caffeine www.gatewaymud.org telnet gatewaymud.org:6969

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Caffeine on Dec 6, 2000

I began playing on GateWay in the summer of 1994. At that time, I knew very little about Mudding, my main sources of comparison were the role-playing games on AOL. To this day, I recall my first experience when I logged on. Several Monks (The Monks are one of nine totally different guilds) were 'posing' or shooting fireballs off into the sky! Apparently, a member of the Monk Guild completed a great quest and the members of the guild were celebrating their guild mate's achievement. Guild loyalty is a striking feature of GateWay. It is not uncommon to see a high level player working with younger players in their guild. In fact, many players like to help out newbies. After getting my bearings down and learning the basic commands (which are conveniently documented,) I joined the Monks and stayed there for several years. During this time, I learned that the MUD encourages, but doesn't require, players to express themselves by role-playing. Some players took to speaking 'middle English,' while others spoke in broken 'Ogre Speak' (You have to see it to understand it!) The individual players' personalities made the characters seem so much more real. Around this time, GateWay suffered some minor setbacks and the MUD was bounced from site to site. At this point, I ventured forth and played on a couple of other MUDS, but I longed for GateWay and it's population. A few months later, I got word that GateWay was back up and running. Now Gateway has found a new, stable and fast site. After I returned to GateWay, I had a source of comparison - and I realized that GateWay's ALL original areas were a refreshing change from the many MUDS who use stock or stock-edited rooms. Gateway has six separate, but connected Domains. From Ancient Greece to the mysterious Orient to the magical lands of Crystal, each of these domains offer a unique theme to the player. I am now removed from being a player on the MUD, but I am now a Wizard who helps to maintain and develop the MUD. I enjoy my new job and as someone who knew nothing about coding, Gateway's 'Apprentice' program prepared me for coding in the MUD environment. Even though this may sound a little biased coming from a Wizard on the MUD - I can honestly say, 'I enjoy mudding and spending time on Gateway.' I have made lasting friends all over the world - GateWay has a number of active players from far off places, to include England, China, and Singapore. For something original - give GateWay a try. Check out their developing website at www.gatewaymud.org - better yet check them out and telnet to gatewaymud.org 6969. - Cougar...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Cougar on Nov 29, 2000

I've been playing GateWay now practically from it's beginning, way back in 1990 when it was situated at Dalhousie University. Back then Universities were the only places with internet connections. I spent most of my time writting and reading posts on BBS (remember those? No? darn.) I also spent some time playing typing RPGs like D&D, GURPS, paladium ...all the old favorites. Personally I hate em all! 6 hours of combat to kill a stupid orc or whatever. Working around everyone's schedual to get the 6 players together in so-and-so's asement ...ug! Well - those days were over when I discovered the wonderful world of MUDS! and i've never looked back. I fell in love with Gateway right away because of it's friendly players. Everyone was eager to help me, give me cash, give me advise. I had no clue what I was doing, amd had to learn the simplest commands like "say". I worked hard,and toiled and my new found toy. I would come home from school and play a little GateWay before doing my homework. I even told my parents about my adventures. Now that I'm older I realise they probably had no idea what i was talking about, but I love them for humouring me! I remember when I wizzed..way back when, I then had to learn all over again...I had 0 coding experience. AGAIN I was helped greatly by the current wizards. They should me the help files, they taught me simple commands. That was 10 years ago. So many things have changed on Gateway it blows my mind! I remember when I first played I would type "score" and get like 3 lines - just my stats. Now it's A wealth of info ..hunger, armor, quests ...It's amazing watching a mud change before your very eyes. Some changes bad, a lot of changes good. Gateway has a huge amount of active wizards (like myself for exmaple) who are always coding new realms, new armor, new commands. For example I'm hopeing to open a new guild in a couple weeks (I've come a long way). Come try us out ..the wizards are friendly and the players don't bite. -Marsilius Gateway Wizard

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Marsilius on Nov 24, 2000

I've seen a number of posts from people looking for a good mud to play Here's an intro written about GateWay - one of the oldest, most interesting MUDs out there! An old man reaches out a weathered hand in beckoning to you, motioning that you join him. His ancient eyes sparkle as you take a seat at his side and, with a smile on his lips, he begins his tale. 'Young adventurer, let me tell thee of a world outside this mortal coil where magic and might still reign supreme and the laws of man hold no sway. Let me show thee a world where the ageless battle between good and evil still rages on, fought with blades of steel and the power of the mind. Allow me to open thine eyes to an infinite world where ogres, dwarves, dragons, and beings outside the realm of imagination do war with mortals in an endless struggle for domination. Allow me to take thee to a place where Immortals weave spells of power to create monsters and forge new planes of existence from the air itself.' The old man whispers a single word and the air before him begins to glow and shimmer, the fabric of space and time opening to reveal a portal to another dimension. 'If thou canst withstand the many challenges contained therein, take a deep breath, young adventurer, and step through The GateWay.' We have a well established wizard and player base, register only PK, and an open-arms approach to newbies, for the most part. If you need help starting up, or need to ask someone a few quick questions, you can feel free to ask any of our wizards, or one of the players! We have 6 large domains, each with their own theme and flavor, 9 currently active guilds, a multitude of quests, and an 'exploration quest point' system! We hope to see you there! gatewaymud.org 6969 Hawkwing, Elder of GateWay

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Hawkwing on Nov 11, 2000

As a seasoned 3-D game player I was searching around the Internet and found a game called Gateway. At this time I wasn't sure what a Mud was. So I went to their web-site (www.gatewaymud.org) and perused the site. I kind of chuckled to myself, thinking about my AD&D role-playing days in the 80s. As I continued to look around I found a strong yearning to do a little roleplaying, after all one can only kill with a rail-gun for so long. I logged onto Gateway and found a number of people who were willing to help me and explain to me, what a Mud was. A nice player named Toro took me to see an old adventurer named Contar. Contar is not a real player; he is called an NPC, but at first I thought he was real because he responded to my actions. I was introduced to the help files and within a few minutes I found myself fighting and slashing away at several monsters. Gateway is my first Mud and it will probably be my only Mud. I enjoy the players I play with and the responsiveness of the Wizards. The areas are rich in detail and a player be a strict role-player or more like their true selves. 3-D shooters are still my favorite source of on-line entertainment, but for a welcomed change I log onto Gateway and play as Bojangles, formally Frankenstein. I've encountered some players that I like and some players that I don't but that makes the gaming fun. There are long-standing guild (there are nine unique guilds)rivalries and if you search you can read about how some of the domains (there are seven unique domains or areas of play)warred with one another. The history of Gateway is almost 10 years long and the players and wizards do a great job at collecting and sharing that history which increases the overall theme of the Mud! Recently a library was created with stores all the stories and history of the Mud and each domain and guild. As a new player to Muds I can honestly say I like Gateway.

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Bojangles on Oct 31, 2000

Hrm...where to start? There is so much to say about GateWay. I started playing five years ago at the early age of 13 and have been hooked ever since. I think the real specialty that GateWay offers is its environment. There is so much to do that I never get bored whether it be pk, talking to old friends, learning about new areas, playing tag, posting on the flame board, or participating in guild wars. Hell, wizs even help me with my homework from time to time! GateWay isnt just a game, but a place to go and hang out. I have met so many down to earth people on GateWay and I truely believe I am a better person for it. Go try it out and remember to stick through the first few weeks of being a newbie. There is so much fun that lies ahead!

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Iria on Oct 25, 2000

For three years I have been playing on Gateway. Gateway has something to offer players of various abilities and is very newbie friendly. There are plenty of help files and even Contar, a non-player character, for new players. New players do not have to worry about getting lost or not being able to find a safe place to start playing; Contar will guild them to and from newbie killing areas. Players, on Gateway, do not worry about running out of areas to play in and creatures to kill as they get stronger. The stronger and players are able to become Avatars, which opens up new areas to play in. There are a variety of guilds to choose from. Each guild has different powers and some are race restricted. Guild changing and you may find that by talking to other players you might be drawn to another guild. Several other type of games are also featured on Gateway, games such as scavenger hunts and trivia contests. If you want to try fighting other players you may go to a special arena or register as a player killer. As a player killer you may only kill other player killers. Ocassionally we have guild wars( a glorified version of capture the flag), but the mud is warned ahead of time and no experience points are lost for a death in these events! There are many different quests a player can choose to do. Some quests are traditional, some allow for more guild powers, and others add to your level. There is also a system of exploration questing that aids the player in advancing in levels. I am always ready to help if you have a question. I hope you try Gateway soon. Anastasia

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Anastasia on Oct 23, 2000

After 6.5 years as an active player, I recently chose to hang up my shield and join the ranks of the Wizards. As both player and apprentice I have found GW to be rich in its environment and those who choose to play there. I have, on occasion, briefly played other Muds, but have always continued my stint on GW, and would be happy to elaborate. Just log on and ask for Galadriel, Lady of Lothlorien and Keeper of the Ring of Adamant. In service to the Lost Knights and all the Realms, The Princess Galadriel Bearer of the Sword of Adamant

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Galadriel on Aug 29, 2000

I've been playing on GateWay (GW) for over 6 years. GW itself is over 10 years old - making it one of the oldest MUDs that is still around. Through-out the years I have played several roles on GW - from a player, to wizard, to Lord of a domain to my current position of Administration. There has been one reason why I have stuck with GW - I like the atmosphere. GW allows people of diffrent backgrounds and from diffrent parts of the world to play themselves - roleplaying is not enforce - but some players like to stick with the roleplaying and it is fun to watch them do that. I could probably go on for hours on why I like GW over the other MUDs - that I have played on - but I won't in fact - I would just invite you over there to take a look yourself. www.gatewaymud.org -or- telnet gatewaymud.org 6969 -Cougar...

– TopMUDSites.Com Review by Cougar on Aug 23, 2000