Why Cantr II?

As today Cantr celebrates it’s 5000th day, I wanted to describe what makes this text-based game what it is, and why I still play it after 11 years.

It’s the only game I keep up with anymore. I don’t watch shows, watch movies, or play video games except for social reasons (unless it’s something like a new Star Wars movie), and rarely if that. What makes this different?

I stayed because of what I gain from it, in knowledge and experience. You write stories and create societies with other people, according to physical limits set by the game. All of the game’s history and objects are created by our own characters. By interacting with others in this way and leading towns for many years, I gained valuable leadership experience and gained new perspectives. It’s like I’ve lived many lives (and I have some of the oldest characters in the game). Also, in this game, death is permanent.

As it’s also available in 16 languages (and characters of all languages exist in the same world), it’s a nice way to learn languages, and there are also many opportunities for volunteer translators to gain real translation experience. The game is completely run by volunteers.

In my case, as I’ve helped in Cantr staff, I’ve gained experience in Internet marketing, translation, and programming. I’m currently the chair of the Public Relations Department, over the Cantr Forum, wiki, IRC, Webzine, languages, marketing, and social media accounts.

Why not give it a try? Let me know if you have questions!