Yes, we all saw the thread where the sarcasm bug crawled up your ass and died. No, Herald is not at all what is described above. Maybe instead of spending all that time and effort trying to be witty, you should have read the post. I typically like you from what you write on these forums, but your reply was counterproductive. :P

The Inn has a niche that would not be attractive or fitting for a complete newbie for the following reasons:

First, Herald is mostly dead most of the time, it takes work to get into and requires an IMM/leader induction. Automated induct, perhaps with one way via a quest that starts in the academy, would help tons.

Second, the powers only help you inside the Inn, not when you're out actually trying to explore.

Third, it's less about learning the MUD mechanics and areas than it is about mixing drinks and holding events. The MUD's all the richer for it, but it isn't doing anything, at all, whatsoever, to make the learning curve a little less steep.

Fourth, if you don't like hanging around in the Inn now, wouldn't you be even less inclined if it were full of newbs still trying to calibrate their RP? For many on the outside, "RP" means everything said without OOC: in front of it.

Fifth, yeah, it would be work - but I can't imagine it would really take *THAT* much. All you'd need is a mob like a stationary Imperial Recruiter, a four-room area attached to Galadon or Dagdan (with a food/potion/map vendor, of course) and 3-4 incredibly simple and straightforward survival powers, like "create newbie bredz". Maybe one of the powers could be nice enough to be an incentive for the vets, but nothing crazy or complex would be necessary.