What's the thoughts on game world size as it relates to theme and playerbase size in an RPI MUD?  When creating an RPI world, one with a considerable amount of depth to the in-game culture, it's not easy to limit oneself to a small world without compromising some aspects of the history and culture(s) represented.  For example, if one were making a game set in the future where space travel is possible to numerous worlds, a small-sized game-world would be extremely limiting.

Then of course, there is the issue of players wanting to interact.  RPI MUDs do tend to have smaller playerbases than non-RPIs, which leads many to take issue with large game worlds/cities.  Some believe that a large city, to say nothing of a large world, divides up the playerbase too much by giving them too much room to explore and not a common area to interact.  There's some truth to this statement, though I think it does ignore a few things.  First, players will explore regardless of game-world size.  Second, if a game layout is designed well, players should be directed to the areas in which they're likely to meet other players.  Third, depending upon the role, there are always instances in which players simply must not be interacting with their fellow players consistently and do require a large and diverse area in which to exist.

Anyway, what are your thoughts on the subject?  Again, I'm refering to RPI MUDs where interaction is more essential due to the strict RP nature.

Take care,

Jason