[_ethan]

I have played on and worked for upstart muds, and one thing that struck them down seemed to be they had trouble retaining players. What is it that hooks someone into sticking around when there is generally just the player and the staff members? I've noticed on some a revolving door where players never log at the same time as other mortals. Is it quests, areas, or crafts? Or should the immortals be roleplaying with the mortals?

And is there more to getting a name out than just posting in the "players wanted" sections of mud forums? It seems difficult to compete when everybody flocks to the top three, but perhaps there's something I'm not understanding..