Subsim Updates

13 July 2005

(SEATTLE) Online game players with a talent for 3D modeling have a new way to play: in their own ship! Flying Lab Software is accepting player-created sailing ships for use in Pirates of the Burning Sea, their forthcoming massively multiplayer online game. Today the first such ship, a Dutch yacht modeled by Age of Sail enthusiast Marion “van Ghent” Edwards, is up on display at the Pirates of the Burning Sea website, along with an article by Edwards exploring the history and use of this vessel. In addition, Flying Lab has created a new discussion forum on its web site for those interested in contributing their own ship models to the game.

Only the best player-created ships will pass peer review and join the library of gorgeous ships already in the game. Flying Lab’s new ship-building community forum will provide a great opportunity for amateur modelers to improve their skills and collaborate in a supportive environment.

Pirates of the Burning Sea has already raised player-created content to a new level not seen in modern online games with its unusual peer-reviewed submission system. Players submit original flag and sail emblem designs to the web site, where other players review and vote on all submissions. Player content with a high enough ranking is then reviewed by the developers for use in the game. Prospective players have already submitted more than a thousand flag and sail designs, with more arriving every week.

“Players feel a real sense of ownership over their characters in online games,” says Executive Producer Russell Williams. “In Pirates of the Burning Sea that ownership is stronger than ever, as players can sail their own ships under their own flags.”

Visit http://www.burningsea.com for the latest images, feature news, and a lively forum community for those who sail beneath the black flag.

About Flying Lab

Flying Lab Software is the maker of the critically acclaimed Rails Across America, Editor’s Choice from Computer Gaming World and Editor’s Choice and Best Multiplayer Game of the Year from Computer Games magazine. More information can be found at www.flyinglab.com.