Yeah, yeah, I know, this comic needs some SPLAININ'!

This is an unretouched reconstruction of actual events after hours at the 2007 Game Developer's Conference (held way back in time from March 5-9). There were several witnesses, some of which survived the hangover the following day.

CCP and White Wolf Studios hosted a massive, dark, booze-soaked party to end all parties at the Glass Kat club in downtown San Francisco. The theme was decidedly Goth with a smattering of bondage and babes carrying whips. Had I known I was going to attend, I'd have taken along my Goth gear, but as it was, I was VERY fortunate to gain an unexpected invite from Alan Crosby, Global Community Manager for Sony Online Entertainment. I think he felt sorry for an old Dwarf having to wander about without her beard; in any case, after seeing this comic, I am sure he will regret his generosity, hehe.

Yep, that's Alan, also known as "Brenlo" to us EQ types, bound to the dark x of whippage. Seems he made a sort of "I'll do it if you do it" deal with Charles "Kieron" Dane, Community Manager for CCP. Considering the volume of abuse these guys have endured in their careers, I am sure those feeble whips didn't even sting. These guys never even twitched. I am sure the little ladies in the more-than-tight leather were disappointed, but they have to go learn some tricks from no-lifers in uber-guilds before they can inflict real damage.

Sometimes I think that it would be cool to work for a game company. All right, I admit that I check the job listings for my favorite companies regularly, and wonder if I'd be even marginally qualified for some of the positions. Hey, a Dwarf can dream, right? I'd need a huge chunk of coin to relocate though; takes a lot to set up a proper beer and wine cellar!

The one job I'd never, EVER want is that of Community Manager. Good god, these people have to be ridiculously tolerant, capable of juggling zoo animals on fire while chugging coffee, be able to put in face time with the rabid and the insane, able to schmooze with anyone and everyone, all the while remembering the company line no matter how drunk they might be and somehow keeping a dozen scary suits happy. Maybe they just have a line on good drugs. I am sure that there is some stage where a Community Manager has to sell their soul to the Satan or something.

I had been meaning to draw this comic for months - ever since the party in fact - but there was never a good opportunity. I was reminded of it again this morning when I read yet another "SoE ARE EVIL BASTARDS WHO ARE RUINING THE UNIVERSE" thread somewhere. Just google SoE and Evil, I am sure you'll get all manner of nasty commentary. Add the acronym "NGE" and you're all set for a flood of hate to slog through. Here, let's put things in perspective and bring the saga of Star Wars Galaxies New Game Experience to an end, with a reasonable comment from Raphe Koster, who is really tired of hearing about the NGE.

As for Kieron and CCP� Google "EVE Controversy" and add "Kugutsumen" or "GoonFleet" for hours of convoluted and brain-shredding entertainment, if you like that sort of thing. Seems everyone has an opinion, and CCP took a few interesting (and some might say lopsided) angles at handling the issues, to the delight of bloggers and armchair CEOs everywhere. Their game has thankfully weathered the storm, and remains one of the success stories of the industry.

Next year, I need to find out the dark secrets of how Meghan "Patience" Rodberg of LOTRO copes. She is unnaturally� nice. It is frightening. Hey, who's in charge of the loony bin... errr... community at Mythic these days now that Sanya is gone? Must go find out.

And to the guys at CCP/White Wolf... thanks for the most memorable event of the show.
Brilliant!*





*Yes, this is a blatant and pathetic plea for an invite to the next CCP Gothy party. I'll bring my big black ass-kicking boots and all.