RAW is a new MMORPG where you live in a fictional state and want to earn your living. Like as a store owner. The gameplay is somewhat reminiscent of GTA. However, those who want to support the project should proceed with caution.
What is RAW? RAW is inspired by Rust and GTA Online and aims to provide you with a simulated world where you can let loose while trying to make a living.
GTA as MMORPG?
What RAW offers: One could call RAW a kind of modern Second Life, with realism taking top priority:
- You start as a newcomer in a fictional area of 400 km²
- You want to earn a living and make something of yourself
- Together with other players, you build a city that also needs to be managed
- Basically, you take care of everything
- You buy land to build buildings on
- If the residents of the city need gas for their cars, then a player has to run a gas station
- Others sell cars
- Some players need to deal with city planning
- The population needs to be supplied with food. So some players should run supermarkets
- Police will be needed in the city
- Up to 200 players are active per server
You decide in the game how you earn your living and how you live your virtual life.
When is RAW coming? An early access version could launch by the end of the year. However, the developers state that they will only release RAW when the game is ready.
Skepticism is advised
How is the MMORPG funded? Currently, there is a Kickstarter campaign taking place, through which the German development team Killerwhale Games hopes to raise 70,000 Euros by July 17. It also looks quite likely that the goal will be met.
That’s why you should be cautious: As interesting as RAW sounds, the community currently shows quite a bit of skepticism towards the project for several reasons:
- In the game’s videos, it is apparent that assets from Turbosquid are being used. However, Turbosquid prohibits using assets in virtual worlds like Second Life
- There is no legal notice to be found on the game’s website – according to German law, this is mandatory
- Killerwhale Games is not registered as a company, but it should be, as income from a Kickstarter campaign must be taxed
- The question arises whether a small indie team can handle such a project – especially with 70,000 Euros
On Reddit, caution is therefore advised. Let’s see how the situation around RAW develops.
In the meantime, another ambitious MMORPG has been announced:
