On "Run around in a maze and shoot things" type games. :)

MMO factors for my game.

1) New players arriving balanced vs longer term players.
- Lower level players are shielded, and even then people are unable to attack lower level people (game characters)  Immortals can not fight directly in any case.

2) Player vanishing?  (login / logout.)
- The game continues even if the player is not logged on.  When items are done, the places go on pause automatically.   When the player is in-game as a person (game character), and gets disconnected, the person finishes combat as best they can, and then searches out an Inn or safe spot and waits.  For a while, until the person has a need and risks themselves.

3) Vanishing player's scores?
 - Kind of irrelevant because scores stay in place… unless your person dies before you can log back in.

4) Advantage to logging out?
- None,  All items, people, stay in the game without regard to player login status.  The AI will do its best to keep the player's person alive.

5)  Not a Turn Based Game.

6) Chat protection?
- Custom chat filters, ignore/blocking system.

7) Collusion?
-  Each player has a like/dislike rating system with each other player.   All of the player's people act accordingly (mostly).

TILT Answsers

What was the big invention that changed pinball into a game of skill vs chance?
Flippers
What was the main competitor to pinball in the 70s?
Arcade video games.
Why did Williams finally collapse?
1) Pinball games last long enough so not constant sales.
2) Internal politics.
3)  High cost per 2k unit (Production costs)
4) The company also made profitable slot machines.
5) License issues.
6) Lots of flash, little game play.
----------- First Pinball Review ------------

1) What is "good gameplay" when it comes to pinball game design?

Ultimately how long each ball can be in play.    If it is too quick, it is no fun.   If it is too easy it is no fun, and no profit for the pinball game's owner.

2) How do pinball playfield designers create exciting experiences?

Besides flashy special effects, music and lights?   Getting a good balance between play-ablity and challenge.