If you never played a MUD: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MUD
"Several long-term players of SoI (Shadows of Isildur) have been working on a new RPI Wild-West
based MU* that takes place in Yellowstone National Park during the 19th
Century. Mixing Native-American life with Cowboys, Settlers and Gun-
Slingers, Wild-West MU* is striving to provide a new experience in the
world of roleplay. With a subtle mixture of Native-American Magic and the
evil of The Others, Wild-West is working to provide play for adventure-
seekers as well as the battle-free life of the crafter. With several
radical modifications to the crafting and skills system, Wild-West aims to
allow players to steer their characters in ANY direction they wish, though
of course it will not be easy.
Take a moment to check them out at http://www.wild-west.us and drop a word of
encouragement to the small team. Anyone interested in becoming involved in
building, story-telling, web-design/management, admin positions or any
other open positions, feel free to contact Methuselah on their forum
boards via Private Message.
Make sure to watch their Announcements Board for updates on their work
and news of their modifications to the crafting and skills systems."