The First Layer, In-depth Options

[Kaust]

I figured it was time to try and get a little substance behind this project beyond our somewhat vague musings. So here we'll discuss in-depth the first layer and hopefully get a few maps, etc. on the go.
So a little refresher on the first layer;
-its an mmo, its undecided what genre but I think sword and sorcery is the general consideration.
-its the most explicit example of 'game-within-a-game' and should reflect that: its not bound by the conventions of reality, and the characters are aware of this.
-we need to decide on a specific engine; I advocated VX and VXA for layers one and two for their similarity in graphics, enforcing the whole ga(game)me motif but I'm easy like Lionel Richie. All I ask if you want to change this is provide a reason other than you simply want it that way.

So discuss away on anything you would like to see included; but try to keep it in line with the plot discussed here http://www.rpgrevolution.com/forums/index....=56326&st=0

[Darkblade]

Heres a rough concept design of the kind of area I imagined the starting dungeon to be in.
From what I remember the prisoners keep asking to be saved even once rescued?
Maybe the characters should have a quest description that doesn't fully match up to the location they've traveled to.
Kind of to hint that something isn't completely right.

[Show/Hide] red sky season

Admitedly, the perspective and sizing isnt great.