The Future of DSB

[Hoch]

My announcement three weeks ago to shutdown the zone has generated a lot of discussion.
On the whole, there has been a general understanding of my decision but it has been marked
with disapproval. Some took it upon themselves to engage in dialogue--and in some instances
action--that was unproductive and irrational whilst in the process exposing their otherwise
ulterior motives. The vast majority, however, engaged in a level of discussion that has been
extraordinary. New and old players alike expressed their views in a clear, calm and rational
manner. To those players, I am grateful for your views.

Since then, I have carefully listened to the views expressed. At times, the force of the argu-
ments struck me. Indeed, some were very persuasive. However, one in particular has stayed
with me. I was asked, quite bluntly, that if I hold myself out as having the best interest of
players and the zone why I am not at least making every effort that could possibly be made.
Even it fails or does not work out that it is at least better to try (and then maybe pull the plug).

The point expressed was despite the obvious difficulties that lie ahead neither the zone nor
SS have passed the event horizon, as it were. There is still an interest no matter if it is a
shadow of its former self. Thus, the implication is that perhaps it is worthy to reconsider that
decision--the end is not nigh-hand.

In that spirit, it is my decision to reverse my previous announcement, effective immediately.

Whilst I do not wholly agree with this latest decision, mainly because it fails to take into ac-
count the underlining challenges not to just DSB but to all zones in SS, I cannot in good con-
science shutdown this zone without a first exploring and exhausting all possible options, espe-
cially in light of the interest that my announcement has generated.

Where do we go from here? I am in the process of re-evaluating every sector of this zone from
zone Staff right down to game play. Some of you will already know this because I have sus-
pended the Development Team. All reasonable suggestions will be considered, though whether
or not they are taken onboard is different matter altogether. Suffice to it write, the changes I
alluded to in my previous announcement will continue, that is, League and Events.

The process begins now. Those interested in making a contribution should indicate as such by
leaving me a ?message in game or e-mail me at dsbhoch-dsb [at] yahoo.com (the @deathstarbattle.com
address does not always work).

Finally, and just as a quick side, to those few that tried to exploit and manipulate my announce-
ment for your own ends, the door will not be shut. However, yours is a burden that may not be
compatible in this new chapter of DSB. Only you can decide if and how to fit in.

Cheers,

-Hoch