Ok, here it is. Kind of ironic, seeing as I was the first one to offer an interview
When did you first play Descent?
Descent was the first computer game I ever played, in addition to mechwarrior 2. My dad bought it for me because he like the box art and he thought the idea of killing robots was better than the alternative, doom.
How do you think Descent compares to the games today?
Descent is like freespace. There may be other games that try to emulate it, but nothing comes close. Ever. Besides, with the endless groundpounders of today, most people don't feel like mustering up the skill required to pilot such a game.
Do you know anyone in your everyday environment that is still playing Descent?
I know one person who still plays it, and about half a dozen who have played it and liked it.
Have you ever tried to get a friend or colleague interested in the game? How did he/she react?
Of course! Once I even burned a copy of d3 to give to someone I only knew from a work relationship. Unfortunately, all my attempts have come up dry, as there aren't any new descent players in my corner of the world.
What do you think the biggest flaw of the Descent franchise is?
I've got to say, the graphics are not up to par with the games of today. It also lacks the features most modern games enjoy. Everyone shys away from playing an old game, even a game that required a veritable supercomputer by the standards of the day.
Which installment do you think was the weakest? Why? (Not including Mercenary Expansion)
I believe they all have their merits, but descent3 never quite caught on with the general public. This was no fault of the actual game, it just wasn't advertised. So no one knew about it. However, most people I know have played either descent 1 or 2.
What are your general thoughts concerning Fahrenheit 360?
Great idea, just figure out a way to advertise on general gaming community boards, and you're golden.
Have you ever attended Descent LAN events? If so, describe the atmosphere and fun factor.
Unfortunately, no.
Have you ever played Forsaken? What was your impression?
Never played it.
What do you think keeps the remaining community around?
Several reasons. One: No other game has the freedom and gameplay of descent, and that is thrilling. Two: Few other gaming communities are as friendly to the noobs. Three: We've all played so many games and gone to so many lans that it's slowly turned into one big happy family. We all know each other. Our quirks and habits, even piloting skills. Leaving would be like moving out of a neighborhood where the only residents are your closest friends.
What do you think kept Descent from remaining popular?
Wasn't advertised, high learning curve. That's it.
