Let's look at the features that have been requested both recently, and historically. Some have been implemented already, some were immediately shouted down, and some are still in discussion.
Star Rating for experienced members
Admins who are like Rich's minions
Elected Members who are like sub-admins
PM
Animated/audible smilies
Do you know what that almost sounds like? an MMOPRG! Seriously, look at all of those features and they all make up part of some kinda crappy online fantasy game. "Experienced members" are people who spend too much time on the game and so are elevated in rank. The "Honoured Members" is simply another way for people to feel good about themselves... Admins have some magical powers and they do Rich's bidding in his land. PMing = "Hi!! A/S/L?" and the animated/audible smilies are just another interactivity ploy.
The way I see it, all the people who bought DBP with the goal of making "Final Warcraft Empires Online VII" are finding that it isn't quite drag and drop. Therefore, why not get Rich to do it!
Let's make sure the "forums.thegamecreators.com" doesn't become "mmorpg.thegamecreators.com"... Start the revolution!
New 'n' Improved sig details how little I accomplish
