The year is 29,475 A.D. Aided by many new and advanced technologies, humanity has ventured far out into the distant reaches of space. Within the immense span of the Milky Way, explorers have charted an almost countless number of star systems. Thousands upon thousands of planets have been discovered. Among these, some offer suitable environments for colonization. Others hold important resources, but few so valuable as Notum, the rare and greatly coveted substance that powers nanotechnology. As a result, the arid world of Rubi-Ka is much more than an insignificant, inhospitable speck on a far frontier of the galaxy. Instead, it is a place the massive and powerful Omni-Tek Corporation seeks to control completely, but despite its resources, its regime is under constant challenge from resourceful rebel clans.

This futuristic scenario forms the backdrop for Anarchy Online, the science fiction-based online world launched last year by Norwegian-based developer and publisher Funcom. During much of its development period, the most visible spokesman for the team was Tommy Strand who occupied two key positions, serving as both Lead Designer and Producer. Although he has since moved on to other roles, he is certainly an individual we were eager to include in our occasional series of discussions about the online category with the leading names working in it. Accordingly, we are pleased to present this lengthy and informative Tommy Strand Online Worlds Interview in which this experienced and interesting online developer shares his thoughts on the present and future of the genre.

Jonric: Please start by introducing yourself. What is your background as a gamer? Do you play many games, what kinds do prefer and do you have any all-time favorites?

Tommy Strand: My name is Tommy Strand. Long before I started working in Funcom, I was obsessed with games, not only computer games but also role-playing games with pen and paper or board games. I guess I was classified like so many others with a passion as a geek. As study life ended and work began to take over, my game time was shortened and professional attitudes took over until I finally got the chance to do my passion for money. Even better, I could start making them.

I don't play as much as I used to, but I do play about 20 hours a week. Right now it's Castle Wolfenstein 2 after just completing Alien vs. Predator 2 and Empire Earth. I tend to like more realistic shooters like the Rainbow Six series and Counterstrike, but I also like to vary. As for favorite games, I am not sure, but if it is rated on the game I've spent most time in, I would have to say Counterstrike. For the only game I have bothered to complete on all difficulty levels, it is Star Lancer.