Planet M.U.L.E.

I have this idea for the land grant phase where players don't select their plot by a cursor moving across the land but by running/racing for it. For this all players start on the map at one spot (center of the store or the upper left corner) and have a certain time to run to a plot and claim it for them by hitting the button. The movement mechanics are the same as during the development phase. A land is exactly claimed like a MULE is deployed.

I think this would add the auction excitement, where players need to move their character and interact with others to accomplish a certain goal, to the land grant phase. Also it adds the time constraint of the development phase to the land grant phase.

Plus it adds a real-life element to the game since in the old west you had to race against others for a certain plot and claim it by sticking your flag into the land.

This has already been proposed, and is being discussed by the developers/testers.

'kay, just saw it.