What I've learn't running a text-based web game for 9 months

Zapoco | Free Zombie Apocalypse Survival Game

Hello, I'm Tom the creator of Zapoco. A free text-based online game where you compete against other players to survive a zombie apocalypse. I always envisioned Zapoco as a game built on players feedback - allowing it to evolve and change as needed. Since launching 9 months ago a lot has evolved to accommodate the rapid growth, many things to balance the in-game economy, its been a pleasure to see the community and game evolve together.

Economy balancing.
The main factor when managing a text-based online browser game is ensuring the community economy is balanced, almost every new feature release effects the economy in one way or another.

Scheduling, building and testing new features.
We have a huge development roadmap planned for the coming weeks, months and even years. We learn't testing new releases is essential to ensure the game economy is balanced.

Listening to players.
We often run in-game polls to allow players to vote for which features and direction they would like to see the game develop. We use in-game forums and Discord (https://discord.gg/qG9EhRR) to communicate with players and listen to feedback.

On Monday we are releasing a new, exciting feature to allow players to specialise in a skill and craft unique items. I'm looking forward to seeing how this evolves.

As ideal as it seems, I will never be able to make everyone happy. Some changes people love, others will hate. It's the nature of anything we do - we can't please everyone. And despite that, it will remain my goal. I am eternally grateful that the Zapoco community supports and believes in the game.

Link: https://www.zapoco.com/