Usually when an emulator system is re-designed or re-developed, the tables change in the database. This is why this project remains in an Alpha development stage (google what that means) until most of the major systems are ironed out and functioning properly. In this, it is important for all people watching this project to understand (and accept) why a Database has yet to be released.
Yes, we are working on "an official live-like database" - but all our databases relies on the code being developed to support it. As you've heard a thousand times around these forums, our C++ development team consists mainly of LethalEncounter, a guy with a very very full schedule. Recently, Scatman of the Content Design team has offered to add some features to the emu (C++) and now we can say we have 2 primary developers on the project! Scatman's true love is Content though, so his time is split as well. I am grateful to see additional features like Guilds and Spell enhancements making their way into our project thanks to Scatman. Zcoretri has been working on bringing more functionality to our log parser so we can get even more information from our data collections. On top of that, he's implementing every spell/art/ability he has functionality for into the emulator - single handedly; no small task. Me? Well, I run the forums, deal with raw data to give to these guys, and basically manage the project as best I can.
Our database was originally intended to be released with EQ2Emulator v0.8.0 Beta. However, achieving a Beta phase of the emulator has proven a time-weary task; we simply do not have the man-power to implement enough features to consider the code "Beta worthy". We will try as best we can to put out a core database with what we have done sooner than Beta, but no promises at this point. Unless we get more help, it's just not possible.
At the bear minimum, a database will release with EQ2Emulator v0.8.0 Beta, but we're striving for sooner. Here is a little FAQ from a previous version of this post, maybe it'll help those new visitors understand why there is no content still.
- THERE IS NO SPAWNED DATABASE AT THIS TIME!What you get when you install the software and download the database from EQ2Emulator.net is the CORE data required to run your server. CORE data is that data required to run the server, log in, see things, and be able to function and create spawns and such of your own.
THERE WILL BE AN OFFICIAL DATABASE!...just not now. We are in ALPHA with the Server Code, and that means the DB is changing way too often to release one. It would make no sense to do so at this time.
TESSEQ2 IS THE PROJECT DATABASE SERVER!Until I am kicked, removed, or usurped from this project, my server (TessEQ2) is the only place to find true Official EQ2Emulator Project Data. Other servers are run by non-project admins, and any content they are developing is of their own design and NOT official data. Many admins wish to have a custom, non SOE-Like experience; or they are simply using the tools we have provided to build a world for their own enjoyment.
WHEN WILL THE DATABASE BE RELEASED?Our database will be released once EQ2Emulator server reaches a BETA phase, or shortly thereafter. Once the server is stable enough where data is not constantly changing, the Project Leaders will release an Official Database for everyone's use and enjoyment.
To those who do understand what a major task this is, building not only an EQ2 Server but all the content that goes along with it, I can speak for the entire team that your gratitude and compliments mean a lot to us.
To those player/testers who are reporting numerous bugs, you have our endless thanks - because if it were not for you very few who care, we would not be able to get this done.