Kingdom of Loathing

Kingdom of Loathing (abbreviated KoL) is a browser-based, multiplayer role-playing game designed and operated by Asymmetric Publications, including creator Zack "Jick" Johnson and writer Josh "Mr Skullhead" Nite. The game was released in 2003. Because content is added frequently, the game is considered unfinished and officially remains in open beta.

It uses hand-drawn stick figure graphics and writing characterized by surreal humor, word play, parody and references to popular culture. In KoL, a player's character fights monsters for experience, meat (the game's currency), and items, through a turn-based system. Players may also interact with each other through player versus player competition, participate in the in-game economy by trading goods and services, organize their characters into clans, work together to complete clan dungeons, and speak to each other in many different chat channels.

The game is also particularly notable for managing to be financially successful purely from donations and the purchase of merchandise rather than from advertising or subscription fees, which are used by many online games. This success has allowed the staff to grow to include eight full-time employees. In 2008, the game had between 100,000 and 150,000 regular players. These players form an active community which frequently organizes fan meet-ups and runs an internet radio station. The game has been generally well received by critics.

Read more about Kingdom Of LoathingGameplay and Features, Plot and Setting, Development, Business Model, Community, Reception