One of the best text-based RPG's out there! It's set in an Italian trade city circa 1600, and you create a realistic character with personalized appearance, academic/fighter/crafter class, and political/national affiliation.
The plotting is awesome as well! The King of Italy was recently murdered, and the 6 main nations are involved in a tangled web of alliances, deceit and manipulation as they vie for influence in the trade city. Your character will experience the tensions as they determine their own role in the scheming. Or, if you prefer, they can just remain part of the everyday life in Rinascita.
The playerbase isn't massive, so there is great opportunity for new players to get up and running quickly! Staff and community support is strong, and new players are welcomed, assisted and encouraged.