**Back to Deathwish itself (I'm sure you really cared about how I started playing, but anyway). Deathwish has recently undergone a split of sorts, as the Implementor that was hosting Deathwish decided to lock Myst, the present IMP of Deathwish on its new site, out of the MUD, and change it radically, and run it HIS way. For some unknown reason, a large number of players went to his MUD, but those of us that stayed with Myst, moving to her new site, are very pleased. Deathwish has the friendliest IMP team around - Myst herself or any of the other Gods or IMMs will take the time to help you with your problems, and there are also in place, "Newbie Helpers", players who are available to answer questions, help you get started with some equipment, show you some good zones, etc.
**We are curently rolling out new zones at a record clip. There's always new stuff to explore. Our "Mud School" takes you through each feature of the MUD - practicing, movement, food and drink, fighting, purchasing items, using spells, etc. I invite you to come check us out after you're done reading the info I have here. We'll be looking forward to your visit.