Not really an article this time, just some well wishes for the coming new year. The year 2003 brought us many things, some good and some bad. Though I haven't tried it, this year brought the bomb known as Master of Orion III. Many might say that was a terrible event for the gaming world, but in fact, it was a blessing in disguise! Those disgruntled MOO players learned of a fantastic game from a little company named Stardock. For many of us, the release of Galactic Civilizations has been this year's gaming salvation. How could any of us imagine that we'd be spending so much of our time playing a TBS game and chatting in a web forum! That things like empires could really bring us such comfort. This game has spawned it's own universe, full of citizens who participate in an active, vibrant community. Some people use their talents to create magificent stories, some have created websites, others have written poetry, several have written strategy guides, and most of us have endeavoured to help each other. All this within the friendly confines of a gaming community called the Metaverse. A stroll through the forums will show a group of people who are intelligent, friendly, social, and talented. For the most part, everyone gets along and peace reigns supreme in our little utopia. You'll never find a better group of people anywhere.

As great as the past has been, it is our priviledge to look forward to the future! The coming year promises to bring more great things from Stardock and the Metaverse. With the full release of the expansion Galactic Civilizations: The Altarian Prophecy in just a few months, Stardock will begin to turn it's attention to the next generation of the game, Galactic Civilizations 2.

To all players of Galactic Civilizations, I'd like to thank you for an incredible year. We've shared moments of our life together and I can honestly say I'm happy with that time spent. The Metaverse Review plans on continuing into the next year, bringing you up-to-date information regarding the empires of the Metaverse. It has been a pleasure writing these articles and I appreciate all your support and comments.

I wish you all a very Happy New Year and hope that next year will be prosperous and peaceful for all of you. In this world of trouble and terror, remember there is always a friend in the Metaverse!