I joined Ryzom in Open Beta - and was logged on before the end of 1st live week in September 2004.
However I stumbled accross Ryzom Open Beta while hunting down info on EvaQuest II which a friend told me was a good game to get when released.
I knew very little of the story or background of this game, but after my 14 days in open beta knew i wanted it.
And yes I am still here

This article i found is a post made in September 2002 - TWO years BEFORE it went live (wow, did not realise how long this has been in development)
Please read this article ASAP - And David, I hope what i read in that will be included in the "Extentsion" as alot of the stuff not implemented now is REALLY COOL!@!@!
Thanks
Gleno - DCA
http://www.rpgplanet.com/features/previews/ryzom/