Good morning all! After yesterday's "database malfunction" on Neopets, we've had the opportunity to chat with TNT about the incident, and we've learned some startling news that we've been cleared to share.
Unfortunately, to ensure that the database holding Neopet information remains stable into the future, one species of Neopet will need to be eliminated from Neopia. We've learned that having 55 different species was ultimately what caused yesterday's fiasco, and reducing that to 54 will help with stability and prevent any repeats of yesterday's glitches.
Here's a few reasons we were given for removing a species:
- Database performance will improve with one less species to account for.
- Everything related to that species will be removed from Neopia, including items and images.
- As a result, server space will be freed up after all of the related content is removed. (And bonus, more items will have a chance at restocking in official shops.)
- One fewer pet day celebrated each year means more art resources can be spent on the remaining species. (One less new colour combo and one less species-specific outfit.)
Now, what happens once a species is chosen for elimination?
After we have selected a species, we will begin removing items, images and content related to that species. As a final step, we will provide anyone who currently owns that species the opportunity to access the Premium Species Change Perk (regardless of subscription status). All owners will have the opportunity to change the selected species to another Neopet species of their choice. (If a new species isn't selected by a final deadline, we will convert the Neopet into another random species).
So, in short: content related to the chosen species will be removed, and then all owners of that species will be given the opportunity to select a new species for their Neopet. (And if not selected, it'll be randomly morphed.)
Since learning this news, we at Jellyneo have been feverishly working all night long to get together a quick poll—we are hoping to give you all a voice in determining which species is removed from Neopia!
We've set up a mini-site, available at jellyneo.net/eliminate where you can submit one vote for the species you wouldn't mind leaving Neopia. After you vote, you'll also be able to see the up-to-minute results.
The vote closes at the end of the day today, so make sure you submit your vote now!!
And let us know which species you voted for in the comments!
