What's new
Q&A - Constructing Yew
Nov 15 2025 05:09AM UTC (GMT +00:00)
Today we're sharing a brief glimpse in to the minds of our talented builders _thvnder and Atrevion who are just in the final stages of completing the city of Yew. This city is available now for players on the Atrevion shard.
1. What was the overall goal when recreating Yew?
1. What was the overall goal when recreating Yew?
A: Let me be clear when I say, I take no credit for the cities. I gave _thvnder creative freedom with some guidelines. But as far as Yew goes, I gave _thvnder the lore of Yew, the layout was completed by me, and I took some pictures from Ultima Online to give him.
2. How was the terrain and layout created?
T: I imagine that a farmer's region should be plain to help the activity, so I opted for constant light hills that end on cliffs at the north, providing a nice coastal terrain to the prison island.
3. What was the division of roles between Atrevion and _thvnder?
A:_thvnder made the trees, the layout of the buildings were made by me, but he took creative liberty and incorporated them into the builds, for example, the roots of the Yew trees intertwining into some of the buildings. I placed all the trees and did some terraforming. Now, remember these trees are not grown, they are placed manually 1 by 1.
T: I usually tend to focus on buildings and structures. But for Yew I've dealt with most of all features while Atrevion worked on many other areas of the map (he worked hard on all the forests and areas among cities while I was still layering Yew's hills). He helped me save quite some time finding someone that made the bonemeal stick mod and placing the smaller trees all in and around the area.
4. How was the architecture style for Yew chosen?
A: I gave _thvnder some pictures and he builds, If i don't like the style or look of something I will ask him to make changes, but coming from a 2D world to a 3D world, I think the design can be taken creatively and just build what would look good.
T: As I saw the big area it is placed on, I decided to make an old rural village. I decided to make the farm plots walled, as it seemed that the village had been built over the ruins of a much older and bigger city. Maybe the big Yew was just a small sprout back in that time...
5. How are interiors structured? What inspires the interior design of the buildings?
A:I believe basically he uses the items in the Conquest reforged Modpack, based on the title of the building, whether it be a Blacksmith, or Butcher, he uses items that match that building.
T: I always try to put everything someone would need to live. Kitchen, beds, some sanitation, storage and tools. I made some contrast among the humble farmer houses and the big structures, showing some economical growth coming from Empath Abbey, the bakery and the vineyards. Governmental buildings are one step further, being fully equipped with everything necessary.
6. How is Yew different from other cities like Britain or Trinsic?
A: Yew is more spread out with a lot of empty space in the Original UO, we didn't like it was so empty, so we filled some of that space with farms and decorations.
T: As Britain or Trinsic are big, high density cities, Yew is a more big open spaced kind of village. Many farm plots, tons of vegetation.
7. What is both (Atrevion) and (_thvnder)’s favourite creation in this region? What makes it their favourite?
A: For me, Of course that will be the centerpiece of Yew, the Giant Yew Tree.
T: I think it's a draw between the prison and the Yew tree. I'm especially happy with how those two came out. The prison because it was the first building here and it has an useful function on the server, and the yew because it is the main center of the region, and turns out irl is my favourite type of tree too.
8. What challenges did you face when recreating Empath Abbey?
T: There're quite limitations in terms of musical decoration, so that's the weak point of all the building, the music room. Otherwise, its size. It took some time to finish.
9. How long did the Yew build take from start to finish?
T: Much more than I'd like to. I've been working in Yew since December 2023 if I remember well. In the middle I faced internet issues, irl studies and work that took most of my free time. I pretty much couldn't do any relevant progress back in 2024 summer-fall seasons, had two jobs at the same time back then. But finally, it's one building away from being done. I feel proud and relieved. Phew.
10. Are there hidden areas or secrets in Yew?
A: Yes, I believe there is.
T: Not as many as in other cities, but it has a couple of them. Here's one small hint of one: `there's actually a way out`
Join the Testing Effort
Nov 06 2025 04:57AM UTC (GMT +00:00)
As Ultimacraft continues to grow, every player’s journey helps refine the world we’re building together. This month, we’re opening the doors for testing a new round of gameplay systems—small steps that will have a lasting impact on Britannia’s economy, housing, and day-to-day life.
Our latest testing activities introduce a more dynamic way to live and trade within the shard. You can now gather copper from Mongbats or through mining, sell your findings to the salvager, and bring your catch of the day to the fish trader. For those ready to settle down, housing purchases are also open for testing. These features form the foundation of Ultimacraft’s living economy—where every action, trade, and home contributes to the shared story of the realm.
We’re calling on adventurers, traders, and explorers to jump in, test these systems, and share your feedback. Whether you’re mining beneath the mountains, bartering by the docks, or placing your first house deed, your input will help shape how Britannia thrives in the updates ahead.
Begin testing today and be part of the evolution of Ultimacraft.
Introducing the Contributors of Ultimacraft
Jun 24 2025 01:52PM UTC (GMT +00:00)
Meet the builders, artists, and visionaries behind Ultimacraft. Our new Contributors section highlights the passionate individuals shaping the world of Britannia—from cities and dungeons to swamps and secrets. Learn their stories and explore their creations.
Ultimacraft has always been a collaborative effort, brought to life by a talented group of worldbuilders, designers, and community leaders. The new Contributors section is our way of celebrating these creators—each of whom has helped shape Britannia into a living, breathing world. From hand-placing every tree and crafting iconic cities like Skara Brae and Trinsic, to digging dungeons, scripting secrets, and sketching flora by moonlight, their dedication runs deep.
Whether they've contributed redstone wizardry, architectural marvels, or the quiet details that give a swamp its soul, each person featured has left a lasting mark on the shard. We invite you to get to know them, see their work, and appreciate the artistry that makes Ultimacraft feel like home.
Check out the new section here:
https://www.ultimacraft.com/contributors
Ultimacraft has always been a collaborative effort, brought to life by a talented group of worldbuilders, designers, and community leaders. The new Contributors section is our way of celebrating these creators—each of whom has helped shape Britannia into a living, breathing world. From hand-placing every tree and crafting iconic cities like Skara Brae and Trinsic, to digging dungeons, scripting secrets, and sketching flora by moonlight, their dedication runs deep.
Whether they've contributed redstone wizardry, architectural marvels, or the quiet details that give a swamp its soul, each person featured has left a lasting mark on the shard. We invite you to get to know them, see their work, and appreciate the artistry that makes Ultimacraft feel like home.
Check out the new section here:
https://www.ultimacraft.com/contributors
Introducing the Britannia Atlas and Player Screenshots!
Jan 12 2025 07:13PM UTC (GMT +00:00)
We’re excited to unveil two new additions to the UltimaCraft website that bring the world of Britannia to life like never before: the Britannia Atlas and the Screenshot Feature!
The Britannia Atlas is your ultimate guide to the cities and landmarks of UltimaCraft. Dive into detailed maps and learn about the rich histories and unique features of each location. Whether you’re charting your next adventure or simply exploring the lore, the Atlas is here to enhance your journey through Britannia.
We’re also thrilled to introduce the Screenshot Feature, where players can submit their favorite UltimaCraft moments. Each week, a standout screenshot will be featured on the homepage for the entire community to see. From breathtaking landscapes to epic battles, we can’t wait to showcase your creativity and experiences.
Explore the Atlas today, and don’t forget to submit your screenshots to be part of Britannia’s history!