A dedicated group of modders is bringing a new dimension to Bully: Scholarship Edition with an exciting modification called Bully Online. This ambitious project aims to expand the multiplayer experience, enabling players to explore the grounds of Bullworth Academy and the surrounding town together. While the Wii and Xbox 360 versions offered limited two-player modes, Bully Online promises a far richer experience.
A New Multiplayer Experience
Bully Online, as detailed by community creator SWEGTA, offers an array of innovative features such as free roam, solo and group minigames, and a complex role-playing system. A significant addition is the fully developed inventory system, allowing players to earn money through side activities, minigames, or by finding and trading items. This currency can be spent on houses, weapons, vehicles, and various other items. Notably, purchasing a vehicle grants unique car keys, providing players the ability to lock their vehicles against theft.
Fresh Challenges and Features
The mod introduces new gameplay elements, including minigames like Rat Wars, where players engage in a team shooter mode as oversized cartoon rats, and racing with custom vehicles and tracks. These games are instanced to minimize griefing and mode conflicts. This enhanced online experience is made possible through the DSL script loader plugin, facilitating server connectivity and custom scripting.
The mod’s private official server is set to open to Ko-Fi supporters in December, offering early access along with other perks such as developer updates, custom name tag colors, an in-game digital camera, priority server access, and exclusive communication channels with the development team.
The project aims for a public release following a period of early access; however, its future remains uncertain due to potential shutdowns by Rockstar, as seen with previous modding projects like the Liberty City Preservation Project.
Despite past efforts to develop a sequel, Rockstar’s plans for Bully were halted, with Dan Houser citing insufficient ‘bandwidth’ as a reason for the project’s cancellation.