The only thing that really needs to be added to game play in my opinion is a donation room feature. Most MUDs have these and they make a lot of sense. They give newbs a chance to have equipment they couldn't otherwise get.
Restrictions could be placed on the rooms (or NPCs). You couldn't enter if you are over a certain level. You can't remove more than a few items. You can't get stuff for the sake of getting it. Perhaps a random item could be picked from the donations bin upon request and you were only allowed one donation per slot.
Donations Feature
Threaded Mode
