The city that never sleeps

The city that never sleeps has always been a haven for those seeking fame and fortune, a melting pot of cultures, classes and characters. It has grown rich on industry and commerce and houses the leading edge in fashion, movies and science. The city is also one of stark contrasts, where the shadows of skyscrapers fall on grand villas with lush gardens as well as run-down neighbourhoods of crumbling houses. Paradise City has many faces and styles and the endless streams of arrivals from sea and land have left their marks. From the first settlers who founded the city to the many waves of immigrants from other shores, each of the various city districts has its distinctive and unique look and feel.

Gangsters and other gentlemen

For all its prosperity, Paradise City also features the highest concentration of crooks and thieves, who make a living from redistributing its considerable wealth. Indeed, the city's criminal element has been there from the very beginning and is deeply rooted in society from the worker's neighbourhood of the clothing district to the celebrity high rollers in the Casino Royal. Three factions are currently controlling most of Paradise City's illicit activities. But they also throw the most lavish parties, rub shoulders with celebrities, artists and officials and have funnelled their considerable wealth into many perfectly legal activities. They have cultivated the air of gentlemen and lady gangsters. Violent conflicts among them have indeed become rare, as reputation has almost become a currency for them to trade in. For many, Paradise City's criminals are in fact role models with their taste for displaying their wealth and outdoing each other's exploits, the stuff of feature films and urban legends.

Secrets of Success

The Cúram and the Stimato have lived in Paradise City for centuries and have made a point out of protecting their cultural and financial heritage. More recently, the Lawford Connection has made a dramatic appearance, with their newfangled technological tools and upwardly mobile ethics. The new arrivals pushed the city into turmoil as each faction struggled to expand or maintain their areas of influence. An uneasy truce has been reached for now and the city is divided into three areas of control, each spanning various districts. To know the movers and shakers of each faction is to make sure one does not tumble on the road to fame and fortune, as they can be of enormous help or a great hindrance. This is why we present the promising young larcenist with a cast of characters he or she may meet on the street or in the pubs, bars and casinos of this town. Understanding their motives and knowing their backgrounds will surely provide a chance to improve one's standing with their faction - and after all, one's reputation can be a ticket to many interesting opportunities.