Another option that isn't free is Neverwinter Nights. This game will allow you to design your own settings and adventures and play them online. You can find players easily on http://www.neverwinterconnections.com
The toolset (used to design adventures) is very easy to use. For a DMed adventure no code is needed at all. If you want to code something in, most of the common tasks are available online already written. Other than that, it's click and point to design your towns, dungeons, villains, etc.
The game is highly customizable. A weapon for instance can be built up with various properties, given a custom description, given a custom appearance. You can even do blueprints, to create uniforms or other standard gear. If that's not enough, you can import new material into the game through hakpaks.
The DM client allows you to control the action. Create creatures, control them directly, issue them commands, possess NPCs, whatever you need to do. There's even a class on NWconnections to tell you how to use the client.
There are over 2000 adventures available online. I consider NWN to be the first real computer role playing game. Don't play on open servers - that's about as thrilling as Battle.net. On a closed server with a regular group is as close as I've ever gotten to D&D on the computer.
Of course it isn't free, and if you have existing players they'll have to buy it. And have a computer that can run it. Also, the host needs a fast internet connection - but IIRC there's a way you can get hosted on NWConnections if need be.
Great game, just be aware of the options.
The toolset (used to design adventures) is very easy to use. For a DMed adventure no code is needed at all. If you want to code something in, most of the common tasks are available online already written. Other than that, it's click and point to design your towns, dungeons, villains, etc.
The game is highly customizable. A weapon for instance can be built up with various properties, given a custom description, given a custom appearance. You can even do blueprints, to create uniforms or other standard gear. If that's not enough, you can import new material into the game through hakpaks.
The DM client allows you to control the action. Create creatures, control them directly, issue them commands, possess NPCs, whatever you need to do. There's even a class on NWconnections to tell you how to use the client.
There are over 2000 adventures available online. I consider NWN to be the first real computer role playing game. Don't play on open servers - that's about as thrilling as Battle.net. On a closed server with a regular group is as close as I've ever gotten to D&D on the computer.
Of course it isn't free, and if you have existing players they'll have to buy it. And have a computer that can run it. Also, the host needs a fast internet connection - but IIRC there's a way you can get hosted on NWConnections if need be.
Great game, just be aware of the options.
Technically, I'm only Systems Manager, not an admin, but I'll be glad to help out. #dnd3e is a great channel for you to come to if you want to start up an IRC game. If you need help with the server, come to the server help channel, #services (type /join #services). 
