I am not able to understand, only to understand more. The picture that I wish to examine is not static, it is growing and living. Even as I understand how the hinges of a door allow me to open it, I find that it leads to a room even larger than the first. But I think perhaps that is part of wisdom. Knowing that I cannot know all, understanding that I cannot understand all. If the Maker's creation was understandable would I not find the Maker something less than great, would I not consider myself equal with the Maker? It is a tribute then to His greatness when I find myself more confused even at the very instant that I have gained insight.
Atrus, personal journal
(source: http://www.dpwr.net/archive.php?showarticle=495 (indirectly) )
I love the Myst series. You can tell that Cyan put a lot of life into it. The fact that they:
- Made up a whole language and writing system for their games
- Made use of this language, in a consistent and believable way,
- Have a few books out telling stories behind the games
- And so on and so on...
It speaks volumes. I love things with this degree of depth; history and languages to play with.
I don't know if they're on the level of Tolkien, but they're definitely on the same street.
A pity that Uru Live didn't work out, but my hat's off to Cyan for even making the attempt.
Now write more books damnit! 
anyone home?