The league was based merely on wins and game types (FFAs, for instance, gave more points than 2v2s). In a game, any player could resync, change debug variables and speed up the game at will, being able to use some of the features of the BYRNE code, although mana cheats for instance were impossible.

 

On 8 January 2004, this service was shut down by EA, following by this message:

 

"Dear Populous Player,

We need to tell you about some upcoming changes to the Populous matchmaking server.

From 8 January 2004, the Populous matchmaking server will no longer be in service. Electronic Arts has made the decision to close the Populous matchmaking server in order to focus resources on future games. Given the focus on new titles, Electronic Arts is not able to maintain the server to the standards required to ensure that it is enjoyed by as many people as possible in the spirit it was set up.

We hope you’ve enjoyed the game as much as we have and that we’ll see you again in another great EA game!

Thank you
Electronic Arts"