I found this brand new hardcore SMP that is invite only and it is built around groups and civilization growth.
The big thing is you do not just join like normal. Only people who are already inside can invite new players. It is meant to feel like population growth and it helps keep trolls out.
There are secret tweaks and mechanics too. They do not hand you guides so you have to figure stuff out yourself and pay attention.
It also has a clan and family setup so you do not spawn alone in a hardcore world. You join because someone invited you so you start as part of a group and you get pulled into the story with everyone else.
