Rules
1.) GENERAL RULES
1.1) Player Conduct - We expect all players to be respectful of each other no matter their differences. Any kind of discrimination and harassment will not be tolerated and will be considered grounds for immediate expulsion from the game. If you are having a problem with another player, please talk to the Game Master (GM) about it. Keep in mind that the GM's decision on most matters will be considered final.
1.2) Sim Rating - USS Jupiter is rated for Mature Audiences (3-3-3/18+). This means the sim may contain the use of offensive language, descriptions of violence and depictions of sexual activity. Please be considerate when writing such content and if a post contains very graphic or triggering content, please discuss it with the GM.
1.3) Leave of Absence - Every now and then players need to take time off for a variety of reasons. We encourage them to take a break when they need it and return to the sim rested and ready to participate. If at any stage you need a Leave of Absence (LOA), please contact the GM, preferably via Discord.
1.4) Player Activity - If a player has not responded to any form of communication or inquiry by the GM for at least 2 weeks, and have been inactive for a minimum of 1 month, they may be removed from the sim.
1.5) Discord Chat - Discord is considered the preferred form of OOC communication for USS Jupiter. The application is a free chat client that can be downloaded for desktop, mobile, or used in a web browser. Any members who disregard the game rules and behaviour guidelines on Discord may be subject to dismissal from the sim.
Discord is available for download at https://discordapp.com/ or from your mobile app store.
2.) POSTING GUIDELINES
2.1) Post Frequency - Players are encouraged to post once every fortnight (2 weeks) at minimum (although more is definitely encouraged) for their main characters and any of their characters that are central to a plot development.
2.2) Post Length - In order to establish and maintain quality over quantity, posts are required to be at least 400 words.
2.3) Joint Posts - Players will be expected to participate in joint posts (JPs) from time to time. For larger JPs, especially ones central to plot progression, a time limit may be imposed within which participants should reply. If participants do not reply within the specified time limit, the JP will be adjusted to indirectly refer to their characters' actions and posted. This is done in order to keep the plot moving forward. Players who missed out on a JP they were initially included/mentioned in are encouraged to write it from their point of view in a follow up post.
2.4) Spelling & Grammar - Because we are all from different countries and speak different languages, spelling and grammar sometimes take a back seat, but we'd like to encourage everyone to use a spellchecker and try to neaten things up a bit before posting it to the site.
2.5) Plot Development - Before delving into a subplot that could affect the game as a whole, players are required to discuss their ideas with the GM before going ahead. We like to encourage players to explore their characters through subplots and engage other players in their subplots. However, please do so respectfully and within the guidelines established for the game and its setting.
3.) CHARACTER GUIDELINES
3.1) Player Characters (PC) - Players must create a main character which they will use to write with on USS Jupiter. Once a player has proven they can meet the posting requirements and responsibilities of their main character's position, they will be allowed to create a second PC. If they would like to create a third PC, they would need to prove that they can maintain the activity of their main character and second character. The creation of second and third characters is subject to the approval of the Commanding Officer following a discussion about the character and their purpose.
Only one Department Head position will be allowed per player.
3.2) Non-Player Characters (NPC) - Players are allowed to create NPCs with which to interact or post for on USS Jupiter. Players are free to create NPCs in their own department, but if they would like to do so in another department, please discuss it with the relevant department head.
3.3) Using Characters - If one player plans to use another player's character extensively in a post, they should ask them for a Joint Post instead or ask their permission before using their character. When you do use someone's character, please keep in mind their character traits and read their bio carefully. This counts for player-linked NPCs as well.
3.4) Character Behaviour - Remember that all actions have consequences. USS Jupiter is a largely Starfleet sim with a strict protocol and chain of command. If your character behaves irresponsibly they will most likely be reprimanded for their actions. If you're uncertain how your character would respond in certain situations, please ask the GM for advice.
