Rules and Guidelines
Activity
what you need
• All characters are expected to post at least two [2] entries and participate in one [1] scene within each activity period. Activity periods will typically last a month, unless otherwise stated.
• The best way to keep a game active and thriving is to comment to each other, reach out to everyone, and interact in any way that you can. There are no rules about commenting to other characters, but it's one of the best ways to build relationships and progress lines.
• All new members will be required to have an introduction posted within a week of acceptance, otherwise they will be removed. If you happen to be removed due to inactivity, you're welcome (and encouraged) to reapply once. Removal again will result in any future applications being kindly rejected.
• Scenes do not need to be written in the scenes community, but any scenes done in customs or on chat servers need to be unlocked to the mods, and we'd really appreciate not having to track you down to get it. We don't want anyone accidentally removed because we couldn't find your scene.
Characters And PBs
what we need
• Your PB needs to be recognizable by the general public. In simpler terms, if we input your PB's name into Google, we shouldn't need to weed through LinkedIn pages and Facebook profiles to find any information about them. Your sister's best friend who had a background role in a made-for-TV movie would not be an acceptable PB. Internet personalities are fine, so long as they have some sort of claim to fame. That one person on YouTube you like that has fourteen subscribers is not a good choice.
• Your character's age needs to be within five years of the PB's actual age, in either direction.
• All PBs must be over eighteen years of age. This is to prevent any potential creepers who might be out there. Because you never know these days. Characters must also be of legal age.
• You will be permitted one facechange per character. So if you're really determined to give your kid an overhaul, make it a good one!
• A bio is required. Either a minimum of three [3] paragraphs, or ten [10] detailed facts. We aren't asking for writing examples for acceptance at this time, so your bio needs to show your capablities as a writer.
• Your character's journal can either be IC or OOC, within reason. We're going to ask that you don't make your journal name something like 'christopher' and your character's name is Timothy, just because we don't like being totally confused.
Odds And Ends
everything else
• We don't require you to have any chat programs, but if there's an interest we'd be more than happy to put together a Discord server, or a Wired group chat. Or even a chatzy room.
• Your journal needs to be locked, save for your unlocked OOC contact post.
• There is currently no character limit. If you can keep up with them, and maintain activity requirements, you can have as many psychics as your heart desires.
• Pregnancies and other big lines need to be run by mods before they're carried out. Pregnancies need to last the full 9 months, and need the consent of all writers involved.
• We hate that this needs to be a rule, but it always needs to be one. Don't godmod, and don't be an asshole. Be nice to each other, be good, and keep your OOC drama to yourself. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And if you act like a kid in preschool, you're going to be treated like one.
F.A.Q.
frequently asked questions
Can I play an instructor at the Institute?
Absolutely! It's a big place, after all. Besides, it wouldn't be fun to play students without staff members to teach them the ups and downs. Especially newcomers, or people whose abilites have just manifested.
Can my character control fire/teleport/fly?
No. That's getting too close to superhero powers. While we are what could be considered a 'supernatural' game, we're trying to keep it as close to the realm of possible as we can. If you can't decide on an ability, we have a full list available HERE
Are the members of the Institute 'out' to the public as psychics?
That answer varies from person to person. Some probably are, while others probably aren't. There are no rules about whether or not your character has to be public with their abilities. That is your decision to make!
What is the general population's opinion of the Institute?
Some probably view it with skepticism, some superstition. There are even a few who feel hostility toward the people who 'think' they have 'magical powers'. And of course, there are those who are indifferent, and those who think it's just plain cool. Seattle is a big city, full of all walks of life. There are definitely some believers out there.
Can my character have more than one ability?
So long as the two are closely related, and one is much weaker than the other, yes. For instance; telepathy with a touch of empathy would be alright. Telepathy and psychokinesis would not. If you have any doubts, feel free to ask the mods, and we'll set you straight.
Does my character have to live on the Bennet Estate?
Students typically do live on the Estate, but it isn't a requirement. They can live elsewhere, and come to the Institute for their sessions. If your character is very new, however, they will need to live on the Estate for a little while, until they get their bearings and get used to how things run at the Institute.