Brave New World Mods (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
bravenewmods) wrote2013-12-07 04:40 pm
bravenewmods) wrote2013-12-07 04:40 pm
Rules & FAQs
FAQ:
GENERAL
What do you mean when you say this is an "AU Game"?
An AU, or Alternate Universe game allows players to bring in characters from all sorts of mediums, as a standard pan-fandom game would. However, in an AU game, players are required to alter the backstory of their character to fit the original setting of the game.
What kind of characters may I app?
Any characters from established media may be apped in, so long as they are altered to fit the setting. Additionally, original characters may be apped, but they must also be molded or specifically created to fit the setting.
Pokémon characters from any medium may also be apped and will be treated in the exact same manner.
Characters with very little canon material may also be apped so long as the proposed characterization and backstory are internally consistent with the source material and the proposed AU makes sense. This may be determined on a case by case basis as needed, although we will generally be flexible.
Is a moderator available to look over my app before I submit it?
No, moderators will not review applications before they are submitted. However, we will review a single section, if present. If your character has a Notes/Special Considerations section that involve adding backstory considerations, abilities or mechanics not commonly available to all players, the moderators will review, discuss, and pre-approve that if desired.
-What are the activity requirements?
Each character must have at least 10 comments in threads with 2 or more characters to meet the activity requirement. If desired, a character can substitute a post for part of the activity requirement. In this case they only need to make a post and have a thread with a single other character at least 5 comments in length. Any character that fails to meet the activity requirement is removed from the game and considered lost in the wilderness. Activity checks are held every month.
-When can I reapply for a character after failing activity check or dropping?-
If a character fails activity check or if a character is dropped, you may not reserve or reapply that character until the next application cycle, which is the 1st of the following month.
As a caveat, if we see repeated reapplications for the same character after multiple drops/idles, we reserve the right to ask you to wait a longer period of time until you're certain you can maintain the character within the game.
-How many characters may I have?
You may play up to 5 characters at a time. If you meet double the activity requirement with all of your active characters during an activity check, you may request an additional character slot. You may only gain one slot this way per month. If you possess any extra character slots above 5 and fail activity check with any characters, you will lose as many extra character slots as you had characters fail the activity requirement.
-There are multiple, distinct versions of the same character. May I app a different version of a character who already exists in game?
Since this is AU this can be a bit harder to manage, but we're willing to allow it with a few conditions. First and foremost you must speak with the player of the existing character - if they're OK with it then you may proceed. Both you and the initial player will need to work out a special consideration backstory (we suggest twins as the simplest route) which will need to be updated for the existing character as well as included for the new character. If you want to do this, we definitely recommend looping the mods in so we can provide assistance in making this work.
PREMISE
-How does the Capturing mechanic work?
In Brave New World, capturing a Pokémon is considered to be unbelievably taboo. Trainers do not catch Pokémon, they bond with them. To bond, the Trainer uses their warp band to link their minds together so they can communicate on an emotional level and attempt to convince the Pokémon to align with them. In terms of gameplay, a Trainer may bond with one Pokémon per week. For more information, refer to the Training, Bonding and Leveling page.
When Bonding, the Trainer activates their Warp Band, the prongs standing on end like a five-pointed star. When in active mode, the trainer can fire a pulse of light - if it strikes the target Pokémon their minds will touch, and the trainer can communicate with the Pokémon, typically on an empathic level as most Pokémon are not sapient. This bond only lasts a few moments, and in this time the Trainer must convince the Pokémon to join them.
-What about trading?
Pokémon may be traded at any time, but as in the games, happiness and affection will reset. Additionally, any Enlightened ability that entails 'Mastery' will not work on a Pokémon for the first two weeks after it's been traded. In IC terms, both Pokémon must agree to the trade; no Pokémon may be traded against their will.
-How many Pokémon may I have at a time?
Currently, the maximum amount of Pokémon you may have bonded with you is 60. This limit can be expanded via player plots and the Kindred Soul Enlightened ability allows characters to have 10 more Pokémon than normal.
-How does leveling up work?
Typically, through the course of your travels your Pokémon will gain levels. Typically, your Pokémon and your main character will gain up to 12 levels a week, distributed among Pokémon you are actively using. To level up your character, you must expend twice as many normal levels. You are not required to track your levels, and they can generally be abstracted so long as you don't overdo it. The highest level that may be attained as of the opening of the game is Level 25.
With the discovery of new areas, the current maximum level is level 65.
-This is too complicated! Do I really have to keep track of all these levels?
If you'd prefer not to micromanage everything, an alternative way is to use the Simplified Leveling System! Simply keep track of how many weeks your Pokemon has been with you and how many weeks your character has been in the game. However, if you use this system, the normal leveling tricks will not be possible, so the choice is yours!
-Are Pokémon restricted to 4 attacks?
Not really, but again, just don't overdo it. We're not going to require you to figure out a full moveset and most Pokémon should be able to use the travel abilities that come naturally to them (a Scyther can slice down a bush without needing Cut, a Pidgeot can fly you around, what have you).
-What about Egg Moves/Tutor Moves/Relearned Moves?
When bonding with Wild Pokémon, there will be a low chance that we will roll an Egg Move for it. Additionally, event Pokémon will occasionally come with Egg Moves. Pokémon born in the Breeding Center will also be able to come with Egg Moves. Tutor Moves and moves that need to be relearned can be taught by Mastery of Training Enlightened once a week. Shifters may gain access to any Egg/Tutor Move as they wish.
An item called Guru's Wisdom will also be given out as a reward that will teach one Pokémon an Egg Move, a Tutor Move, a relearned move, or swap its ability to its Hidden Ability. It is single use, but there is no limit on the number of Guru's Wisdoms that can be used on a single Pokémon.
-What about Hidden Abilities?
Normal wild Pokémon will never come with Hidden Abilities, but event Pokémon may be given away with them. Shifters may choose to have their Hidden Ability without any restriction if they wish.
An item called Guru's Wisdom will also be given out as a reward that will teach one Pokémon an Egg Move, a Tutor Move, or swap its ability to its Hidden Ability. It is single use, but there is no limit on the number of Guru's Wisdoms that can be used on a single Pokémon.
Additionally, with the opening of the Dream World on October 31st, 2014, Pokémon may be intensively trained for their Hidden Ability.
-Wait, what's the Dream World?
In BNW, the Dream World is a realm governed by Cresselia and Darkrai, as revealed in the October 2014 event. Due to the events of that time, the dream deities occasionally allow the trainers of Union access to the Dream World. Within the Dream World, extremely rare Pokémon may be found, and existing Pokémon may find their physiology altering. Dream World mechanics work as follows: trainers may either choose to intensively train one Pokémon to change their ability to the Hidden Ability or they may intensively search for an extra rare Pokémon that may not be available otherwise with a Hidden Ability and rare Egg Moves.
Whether or not the Dream World is open depends on the RNG. It will be posted in the Map Post when it is, and on average, is open twice a month.
-My Pokémon has Pickup! What can I get from it?
Please use the form on the Items page. You may respond once a week for your Pickup items and you will receive as many rolls for as many Pickup Pokémon as you have.
-How do I evolve a Pokémon through happiness or affection?
Pokémon are qualified to evolve through happiness or affection if a trainer cares for them and maintains a strong relationship for upwards of a month. Masters of Evolution may halve this time. If they are treated poorly, they may never evolve.
-Am I required to take a starter Pokémon?
Nope! You can choose to start without any Pokémon if you so desire.
-How many starters will I begin with and what level will they be?
As of June 14 2014, all incoming characters may begin at Level 12 with up to two Level 12 starters. They may pick one starter from the Starter List and one Common Pokémon from the Map Post. Commons are the first four listed Pokémon in any area. Far From Ordinary characters may pick two starters from the Starter List and one Common Pokémon.
As we progress through events, the starting levels and starters will continue to increase to help newcomers to the game get started.
-Why are there starter Pokémon at all?
These Pokémon are actually present and live within the city of Union and are often used for companionship or shared labor. It is not uncommon for someone to bond with one growing up. Any Pokémon that you see on the starter list are semi-domestic within the city of Union, even if there is not one specific person that they are bonded with.
-If Pokémon in the city of Union are considered companions, what do people eat?
Many Pokémon that are not bonded with humans have low-level intelligence about on average with a normal animal, although this varies between individuals. Any individual of any given species may be as intelligent as those commonly seen in other Pokémon medium. In general, some species of Normal-types and Flying-types are consumed within Union, but meat is very much a luxury.
-How do the Warp Bands work?
Warp Bands can transfer items or Pokémon nigh-instantaneously over long distances. The city of Union has a single Transmitter Tower that delivers a signal across the a defined area. So long as your character remains within the signal range, they can summon any of the Pokémon they have attuned to their Warp Band to their side, or return them with equal ease. When not summoned, Pokémon remain in the habitat. If a trainer leaves the signal area, no Pokémon can be summoned or returned.
-Is there a way to expand the signal area?
There is! As you explore the world and acquire resources, you can construct more signal towers to expand the network across the world.
-How does exploring work?
During the course of the game, there will be a number of plot and non-plot opportunities for characters to explore the world around them and reveal more of the map. Exploring will reveal new items, resources, and Pokémon.
-Is there a network? How does it work?
All Warp Bands have an intranet function based on the signal. While within range, characters can communicate via voice and text to anyone else who possesses a Warp Band, either on public or private channels. As of February 3rd, 2014, a video component has been engineered. The technology is slowly being distributed across Union, so as a default introduction, your character may introduce themselves by announcing that they've been incorporated into the video network.
The Warp Band receives power from the network. If a Trainer leaves the transmission area, they are not able to fully access the network. However, they can activate distress beacons and attempt to send text messages. The range is about 5 to 10 miles outside of the signal and the auxiliary power on the Warp Band lasts for about 72 hours.
-What exactly is an 'Enlightened'?
Most player characters are Enlightened. Simply put, Enlightened have special abilities and can take on two (or sometimes three) elemental types normally possessed by Pokémon. In terms of gameplay, players are encouraged to use this to duplicate the canon abilities of their AU character, or even come up with new and interesting takes on the characters. Enlightened may also have any number of abilities found within standard Pokémon, it's really up to the player to determine how the character's Enlightened abilities manifest. Enlightened have the ability to gain levels and evolve, gaining new abilities over time. Typically, this is used to fill out the higher level abilities the characters possess in canon and gain access to interesting changes as desired (a character might grow wings or gills, for example).
-Can I change my Enlightened ability if I don't like it?
No. The sole exception is for Far From Ordinary characters, who may choose to have their characters awaken as Enlightened if they wish over the course of the game. We will require these characters to respond on the Applications page with a justification for this process, reflecting the character's growth in game and explaining why it would be a logical step forward, as well as including new details on their Enlightened abilities. These characters will retain both the secondary ability that they possessed (such as Master of Evolution) as well as their primary affiliated typing as Far From Ordinary. The secondary typing may change as they continue to evolve. Finally, these characters will reset to Level 1 to allow them to grow and evolve normally as Enlightened.
All Far From Ordinary perks will be lost upon attaining Enlightened status.
-What about Mega Evolution?
Mega Evolution has been officially introduced into the game as of July of 2015. Both Enlightened and Pokémon have the capability of Mega Evolving. Enlightened may apply for a Mega Evolution on the Application page after fulfilling a few criteria. Candidates must have been in the game for at least three months, have achieved Level 55 (45 for Masters of Evolution), and have overcome some personal trial or shown some personal growth. Pokémon may not Mega Evolve without their Mega Stone. Mega Stones will be introduced into the game over the course of time and will be listed on the Items page.
-What is an 'Enhanced Item'?
Due to the prevalence of both Enlightened and Pokémon, humans have gained the ability to craft special items that possess properties of the elemental types found in the natural world. Union has used this to expand their technological abilities and make up for their lack of manufacturing capability. Enhanced items are used for both mundane and combat applications, they can be anything from ice swords to psychic guns to self-heating forges to gentle spring water hospital beds. Enhanced items are currently capable of possessing up to two elements. Each character may only have three active Enhanced items at a time, though they may own as many as they wish.
-How many Pokémon may I have at a time?
At the moment, all characters may bond with up to 60 Pokémon. This number can be increased as the game progresses and more habitat space is developed, and certain perks allow you to hold more Pokémon.
-May I release any Pokémon?
Yes, Pokémon may be released into the wild at will.
-Can Pokémon die?
Yes they can. Typically, the death of a Pokémon will occur at the player's discretion. Some events will be tagged as high danger, which means if it fits with your personal plot there is a higher likelihood that a Pokémon will be killed in battle. Some events will be tagged as extreme danger, which means if you do something particularly stupid and suicidal with your Pokémon (i.e. charging into the middle of fighting Legendaries) we're probably going to have to rule some consequences.
-Are there other Pokémon in areas than the ones listed?
Yes there are! You can assume that just about any Pokémon that can be found in an area has an evolved form in the area as well. Typically these Pokémon will only show up in Danger threads and tend to be pack leaders and other, established positions with the wild Pokémon. As such, they are simply unable to be bonded with. These may also occasionally become available to bond with during plot threads.
-How much does Union know about Pokémon in non-native areas?
Practically nothing. Discoveries of new Pokémon are, for all intents and purposes, equivalent to discoveries of new species of animals. However, Kindred Souls will be able to interrogate the Pokémon for information, Analysts will be able to scan them, and the Pokémon will make vocalizations similar to their name. People from Union should have no prior knowledge of non-native Pokémon species.
-How much does Union know about legendary Pokémon?
Also practically nothing! In this world, the legendary Pokémon are considered gods. While there are half-remembered myths and legends, they would generally be referred to in the vaguest of terms. As an example, it may be known that there is a deity associated with the sky and with rainbows in the form of a large bird, but the name Ho-oh and its connections to Lugia, Raikou, Entei, and Suicune would have been lost to time. In modern times, people may even have invented deities that don't actually exist or ascribed attributes to them that aren't true. The Agnostos Temple is where people go to pay respect to the gods; however, it isn't an organized religion in any sense and respect to the gods means something different to everyone.
-What happens if a character is dropped?
If the player wishes, they can specify what happens with their character as they are dropped, generally it involves the character returning to the city to work there. If unspecified, the character is lost in the wilderness.
-What happens if a character is killed?
No characters will ever be killed without the explicit permission of the player. If a character is killed, they are removed from the game permanently, although there is a way to partially return the character to play later.
-Can I app a character who was killed or dropped?
You may! There are two options. Option 1 is the character can emerge from the wilderness or return to active duty if they stopped traveling. If desired, however, Option 2 allows for the character to awaken within a small, ancient shrine located in the Verdant Forest. The character will be clad in white robes and any scars or markings on their bodies will be completely gone. The character will remember nothing of their former life (but will still retain their abilities, speech and language capabilities). The character will be reset to level 1 and any evolutions they acquired will be gone. If desired, the character may regain memories as time progresses, but this is not required. Characters who died can only be returned through the shrine. Regaining memories is at the discretion of the player.
-I want to apply a character from outside Union. How does that work?
As of February 3rd, 2014, applications for characters outside Union will no longer need special approval from the mods. You may feel free to create small settlements far away from Union from which your character hails, although you will need to describe them in some detail. We may also contact you to talk about the app if we have questions. If you require anything more substantial than a small settlement (~50 people), you will still need to receive approval before applying. If in doubt, please contact us to hash out details first. Thanks!
-There's a Pokémon that's perfect/crucial for my character to start with, but it isn't a starter! I'm not sure how to app without it. What should I do?
We've been able to make special accommodations for characters like this in the past; please feel free to contact us! If you require a high-tier Pokémon, we will not be able to give you this straight out, but we may allow some level redistribution. This will be on a case-by-case basis and we reserve the right to decline.
-I want to do this cool thing with my character, is that allowed?
Very likely! As with the previous question, we encourage all players to come up with interesting and unique backstories, abilities, and plot hooks for their characters. We've included a section in the application to request special considerations, and we'd also be happy to discuss these considerations through PM. Please be aware that while we will work with you as best we can to make your concept work, there are some things we will not be able to approve and if you include special notes there is a higher possibility that your app will require some back-and-forth before approval is reached.
-ORAS just came out and we really want secret bases!
This is definitely a real question we've received and not an excuse to include info that doesn't fit anywhere else, thank you for asking! Secret Bases were introduced on January 3rd, 2015, spurred by the discovery of TM94, Secret Power. Secret Bases may be stocked with Decorations and Dolls that can be created by Engineers. Characters may maintain a description of their Base on their journal if they would like, or they may use a generator such as this one. This link will be updated if a Gen VI generator ever appears.
Rules:
-All players are to treat each other with respect and courtesy. This is non-negotiable; this game is open to all who can meet the standards of our application process, maintain our required activity level, and positively contribute to the game. We certainly don't expect you to like or play with everyone, but we expect politeness, if nothing else. Harassment, personal attacks, or other behavior with the express purpose of making someone feel bad or otherwise unwanted will not be tolerated. The moderator team will not police personal interactions outside of the game nor act as mediators in disputes, but our expectation is both that players respect each other and that if there are issues, players will work them out among themselves in a mature and respectful manner. Personal attacks, harassment, and other negative behavior against other players will not be tolerated and can result in suspension or banning from the community.
-Do not force other players or characters into unwanted situations, or use out-of-character knowledge as in-character knowledge. Often known as "god-modding" and "metagaming", these actions are unacceptable in a freeform roleplay. Nothing is more frustrating than having certain actions or interactions forced upon you by another player or character, or to have your carefully laid plots spoiled by other players using knowledge their character shouldn't have to foil your plot. Please don't do it.
-All moderator decisions are final. We welcome discussion and are open to questions regarding our decisions and are happy to provide clarification, decisions are not up to argument or debate.
-Remain in character. It is natural for characters to grow and change, but it is expected that players will generally be consistent to the personality and samples submitted, as well as the established personality of the canon character and the AU they have developed.
-If a character elects to kill a character they just recently apped, the mods reserve the right to veto the action. Because of the nature of the AU game, it is unfair to kill off a character if you have no intention of sticking with them and do not put any effort into establishing them within the game.
GENERAL
What do you mean when you say this is an "AU Game"?
An AU, or Alternate Universe game allows players to bring in characters from all sorts of mediums, as a standard pan-fandom game would. However, in an AU game, players are required to alter the backstory of their character to fit the original setting of the game.
What kind of characters may I app?
Any characters from established media may be apped in, so long as they are altered to fit the setting. Additionally, original characters may be apped, but they must also be molded or specifically created to fit the setting.
Pokémon characters from any medium may also be apped and will be treated in the exact same manner.
Characters with very little canon material may also be apped so long as the proposed characterization and backstory are internally consistent with the source material and the proposed AU makes sense. This may be determined on a case by case basis as needed, although we will generally be flexible.
Is a moderator available to look over my app before I submit it?
No, moderators will not review applications before they are submitted. However, we will review a single section, if present. If your character has a Notes/Special Considerations section that involve adding backstory considerations, abilities or mechanics not commonly available to all players, the moderators will review, discuss, and pre-approve that if desired.
-What are the activity requirements?
Each character must have at least 10 comments in threads with 2 or more characters to meet the activity requirement. If desired, a character can substitute a post for part of the activity requirement. In this case they only need to make a post and have a thread with a single other character at least 5 comments in length. Any character that fails to meet the activity requirement is removed from the game and considered lost in the wilderness. Activity checks are held every month.
-When can I reapply for a character after failing activity check or dropping?-
If a character fails activity check or if a character is dropped, you may not reserve or reapply that character until the next application cycle, which is the 1st of the following month.
As a caveat, if we see repeated reapplications for the same character after multiple drops/idles, we reserve the right to ask you to wait a longer period of time until you're certain you can maintain the character within the game.
-How many characters may I have?
You may play up to 5 characters at a time. If you meet double the activity requirement with all of your active characters during an activity check, you may request an additional character slot. You may only gain one slot this way per month. If you possess any extra character slots above 5 and fail activity check with any characters, you will lose as many extra character slots as you had characters fail the activity requirement.
-There are multiple, distinct versions of the same character. May I app a different version of a character who already exists in game?
Since this is AU this can be a bit harder to manage, but we're willing to allow it with a few conditions. First and foremost you must speak with the player of the existing character - if they're OK with it then you may proceed. Both you and the initial player will need to work out a special consideration backstory (we suggest twins as the simplest route) which will need to be updated for the existing character as well as included for the new character. If you want to do this, we definitely recommend looping the mods in so we can provide assistance in making this work.
PREMISE
-How does the Capturing mechanic work?
In Brave New World, capturing a Pokémon is considered to be unbelievably taboo. Trainers do not catch Pokémon, they bond with them. To bond, the Trainer uses their warp band to link their minds together so they can communicate on an emotional level and attempt to convince the Pokémon to align with them. In terms of gameplay, a Trainer may bond with one Pokémon per week. For more information, refer to the Training, Bonding and Leveling page.
When Bonding, the Trainer activates their Warp Band, the prongs standing on end like a five-pointed star. When in active mode, the trainer can fire a pulse of light - if it strikes the target Pokémon their minds will touch, and the trainer can communicate with the Pokémon, typically on an empathic level as most Pokémon are not sapient. This bond only lasts a few moments, and in this time the Trainer must convince the Pokémon to join them.
-What about trading?
Pokémon may be traded at any time, but as in the games, happiness and affection will reset. Additionally, any Enlightened ability that entails 'Mastery' will not work on a Pokémon for the first two weeks after it's been traded. In IC terms, both Pokémon must agree to the trade; no Pokémon may be traded against their will.
-How many Pokémon may I have at a time?
Currently, the maximum amount of Pokémon you may have bonded with you is 60. This limit can be expanded via player plots and the Kindred Soul Enlightened ability allows characters to have 10 more Pokémon than normal.
-How does leveling up work?
Typically, through the course of your travels your Pokémon will gain levels. Typically, your Pokémon and your main character will gain up to 12 levels a week, distributed among Pokémon you are actively using. To level up your character, you must expend twice as many normal levels. You are not required to track your levels, and they can generally be abstracted so long as you don't overdo it. The highest level that may be attained as of the opening of the game is Level 25.
With the discovery of new areas, the current maximum level is level 65.
-This is too complicated! Do I really have to keep track of all these levels?
If you'd prefer not to micromanage everything, an alternative way is to use the Simplified Leveling System! Simply keep track of how many weeks your Pokemon has been with you and how many weeks your character has been in the game. However, if you use this system, the normal leveling tricks will not be possible, so the choice is yours!
-Are Pokémon restricted to 4 attacks?
Not really, but again, just don't overdo it. We're not going to require you to figure out a full moveset and most Pokémon should be able to use the travel abilities that come naturally to them (a Scyther can slice down a bush without needing Cut, a Pidgeot can fly you around, what have you).
-What about Egg Moves/Tutor Moves/Relearned Moves?
When bonding with Wild Pokémon, there will be a low chance that we will roll an Egg Move for it. Additionally, event Pokémon will occasionally come with Egg Moves. Pokémon born in the Breeding Center will also be able to come with Egg Moves. Tutor Moves and moves that need to be relearned can be taught by Mastery of Training Enlightened once a week. Shifters may gain access to any Egg/Tutor Move as they wish.
An item called Guru's Wisdom will also be given out as a reward that will teach one Pokémon an Egg Move, a Tutor Move, a relearned move, or swap its ability to its Hidden Ability. It is single use, but there is no limit on the number of Guru's Wisdoms that can be used on a single Pokémon.
-What about Hidden Abilities?
Normal wild Pokémon will never come with Hidden Abilities, but event Pokémon may be given away with them. Shifters may choose to have their Hidden Ability without any restriction if they wish.
An item called Guru's Wisdom will also be given out as a reward that will teach one Pokémon an Egg Move, a Tutor Move, or swap its ability to its Hidden Ability. It is single use, but there is no limit on the number of Guru's Wisdoms that can be used on a single Pokémon.
Additionally, with the opening of the Dream World on October 31st, 2014, Pokémon may be intensively trained for their Hidden Ability.
-Wait, what's the Dream World?
In BNW, the Dream World is a realm governed by Cresselia and Darkrai, as revealed in the October 2014 event. Due to the events of that time, the dream deities occasionally allow the trainers of Union access to the Dream World. Within the Dream World, extremely rare Pokémon may be found, and existing Pokémon may find their physiology altering. Dream World mechanics work as follows: trainers may either choose to intensively train one Pokémon to change their ability to the Hidden Ability or they may intensively search for an extra rare Pokémon that may not be available otherwise with a Hidden Ability and rare Egg Moves.
Whether or not the Dream World is open depends on the RNG. It will be posted in the Map Post when it is, and on average, is open twice a month.
-My Pokémon has Pickup! What can I get from it?
Please use the form on the Items page. You may respond once a week for your Pickup items and you will receive as many rolls for as many Pickup Pokémon as you have.
-How do I evolve a Pokémon through happiness or affection?
Pokémon are qualified to evolve through happiness or affection if a trainer cares for them and maintains a strong relationship for upwards of a month. Masters of Evolution may halve this time. If they are treated poorly, they may never evolve.
-Am I required to take a starter Pokémon?
Nope! You can choose to start without any Pokémon if you so desire.
-How many starters will I begin with and what level will they be?
As of June 14 2014, all incoming characters may begin at Level 12 with up to two Level 12 starters. They may pick one starter from the Starter List and one Common Pokémon from the Map Post. Commons are the first four listed Pokémon in any area. Far From Ordinary characters may pick two starters from the Starter List and one Common Pokémon.
As we progress through events, the starting levels and starters will continue to increase to help newcomers to the game get started.
-Why are there starter Pokémon at all?
These Pokémon are actually present and live within the city of Union and are often used for companionship or shared labor. It is not uncommon for someone to bond with one growing up. Any Pokémon that you see on the starter list are semi-domestic within the city of Union, even if there is not one specific person that they are bonded with.
-If Pokémon in the city of Union are considered companions, what do people eat?
Many Pokémon that are not bonded with humans have low-level intelligence about on average with a normal animal, although this varies between individuals. Any individual of any given species may be as intelligent as those commonly seen in other Pokémon medium. In general, some species of Normal-types and Flying-types are consumed within Union, but meat is very much a luxury.
-How do the Warp Bands work?
Warp Bands can transfer items or Pokémon nigh-instantaneously over long distances. The city of Union has a single Transmitter Tower that delivers a signal across the a defined area. So long as your character remains within the signal range, they can summon any of the Pokémon they have attuned to their Warp Band to their side, or return them with equal ease. When not summoned, Pokémon remain in the habitat. If a trainer leaves the signal area, no Pokémon can be summoned or returned.
-Is there a way to expand the signal area?
There is! As you explore the world and acquire resources, you can construct more signal towers to expand the network across the world.
-How does exploring work?
During the course of the game, there will be a number of plot and non-plot opportunities for characters to explore the world around them and reveal more of the map. Exploring will reveal new items, resources, and Pokémon.
-Is there a network? How does it work?
All Warp Bands have an intranet function based on the signal. While within range, characters can communicate via voice and text to anyone else who possesses a Warp Band, either on public or private channels. As of February 3rd, 2014, a video component has been engineered. The technology is slowly being distributed across Union, so as a default introduction, your character may introduce themselves by announcing that they've been incorporated into the video network.
The Warp Band receives power from the network. If a Trainer leaves the transmission area, they are not able to fully access the network. However, they can activate distress beacons and attempt to send text messages. The range is about 5 to 10 miles outside of the signal and the auxiliary power on the Warp Band lasts for about 72 hours.
-What exactly is an 'Enlightened'?
Most player characters are Enlightened. Simply put, Enlightened have special abilities and can take on two (or sometimes three) elemental types normally possessed by Pokémon. In terms of gameplay, players are encouraged to use this to duplicate the canon abilities of their AU character, or even come up with new and interesting takes on the characters. Enlightened may also have any number of abilities found within standard Pokémon, it's really up to the player to determine how the character's Enlightened abilities manifest. Enlightened have the ability to gain levels and evolve, gaining new abilities over time. Typically, this is used to fill out the higher level abilities the characters possess in canon and gain access to interesting changes as desired (a character might grow wings or gills, for example).
-Can I change my Enlightened ability if I don't like it?
No. The sole exception is for Far From Ordinary characters, who may choose to have their characters awaken as Enlightened if they wish over the course of the game. We will require these characters to respond on the Applications page with a justification for this process, reflecting the character's growth in game and explaining why it would be a logical step forward, as well as including new details on their Enlightened abilities. These characters will retain both the secondary ability that they possessed (such as Master of Evolution) as well as their primary affiliated typing as Far From Ordinary. The secondary typing may change as they continue to evolve. Finally, these characters will reset to Level 1 to allow them to grow and evolve normally as Enlightened.
All Far From Ordinary perks will be lost upon attaining Enlightened status.
-What about Mega Evolution?
Mega Evolution has been officially introduced into the game as of July of 2015. Both Enlightened and Pokémon have the capability of Mega Evolving. Enlightened may apply for a Mega Evolution on the Application page after fulfilling a few criteria. Candidates must have been in the game for at least three months, have achieved Level 55 (45 for Masters of Evolution), and have overcome some personal trial or shown some personal growth. Pokémon may not Mega Evolve without their Mega Stone. Mega Stones will be introduced into the game over the course of time and will be listed on the Items page.
-What is an 'Enhanced Item'?
Due to the prevalence of both Enlightened and Pokémon, humans have gained the ability to craft special items that possess properties of the elemental types found in the natural world. Union has used this to expand their technological abilities and make up for their lack of manufacturing capability. Enhanced items are used for both mundane and combat applications, they can be anything from ice swords to psychic guns to self-heating forges to gentle spring water hospital beds. Enhanced items are currently capable of possessing up to two elements. Each character may only have three active Enhanced items at a time, though they may own as many as they wish.
-How many Pokémon may I have at a time?
At the moment, all characters may bond with up to 60 Pokémon. This number can be increased as the game progresses and more habitat space is developed, and certain perks allow you to hold more Pokémon.
-May I release any Pokémon?
Yes, Pokémon may be released into the wild at will.
-Can Pokémon die?
Yes they can. Typically, the death of a Pokémon will occur at the player's discretion. Some events will be tagged as high danger, which means if it fits with your personal plot there is a higher likelihood that a Pokémon will be killed in battle. Some events will be tagged as extreme danger, which means if you do something particularly stupid and suicidal with your Pokémon (i.e. charging into the middle of fighting Legendaries) we're probably going to have to rule some consequences.
-Are there other Pokémon in areas than the ones listed?
Yes there are! You can assume that just about any Pokémon that can be found in an area has an evolved form in the area as well. Typically these Pokémon will only show up in Danger threads and tend to be pack leaders and other, established positions with the wild Pokémon. As such, they are simply unable to be bonded with. These may also occasionally become available to bond with during plot threads.
-How much does Union know about Pokémon in non-native areas?
Practically nothing. Discoveries of new Pokémon are, for all intents and purposes, equivalent to discoveries of new species of animals. However, Kindred Souls will be able to interrogate the Pokémon for information, Analysts will be able to scan them, and the Pokémon will make vocalizations similar to their name. People from Union should have no prior knowledge of non-native Pokémon species.
-How much does Union know about legendary Pokémon?
Also practically nothing! In this world, the legendary Pokémon are considered gods. While there are half-remembered myths and legends, they would generally be referred to in the vaguest of terms. As an example, it may be known that there is a deity associated with the sky and with rainbows in the form of a large bird, but the name Ho-oh and its connections to Lugia, Raikou, Entei, and Suicune would have been lost to time. In modern times, people may even have invented deities that don't actually exist or ascribed attributes to them that aren't true. The Agnostos Temple is where people go to pay respect to the gods; however, it isn't an organized religion in any sense and respect to the gods means something different to everyone.
-What happens if a character is dropped?
If the player wishes, they can specify what happens with their character as they are dropped, generally it involves the character returning to the city to work there. If unspecified, the character is lost in the wilderness.
-What happens if a character is killed?
No characters will ever be killed without the explicit permission of the player. If a character is killed, they are removed from the game permanently, although there is a way to partially return the character to play later.
-Can I app a character who was killed or dropped?
You may! There are two options. Option 1 is the character can emerge from the wilderness or return to active duty if they stopped traveling. If desired, however, Option 2 allows for the character to awaken within a small, ancient shrine located in the Verdant Forest. The character will be clad in white robes and any scars or markings on their bodies will be completely gone. The character will remember nothing of their former life (but will still retain their abilities, speech and language capabilities). The character will be reset to level 1 and any evolutions they acquired will be gone. If desired, the character may regain memories as time progresses, but this is not required. Characters who died can only be returned through the shrine. Regaining memories is at the discretion of the player.
-I want to apply a character from outside Union. How does that work?
As of February 3rd, 2014, applications for characters outside Union will no longer need special approval from the mods. You may feel free to create small settlements far away from Union from which your character hails, although you will need to describe them in some detail. We may also contact you to talk about the app if we have questions. If you require anything more substantial than a small settlement (~50 people), you will still need to receive approval before applying. If in doubt, please contact us to hash out details first. Thanks!
-There's a Pokémon that's perfect/crucial for my character to start with, but it isn't a starter! I'm not sure how to app without it. What should I do?
We've been able to make special accommodations for characters like this in the past; please feel free to contact us! If you require a high-tier Pokémon, we will not be able to give you this straight out, but we may allow some level redistribution. This will be on a case-by-case basis and we reserve the right to decline.
-I want to do this cool thing with my character, is that allowed?
Very likely! As with the previous question, we encourage all players to come up with interesting and unique backstories, abilities, and plot hooks for their characters. We've included a section in the application to request special considerations, and we'd also be happy to discuss these considerations through PM. Please be aware that while we will work with you as best we can to make your concept work, there are some things we will not be able to approve and if you include special notes there is a higher possibility that your app will require some back-and-forth before approval is reached.
-ORAS just came out and we really want secret bases!
This is definitely a real question we've received and not an excuse to include info that doesn't fit anywhere else, thank you for asking! Secret Bases were introduced on January 3rd, 2015, spurred by the discovery of TM94, Secret Power. Secret Bases may be stocked with Decorations and Dolls that can be created by Engineers. Characters may maintain a description of their Base on their journal if they would like, or they may use a generator such as this one. This link will be updated if a Gen VI generator ever appears.
Rules:
-All players are to treat each other with respect and courtesy. This is non-negotiable; this game is open to all who can meet the standards of our application process, maintain our required activity level, and positively contribute to the game. We certainly don't expect you to like or play with everyone, but we expect politeness, if nothing else. Harassment, personal attacks, or other behavior with the express purpose of making someone feel bad or otherwise unwanted will not be tolerated. The moderator team will not police personal interactions outside of the game nor act as mediators in disputes, but our expectation is both that players respect each other and that if there are issues, players will work them out among themselves in a mature and respectful manner. Personal attacks, harassment, and other negative behavior against other players will not be tolerated and can result in suspension or banning from the community.
-Do not force other players or characters into unwanted situations, or use out-of-character knowledge as in-character knowledge. Often known as "god-modding" and "metagaming", these actions are unacceptable in a freeform roleplay. Nothing is more frustrating than having certain actions or interactions forced upon you by another player or character, or to have your carefully laid plots spoiled by other players using knowledge their character shouldn't have to foil your plot. Please don't do it.
-All moderator decisions are final. We welcome discussion and are open to questions regarding our decisions and are happy to provide clarification, decisions are not up to argument or debate.
-Remain in character. It is natural for characters to grow and change, but it is expected that players will generally be consistent to the personality and samples submitted, as well as the established personality of the canon character and the AU they have developed.
-If a character elects to kill a character they just recently apped, the mods reserve the right to veto the action. Because of the nature of the AU game, it is unfair to kill off a character if you have no intention of sticking with them and do not put any effort into establishing them within the game.
no subject
I'm sorry in advance for the length of this comment. I have a lot to say.
As far as I understand it, you are saying that at the core of Union society, heterosexuality is still deemed more valuable because of the city's focus on reproduction. You are also saying that despite this, homosexuality is not stigmatized, persecuted, or derided.
I'll start by showing you two sentences from your comment:
Do you see how these two sentences contradict each other? Society cares very much about what my character does in the bedroom (assumedly reproduction), but simultaneously is stated to not care at all.
Another point: if society "doesn't care" what anyone's sexual orientation is, why does the gay bar that the other player suggested have to be a secret? Why can't it be placed in the center of the nightlife district, where everyone could see who entered and left? After all, "no one cares," right?
Here's another question. What do you gain, as mods and worldbuilders, by instating this strong focus on heterosexual marriage and childbearing?
Here are a few of the problems this position causes. It makes players feel ostracized. It narrows the relationships and plotlines that some players can pursue, because queer characters must account for society's opinion of their sexuality (more on that in a moment). It provides plots to some characters (i.e., marriage) that are then denied to other (i.e., queer) characters. It also distracts from the true strengths of this RP, such as its very interesting Enlightened typing/ability system and the exploration of the world both within and outside of Union.
Most of the problems I've listed are quite serious. The first one alone would give me pause as a mod; this many at once would set off serious warning bells.
The only explanation I can find for your dedication to this idea is that you're hoping to use it to inject some "realism" into the RP. If that is the case, please allow me to fact-check your realism. You have stated that the RP is based on the Industrial Revolution period, which is roughly 1760 to 1840. In this time period, we had not yet discovered penicillin or any antibiotics. We did not have many vaccines. The spread of disease was only just beginning to be understood; even simple hygiene techniques such as hand washing were not widespread at this time, as hard as that may be to believe.
Indoor plumbing was also not widespread during this time period, which is probably something most characters would be more immediately concerned with.
Let's continue with the medical concerns, though. Childbirth is a messy and extremely dangerous process for both mother and child. There are hundreds of ways for a woman (and her fetus) to die in childbirth, especially considering at this time period we had almost no way to prevent the spread of illness. Does this mean that because of the strong and "realistic" focus on childbirth, female characters should also be willing to accept that there is a real chance that their characters will die, and so will their children?
Even if they survive, children often became ill and died before reaching adulthood. If we are being so very realistic and focusing so very strongly on heterosexuality and childbirth, should I also prepare to have my character face outbreaks of cholera or smallpox, which are only two of the many diseases that plagued humanity during this time period? Should I also prepare to have my character lose their children to these diseases?
Because of these facts I have mentioned, I am also not confident that your stated number of 4.4 children per household is accurate; certainly some women died before having that many, unless remarriage is also common. If it is accurate, I can guarantee that not all of them would survive to become reproducing adults themselves.
Surely by now you're thinking, "This is silly! All of that is way too complicated, and not much fun to RP at all. If we did all that, all we'd do all day is cry over lost characters and loved ones." And I agree with you whole-heartedly! Why don't we dismiss all that nonsense about medicines and disease? Sure we want to be realistic, but most importantly we are here to have fun and enjoy ourselves.
Do you see how easily I removed a "realistic" element from my worldbuliding, because it caused more trouble than good? Adjusting the focus on heterosexuality and reproduction—clearly a problematic element, or else we would not be having this conversation—is just as easy. All it takes is deleting one paragraph from the rules. No fuss, no muss.
Here's the other side of that coin: the current stance you are taking does not provide realism, because it is not realistic.
If you want "realism," there is nothing more realistic than the oppression and poor treatment that queer people experience on a daily basis. This has been a societal force for a very long time; certainly it was present in the 1800s. Why is that we can keep "realistic" childbirth (which I've previously shown is not very realistic at all), and yet we can easily dismiss the real pain and suffering felt by thousands of people around the world even today?
There are many historical examples of the "open secret"-style society that you are proposing, and they have always failed to prevent homophobia and ensure the safety of queer people. The military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy is the first to come to mind; the Reagan administration's handling of the AIDS crisis is another. If you are choosing to infuse the society with something that will provoke homophobia, you cannot sweep it under the rug by saying "But there won't be any homophobia, promise," because history has repeatedly shown that this is not what happens.
Look at it this way: let's assume I'm a member of Union society. If that society trains me to believe that not having children will bring my city to the brink of extinction, and you are not having children, then I will understand you to be threatening my society's future, and you'd better believe that I would take a keen interest in your bedroom affairs. If I am queer myself, then I will internalize self-hatred because I'm not attracted to people with whom I could procreate, and I will feel as if I am endangering myself and my city. A society with this setup will lead to queer oppression. This is a logical conclusion with basis in historical fact.
That's why the gay bar can't be in public, by the way. It's because regardless of your well-intentioned promises, societal censure will inevitably follow anyone who was seen patronizing it. That's just what happens. If it didn't happen in the RP, it would seem fake and forced—unrealistic.
Here's one more angle. We are choosing not to RP something realistic (homophobia), because it is unacceptable to everyone involved in the RP. (No good hearted person would want to spread oppression, and I strongly believe that you're trying to do the right thing here.) But we are simultaneously choosing to keep something unrealistic (strong pressure to marry and bear children, childbirth without its associated mortality rates and medical concerns), even though it is resulting in these unacceptable and oppressive RPing consequences?
I've been talking for a while now. But honestly, this is just the tip of the iceberg. This society's view of childbirth opens up a lot of plot holes. If the focus is childbirth, why do people have to get married to do it? Why don't people take multiple partners if they want to have the maximum number of babies? If children are so devastatingly important, why do females have any option to have positions outside of the home? (After all, they'd be best serving society as baby making machines!) And if the goal is to ensure that the maximum amount of children grow to become productive members of society, and you have previously stated that orphans exist, why can't same-sex couples be married and raise those adopted children? Certainly that also fulfills that goal?
There are of course people who would have fun RPing plots involving closeted characters, and enjoy RPing out the real-world consequences of a homophobic society. The problem isn't necessarily even that queer characters will experience oppression—it's that if I choose to play a queer character, I am forced to incorporate that oppression into my character history and playing style, even if I don't want to. Because I've chosen to play a character who happens to be queer, my playing options are suddenly limited. That seems unfair. I didn't choose my character because he was queer; I chose him because I liked him.
But there are actually ways to satisfy all parties, if you can't give the childbirth/marriage focus up (though what is making you keep it, if everything I've written here cannot convince you? Is your plot primarily built around this? Do you need it for the entire RP to function??). The trick is to make your RP more inclusive, not less.
As I understand it, the primary sticking-point for you is that you want the society to create as many productive members of society as possible. You really, really want people to have a lot of babies and then raise them to adulthood, regardless of how realistic that may be (and regardless of whether your players want to RP out pregnancy, child-rearing, and marriage plots, which is another thing I haven't touched on at all). Okay, sure. So what if we changed things so that there was still a focus on having and raising children, but we took the associated homophobia away? What if every member of Union had to eventually be in a relationship, whether straight or queer, and everyone in those relationships had to raise kids, whether biological or adopted? And, to satisfy those players that wanted more conflict, what if there was also a more radical sect that felt that homosexuality was endangering Union by limiting the amount of children that could be produced, as you've originally stated? That way, players who wanted that kind of RPing could still have it, but players who didn't could choose to avoid it. It's at least a compromise, if one I'm still not totally happy with.
What you're offering now is not any sort of compromise. Your most recent proposal doesn't fix the problem—it simply tries to mask it, and that does not does not ease my concerns. It only amplifies them, because now I am worried that you're not listening to your player base.
One final point. This focus on children and marriage is not native to the pokemon franchise. The games allow you to play a male or female character and the plot does not change; females aren't limited by external requirements, such as bearing as many children as possible. Romance and sexuality are barely mentioned. In both the games and pokemon special, there is only one PC character with siblings (the gen iii PC/Ruby). Additionally, PC characters are almost always shown to be from single parent (or functionally single parent) homes.
The pokemon universe is ultimately an idealistic world; truth and justice always win in the end. Isn't it more suitable to the canon if love, too, were to win the day, and queer relationships valued as much as straight ones?
I am very sorry that this letter is so long. I sincerely thank you for reading it all; that means a lot to me.
Please, please reconsider your stance on this important topic. Ultimately, it does the RP more harm than good. It doesn't add realism, it limits your player base and RPing that they can pursue, and it's easy to remove.
Thank you very kindly.
no subject
These are my thoughts too.
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That said, if you have things you wish to add, please feel free to send via the mod plurk (
no subject
Thank you again for your input on this important matter,
Brave New World Mods (Void, Wighty, and Sheepy)
+1
no subject
Thank you again for your input on this important matter,
Brave New World Mods (Void, Wighty, and Sheepy)
no subject
We would like to say, upfront, that we did not consider the implications of our decision as much as we should have. Prior to this particular question, the majority of the questions posed on the FAQ had simply been answered by a brief discussion between the three of us, with the basis of ‘what would make the most sense in regards to our setting?’ When we first received this question about homosexuality, we did not give it as much consideration as a question like this deserves, and for that, we apologize. We failed to consider many of the real life implications that all of you have brought up, and we failed to realize that it could cause distress to our potential players.
That apology out there, we also want to let you all know that we began to approach this from the standpoint that Union was, and remains, a post-apocalyptic city. Due to the nature of this world, Union has a great deal of societal issues that are not meant to be considered ideal or perfect in any sense. From this standpoint, we reached the conclusion that it would make the most sense for childbirth to be valued in Union and for homosexuality to be kept on the down-low. We hope you can see now why it is that we gave the first answer we did.
All of that said, we have made the decision to revoke everything we’ve said in the past about this issue. From the suggestions we have received from all of you, we will be enacting the following changes: the major emphasis in Union will be on contributing to the city and to the future of humanity. There will be no discrimination between sexualities. Citizens will be encouraged to marry and have kids; however, there is an understanding that this not always possible, for multiple reasons, and those unable to conceive will not be looked down upon for it. In the event that they are unable or unwilling to, they will be encouraged to raise and provide homes for orphans or others in need. If they are also unable or unwilling to do that, they will be encouraged to provide for Union in other ways - trainers and Enlightened venturing outside the city generally fall under this category, as previously established, and they will therefore receive less societal pressure on anything to do with children. Additionally, all citizens will have equal rights in regards to marriage equality and any other pertinent social issues. Let us emphasize again that in this new setup, all citizens are equal so long as they are contributing. If they are not contributing, they may be frowned upon (this is in the event that someone may wish to app and play a character who is considered a social outcast).
As a caveat, there does remain a number of families that consider themselves to be ‘higher class’ due to claimed descendance from the Savior or for other reasons. Although Union is ostensibly equal, these ‘higher-class’ citizens do exist and may try to claim privileges they feel are suited to their ‘rank’. They additionally tend to have access to more resources and wealth due to their institutionalization within the city - this is not officially acknowledged as existing but everyone within Union knows who these families are.
In the long run, however, we would also like to say that Union is not to be considered an ideal or perfect setting by any means. We would like for everyone to keep in mind that it remains a post-apocalyptic society, and that this is simply how this specific group of humans chose to construct their society, with any inherent flaws that it may possess. Specifically, this is because we will be introducing new settings and societies in the future that may contrast with what we’ve established in Union, and we by no means want players to think Union’s attitudes are perfect in any sense.
Finally, we are becoming slightly concerned that everything we say in the FAQs is being taken as immutable truth and is being interpreted as inflexible. Not specifically in regards to this issue, but please do not take our answers here as unable to be played around with. Our statements about clothing and fashion and our statements about the general level of Industrial Revolution-era technology are meant to provide the players with a more concrete knowledge of the setting we’ve established if they wish to play around with it more. It is not meant to be restrictive to anyone’s play.
We hope this response adequately addresses all the issues that have been raised. We apologize again for our initial lack of consideration in regards to this sensitive matter, and we thank you all for taking the time to bring this up with us and to discuss it in a thoughtful, rational way.
Specifically in response to you,
Thank you again for initiating this discussion with us,
Brave New World Mods (Void, Wighty and Sheepy)
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Thank you for discussing this and for coming to this conclusion.
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I'm grateful that this was your response, mods! Thank you so much. I think the RP will be stronger for these new guidelines. They make sense to me, seem a lot easier to account for, and look more fun to play with. I'm satisfied. :)
I was surprised to hear that you didn't receive my intial PM. The response that Wighty gave here seemed to answer some of the topics I brought up in my first letter, so I assumed that you'd read it. I'm basically illiterate at plurk, and my letter was so long anyway that I'm fairly sure you wouldn't have wanted to receive that in 160 character chunks, lol. I'm glad you're looking into more communication methods—keeping your PM box open for private/discreet communication is an easy one (everyone who plays on a DWRP obviously has a DW account!), but making a mod e-mail is another option, or a mod contact post where people can leave screened comments.
Thank you again for your hard work!
no subject