Ascendancy: an Immortal and Broken Machine

[Anti-Eagle]

Introduction

Welcome to our revised set of rules for this game. These rules have been made as part of an ongoing evolutionary process, a result of many games that have gone before on this and other sites. They are not perfect, and perhaps will never be, but hopefully through each game we will learn something new and take one step further on this journey. Thank you for being a part of it.

Heavy Metal Rules

These are some basic rules that should form the general approach to play:

The Golden Rule

• The Golden Rule is to have fun!

While roleplaying and building a universe can be demanding at times, don't forget this most obvious and forgotten rule - we're all here to have fun. Everyone wants to have a good time. So if you find yourself frustrated or dismayed at times, remember this Golden Rule. Then move straight on to…

The Silver Rule

• The Silver Rule is to collaborate and communicate!

Roleplaying cannot be won, only played. It's a shared experience that works best when players cooperate and work together. Now this doesn't mean that we should shy away from conflict between characters in our stories. It is just a reminder that conflict between players is discouraged and should be avoided. Consider that the aim of the game isn't to make the best God, or the greatest civilization, but rather to tell memorable stories, and build a rich and vibrant world together with your fellow players.

So if you have an idea, please share it.
If you have a question, please don't be afraid to ask.
If you think something might impact another player's contribution, please try to let them know.
If there's a concern about the rules, please voice it - we can always discuss it or ignore/change the rule if needed.
Finally, if you have a concern regarding another player, please try to talk to them about it. If you can't, then please feel free to speak with the ODINs for guidance or help with resolution.

Because in joining this game, you not only become part of a team, but also a wider community.

The Copper Rule

• The Copper Rule is to get creative!

Memorable stories and a rich and vibrant world won't write themselves. So don't be afraid to think outside the box and try something new. Build on the ideas of others and don't let the Action Point (AP) System get in the way of a good story. Work out what you're trying to accomplish and then consult the list of actions to help you do it - make the rules work for you! If you can't find an action, ask for help. Remember, the list of actions is a guide and not intended to be exhaustive. There are plenty of actions that have little narrative significance and therefore may not require AP. I'm sure that together we'll figure out a way to make your idea come to life.

The Pyrite (Fool's Gold) Rule

• The Pyrite Rule is don't be seduced by the game mechanics - narrative is what's important!

While AP, infusion, and ascension may glitter and gleam with allure, please remember that the most important thing is to create an engaging story and build a world we all want to play in. The mechanics are just that, cogs in the machine to help us produce a good end product.

So if you have to decide between what's the best strategy for your PC or what makes a good story, go with story every time.

And if you're tempted to try to use a rule to get more benefit for one character, please try to remember that it is just one character among many and that its really the entire universe that is at stake, of which you own an equal share. It is Lords of Creation after all.

The Iron Rule

• The Iron Rule is that wherever possible we will try to do things democratically, but if this isn't possible then the Moderators will have the final say. And if there's disagreement among them, then the Head Moderator will decide.

It follows then that the Moderators are not here to police, only to help smooth over arguments, clarify the rules, organize content, streamline play and keep the game moving. So this last resort should only come into effect to prevent extended logjam and move the game on when it is well and truly stuck. After all, it's a lot more fun for everyone if we're actually playing the game.