Arcadia:Join
:'''''Note:''' The Arcadia website is currently undergoing reconstruction due to a previous database corruption. Content is in progress and will be available in [[User:Sasoriza|the webmaster]]'s time.''
| What is Arcadia? ◉ criteria ◉ join ◉ Star Trek: Arcadia ◉ Nea Opsis | 
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- These guidelines may be amended from time to time. Please review them regularly. Also see: Criteria.
Arcadia is a Star Trek-based speculative fiction forum, or "sim" (simulation), set in the 25th century, 400 years from now (currently May 2412 / 349 ce). Posts feature characters created by group members, interacting with other characters, shared via email (posted) on a common mailing list.
Note, Arcadia is based on Star Trek (and Star Trek only). While canon is "official", developments in Trek episodes and movies can lead to redefinition of material, which occurs frequently in Arcadia's universe. What happens here is considered ultimately official, regardless if it's canon, though the liquid nature of this medium means anything can be true, and nothing is ever entirely certain. Facts are subject to change and reinterpretation.
Arcadia's "mission" is to provide an entertaining story world, encourage & enrich the writing experience, and perpetuate a realistic feeling of life in the Star Trek universe. The first and last rule always is, have fun! Play characters you like to play; write stories you would like to read. Every individual has a different notion of fun, but if you enjoy what you're doing, this will be self-evident and attract & motivate others.
Arcadia is a vehicle for commentary, by transposing real-life issues into storylines, providing material for plots, dialog and character interaction. Arcadia tries to be different, unique & original, providing new, interesting storylines, and promoting freedom in character concepts, unlike sims where certain writing formats, story ideas or character-types are not allowed. If you feel suffocated in that other Trek group and can't let loose, join Arcadia! Having fun is our bottom line. However, we expect imaginative, intelligent, and committed participants, who will post regularly. We only ask that you be realistic and abide by our criteria.
Previous simming experience is preferred, though not necessary. Arcadia welcomes new and veteran simmers. To join, submit a bio (short for biography) – name, history, where your character "is" currently in his/her life; special abilities, interests, anything else you feel is important – and send it to the webmaster. You'll find a biographical template below.
Arcadia is not restricted to one ship, planet or location. (Why it called "Arcadia", then?) Due to our premise, we aren't a strictly Starfleet sim, and characters don't need to be Starfleet officers. Any character which can work in this setting is permissible. Writing different characters and plot-lines is allowed (just don't overdo it (i.e. "crowding"), and finish what you start). Star Trek productions have always reflected the times in which they were produced, and this is the underpinning of Arcadia: To reflect what's relevant in today's world. Characters and stories should represent perspectives/points of view in today's world, even if just your own. If you aren't sure where to fit in, you can check our current storyline or ask for help, but let your imagination be your guide.
Your character is the main "rule" you will follow. Characters define themselves by their natures. For example, if you portray a Vulcan, that character should not display emotion (though there may be exceptions). If your character needs an assisted-breathing device in Earth-normal oxygen, and suddenly starts going without it, others will wonder why. Plot-lines are also a guiding factor.
Once your proposed character has been approved, you can start posting (contributing your character's life story in this universe). Posts follow a past tense, "novel" format, usually in third person (also see format). When interacting with other writers, be sure to acknowledge their characters & contributions. For examples, visit our posting site to see how we do it. Feel free to include a sample post involving your character — not only does the webmaster love a great story, it increases your chances of acceptance. Members are accepted based on the amount of detail, enthusiasm and realism in the character bio: The better (and more realistic) you make it, the better your chances. Don't feel constrained. Read our rules before applying, and we look forward to welcoming you!
- Questions? Contact the webmaster.
biographical template
Copy and paste the below form into an email. Be sure to read our criteria. If creating a new kind of alien, click here.
- You may, if you wish, "lurk" on the group mailing list. However, lurkers aren't allowed to participate in-character. Subscribe here (click "Join group!") and indicate your wish to lurk. However, posts are publicly open; joining isn't required to read.
keep in mind...
This is a template, a guide to consider when crafting your character. Modify or expand this list if you prefer, but don't omit so much information that you have only a skeleton. A character has a life, personality, motivations, background, and (to be realistic) problems or issues. (Conflict = drama.) There should still be obvious attention to detail.
First impressions are important. Interesting, well-written bios get results. Your bio is the "pitch" for your character, and an example of your writing ability. Does your character have depth, or an interesting angle (a "hook")? Proofread and make sure you're satisfied before sending it. If you don't care about the impression you convey, others won't care either.
In-depth minutiæ about the character's past – numerous particulars of a past mission, how (if) they defeated a certain foe, how many members were on an away team, what they did in their childhood, etc. – are not necessary, unless contributing key points to overall makeup. Minute details aren't needed; just enough to make the character a realistic, rounded person. Stick to the broad strokes.
Consider your character's past, personal traits and psychology. What do they like to eat? What are some of their mannerisms? What kinds of problems do they have? Are they neat or sloppy? Do they like music? What do they do for fun? Are they married? Do (or did) they have siblings, or children? If they're Starfleet, what's their service record like? Does it contain reprimands or other noteworthy items? If not military, how do they feel about the military? Not all (or any) of these details have to be included, but you should think about them. This can add to the impression you build with your character (influencing the character you end up with), and inspire you to new insights not previously considered.
If applying for a particular position, make sure it's available. "Positions" are roughly the same seen in Star Trek, comparable to a real-life naval/military unit. Click here for ranks. If you have an idea for a new position or need help, ask.
You may include a character image to be posted to this site (or an image link). (Do not send as an attachment.) Preferred: Color photographs or lifelike, quality photo-manipulations of real people. (It can even be you.) An image helps others to visualize your character. If you don't have one, one may be provided, so suggest a model, actor, celebrity, etc., or link to a usable image. Ask yourself: "If this was a movie or TV show, who would play my character?" Bear in mind that popular actors are common, predictable choices. Arcadia strives to be unique. Try to choose someone less known, yet suited to your vision of the character.
template
Please supply all requested information. Incomplete applications may be ignored.
- Your name and age:
- Current/previous RPG experience:
- How did you find us/Who referred you?
- How often will you post?
- Email address you want subscribed to the group:
- Email address for personal correspondence (if different from above):
- *Starfleet ranks for new characters may be awarded based on the position requested and applicant's age and experience. You can indicate the rank you think your character should have; however, a different rank may be assigned, based on your age, experience, the character's age & position you're applying for, and the amount of detail in your bio. Remember, ranks and "promotions" are fictitious — You aren't really being promoted. The goal is to tell a good story.
- Desired position: (indicate secondary choice in case first becomes unavailable)
- Date and place of birth: (If alien, adjust Earth-calendar dates)
- Marital status:
- Known relatives/next of kin:
- Species/physical description: (Alien? Click here.)
- Height:
- Weight:
- Eyes (if applicable):
- Hair (if any):
- Gender (if applicable):
- Special interests (optional):
- Decorations, awards, distinctions (if any):
- Reprimands (if any):
- Education:
- Service record:
- Background: (character history)
- Personality/psychological profile:
- Special notes (if any):
Once your bio is complete, send it here.
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| What is Arcadia? ◉ criteria ◉ join ◉ Star Trek: Arcadia ◉ Nea Opsis |
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