Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: When is the Next Chapter?

A: Well, roughly speaking, each chapter is approximately 3 months long, give or take a few weeks. Check back on the Main HOD Page regularly for information on the Game’s Calendar. Chapter 3 begins in Mid-July.

Q: Can I still submit a character, even if the game is full?

A: Yes, the HOD is always open to new submissions. If a GM really likes you, he or she may pick up your character, despite being ‘full’. However, there is a finite number of player spots, so don’t be too upset if the game is indeed ‘full’.

Q: Will I have contact with other Players? And, if so, how often? How will those replies work?

A: Player-Player Contact is highly unfavorable, as it is difficult to coordinate and has a tendency to hold up Storylines. Only if two or more players can commit to rapid, short replies in a short period of time (an hour at the most), and with GM consent is this done. Don’t ever expect it, unless you are REALLY good. If you are that good, then Your GM will explain the process in detail. Most GM’s flat out refuse this, so don’t count on it.

Q: What about NPC’s? Can I create NPC’s? Can I control them?

A: You may create NPC’s, but each and their relation to you must be approved by your Gamemaster. Any persons mentioned in your Character Bio, and those assigned to you by the GM already exist, but you may not control them without permission from the GM. Trust me, if you’re good, you’ll get NPC’s to control, and maybe even the chance to create your own. Overtime, your GM may permit you to create NPC’s if they trust your creative ability.

Q: What Jobs, positions, occupations, etc, can I hold in the Heart of Darkness universe?

A: Like reality, people are diverse and complex. You may have your character as busy and multi-talented as the GM permits. You may hold any occupation you can think of, but be advised that certain occupations will be more favorable to the GM’s. So, for example, if you’re a Nerf Herder, don’t expect to be accepted into a Game whose focus is Espionage, unless you’re REALLY creative.

Q: Do I select my Gamemaster?

A: No, you do not. The HOD currently has three GM’s: one for all Military, Intelligence, Diplomatic and Law Enforcement Players; one for all Independents and Bounty Hunters, and one for all Imperial Court, Political and Force sensitive characters. Depending on your Character’s abilities and template, you’ll be assigned to one of those three GM’s.

Q: Why are Force Powers so Taboo?

A: At our point in the Star Wars Timeline, Force Powers are rare. No one has them, and if they do, it’s a secret (mostly). Often, Characters are submitted too powerful. That is a MAJOR No-no. As the rules on Character Submission state, no one may be more powerful than Luke Skywalker at the beginning of Episode IV. That means, basically, VERY weak characters. This makes things interesting for the players, and not too easy for the characters. Don’t worry; you earn Force Power by gameplay, by typing good, believable replies with actions involving the Force. Also, traumatic experiences or epiphanies lead to Force Powers and advancement. Be advised that characters with Force Powers will be subject to a greater degree of control on the part of the GM, since it is not prudent for us, as moderators of the game, to allow unchecked Force Powers run rampant through the Galaxy.

Q: How will my character advance in the game?

A: No matter what your character’s template or abilities, the key to success and advancement is always the same: good replies. If you write substantive, creative and grammatically correct replies, your character will advance. Hint: typing your replies on a Word Processor and using a Spell Check application is a good idea.

Q: How will I advance in the game?

A: If you are really good, and don’t mind taking a back seat for a while, you may be invited to join the Gamemaster cadre. Our game is ever changing, and so you opportunities for this may arise at anytime.