Frequently Asked Questions

This page has been last updated on: 28th of September, 2024

General Server Rules and Guidelines

What is the expected level of roleplay on this server?

We expect a high level of roleplay (HRP) on this server. Characters should have well-thought-out backstories, and both in-character (IC) and out-of-character (OOC) chat usage is enforced. Character names and information must be accurate and realistic within the generous domain of SS14. Interactions should reflect your character's motivations, and it is encouraged to deeply immerse yourself in your character to enhance the roleplaying experience. Your character should perform the job they signed up for and have limited knowledge of other jobs, with exceptions if jobs are unfilled. Basic knowledge such as first aid and map power generators is expected. Treat absent players as spaced out or sleeping, and do not interact negatively with them because they are away.

Are there any specific guidelines for in-character (IC) communication?

In-character communication should be immersive and stay true to your character's background and current situation. Use appropriate language and maintain the character's persona during interactions.

Asshole characters, whose sole purpose is to get one-sided fun to the detriment of the enjoyment of other players in the round, are not permitted.

How should I handle out-of-character (OOC) information in-game?

Out-of-character information should not influence in-character decisions. Keep IC and OOC knowledge separate to maintain the integrity of the roleplaying experience.

How can I appeal a ban or disciplinary action?

To appeal a ban or disciplinary action, state your case with the project management team. Provide any necessary context or evidence to support your appeal.

Are there any prohibited themes or content in roleplay?

Erotic Roleplay (ERP) and any sexual content are strictly forbidden. This includes both direct and indirect mentions of sexual behavior or actions.

How often does the server update?

We aim to update the server weekly to keep up with upstream developments.

What are the rules regarding the use of OOC chat during gameplay?

OOC chat should be used sparingly and appropriately. Do not use OOC chat to influence in-game events or reveal IC information.

What is the server's stance on meta-gaming?

Meta-gaming is strictly prohibited. Information gained while your character is unconscious, dead, or spectating as a ghost should not be used if you are revived. The New Life Rule (NLR) is in effect: you remember all events up until you fall unconscious, unless you enter a dead state. Being defibrillated restores all memories except for the events leading up to your death. Being cloned makes your character forget everything since the shift started or the last memory imprint has been taken.

How is powergaming defined?

Powergaming involves rushing for or preparing equipment unrelated to your job without a valid in-character reason. For example, a medical doctor should not seek insulated gloves, and the Head of Personnel should not grant themselves armory access for "self-defense." Only obtain equipment through proper channels and for specific, justified reasons.

What year is Umbra set in?

Umbra is set 200 years in the future, to the date. For example, the 20th August 2021 is the 20th August 2221 in lore.

Whitelist

What is the difference between a trial whitelist and a full whitelist?

Trial members have similar rights to full members but cannot recommend new people for trial or play Command roles until they have three hours of playtime. They can comment on applications of other candidates.

How long do I have time to complete my trial?

You have three months to complete your trialship upon joining. This ruling has been set active since 01/10/2024. Trial members that have joined before this date will be counted as if they joined at this date.

I have joined an scheduled session, but did not receive my "Whitelisted" role. What should I do?

Ask in #questions-to-gms. We might just have overlooked it!

Are there any community votes or inputs in the whitelisting process?

Recommendations and votes under the application are considered when processing a whitelist recommendation.

Can I appeal a decision if the whitelist is denied?

Decisions on whitelist denials cannot be appealed.

Can I reapply if my whitelist application is rejected, and how soon can I do so?

You can reapply for a whitelist two months after the latest rejection.

What is the process for becoming a whitelisted or trial member?

To become whitelisted, you must be recommended by an existing whitelisted member. Following the recommendation, your involvement in other communities will be reviewed. If you pass this evaluation, a Project Manager will DM you with an invitation to join the Umbra Discord. Once in the Discord, you'll need to attend a full scheduled session, as unscheduled sessions do not count toward your membership.

How do I create a whitelist recommendation?

If you wish to recommend a player for a whitelist, there is a channel on the Umbra Sector discord server called 'whitelist-request'. The request has to follow the established format and once it's written the decision is up to the game master team that will mark your post appropriately depending on the action taken.

Do I have to join the Umbra Discord?

During your trial a membership it is mandatory. After your trial, this is no longer the case. Please note that you will still be expected to stay up to date with rule clarifications and changes after you have left.

Character Creation and Development

What are the rules for character creation?

Your character's background should not justify committing antagonist actions unless you are an antagonist. Your character should perform their assigned job and have limited knowledge of other jobs, with exceptions if jobs are unfilled. Basic knowledge such as first aid and map power generators is expected.

Command and Security roles are held to a higher standard and should not disrupt gameplay for others excessively. An example, they may not have any traits that impact their ability to direct their staff or communicate, e.g. mute or narcoleptic characters.

What are the limitations on romantic relationships?

Romantic relationships between characters are permitted in the universe of Sector Umbra, however in-character interactions between such characters are very limited. Intimate actions such as kissing, nuzzling, cuddling, (...) are prohibited and should be avoided. Interactions should be limited to those that would also reasonably occur between close friends, e.g.: Tight hugs, (...)

Are there any character background or lore requirements?

Your character's background should be consistent with the server's lore and setting. Avoid overly fantastical elements that do not fit within the established universe.

Can I have multiple characters, and if so, how should I manage them?

Yes, you can have up to 25 characters, which you'll manage on your own. While it's not required, many players choose to create detailed lore documents for their characters, and this practice is encouraged.

Additionally, we provide an off-server lore website managed by the player community for those interested in contributing or exploring character backstories.

https://lore.sector-umbra.net

What are the expectations for character development over time?

Characters should grow and develop based on their experiences and interactions during gameplay. Consistent roleplaying of evolving traits and behaviors is encouraged.

How does the server handle in-game deaths or character retirements?

In-game deaths should be treated seriously, and character retirements can be roleplayed as natural progressions in their stories. Executions require CC (admin) approval. Provide a clear narrative for these events.

What are the guidelines for roleplaying injuries or medical conditions?

Roleplay injuries and medical conditions realistically. Ensure that your character's actions and abilities reflect their physical state accurately. A game master can help, e.g. simulating seizures.

Are there any in-character consequences across different shifts after being an antagonist?

Yes, there may be enforced consequences from the Game Master team if a character consistently displays antagonistic behavior.

Is it required to maintain and update criminal, employment, and medical records in-game?

While it's not mandatory, it's recommended to keep records somewhat up to date. Maintaining these records is entirely up to the player, but it can enhance roleplay. For example, if your character has a prescription for an antidepressant, adding this information to their medical records could help the medical team recognize that the medication is prescribed.

Gameplay Mechanics and Restrictions

Are there any limitations or restrictions on jobs?

Each job has specific responsibilities and limitations. Adhere to your job's role and avoid performing tasks outside of your assigned duties unless necessary due to unfilled positions.

Are there restrictions on using certain in-game items or abilities?

Certain items and abilities are restricted to specific jobs or situations. Use items and abilities within the context of your role (and space law/SOP).

Are there any specific rules for handling in-game property or assets?

Respect in-game property and assets, and do not take or use them without proper authorization.

Can I play as an antagonist, and what are the rules if I do?

Yes, players are chosen to be antagonists by the game masters. If you are an antagonist, you should stick to your objectives and you mustn't commit mass murder to achieve them (at times referred as murderboning).

Are there any document formats that should be followed?

There are currently no document formats that are enforced in-game. It's all up to player writing the form. It's worth noting that some documents are to be followed with the SOP as they sometimes require specific fields.

Community and Player Interaction

What is the process for reporting rule violations or grievances?

Report rule violations or grievances through the appropriate channels, such as ahelp or by contacting an admin directly.

Another method is to make a private thread in the discord #general channel and pinging @Game Master into it. Project Managers will always be able to see these channels.

How is conflict resolution handled between players?

Conflict resolution should be approached calmly and respectfully. Use in-game mechanisms or contact an admin if needed to resolve disputes.

Are there any community resources, like forums or Discord servers, for staying updated?

Yes, upon accepting the invite, you will be invited to a Discord server where you can stay updated with community news and events.

Special Roles and Events

Are there any special roles or positions that require an application?

No, there are no special in-game roles that require an application. The closest thing to an application is the three hour requirement for new players to play as command members.

Can I play on the server outside of scheduled shifts?

Yes, you can ping @Unscheduled Session Ping anytime you want to start an unscheduled session.

Scheduled sessions take precedent and unscheduled ones may be ended early to allow Game Masters to prepare the server.

Technical Issues and Reporting

What should I do if I encounter a bug or technical issue?

Report bugs or technical issues through GitHub or during a scheduled session via Ahelp. Provide detailed information to help the admins and maintainers address the problem efficiently.

Miscellaneous

How can I join the team?

Game Master positions are filled through an application process. Once the application period ends, all current Game Masters anonymously review and vote on the submitted applications.

Maintainers are selected based on their contributions to the repository and after discussions with the current maintainers.

Can I see the duck?

What duck?