The following should seem common sense, but just in case, we are posting the rules that should guard your behaviour towards other players and staff members while speaking in our IRC channel or posting on the message boards. The staff is accepting of open complaints and will not delete posts from the message boards under the condition that they do not become flames nor will we ever ‘blacklist’ players for their ideas. The fact that any of this needs to be detailed is disappointing, but some people forget we are all here to have fun.

The GMs above all determine what is appropriate and what is not in the #darkage room. This is not a code of law, this is a guide to let players know what is not acceptable, and what will get them banned from IRC. Certain topics we ask players not to discuss in #darkage, religion being the most important. #Darkage is an out-of-character chatroom, but there is too much chance to offend other players when discussing religious beliefs. So, on a whole, take it to a private discussion or another channel.

A GM’s decision is final. This is how things work IG, this is how things work in #darkage. If you have an issue with what a GM decides then you write a mature post in the complaints board and explain your grievances, or contact the shard’s admin or head GM. If you write off a flame you’re very likely to be ignored.

When new players enter the IRC room you answer with truthful responses. Its understood players like to joke around, but text doesn’t convey enough emotion to let the new player know that you’re joking. The result is a frustrated new player who will probably leave. Help them out to the best of your ability. With old players, let sarcasm reign supreme..

As for slander and rudeness: joking around between friends is fine. However, if a player tells you to leave them alone, you are required to do so. If you must, then take it to a PM where they can /ignore you. Similarly, if a GM tells you to stop, then you must do so immediately. Remember, you are always going to be held responsible for your words and actions.

Swearing is allowed, to an extent. If your use of words becomes offensive you will be banned from #darkage. This is left to the GMs discretion as to what is too much. Kicking for swearing is rare, but remember we accept players of all ages as long as they show enough skill at role-playing. Be respectful.

If you have a problem ask a GM to PM them and take up the issue with them, or write a post on the complaints board. Dragging dirt into the #darkage room causes problems, and if you’re serious about your problem them show a GM that you are interested in resolving the problem by talking to them rationally.

Obviously, this is a definite no-no. In the same way that we ask people not to blatantly disrespect and badmouth other shards in our IRC channel and message boards, we will also not tolerate any sort of advertising.

• Do not try to send any files to people without asking them (DCC).
• Bots are not allowed in the channel, unless you have permission by the operators.
• Do not be obscene. This is vague for a reason, it’s an all-emcompassing rule.

Your punishment is determined by the GM that decides you are out of line. For how long you are banned is determined by them. Normally a warning will be given, but it is not required. If you have an issue with a ruling, post on the complaints board.