BSM OOC Area

Battlestar Megaera, as a game, handles time in a very specific and open way. The goal is give players more freedom with posting, but without taking away the ability of the Game Masters to shape the story and guide the players.

Time in BSM is 'segmented' and play within an active segment is 'liquid'. The key element of this concept is that players can post ANYWHERE WITHIN the active segment of time. Players can also post in the period before the segment, provided they make it clear that it is a flashback post[FB] and they DO NOT alter events that have happened or pre-empt events that have not yet happened.

BSM has an overarching plot and plan that players can effect through the discussion on the forum. It is the goal and job of the Game Masters to execute that plot(and also modify it based on character reactions).

'Segmented liquid time' is an important tool for doing this job. It means Game Masters have the ability to control events to a certain degree and plan ahead for the implementation of the plot. It means we can coordinate the myriad of sub-plots so that they complement the whole and fit together into something approaching a coherent story.

To make this work, all posts MUST have an approximate time placed in the 'Timeline' field. Even if, as in the case of a flashback, it is vague - like '2 years ago'. The current recommended format is 'Day - Time'. Check the Episode Notes for information on active time segments.

Once more, for those who might not know: When you are at the 'Write Episode Post' page. Just underneath the title that says 'Write Episode Post' you will see the words 'Episode Notes'. Look to the right of that and you will see a 'Show/Hide' toggle. Click it and the Episode Notes will be revealed to you. This changes from time to time and I will usually alert everyone through a news post much like this one.

Location is another vital tool, both for the GMs and the Players. It provides quick reference to a reader about where the post takes place and is often as important as when. Be specific, when you can, but at the very least name the ship, planet, moon, station, asteroid, pirate base or even solar system where your post takes place.

A post should ideally only take place in a single location, but this is sci-fi and certain conditions - wireless communication for example - can cause a post to occur in two locations. In such a case, BOTH locations are to be referenced, example: Megaera, CIC/Prometheus Bridge.

When posting, to avoid confusion, only ONE location should be the focus of the post with the responses from the other side being in italics and only contain the dialogue of the characters from the other location. When there is a need to show the action in the other location or switch between locations, use a 'scene divider', and do not simply jump from one location to the other:

==================================
[Prometheus Bridge]
<action takes place here>

==================================
[Megaera CIC]
<action takes place here>

I hope this makes sense. By standardising our posting protocols we will make it easier and less confusing for readers(and the poor GMs who have to moderate). If you have questions or comments, post below.