Characters FAQ
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Below, you can find answers to some of the more commonly asked questions regarding characters.
Primary, Secondary, NPCs?
The difference between the three classifications can be a bit confusing at first, so here is further explanation of each.
- Primary character: Your primary character has two important distinctions. The first, most important distinction, is that it is the character you play the most often. The second distinction is that this is the character who carries your highest rank. You are welcome to change the classification of which character is your primary at any time, but the thing to remember is that the character who is the one you are seeking command with (or, at least, proceeding to the highest rank you wish to attain) should be your primary.
- Secondary characters: In our group, a writer who is at least the rank of Lieutenant may create a second character which they play on a regular basis. As such, secondaries are simply those characters who you play on a full time, or near-full time basis but who you do not consider your command-seeking characters.
- Non-Playing characters: Writers may have an almost unlimited supply of "NPCs," within reason. In the early days of the group, this term simply meant any character who was "referred" to, like a red-shirt, in Trek. However, it has now become a classification for characters who are played on an irregular basis, or who hold no official rank. It is permissible to occasionally write a full SIM from this character's point-of-view, but if you plan to play an NPC on a regular basis, you should "upgrade" the character to a secondary (and, if necessary, drop one of your secondary characters to NPC status).
Why the restrictions on the number of characters?
Simply enough, we believe that it is important for writers to focus on a limited number of characters so as to maximize the participation and focus on any given ship. We feel that it is not possible for a writer to play three or more characters on a 3+ SIMs a week basis and still maintain quality simming levels. When can I create a secondary character?
We do not allow those officers under the rank of Lieutenant to create secondary characters. Those officers under the rank of Lieutenant are welcome to play NPCs on an occasional basis, and at the discretion of their captain.
How do I create a secondary character?
You can use our online form.