Rules
There are 10 Rules to The Bladelands Chronicles. Unlike the World Background and Game Mechanics, these are strict out of character rules which mostly govern aspects of safety and the fundamental feel of the fantasy environment, and which every player and monster crew member is expected to follow. Breach of these rules may cause a player to be sanctioned by the referees or, in extreme cases, asked not to participate.
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Rule 1 - No Real Weapons
Under no circumstances should a player utilize a real weapon (whether that be a knife or a lump of wood or a frying pan) in combat. Combat is enacted with fake weapons designed to be able to be used more safely in an effort to avoid injury.
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Rule 2 - Pull Your Blows
All blows struck should be pulled. This means that participants should always strike all blows in such a fashion that no force is applied. Under no circumstances should a participant swing a blow with full force against another.
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Rule 3 - Never Aim at Face, Throat or Groin
Blows may never be aimed at the face, throat or groin. Blows may occasionally land in these areas, but they should never be aimed there as the possibility of real injury is too great. The greatest of care should be taken when striking the head of a participant. Any participant who strikes other participants repeatedly in the head may be subject to sanction.
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Rule 4 - Weapons Checking
A referee may ask to examine your weapons at any time. If for any reason the weapon or your use of it is deemed to be unsafe you may be asked to cease to use it. The referee does not have to explain this and there is no appeal.
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Rule 5 - Do Not Argue with the Refs
We welcome discussions when it is not "time in" (that is when play is not actually in progress). We value your views and will always given them due consideration. It is perfectly permissible to request that a statement be repeated or clarified if necessary but conversations about the rules or disagreements about their interpretation can only detract from the game. This is especially important when a participant is playing a monster.
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Rule 6 - Killing Player Characters
There is no rule against characters killing other characters (many monsters will most definitely be trying to kill characters and visa versa). Sometimes characters have no choice and other times it can add to the reality of the game world. However, players should be aware that the organizers frown on character killing and that "bad things" happen to those who do it without a good reason. The game is not an excuse for experienced players playing tough characters to beat up beginners. Character killing is one of the main reasons that players leave games and all participants should be aware of this.
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Rule 7 - Combat Appearance
Combat should be fought as if the weapons were real. Repeated slight movements (all blows should be light taps for safety reasons but the movements should be substantial) or "drumming" blows will be deemed to have had no effect. The appearance of combat matters and all participants are asked to cooperate in the spirit of creating an exciting visual spectacle.
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Rule 8 - Use of Skills
Many of the skills require that a character employ physreps that appear realistic for the job in hand. Players are also given a great deal of leeway regarding how long it takes to use a particular skill. This is so that the appearance of the game is maintained. The object is not to penalize those who do not have access to better equipment but to encourage its use. Players will find that they can borrow many items from more experienced players or the organizers. Please look after any equipment that you borrow and ensure that you return it in good order to the lender.
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Rule 9 - Costume and Appearance
There are no strict rules regarding the appearance of characters, however, we do expect participants to make a reasonable effort to aid in the suspension of disbelief. Running around in a T-shirt with a logo, jeans and trainers destroys the illusion that we are trying to create. We ask that all participants use their best efforts and cooperate to create an exciting visual spectacle. Again, players will find that they can borrow many items from more experienced players or the organizers. Please look after any costume or other equipment that you borrow and ensure that you return it in good order to the lender.
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Rule 10 - The Spirit of the Game
The aim of the game is to have fun. Generally, players may have their characters do as they choose provided that they make the game fun for themselves and others. Please remember that you are not the only one trying to have fun and be conscious of the effect that your actions may have on others. This is particularly true when playing a monster. At these times your primary function is to enable others to have fun (although we hope that you will enjoy playing monsters as well as characters). Always remember that the game is not a competition and that the monsters do not "win" by killing the characters. If you act in a way that causes other participants not to enjoy the game you will be asked, with the greatest of regret, to leave and participate no further.
