Charter Contents
Guild Member Conduct
The standards by which all who bear the Iron Circle's mark must abide
Presentation of the Iron Circle Guild
All members of the Iron Circle are expected to conduct themselves in a tasteful and respectful manner in all forms of player interaction in-game. We do not tolerate any outspoken opinion of bigotry, hatred, or undue aggression toward our members or any other player in the game.
If a player is found expressing such things in a public channel, even if spoken on a character not in Iron Circle, whichever characters they have with Iron Circle will be removed. Our reputation extends beyond guild tags and into every interaction we have.
Differences of Opinion
Banter within the Iron Circle is encouraged, but harassment is strictly prohibited. Players engaging in frequent discussions of inflammatory material with the intent to provoke responses will be considered 'trolling' and will not be tolerated.
Deliberate offenses, intended to offend other players, will result in removal from the guild. It's important to note that joining the Iron Circle requires a high tolerance for online interactions. However, this expectation does not excuse disrespectful behavior.
While we appreciate a good joke, even if at someone else's or our own expense, we maintain a guild atmosphere that is light on memes and anime references, and we aim to keep it that way.
Conduct Toward Officers
Iron Circle officers are responsible for enforcing our rules and maintaining a friendly guild environment. They address concerns about player conduct both within and outside the guild, and you should always feel free to approach them if anything is making you uncomfortable.
An officer will assess what behavior aligns with Iron Circle's standards outlined in our rules and guidelines. Remember, without communicating your concerns to a guild officer, finding a solution becomes impossible.
Avoid echo chambers with fellow members; inform us of your issues, so we can understand and help navigate them effectively.
Event Conduct
Please practice considerate and attentive behavior during role-playing events that make use of the "CRE" system. As indicated at the start of each event, all posts should be restricted to raid for the ease of the DM to observe the actions of all participating characters.
Most importantly, refrain from engaging in any character action that would derail or delay the start of an event. Players who are disruptive and are not ready to begin an event when the DM is ready may be told to excuse themselves from the event.
Event Commitments
Committing to a PvE/PvP Event means you should be online and ready to go with appropriate prep materials for your class and profession at least 10 minutes before the scheduled event time.
PvE and PvP events are planned via the Discord/game calendar system. Any Guild Officer can plan or create guild events. These allow guild members and friends to sign up. The list is taken in the sign-up order, providing we have enough slots for the event.
Activity & Alts
Our current alt policy is: 1 Main Character and 3 Alts. However, alts still must adhere to the 4-week activity policy. We have a strict activity policy; those who are not on for over a month will be removed from the guild. Consider this warning and due diligence.
If a real-life situation occurs such as school, tests, work, family, death, sickness, military, etc., that is completely acceptable. All that is required of you is to notify an officer, or other officers via in-game tells, Discord, in-game mail, text message, etc.
Role-play Policy
The laws that govern our storytelling and character interactions
Game Play & Setting
In the Iron Circle, role-play, whether in a tabletop setting or an MMORPG, is never completely divorced from the game's setting and mechanics. We like to approach the use of role-play as an addition to gameplay, and not a replacement.
The type of role-play that our guild enjoys is typically a mixture between original ideas and concepts and what the game has to offer, including various challenges and points of progression in your character's journey.
While we don't expect every player character to be the "Chosen One" as the game's story might dictate, we do expect that you approach any and all role-play with the goals of immersion and cooperation.
Erotic Role-Play
While our rules state that members must be 18 years or older, we do not condone the open practice of ERP ("erotic role-play") to such an extent that your online persona revolves around it. Just as in real life, when someone is focused entirely on sex, they are 99% likely to be obnoxious and pretty vapid as a person.
There are exceptions to every rule, but statistically, you aren't one of them. We ask that you use the utmost discretion if you choose to do any adult-themed role-play, and that we as a guild not be made aware of your activities. We do not want to smell your post-coital stink, real or otherwise.
Character Concepts
We also allow for a wide range of characters, but strongly discourage players from choosing characters that are childlike, naive, or actual naive children. To put aside the fact that such characters tend to be grating, they're also an open invitation for creeps.
Please create characters that would more realistically survive and thrive in the environment and setting chosen. Characters that behave in an overly foolish manner will reap the consequences of being stupid. We're forgiving of mistakes, but we've got our limits.
Collaboration & Story
We do occasionally hold role-playing events, brainstorming sessions, and more, but please do not rely on us to create your character and your story, or to make them interesting. We're all about collaboration, and that means that you have to bring something to the table if you want to get something back.
Furthermore, we highly discourage anyone from joining in any role-play who intends to stand around and wait for something to happen. Even in DM-guided sessions, it is your feedback, your participation, and your creativity that make the experience worthwhile for everyone involved, especially the dungeon masters who give their time, energy, and focus toward creating entertainment for you.
The Special Snowflake Character
It should go without saying if you've read everything up to this point, but please, no extremely super special snowflake characters that are also drama magnets and incredibly powerful, rare members of a species, etc. Look, let's be honest: We've all had ideas we thought were great, and they weren't so great upon reflection or criticism from others.
Ask before you decide that it would be a genius move to deviate from the norm so that you can get real and honest feedback from someone in the guild. We aren't trying to be the arbiters of anyone's creativity, but in the interest of shared role-playing worlds, interactions, and plans, we ask that you try to work within believable and immersive limitations when creating characters or drafting up story ideas.
Take Full Control of Your Character
"My character wouldn't do that" is a shit excuse. That's a point-blank refusal to take part in the story. If you're joining up with an adventuring group who is heading out to explore forgotten ruins, or a band of mercenaries who are going to be maiming and killing for gold and your character isn't interested in any of those things... Why are you here?
Instead of being bound by preconceived notions of what your character would and would not do, embrace complications and do it, but try to work out why. Is it a sense of companionship with the rest of the folks you're role-playing with? Something else? You tell me. Your character is part of a larger narrative with other players.
Member Expectations
What are we looking for in our brotherhood?
Collaborators Not Consumers
A collaborator player is someone who is excited; they think about the game outside of the immediate session. They have drive and excitement for the setting, they want to build characters and stories in the world. They want to help expand the lore and to contribute in meaningful and fun ways. Likewise, they role-play, they're active in the community, and they're a joy to be around. These are the types of players we're seeking. We want to create a community of great people, and this is the first step to doing that.
Consumer players just want something to do in their spare time; when they aren't in the middle of a game they aren't paying attention to the Discord, they aren't having a conversation about the game, they aren't planning anything, etc. They're not here to think very hard about the game. They just want to kill a few hours.
Sometimes that's okay, but generally, we're not looking for those sorts of players. We want folks who are amped about the setting. Enjoy sword and sorcery, dark fantasy, and want to contribute. If you're a consumer-focused player, you probably won't get much out of this community.
Casual, Dedicated, and Fun-Loving Players
We're on the lookout for players who strike the perfect balance between casual play and dedication. Whether you're logging in after a long day or planning a weekend raid, we value those who are committed to enjoying the game without the pressure of being hardcore.
Our guild thrives on the fun of shared adventures, where every member contributes to the atmosphere of camaraderie. If you love gaming for the joy of it and can bring a positive attitude to our community, you're exactly who we're looking for!
Role-Players Who Want to Focus on Playing the Game
While we appreciate the rich backstories and immersive narratives, our primary focus is on playing the game itself. We're seeking players who enjoy role-playing but understand the importance of balancing character development with game objectives.
If you're someone who can stay in character and maintain an eye for casual progression, you'll fit right in with our crew. Our goal is to create memorable experiences both in and out of character, ensuring that our gameplay remains engaging and rewarding.
Players Who Are 21+ Years of Age
To maintain a mature and respectful environment, we require that all members be at least 21 years of age. Our guild is a place where adult players can unwind, share experiences, and enjoy the game without the drama that often comes with younger crowds.
We value life experience and maturity, which helps us create a stable, fun, and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. If you're over 21 and looking for a guild that understands real-life commitments, we're eager to meet you.
Players Who Have a Good Mic and Stable Internet Connection
Clear communication is the cornerstone of our success, especially during intense PvE content. We require all members to have a reliable microphone and a stable internet connection. Voice chat is not just a feature; it's a requirement for coordinated efforts in raids, dungeons, and community events. By ensuring everyone is heard loud and clear, we can achieve our goals more efficiently and foster better teamwork.
Please keep in mind that while we understand some might be nervous to jump into voice chat, we truly do believe it's the best way to build community. We're looking for friends. Not voiceless entities that log in and never say anything outside of guild events. NOTE: We do offer a text-to-voice bot to our members in Discord.