Application Tips
1. Before you try to apply, log on to the MUSH. Logging on and getting a feel for the place is the first step toward applying. If you don't log on, you will not be able to read many of our news files, nor will you know which FCs are open for application. There are recruitment rooms on the game with up-to-the-minute information about character possibilities, and more factional information. Also, logging on and checking the place out is the best way to discover if M3 is right for you. Don't just app based on our web site, please come in and check out the game!
2. Read, and understand, the theme files. Megaman MUSH uses a combination of canons from all different Megaman series. Our theme is unique, and if you try to write a character that falls into the ordinary "X" continuity, without checking our theme files, you will probably write a character with an unacceptable origin. So it's very important to read the MUSH's story before applying.
3. Newbie? Consider an FC. FCs are easy to adapt, and they serve as a good way to get a feel for the game's theme. Don't be intimidated: it's easier than you think.
But for more tips on OCs, read on...
4. A lot of people like to adapt characters they have played in other games, or characters from their fan-fics, into original characters for M3. This can work out, but you have to make sure that your character integrates properly with the theme. You will most likely have to change elements of the character's background to make this happen. That means you will have to be certain to read the theme files and write a character that fits. If you think that adapting your old character is too hard, consider a brand new character, or, a new concept with elements of your old character's personality.
5. Another pitfall people occasionally fall into: some new players will app an unaffiliated character, with a hope of using that character to feel out the theme, and plan to apply for an affiliation for him or her later. This approach works for some, and certain other games require it. On M3, it is not reccommended. If your character starts with some factional affiliation, his or her opinions about other factions will usually be stronger. Additionally, if you belong to a group, it's much easier to get involved in finding day-to-day RP. Unaffiliated characters can thrive, too, but choosing a faction is helpful for first-time applicants. If you would rather remain a civilian, consider allying with one of the small civilian PC groups such as HeraCorp or Eurasia.
6. It isn't required to be too complex or detailed when writing character history. The most important things to concentrate on are the events in the character's past that have shaped who he is today.
7. If your character is a reploid, consider being built by a factory or a company. Most reploids in our theme are produced this way. It's easier than trying to invent a singular creator, and opens up the possibility that your characters might have siblings from his or her line.
8. Try to avoid too many random or hard-to-explain deaths in your character's background. Saying "My character's family was killed by Mavericks and that is why she is a Hunter/Interpol member/Neo Arcadian" is the easy way out, and far too overdone. It's far more interesting to have living family members, which might offer you a hook for later RP.
9. If you want some tragedy or a rivalry in your background, consider including specific characters. Also, consider using a minor character, or someone else's OC, in your own background, instead of one of the "big name" characters. It will give your background more flavor and make it stand out. However, always ask the permission of a character's player before including him or her in your story.
10. A strong character will have a few long-term goals, and a few short-term goals. It may be hard to figure out your character's goals right away, especially if you are new. But it's very important to have a character with a few goals, so that person will have something to do. Characters who just sit around and wait for orders don't have as much luck finding engaging RP.
11. When you're assigning stats and attacks, be sure to read all the relevant news files. Again, you'll get them by logging onto the MUSH.
12. If you're stuck on the sample pose question, try looking at other RP logs for pose examples. Try to avoid using combat in your pose. A social situation is better.
And additionally, some tips on specific factions:
Hunters: Hunters have to be asked to join, by an active recruiting Hunter. Hunters do not join willingly or sign up of their own accord. Be sure to explain, in your history, why you were asked to become a Maverick Hunter. What is unique about your character that he would stand out to this elite group? It doesn't mean you have to be the best fighter in the world... the Hunters look for strength of character.
Mavericks: Tip #10, above, goes double for you. Too many Maverick players get too bored, too fast, because their character has no goal beyond "kill all the humans." Obviously, this broad and sweeping goal won't occur any time soon. So think deeper: How, why? What does your character especially dislike about humans? What kinds of methods does he or she use? What does he or she do, besides be a Maverick? Creative go-getters enjoy the Mavericks. Those who wait for Sigma to tell them what to do, get bored quickly with the Mavericks.
Repliforce: If your is a soldier-type, consider apping Repliforce. Many people app Maverick Hunters which are actually Repliforce concepts. Remember also that not all Repliforce characters are soliders for combat; there is room for medical, science, and support concepts, most of which are sadly underdone.
Masters: A full list of tips for apping Masters are in the Master news files. Robot Masters are a newbie-friendly faction, but do not accept OC applications.
Neo Arcadia: The same advice for the Mavericks tend to apply here as well. However, too few people tend to really immerse themselves with the fact that the Robot Wars have been devastating for humankind as a whole. Keep this in mind with your character and think: why did they finally decide to take matters into their own hands and undergo gene therapy (if they did)? How do they live their lives outside of duty? What is their overall long-term goall? Having the initiatives to go out and do things instead of waiting for orders helps.
