A Guide to Star Trek Play-by-Email Communities
Explore the Major Active Star Trek PBeM Fleets
Explore the major active Star Trek PBeM fleets and communities. Learn what makes each one unique and find the right Star Trek role-playing community for your playstyle.
A Guide to Star Trek Play-by-Email Communities
The Star Trek Roleplaying Universe
The Star Trek roleplaying universe is vast. Here are the major active fleets and what makes each one unique.
Each community has its own culture, playstyle, and approach to collaborative storytelling. This guide helps you understand the different options available so you can find the community that best fits your interests and schedule.
StarBase 118
StarBase 118 is great for players who love a structured, realistic naval career simulation.
Established in 1994, StarBase 118 offers a large community with multiple ships operating across various Star Trek eras. They emphasize regular posting and structured participation, making them ideal for players who enjoy a more regimented approach to role-playing.
For more information, visit the StarBase 118 website.
Obsidian Fleet
Obsidian Fleet is excellent for those looking for large-scale joint fleet operations.
Obsidian Fleet coordinates multiple ships and stations working together on interconnected storylines. If you're interested in participating in fleet-wide events, cross-ship missions, and large-scale collaborative narratives, Obsidian Fleet offers that experience.
For more information, visit the Obsidian Fleet website.
Star Trek: Freedom
Star Trek: Freedom is focused on collaborative storytelling, immersive LCARS visuals, and a flexible schedule for busy fans.
Since 1997, Star Trek: Freedom has emphasized narrative creativity over strict posting requirements. Our community values:
- Flexible Posting: Post when inspiration strikes, free from strict deadlines. Most players post 2-3 times per week, but casual posting is perfectly acceptable.
- Collaborative Storytelling: Focus on character development, narrative depth, and creative writing rather than rigid simulation rules.
- Immersive LCARS Interface: Our site features authentic Star Trek LCARS (Library Computer Access/Retrieval System) visuals that enhance the role-playing experience.
- Life-Friendly: Leave of absence is normal and encouraged. Work, family, health, travel—life happens, and your character will be waiting when you return.
Ready to Join Star Trek: Freedom?
Join Star Trek: Freedom →Create your character and start playing in just 10 minutes
Other Active Communities
Several other Star Trek PBeM communities exist, each with their own unique approach to role-playing. When exploring options, consider:
- Playstyle Focus: Some communities emphasize military simulation, others focus on character development, and some prioritize large-scale fleet operations.
- Posting Requirements: Communities vary in their expectations—from flexible, inspiration-driven posting to structured, regular participation.
- Timeline Setting: Different communities are set in different Star Trek eras (TOS, TNG, DS9, post-Picard, etc.).
- Community Size: Some communities are large with many ships, others are smaller and more intimate.
- Beginner Support: Many communities offer training programs for new players, while others expect prior experience.
To discover more Star Trek PBeM communities, check PBeM directories like PBM.com or Star Trek gaming communities and forums.
Finding Your Home in the Star Trek Universe
Every Star Trek PBeM community offers something unique. The best community for you depends on your playstyle, schedule, and what you want to get out of the experience.
If you value collaborative storytelling, flexible posting, and immersive LCARS visuals, Star Trek: Freedom might be your home. If you prefer structured naval simulation or large-scale fleet operations, other communities may be a better fit.
Remember: Many players participate in multiple communities simultaneously. There's no rule that says you can only belong to one. Explore, try different communities, and find what works best for you.