How PBEM Works
PBEM (Play by Email) is collaborative storytelling where you write Star Trek missions via email. Here's how it works at Star Trek: Freedom, with a complete sample. If you want the short version first, see our Star Trek PBEM hub.
The PBEM Process
Mission Briefing
You receive a mission scenario via email or our web interface. The situation is set, and it's up to you and your crew to respond.
Write Your Post
You write your character's response—actions, dialogue, thoughts. Most posts are 2-5 paragraphs (200-500 words).
Compilation
Your posts are compiled with the crew's posts into a mission log. Everyone's contributions create a collaborative story.
Read and Continue
You read the compiled story and continue the adventure. The cycle repeats as the mission unfolds.
Complete PBEM Sample
Here's a complete example of how PBEM works, using a real mission from Star Trek: Freedom:
Sample Mission: The Medusa Dilemma
USS Hades — January 2026
Step 1: Mission Briefing
MISSION BRIEFING
The USS Hades has detected unusual energy signatures from an unexplored planet in the Beta Quadrant. Initial scans suggest the presence of a previously unknown technology. Your mission: investigate the source of these readings and determine if first contact protocols apply.
The planet's atmosphere is breathable, but sensor readings are being disrupted by the energy signatures. Proceed with caution.
Step 2: Player Posts
Each player writes their character's response:
USS Hades - Bridge
Commander T'Kara studied the sensor readings, her brow furrowed in concentration. The energy signatures were unlike anything she had seen in her fifteen years of service.
"Captain," she said, turning to face the command chair, "I'm detecting unusual energy patterns from the planet's surface. They appear to be organic in nature, but the readings are inconsistent with any known life form."
— Commander T'Kara, Science Officer, USS Hades
USS Hades - Engineering
Lieutenant Chen wiped sweat from his brow as he worked on the warp core diagnostics. The readings were stable, but something felt off.
"Chief," he called out, "I'm seeing some fluctuations in the plasma flow. Nothing critical, but it's worth monitoring, especially with these energy signatures from the planet."
— Lieutenant Chen, Engineering Officer, USS Hades
Step 3: Compiled Mission Log
The posts are compiled into a mission log:
USS Hades - Mission Log - Stardate 2446.123
The USS Hades arrived at the unexplored planet, its sensors picking up unusual energy signatures. Commander T'Kara studied the readings, her brow furrowed in concentration.
"Captain," she said, turning to face the command chair, "I'm detecting unusual energy patterns from the planet's surface. They appear to be organic in nature, but the readings are inconsistent with any known life form."
Meanwhile, in Engineering, Lieutenant Chen worked on the warp core diagnostics. "Chief," he called out, "I'm seeing some fluctuations in the plasma flow. Nothing critical, but it's worth monitoring, especially with these energy signatures from the planet."
The crew prepared for a closer investigation, knowing that whatever lay on the planet's surface could change everything they thought they knew about the Beta Quadrant.
This compiled log becomes part of the mission archive, building on 28 years of Star Trek: Freedom history.
Ready to Start Your PBEM Adventure?
Join Star Trek: Freedom and start writing your first mission today. No experience required—we'll guide you every step of the way.