PBEM Starter Kit
Everything you need to write your first PBEM post. This guide covers what to write, formatting, etiquette, and includes examples.
What to Write
A PBEM post is your character's response to the mission situation. Include:
1. Character Actions
What is your character doing? Are they at their station? Moving to a location? Interacting with equipment?
Example: "Lieutenant Chen moved to the science station and began analyzing the sensor data."
2. Dialogue
What is your character saying? Are they reporting findings? Asking questions? Making suggestions?
Example: "Captain, I'm detecting unusual readings from the planet's surface. They don't match any known Federation technology."
3. Internal Thoughts
What is your character thinking? This adds depth and personality to your character.
Example: "T'Kara felt a familiar sense of curiosity. This was why she had joined Starfleet—to explore the unknown."
Length: Most posts are 2-5 paragraphs (200-500 words). Quality matters more than quantity—write what feels natural for the situation.
Formatting Guidelines
Keep formatting simple and readable:
- Use plain text or simple HTML - No special software required
- Include location - Start with where your character is (e.g., "USS Hades - Bridge")
- Use paragraph breaks - Separate actions, dialogue, and thoughts
- Sign your post - End with your character's name and rank (e.g., "— Commander T'Kara, Science Officer")
USS Hades - Bridge
Commander T'Kara studied the sensor readings, her brow furrowed in concentration. The energy signatures were unlike anything she had seen before.
"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."
She felt a familiar sense of curiosity. This was why she had joined Starfleet—to explore the unknown, to push the boundaries of knowledge.
— Commander T'Kara, Science Officer, USS Hades
PBEM Etiquette
Follow these guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone:
Be Respectful
Treat other players and their characters with respect. This is collaborative storytelling, not a competition.
Don't Control Other Characters
You control your character only. Don't write actions or dialogue for other players' characters without permission.
Communicate
If you need to take a break (LOA - Leave of Absence), let your crew know. Real life comes first.
Have Fun
PBEM is about creative expression and collaborative storytelling. Enjoy the process!
Complete Example Posts
Example 1: Bridge Scene
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."
She felt a familiar sense of curiosity. This was why she had joined Starfleet—to explore the unknown, to push the boundaries of knowledge. But something about these readings made her uneasy.
— Commander T'Kara, Science Officer, USS Hades
Example 2: Engineering Scene
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. He had learned to trust his instincts after five years in Engineering.
"Chief," he called out to the Engineering Chief, "I'm seeing some fluctuations in the plasma flow. Nothing critical, but it's worth monitoring."
He adjusted the diagnostic settings and watched the readings carefully. If there was one thing he had learned, it was that small problems could become big ones if ignored.
— Lieutenant Chen, Engineering Officer, USS Hades
Ready to Write Your First Post?
Join Star Trek: Freedom and start your PBEM adventure today. We'll help you create your character and guide you through your first mission.