What is Play-By-Mail? Play-By-Mail (PBM) is a new twist to an old concept. Simply put, it is playing your favorite games through the use of the mail, although games can also be played via fax and email. PBM games often encompass arenas such as science fiction, modern warfare, and, as in this case, fantasy. Such games vary greatly in the number of players, length of games, and the extent of challenge. PBM games appeal to people with sharp minds and the courage to imagine. Professionals, students, and other people 'on-the-go' now have an alternative to play-at-home games, and can enjoy the thrill of gaming with old friends across the street and with new friends around the world. Played in the privacy of your own home with other players who are always 'available' for the game, PBM appeals strongly to people who do not have the opportunity to get together with friends on a regular basis. Play-By-Mail games usually require no computers or other equipment - just a rulebook, a turnsheet, and a desire to have a really good time. However, with a computer at hand, you can extend your level of interaction and facilitate the exchange of actions and accounts in the games... PBM Diplomacy One of the richest parts of any Play-By-Mail game is the strategy and interaction between players. If you wish to communicate with another player, simply send GSI a 3x5 card with your orders. On one side of the card clearly print the game number and player to whom the card should go. On the other side you can give a diplomatic message, be it a threat, warning, alliance offer, or something else. When addressing a card to a player, you may use a player number, the name of the Nation, or the player's 'alias'. You may also want to give your name, address, or phone number, so that the other player may contact you directly. Of course, with an email address, the communication can not only be direct but immediate. Many players wish to communicate by using anonymous names in their written correspondence. To facilitate receiving such mail, there is a place on your orders to list your alias. Remember, you can send a note to anyone at any time. Be warned, however, that deceit (between players) is a common and perfectly acceptable tool in this game. Just because you receive a card from the 'Dwarves' doesn't mean that the Dwarves actually sent it! And a promise to join forces against a common foe may not be kept! You can say anything you like to other players, barring offensive language and personal insults. GSI retains the right to edit any cards sent through the company as we deem appropriate. There is no fee for sending cards, but to provide this service at no cost, GSI must insist that players restrict their communiques to 3x5 cards or similar sized documents. Home - 1650 - 2950 - Fourth Age - Nations - Map - Samples - Download - FAQ - Prices - Email