What
is a 'PBEM'?
A PBEM is a Play By E-Mail multiplayer game, where a
save is passed from one person to another every turn
by e-mail.
How
long would a normal game last?
A normal PBEM typically lasts six months, assuming a
reasonable turn rate and four human players. Of course,
delays will inevitably occur - but any regular PBEMer
will tell you that nothing is more annoying than a slow
game.
How
often is a typical game expected to turn?
The accepted turn rate for four players is one turn
every two days - though particularly quck games will
turn daily. Of course, this requires each player to
check his e-mail typically two or three times a day.
Isn't
this a bit boring? I mean, don't the turns tend to drag
on a bit?
At the beginning of a game, when nothing of note is
happening, yes, they do. However, later on in the game,
there is no more enjoyable way to play Civ - the e-mail
format means there is a far greater emphasis placed
on role-playing, and diplomacy. One way to keep
interest up and something happening every day is simply
to get involved in several games.
What
types of game would people generally play?
All sorts. The main PBEM community at CGN at the moment
revolves around SMAC - but as soon as Civ3 multiplayer
becomes available, you can bet we'll be the first on
the scene. Of course, all types of game are available
- just post whatever sort of game you're looking for
(be it small/huge map, a team game, a scenario etc.)
and there'll most likely be people interested.
How
do I get a PBEM started?
The best way of kicking a PBEM off is to appoint a CMN
(creator/moderator/narrator). The CMN creates the game,
and generally acts as an impartial referee in all game
matters. He'll also keep your passwords, so should one
of you disappear or simply no longer be able to play,
the CMN can appoint a replacement quickly. On CGN you
will usually find several other players who will want to
participate in a game and someone willing to act as CMN.
In the CGN forums you can join or advertize for PBEMs
