CHARACTER TYPES

1. Canon Characters:
   1. Canon Fodder: One may modify the backstory/origin of the CIQ as they like - provided the character remains true to its roots. If a Player wants a Cyclops that isn't a control freak, or a Doctor Doom that likes rap music, or similar 'tweaking' to make the CIQ more enjoyable to play, they are free to do so. However, removing weaknesses and limitations of that CIQ is not. So, for instance, if anyone planned to have a Rogue that's able to control her powers so they can have her be a sex kitten, forget it. However, if the canon limitations are the result of extenuating circumstances in their canon origin and these no longer apply in the 'new' origin, then such adjustments may be permissible - providing a suitable alternative limitation is proposed in the new origin.

   2. Crossovers: The Marvel Universe is vast and possesses a rather deep roster of Cs to choose from, so that roster should be used first when determining which C to apply for play. Yes, there are instances in Marvel where other companies' Cs were brought in for a tussle, but most of these already have their equivalent in Marvel (or vice versa).

   3. Cosmics: For the time being, Cs with abilities over a 20 Intensity will not be accepted, with the single exception of the Hulk. Intensities may be raised in the course of play to pass this cap, as per MSHAG rules, but Cs that we deem unbalancing to the game or unfitting to the room's mores will be rejected. Bottom line: If it's not a Mutant, Atlantean, Altered Human, Human Magic-User or Tech-Based C, don't waste your time.

   4. Invulnerables: There are plenty of Cs that are pretty tough as they are. However, some might feel the temptation to 'tweak' them to become even tougher. This should be resisted. Ramping up power levels of existing Canon Cs to the point they are unstoppable forces of nature that breeze though battle destroying anything in their path, or similarly unbalancing the game is prohibited. Bottom line: If the fight's over the second after your C shows up, there's really not much point in proceeding.

2. Original Characters: Use of original characters is encouraged, with the following restrictions:
   
   1. Powerplays: Also known as Twinks, Bunnies, and Mary-Sues. Players that write themselves up to start out especially 'powerful' in any particular category are banned. By that token, no OC may have a World Class skill, and may only have one Master Class skill; although this, of course, can change during the course of play, as per MSHAG rules. The reasoning behind this rule is that if a Character has nothing to motivate them beyond a vicarious thrill for their Player, there's no fun in playing them - or for others to read about them. Bottom line: If the only thing that makes a character interesting/fun for a Player is some cathartic, wish-fulfilling powertrip, we suggest that they try a bit harder when making another one.

   2. Stacking the Deck: By the same token, Cs with powers that are engineered to negate or circumvent defenses (ie: Monofilament Edged Claws), or given 'limitations' that are so narrow as to be unlikely to ever affect their use (ie: an Indefensible Death Ray that has no effect on goldfish) should be avoided as well. No C is invulnerable against everything. No attack is indefensible.

   3. Powerstacking: Original Mutant Cs are allowed a single 'primary' power. If a Mutant has more than a single power, it should be logically connected to their primary power (ie: Fire Control and Fire Resistance). There is the possibility of these Cs developing other powers as the game progresses, as per MSHAG rules, but they may only start with one. Similarly, creating mega-gestalts of several canon Cs as an OC is not going to fly here; so Players should refrain from putting together an Atlantean Spiderman with Angel's wings or any similar hodgepodge, no matter how 'cool' it seems at first glance.

   4. Intensity Cap: The maximum starting Intensity for any power or ability score of an OC is 13. This, of course, can be increased as the game proceeds, according to MSHAG rules.

   5. Redundant Characters: If someone gets the Human Torch before you do, making an OC exactly like him isn't the answer. Yes, there are many characters that have the same powers in Marvel, but Emma Frost is nothing like Charles Xavier, who is in turn nothing like Psylocke. There is plenty of room to make characters with common powers unique from each other. Therefore, Cs that are considered pastiches of existing Cs will be returned for re-editing.

   6. 'Real' Characters: Actual personalities/stars/musicians (Britney Spears, Al Pacino, Halle Berry, et al) are largely disallowed, as most of these stars have gone so far as trademark their name and copyright their image and we don't want any trouble. I'm told there are games that do allow one to play as an existing celebrity, but this game isn't one of them. That is not to say that Players cannot use these entities for their PB image, only that they cannot play the actual person.

   Be advised that the Staff may require changes to be made to a C for purposes of balance or continuity at any time.

   
   

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