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Welcome to The Outback Roleplay!
We understand that diving into a new roleplaying universe can be a bit overwhelming. Much like the “Session Zero” in tabletop RPGs—where everyone agrees on the rules and expectations before the adventure begins—this guide sets out the core principles and guidelines for all participants in The Outback. Follow these rules to help ensure that our world stays balanced, immersive, and fun for everyone.
Note: You must be an active member of the World Assembly residing in The Outback to participate in our roleplay. Learn how here. Policy updated 25 May 2025
1. Balance & Authenticity
Balanced Development: Your aim isn’t to amass the highest numbers. Whether you’re managing population, economy, or military strength, every strength should come with its own challenges. We value creative, well-rounded development over simply outdoing others numerically.
Authentic Realism: Technologies common in real life—like modern communication devices or standard transportation—are perfectly acceptable. For newer or experimental tech, you must provide a solid narrative reason for its presence. Occasional, slight advancements (up to about 5 years ahead of current real-world tech) can be allowed if they’re well justified and approved by our RP Guides.
Historical & Cultural Depth: Real-world religions, languages, or historically prominent names do not exist in The Outback. You’re welcome to draw inspiration from them out-of-character (OOC), but your in-character (IC) lore should remain original. Develop your nation’s history with realistic timelines. Whether it’s ancient innovations like early writing or modern industrial changes, your narrative should reflect gradual evolution, not sudden leaps. Remember that your nation’s current state is just the latest chapter in a long, evolving story. Historical events and relationships are integral parts of your nation’s identity.
2. The Absurdity Constraint
Keep your narrative grounded in plausible cause and effect. While imaginative storytelling is encouraged, truly absurd or inexplicable events should be avoided. This means:
Avoiding Overly Coincidental Events: Extraordinary coincidences or luck-driven outcomes need a clear narrative build-up.
No Unjustified Windfalls: Unlimited access to resources, wealth, or knowledge without a believable explanation disrupts our world’s balance.
Staying Clear of Nonsense: Random, gratuitous events that don’t serve a clear narrative purpose should be reined in.
If your storyline strays too far from these guidelines, our RP Guides have the authority to request adjustments.
3. Additional Realism Guidelines
Naming Conventions: Just as our world is full of unique cultures, so is The Outback. Avoid naming your nation, cities, or landmarks after famous real-world places. If you’re in doubt, reach out for suggestions or try a random name generator.
No Magic (As a Fact, mostly): While characters might regard certain events as miraculous, our world does not include magic as an established fact. Any “miraculous” occurrences should be treated as narrative mysteries, not confirmed powers. In very rare instances will a miraculous feat be deemed canon.
Distinguishing Fact from Folklore: Clearly separate historical events from legends or personal beliefs. If there’s a discrepancy between in-character lore and out-of-character facts, it should be acknowledged.
Physical Laws Apply: The basic laws of physics and common sense govern The Outback. They cannot be bent or broken for narrative convenience.
4. Your Nation’s Legacy
Avoid the temptation to cram all major events into the current timeline. Your nation has a long history—even if you’re only just starting to roleplay its present. Work with neighboring nations to craft shared histories and evolving relationships that add depth to your story.
5. Adjusting Borders
Border changes in The Outback come in three flavors:
IC Changes: These are gradual shifts resulting from diplomacy, conflict, or cultural evolution. They should emerge naturally from your ongoing narrative.
Minor OOC Adjustments: For clarity or aesthetic reasons, small tweaks to borders can be made. These adjustments don’t drastically change your nation’s size and must be approved by the Cartography Team.
Major OOC Revisions: Occasionally, large-scale adjustments are needed for balance or rebalancing the overall map. These are not initiated by a single nation but are decided by the Cartography Team and replace previous canon.
All changes require approval to ensure consistency and fairness.
6. Realistic Conflict & Diplomacy
The Complexity of War: Conflict is messy and full of consequences. A larger military or higher spending does not guarantee victory. Consider historical precedents and tactical realism - every win comes with costs.
Mediated Resolutions: If disputes escalate, designated Conflict Arbitrators may step in to help mediate and ensure that the resolution is fair and balanced for all involved.
7. Avoiding Common Tropes
No “Hidden” or “Lost” Nations: Every part of The Outback is populated. Regions not actively roleplayed are still inhabited; they just haven’t been brought into focus yet.
Realistic Isolationism: If your nation has been isolated for a period, expect that its development may lag behind global trends. Dramatic leaps in modernization should be explained with historical and cultural context.
Make Your Claim
Contact
Walkabout by telegram or in our 
Discord to claim your territory on the map.Need Assistance?
If you’re ever unsure about any aspect of your roleplay or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask one of our Roleplay Guides or Cartographer. They’re here to help you craft a balanced and engaging narrative.
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