Customization is part and parcel of Aberrant. Storytellers are encouraged to customize their games as they see fit. While our cooperative nature allows us to internalize some informal customization, some of it has to happen mechanically.

I propose the following system to introduce customization:

• A player with an idea* presents it to the 200x Group as a whole. This idea must include system and mechanics.
• The Group tears into it and makes suggestions to improve it. The player does not have to accept these suggestions, but in this environment, this may be seen as a lack of willingness to work with the Group. There is a fine balance between maintaining your vision as a player and conceding to the Group’s goals and desires.
• Once a majority of the group can agree on the idea, it is approved. Because the moderators are part of the Group, there is not a separate vote for their input; they will give it with the rest of the Group.
• The idea now belongs to the Group, though the player will get the credit for the formation of the idea.
• Before the Group can begin to utilize the idea, it must be posted on a list of changes and enhancements. This list will be updated with each new idea, and will keep new and old players updated on the unique ideas created for the 200x Group.

*Idea – any change to the mechanics of the 200x Group

I take it we would have 1 thread specifically for recording approved Ideas, while each new idea would be presented in its own individual thread here in the General 200X forum?
If so, then I'll second this proposal.

Yes, each idea would have its own thread, and we'll have a collection thread with all approved ideas. And maybe note the dismissed ideas, too, so that newcomers don't get frustrated trying to get them approved again.

Oh... I'm all about customization.

This idea makes me happy.

Not real pleased to see this because the attempts at customization I usually seem to fall into the catagory of "I want MORE" rather than "I want interesting."

Then vote that shit 'NO', hommes. I'll vote it down like a raise for schoolteachers if I think it's twinkish.

I'm a big fan of customizing things, but I could not agree with you more Craig. People generally, when adding something to customize a character always do it either one of two ways.

1. They get something really fucking cool and awesome or powerful with no drawbacks that 'fits their theme'.

OR

2. They get something unique and interesting for free or for tack on a cost that's next to nothing so they can say it's at least been paid for that's why it has no drawbacks.

Most of us have been doing this gaming shit for years and should know what's cheese, what's ignorant, and what has potential to be great. The problem most frequently run into in this place is the phrase:

"it just doesn't fit the theme of aberrant in my opinion."

Translated...

"It doesn't fit MY theme of aberrant in my opinion."

Sometimes people want unique and interesting and a break from the norm. Sometimes some people deserve a cool little break from tradition or 'core' rules. Specializing in an area of power or a particular ability, or hell just having a power that's as aberrated as you are and doesn't work within the lines of 'the norm' are all within the general themes of aberrant. Novas evolve, why not their powers?

Point is, it's up to us to police each other and not let something that has merit get out of hand. As a ST who has never followed the rules I've become quite skilled at customizing every game I've played. Like Seph, the moment something questionable was tossed on the forum I'd be all over it.

Hence why I proposed a majority vote rather than 2018's policy of getting at least 5 people to support you. Here, most of the players have to agree that your idea isn't theme-breaking and serves a benefit to the Group.