The following is a collection of commonly asked questions, asked by members of Realms of Hyrule, and answers to those questions. If you are unsure of what to do once you register, read over these. You are also highly encouraged to review the Instruction Manual board on the forums.

Q: I just joined, and I have no idea what RoH is about.
A: Realms of Hyrule, or RoH, is a Zelda-based text-RPG. In a text RPG, instead of pressing buttons and watching the graphic designs on the screen, you "post," or type out and compose pieces of a story by "role-playing." In the words of TSA, the best way to describe role-playing is putting yourself into someone else's shoes. You create your character, make a background story, interact with other members' characters and go on adventures together. Adventures may include combating evil foes, exploring new lands, or just hanging out at the tavern – all navigated by your imagination. There are certain rules and limits to your imagination when interacting with others, but for the most part you are free to wield it how you wish. Role-playing and almost everything else on RoH happens on the forums. The Main site is mostly for large announcements, detailed information, player profiles, etc.

Q: What does "RP" mean?
A: RP is an abbreviation for "role-play," which is the bulk of what RoH is all about, as mentioned above. On RoH, this refers to someone typing out what his/her character does through posts in Hyrule.

Q: If I haven't ever played any Zelda games, can I still RP successfully here?
A: You *can* get by, but it helps significantly to have some background on the Zelda universe, as RoH is based upon it.

Q: Do I have to read everything in the Instruction Manual?
A: You do not *have* to read everything, or even anything in the Instruction Manual board. However, it is very strongly recommended. The rules of RoH are in this forum, and if you choose not to read them, you will very likely find yourself getting into trouble at every turn. Not knowing the rules is not an excuse for breaking them. Therefore the risk of not reviewing the proper instructions is left entirely up to you, but you have been warned.

Q: Does the name of my account have to match the name of my RP character?
A: It isn't necessary, but that is the standard by which most members go by, and it can make things easier to do so.

Q: Do I have to get training?
A: You are not required to seek training, but if you are new to role-playing, it is strongly recommended.

Q: My grammar's not very good. Is that okay?
A: We here at RoH prefer everyone to have decent grammar and spelling. It's much easier for others to understand you that way. However, nobody starts out with perfect grammar; just do the best you can. Your grammar should improve greatly as you continue to RP.

Q: I've posted, but my post count has not increased. Why?
A: First off, your post count will only increase when you post in one of the RP boards, for example North Palace, Town of Saria, etc. Posting anywhere else, such as Ye Ole Pub, your guild forum, or The Hero's Fountain, will not increase your post count. Second, your post in the RP must be at least 50 characters long, to prevent "Spam."

Q: Why RP? Isn't playing an RPG video game better?
A: While many think an MMORPG bests a text RPG, the text RPG does have its advantages. In this site, you are allowed to wield your imagination without suffering from the boundaries of the game's design – in other words, you can have your character do whatever you want – as long as the rules are kept. In video games, the plot is more or less given to you to find out. In RoH, you create your own plot, your own purpose for your character.

Once you grasp the concept you will realize just how enjoyable role-playing can be. Your imagination replaces all visuals, save for character avatars, and your creativity is allowed free reign. Compare RPing to a video game. Have you ever wished for more character customization than the game allowed? With RoH, your character looks the exact way you want them to, has the exact personality/fighting style you want them to, has the exact weapon(s) you want them to, etc. There’s a world of choices completely up to you, and that’s where RoH really shines.

Q: What is Spam?
A: Spam is considered anything considerably off-topic or pointless. For instance, a post in one of the RP boards that is extremely short or has nothing to do with your character's story is considered Spam. Also, a post anywhere else that does not contribute to the topic, makes no sense, or is otherwise devoid of purpose, is also Spam. Spamming is a serious offense, and can get you permanently removed from RoH if repeated.

Q: Am I allowed to make more than one account?
A: Yes, you are. Keep in mind, however, that you must still follow the double-posting rule. Read the Instruction Manual for more information.

Q: What is a PM?
A: PM stands for "Private Message," and is used to communicate personally with other members of the site by sending personal messages.

Q: I've seen a lot of members write "OoC" in their post. What does this mean?
A: OoC stands for "Out of Character," and, on RoH, is the phrase used for when a member designates that the following text is a message from they themselves in real life, not their RP character. In example:

"((OoC: Hey guys, sorry I took so long to post. Also, I hope my barging in isn't too unrealistic))."

Q: This whole thing sounds interesting, but I’m still not sure if I understand how to RP.
A: Read a few posts made by other members, then start trying to post yourself and you’ll get the hang of things before you know it.

Q: What is a Scribe, and how do I become one?
A: Scribes are simply the moderators, or "police," on RoH. They make sure that all members respect the rules and get along. They also are part of the Council that governs RoH and works towards making it better. If you have a question not answered in this FAQ or the Instruction Manual, you can send a PM to one of them for help. If you wish to help out by becoming one, and believe you have something to contribute, you may send a PM to Ryo with an application, and it will be considered in due time. Look in the Instruction Manual for more details.

Q: My question(s) weren't answered by this FAQ or the Instruction Manual. I PMed a Scribe, but haven't received a reply. What should I do?
A: There are a couple of choices. You can either, a) PM a different Scribe, or b) Present your question in the Courtyard. There are always members willing to lend new members a hand with their questions there.