Star Trek PBEM (Play by Email)
PBEM (Play by Email) is collaborative storytelling where you write Star Trek missions via email. No downloads, no fees, no pressure—just creative writing and exploration. For the canonical overview, visit the Star Trek PBEM hub.
What is PBEM?
In a Play by Email (PBEM) game, you write your character's actions and dialogue in response to mission scenarios. Your posts are compiled with other players' posts into a collaborative story—like a Star Trek episode written by the crew.
At Star Trek: Freedom, we've been running PBEM games since 1997. Our format is simple:
- You receive mission briefings via email
- You write your character's response (a few paragraphs to a few pages)
- Your posts are compiled with the crew's posts into a mission log
- You read the compiled story and continue the adventure
How Star Trek: Freedom Does PBEM
Our PBEM format is designed to be beginner-friendly and flexible:
Low Pressure Mode
Most players post 2-3 times per week, but we're flexible. Post when you can—we understand real life comes first. Casual posting is okay. No guilt, no pressure.
Formatting
Write in plain text or simple HTML. No special software required—just email or our web interface.
Collaboration
Work with your crew to solve problems, explore new worlds, and tell stories together. Every mission is a team effort.
Leave of Absence (LOA) is Normal
Need to step away? LOA is normal and encouraged. Life happens—work, family, health, travel. Just let us know, and your character will be waiting when you return.
Returning Member Friendly
Been away? We welcome returning members back. Your character and history are preserved—just pick up where you left off.
PBEM Sample Writing
Here's what PBEM writing looks like at Star Trek: Freedom:
"Ravok boarded the Leonardo. After placing his bat'leth behind his chair he took a seat at the helm controls."
"Being in the middle of the populace of the safehouse brought back the emotional tenor of the people here with a vengeance and Riven had to withdraw from it till it was at a manageable level."
These are individual posts in collaborative scenes—missions are written by multiple players working together to tell a story.
Ready to Start Your PBEM Adventure?
Join Star Trek: Freedom and start writing your first mission today. No experience required—we'll guide you every step of the way.