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NETWORK ∞
Network ∞
Phones & the Forum
In the Diadem, your network device is a simple retro cell phone. Oddly, they're pretty common and Panorama has a ton of these brick-like phones for sale at a low cost. Maybe they just fall out of the diffusion zones a lot? Most can afford one and replacing it isn't a huge financial burden. Bonus: they're nigh indestructible.
You can loot phones in the diffusion zones, though avoid the ones covered in slime. Phones are charged using the port in your car or any outlet you find. The battery lasts a while so it's generally not something to worry about.
Each phone is connected to the Diadem's cell towers. It's also got a few unique apps to help you navigate this world. Reception is spotty in diffusion zones, but not absent. You might get two bars, you might get none. Your main public "Network" system is the Forum.
You can loot phones in the diffusion zones, though avoid the ones covered in slime. Phones are charged using the port in your car or any outlet you find. The battery lasts a while so it's generally not something to worry about.
Each phone is connected to the Diadem's cell towers. It's also got a few unique apps to help you navigate this world. Reception is spotty in diffusion zones, but not absent. You might get two bars, you might get none. Your main public "Network" system is the Forum.
Unless otherwise noted, players can dictate how much reception there is in diffusion zones as needed for threads. Feel free to cut a character off from the world for added tension.
Phones
Designs vary but are all low tech. The most "advanced" phones have a color screen and a full keyboard. Older models resemble (or are) a classic Nokia. While they can all technically access the same features, a very low-tech phone could hinder you: input lag, slower typing, inability to see color photos, etc.
Specific brands like Blackberry can be found, but random off-brand phones are also around. You can get a case or hang little charms if you're feeling cute. Each phone has the same main apps and access. You get a classic 7-digit number with a SIM card. (Generate a 7-digit number here.)
You can save numbers as contacts. You can't mask the number associated with a SIM card but you can swap SIM cards to be "anonymous." Additional cards cost extra. Ringtones are the default selection. No music app. To play music, use your car instead. You can also buy or find tape decks or radios, Walkmans, and old CD players.
Specific brands like Blackberry can be found, but random off-brand phones are also around. You can get a case or hang little charms if you're feeling cute. Each phone has the same main apps and access. You get a classic 7-digit number with a SIM card. (Generate a 7-digit number here.)
You can save numbers as contacts. You can't mask the number associated with a SIM card but you can swap SIM cards to be "anonymous." Additional cards cost extra. Ringtones are the default selection. No music app. To play music, use your car instead. You can also buy or find tape decks or radios, Walkmans, and old CD players.
Apps & Features
Camera
Photos aren't great quality but you can snap a picture. Storage is limited. You can keep a few dozen before you run out of space. No video. Photos only.
Calls & Text
Works like any basic phone. You've got unlimited texts and minutes. If a text gets too long, your message will automatically split into parts. Group texts, or "chats," are possible. Old AOL-style emoticons are available. You can leave short voicemails.
Games
Older phones might only have a single game like Snake. Better phones will let you play solitaire, poker, or backgammon. Games are pretty basic, but they'll keep you entertained if you're bored on the road.
Inbox Code ::: ⇅
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The Forum
The Forum is a very 2000s-style message board that appears in your phone's menu. This is your typical "Network." Posts are displayed from newest to oldest. Posts you make are linked to your phone number. No need to create a username or account. You can upload a couple of photos under a certain size, but audio and video are not possible.
The Forum is fully public. Anybody who goes onto these boards can see what you post, including other fluxdrifts and flux-born. Use it only if you're willing to make an announcement where the entirety of the Diadem can view it. Since cell phones are basic and because the majority are hustling, surviving, or aren't in a zone with stable reception, interactions with NPCs, whether named or generic, are rare...but they might happen on the mod side now and then.
In short: the Forum is functional but not ideal for regular extended communication. It's best used for announcing major world events, soliciting information, or an open call for help. You can also sell something or offer your services. Don't attract the wrong kind of attention.
The Forum is fully public. Anybody who goes onto these boards can see what you post, including other fluxdrifts and flux-born. Use it only if you're willing to make an announcement where the entirety of the Diadem can view it. Since cell phones are basic and because the majority are hustling, surviving, or aren't in a zone with stable reception, interactions with NPCs, whether named or generic, are rare...but they might happen on the mod side now and then.
In short: the Forum is functional but not ideal for regular extended communication. It's best used for announcing major world events, soliciting information, or an open call for help. You can also sell something or offer your services. Don't attract the wrong kind of attention.
Characters can't "lock" threads. Switch to regular texting to continue a conversation in private. (As players, you can keep replying to the same thread/post. Just make a note in the subject line.)
Feel free to assume the occasional reply from NPC randoms, but keep it in the background. The Forum isn't a hopping social media hub.
Feel free to assume the occasional reply from NPC randoms, but keep it in the background. The Forum isn't a hopping social media hub.