(Personally I prefer mandatory post templates because I'm a hoe for aesthetics. I like when the templates match the skin. I can't really explain why - but it's just something I like.)

Now as far as my personal sites that I've run/staffed on: 9/10 times I ask that members use the options we have available in our "code vault". In addition, I do allow members to code their own templates as long as they don't break on-site and aren't illegible (like blinding colors or tiny ass font). I also ask members to reach out to me if they want a code that isn't available on site and I usually utilize a few different version of the BBC options for members.

My biggest reasons why I tend to not let people use post templates from other sources is as follows:

- The templates break on site and end up extending past the width of the forum, but they don't fix it??? They end up just leaving it broken and use it like normal and THAT JUST DRIVES ME CRAZYYYYY. I don't understand how can you leave it broken.

- The usual not changing the font colors/sizes to be legible on the current skin.

- But honestly the biggest reason for me is theft. I've ran into a couple issues where people were removing credits from templates other people have made. Some people would claim they coded it, even though you could tell they had no clue about coding. Other times they never outright claimed the templates as their own, but would ebb away when people tried to compliment them or ask for help etc.

Coders work hard!!! Leave their credit alone!!!

And because I don't want to fight with members on ensuring credit stays and so on, I usually do what I listed first! Lately I've been more lenient with allowing people to use off-site templates, code their own, OR use the templates available. But I've got my eyes WATCHING cause imma fight if someone steals something :SQUINT:

I am against both mandatory templates and on site only templates myself.

For me, mandatory templates can at times shut out those who are less coding savvy, prefer not to use time to find and customize a template or even mobile only users. Not to mention, there are people who prefer to keep the focus on their words rather than that fancy tag hover or the latest graphics on their character. I have met people of all categories and I must say, I understand their point of view. Therefore I am heavily against the mandatory templates rules with some exceptions being inventory, PCs and things that work in hand with a system since that would be apart of a site’s game. I can also understand application templates for organizational purposes, but to a lesser extent since application templates are not necessarily a requirement considering the natural format.

Now onto on-site only and my disdain for this. Perhaps I am a tad old fashion, but I consider players making and using templates a form of creative expression from the character maker. I have been doing this with my own characters and have worked hard to give each of my children their own template. The representation different templates can provide a character is stunning. There are times where this can communicate something deeper in my opinion. I have met people who make templates for their characters from scratch and I adore seeing them place so much work into their hobby. From customized lyrics, graphics, backgrounds and even font types, the possibilities are endless for one to represent their character in a different manner. Thus if the templates they pick are readable, then I want to see that expression of creativity.

Furthermore, for me, on-site only template use makes it feel like a uniform for myself. I come to role-play to express myself and my characters in a multitude of different ways, not to seemingly fit in a box. Please keep in mind I have never cared much for aesthetic. Sure, I will assure my templates are pretty and readable, but having a blue shaded template on a hot pink site would not make me bat an eye. To me, templates are kinda their own little world in that post image, so I am not bothered by colour clashes, unless it makes it unreadable.

Also, side note since I see people mentioning people being popular based on templates alone. If you pick to plot with someone because they have beautiful aesthetics, you are overturning some fantastic people with different definitions of beautiful. Some people who I have really enjoyed role-playing with have aesthetics I am on the fence about, but are wonderful people. They can too be creative, benevolent and tons of fun just like the aesthetically pleasing people. So open your horizons and view their applications too because you may make a new friend out of it. c:

This has been one of my infamous before bed rambles, so if I sound dumb, sorry.