This reminds me of the old applications. I think it’s a step in the right direction and it tasks applicants with showing some of their role-playing skills. As I for one know that beginner role-players are welcome to the server, however it’s good practice for the real deal. I remember when I first created my application, it got denied quite a few times (I think 4 to be exact.) this helped strengthen my ability to write and ultimately made me into a better role-player. I think this new reform to the application process will strengthen LOTC as a community and a natural selection will occur. This helps weed out those who aren’t dedicated to the craft of stepping into someone else’s shoes and becoming somebody else for a while.
