[@The Harbinger of Ferocity] I think we're on similar wavelengths. I agree, it's critical GMs know who the characters are and how compatible they will be with the roleplay before they accept or decline them. That goes hand-in-hand with player-GM communication, another important and related topic. Somewhere down the line, before the character is accepted, there has to be dialogue between both parties to affirm expectations about the roleplay and how characters will fit within it. I'd say that communication in itself is an indicator of a player's dedication to their craft and their respect for the GM's work.

	It can be said that in accepting a character, you're also accepting their roleplayer. Quality control is an issue in any roleplay that takes itself seriously. I'm coming at this from a 'literary' perspective, you could say. So as much as I understand the length and detail of a character sheet is a sign of quality and dedication to some, I'm not interested in any details that don't pertain to the plot or the character's role in the plot. Speaking for myself, I tend to be concise and to-the-point in my prose. I omit superfluous details, leaving enough to give the reader a sense of setting, mood and action, but not drowning in 'purple prose.' I think character sheets ought to be treated the same way.

	Rather than eliminating the character sheet entirely, maybe all that's needed are amendments to give the reader and GM enough information about both the character and the player's writing ability. Something like a name, the barest of physical descriptions, an overview of his 'role' in the roleplay and a writing sample.

	I acknowledge this is more or less a roleplaying wet dream and character sheets aren't going anywhere soon. But even if it encourages one budding GM or player to approach the hobby in a different way, I'll be satisfied.