📘 Learn

Rules and essential knowledge for Arma 3 players

Last updated: August 2025

📜 Rules

These rules are consolidated from various Arma 3 communities, including milsim groups and casual playstyle groups. Adhering to these rules ensures a fun and respectful environment for everyone.

  • Respect: Treat all players with respect, regardless of their skill level or playstyle.
  • No Cheating: Cheating, exploiting, or using unauthorized mods is strictly prohibited.
  • Follow Chain of Command: In milsim scenarios, respect the chain of command and follow orders from your squad leader or commander.
  • Communication: Use clear and concise communication. Avoid unnecessary chatter during critical moments.
  • Teamwork: Arma 3 is a team-based game. Work together to achieve mission objectives.
  • Role Responsibility: Play your assigned role effectively and responsibly. If you are unsure about your role, ask for guidance.
  • Be Prepared: Ensure you have the required mods, maps, and equipment before joining a mission.
  • No Griefing: Do not intentionally disrupt gameplay or sabotage your team.
  • Realism: In milsim scenarios, maintain a realistic approach to gameplay. Avoid unnecessary actions that break immersion.
  • Have Fun: While rules are important, remember to enjoy the game and create a positive experience for everyone.

🎮 Arma Basics

New to Arma 3? Here are some essential tips and knowledge to help you get started.

Formations

  • Column: Used for moving through narrow areas or when expecting contact from the front.
  • Line: Used for engaging enemies directly ahead. Provides maximum firepower to the front.
  • Wedge: A flexible formation that allows for good all-around security and firepower.
  • File: A single-file line, often used in dense terrain like forests.

Player Lingo

  • AO: Area of Operations
  • RTB: Return to Base
  • ROE: Rules of Engagement
  • CAS: Close Air Support
  • FOB: Forward Operating Base

Common ACE Key Bindings

  • Interaction Menu: Windows key (default)
  • Self-Interaction Menu: Ctrl + Windows key (default)
  • Medical Menu: Open via interaction menu
  • Quick Bandage: Use the interaction menu on yourself or others

ACE Medical System

The ACE medical system adds realism to treating injuries in Arma 3. Here are the basics:

  • Bandages: Used to stop bleeding. Different types are effective for different wounds.
  • Tourniquets: Temporarily stop bleeding on limbs. Must be removed after treatment.
  • Medications: Morphine for pain, epinephrine to revive unconscious players.
  • CPR: Used to stabilize a player until further treatment is available.

Roles and Their Purpose

  • Squad Leader: Commands the squad and coordinates with other units.
  • Medic: Provides medical support to injured players.
  • Rifleman: The backbone of the squad, providing general-purpose firepower.
  • Marksman: Engages targets at longer ranges with precision.
  • Machine Gunner: Provides suppressive fire to support the squad.
  • AT Specialist: Engages enemy vehicles with anti-tank weapons.
  • Pilot: Transports troops and provides air support.

⚕️ Advanced Medical System

The ACE Medical system in Arma 3 is a highly realistic, modular simulation of battlefield injuries, trauma, and medical care that surpasses the vanilla Arma 3 health system. It features complex wound management, vital monitoring, advanced medications, and customizable severity for a challenging, teamwork-based player experience, in both co-op and PvP modes.

Injury and Trauma System

  • Localized damage: Body parts (limbs, head, torso) can be injured separately, causing fractures, limping, unstable weapon control, and unconsciousness.
  • Types of wounds: Includes abrasions, velocity wounds, avulsions, punctures, lacerations, crush injuries. Each type has specific bleeding rates and risks of wound reopening.
  • Bleeding: Wounds bleed until properly treated (bandages, tourniquet). Severe/multiple wounds can quickly result in cardiac arrest due to blood loss.
  • Fractures: Broken arms affect weapon aim and sway; broken legs cause limping or crawling. Splints help but only full medical treatment (PAK or surgical kit) can heal fractures based on settings.

Patient Vitals and States

  • Blood Pressure & Heart Rate: Blood volume, heart rate, and blood pressure are tracked per patient. Injury and drugs greatly affect these stats.
  • Pain: Comes from wounds, fractures, and some treatments. Too much pain causes unconsciousness. Morphine suppresses pain, but overdose risks cardiac arrest.
  • Consciousness: Severe blood loss, pain, or cardiac arrest results in unconsciousness. Can be reversed with proper stabilization, but prolonged instability is fatal.
  • Chance of Recovery: Configurable periodic check (every 15s) allows for spontaneous recovery if patient is stabilized—modifier via epinephrine.

Medical Interventions

  • Bandages: Several types (Field, Packing, Elastic, Quickclot), each with unique effectiveness and wound reopening rates.
  • Tourniquet: Temporarily stops bleeding on limb injuries for quick stabilization.
  • IV Fluids/Blood: Apply saline, plasma, or blood. Blood restores actual loss; saline helps only with pressure.
  • Medications:
    • Morphine: Reduces pain, lowers blood pressure (overdose risky).
    • Epinephrine: Raises heart rate, boosts chance to regain consciousness.
    • Atropine/Adenosine: Specialized heart rate management medications.
  • CPR: Maintains life during cardiac arrest, but does not restore consciousness alone—requires stabilization and epinephrine.
  • Surgical Kit: Used by medics to stitch wounds for permanent closure. Use restrictions often apply.
  • Personal Aid Kit (PAK): Fully restores the patient after stabilization—typically limited to specific locations/conditions.

Customization and Settings

  • Server admins can configure: death/unconsciousness thresholds, wound reopening, advanced/basic procedures, equipment access, treatment location rules, and more.
  • Presets: Common options range from arcade-style to full realism—restricting self-aid, increasing fracture risk, and simulating dangerous wound reopening.

Feedback and User Interface

  • Visual feedback simulates pain and injury: screen flashes, blurring, color fading, and more.
  • Medical menus in the ACE interaction/self-action menu allow rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Advanced Gameplay Implications

  • Teamwork is essential: Multiple roles required — CLS (combat lifesaver) for urgent care, trained medic for advanced help like IVs and surgery.
  • Every mission is unique: Leaders and admins design custom medical environments — from casual to hyper-realistic milsim.
  • Realistic challenges: Triage under fire, patient evacuation, resource/medical supply management, and role specialization are core parts of gameplay with ACE Medical.

The ACE Medical system transforms Arma 3 with injury, stabilization, and recovery as central, team-driven mechanics—demanding coordination and real-world inspired medical knowledge for mission success.

⚙️ System Functions

ArmaPlanner provides a comprehensive mission management system with powerful features for organizing operations, managing roles, and coordinating with your team. Here's how to use all the system functions effectively.

Mission Management

📋 Creating Missions

  • Access Required: You need "Mission Maker" permissions or Admin role to create missions.
  • Draft Mode: New missions start as drafts, only visible to you and admins.
  • Publishing: Change status to "Published" to make missions visible to all players.
  • Mission Categories: Choose from Infantry, Mechanized, Armor, Aviation, Special Operations, Training, or Custom categories.
  • Mission Badges: Use badges to communicate special requirements like "No Respawn," "Medical System," or "Zeus Moderated."

🖼️ Mission Images and Modpacks

  • Mission Images: Upload .jpg, .jpeg, or .png files up to 5MB to showcase your mission.
  • Modpack Files: Upload .html files exported from Arma 3 Launcher (up to 5MB).
  • Modpack Export Guide: Open Arma 3 Launcher → Mods tab → Select mods → Export → Export HTML.
  • Download Access: Players can download modpacks directly from the mission details page.

📄 Intel Documents

  • Intel Types: Create Briefing, Orders, Maps, Photos, Reports, or Reference documents.
  • Classification Levels: Mark documents as classified for sensitive information.
  • Priority System: Set priority levels to organize intel by importance.
  • File Attachments: Upload supporting files (.jpg, .png, .pdf, .doc, .docx, .txt, .md up to 10MB each).
  • Collaborative Comments: Team members can discuss intel documents with threaded comments.

Role System

🎖️ Creating and Managing Roles

  • Role Creation: Mission creators can add roles with specific names, descriptions, and requirements.
  • Slot Management: Set maximum slots per role (1-20 players).
  • Rank Requirements: Specify required ranks or experience levels for specialized roles.
  • Required Roles: Mark critical roles as "required" for mission execution.
  • Auto-Accept: Enable auto-approval for general roles like "Rifleman" to speed up the process.

📝 Application Process

  • Applying for Roles: Click "Apply" on any available role in the mission details.
  • Application Notes: Include additional information about your experience or preferences.
  • Status Tracking: Applications can be Pending, Approved, Rejected, or Withdrawn.
  • One Role Rule: Players can only have one approved role per mission.
  • Auto-Withdrawal: When you're approved for one role, other pending applications are automatically withdrawn.

✅ Application Management (Mission Creators)

  • Approval Queue: View all pending applications in the mission sidebar.
  • Quick Actions: Approve or reject applications with one click.
  • Capacity Management: System prevents over-booking roles and shows real-time slot availability.
  • Player Information: View applicant's Steam profile and application history.
  • Response Notes: Add feedback when approving or rejecting applications.

User Account Features

🔐 Authentication

  • Steam Login: Sign in using your Steam account for seamless integration.
  • Automatic Profile: Your Steam display name and avatar are automatically imported.
  • Role Persistence: Your role applications and approvals are tracked across sessions.
  • Secure Access: Role-based permissions ensure players can only access appropriate functions.

👥 Community Features

  • Mission Comments: Participate in mission discussions with threaded comments.
  • Player Recognition: View other players' Steam profiles and mission history.
  • Activity Tracking: See your application history and mission participation.
  • Avatar Display: Your Steam avatar appears throughout the system for easy identification.

System Workflow Guide

🔄 For Mission Creators

  1. Create Mission: Use the "Create Mission" button to start a new operation.
  2. Add Details: Fill in mission name, description, map, player count, and scheduling information.
  3. Set Categories: Choose appropriate category and badges to help players understand mission type.
  4. Upload Assets: Add mission image and modpack file for player preparation.
  5. Create Roles: Define all necessary roles with descriptions and requirements.
  6. Add Intel: Create briefing documents, maps, and reference materials.
  7. Publish Mission: Change status from "Draft" to "Published" when ready for applications.
  8. Manage Applications: Review and respond to role applications as they come in.
  9. Monitor Progress: Use the operations timeline to track mission status and milestones.

👤 For Players

  1. Browse Missions: View available missions on the main missions page.
  2. Review Details: Read mission briefing, check requirements, and download modpack.
  3. Study Intel: Review intelligence documents and mission materials.
  4. Apply for Role: Choose a suitable role and submit your application with notes.
  5. Track Status: Monitor your application status in the mission details.
  6. Prepare Equipment: Download and configure modpack using Arma 3 Launcher.
  7. Stay Engaged: Participate in mission comments and discussions.
  8. Withdraw if Needed: Use the withdraw button if you can no longer participate.

Tips and Best Practices

💡 For Mission Creators

  • Clear Descriptions: Write detailed role descriptions so players know exactly what's expected.
  • Realistic Slot Counts: Don't over-populate missions; quality over quantity for better gameplay.
  • Use Auto-Accept Wisely: Enable auto-accept for basic roles to reduce administrative overhead.
  • Organize Intel: Use priority levels and clear titles to help players find important information quickly.
  • Regular Updates: Keep mission status updated as planning progresses.
  • Respond Promptly: Process role applications quickly to maintain player engagement.

🎯 For Players

  • Read Everything: Review all mission details and intel before applying for roles.
  • Apply Early: Popular roles fill up quickly; apply as soon as missions are published.
  • Be Realistic: Apply for roles that match your experience and available time.
  • Check Requirements: Ensure you meet any rank or experience requirements before applying.
  • Prepare in Advance: Download modpacks early and test your setup before mission day.
  • Communicate Issues: If you need to withdraw, do so as early as possible to give others a chance.
  • Stay Active: Participate in mission comments to show engagement and ask questions.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

🔧 Common Problems and Solutions

  • "Apply" button not available: Role may be full, you may already have an approved role, or you may have an active application.
  • Can't see my mission: Ensure mission status is set to "Published" - drafts are only visible to creators and admins.
  • Modpack won't download: Check file permissions and browser settings; try refreshing the page.
  • Can't upload files: Verify file size limits (5MB for images/modpacks, 10MB for intel files) and file type restrictions.
  • Missing application notifications: Applications require manual review unless auto-accept is enabled for the role.
  • Role capacity confusion: Numbers show approved applications vs. maximum slots; pending applications don't count toward capacity.

📞 Getting Help

  • Mission Comments: Ask questions directly on mission pages for context-specific help.
  • Admin Contact: Reach out to administrators for technical issues or permission problems.
  • Community Support: Connect with experienced players for gameplay and tactical advice.
  • Steam Integration: Ensure your Steam account is public and properly linked for best experience.
💡 Pro Tip: The system is designed to facilitate realistic military simulation. Take advantage of all features—detailed role applications, comprehensive intel documents, and structured communication—to create immersive and well-organized operations that enhance the Arma 3 experience for everyone involved.

🏅 Awards System

The ArmaPlanner awards system recognizes exceptional performance, teamwork, and dedication in Arma 3 missions. Mission designers can award players with various medals and commendations based on their actions and achievements during operations.

Combat Awards

🎖️ Valor Awards

  • Medal of Honor: Awarded for extraordinary acts of heroism and valor in combat, often involving significant personal risk to save others.
  • Distinguished Service Cross: Recognizes exceptional courage and leadership under enemy fire.
  • Silver Star: Given for gallantry in action against an enemy of exceptional merit.
  • Bronze Star: Awarded for heroic or meritorious achievement in a combat zone.
  • Combat Action Ribbon: Recognizes direct participation in ground or air combat.

🎯 Marksmanship Awards

  • Sniper Excellence Badge: Awarded for exceptional long-range marksmanship and successful elimination of high-value targets.
  • Marksman Ribbon: Recognizes superior shooting skills and accuracy in combat situations.
  • Expert Rifleman Badge: Given for consistently accurate fire and weapon proficiency.

🚁 Aviation Awards

  • Distinguished Flying Cross: Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.
  • Air Medal: Recognizes meritorious achievement while participating in aerial operations.
  • Aircrew Wings: Basic qualification badge for pilots and aircrew members.
  • Combat Pilot Badge: Awarded to pilots who have flown combat missions under enemy fire.

Service and Achievement Awards

👥 Leadership Awards

  • Meritorious Service Medal: Recognizes outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service.
  • Leadership Excellence Ribbon: Awarded to squad leaders and commanders who demonstrate exceptional leadership skills.
  • Commendation Medal: Given for sustained acts of heroism or meritorious service.

⚕️ Medical Service Awards

  • Combat Medical Badge: Awarded to medics who provide medical aid under enemy fire.
  • Lifesaver Award: Recognizes medics who have successfully saved lives during critical situations.
  • Medical Service Ribbon: Given for exemplary medical service and patient care.

🔧 Support Awards

  • Logistics Excellence Medal: Awarded for outstanding supply and logistics support.
  • Engineer Achievement Ribbon: Recognizes exceptional engineering and demolition work.
  • Communications Medal: Given for maintaining critical communications under adverse conditions.

Special Recognition Awards

🌟 Mission-Specific Awards

  • Mission Completion Medal: Awarded to all personnel who successfully complete a mission.
  • Objective Secured Ribbon: Given for successfully capturing or defending key objectives.
  • Rescue Operation Medal: Recognizes participation in successful rescue missions.
  • Special Operations Ribbon: Awarded for participation in covert or special operations.

🤝 Teamwork Awards

  • Unit Citation: Awarded to entire units for exceptional performance in combat.
  • Team Player Ribbon: Recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate excellent teamwork.
  • Coordination Excellence Medal: Given for outstanding inter-unit coordination and cooperation.

🎖️ Long Service Awards

  • Veteran Service Medal: Awarded after participating in multiple successful missions.
  • Campaign Ribbon: Given for participation in extended military campaigns.
  • Service Anniversary Medal: Recognizes long-term dedication and service to the unit.

Award Criteria and Guidelines

📋 Nomination Process

  • Mission Designer Authority: Mission creators have the authority to award medals during or after missions.
  • Peer Nominations: Players can nominate teammates for awards, subject to mission designer approval.
  • Command Recommendations: Squad leaders can recommend subordinates for recognition.
  • Self-Reporting: Players may report their own achievements for consideration (discouraged for valor awards).

📊 Award Tracking

  • Digital Record: All awards are tracked in the ArmaPlanner system with mission details and dates.
  • Award Stacking: Multiple awards of the same type may result in upgraded recognition or additional ribbons.
  • Mission Integration: Awards are automatically linked to specific mission records for historical reference.

⚖️ Award Standards

  • Merit-Based: Awards should be based on actual performance and achievement, not favoritism.
  • Timely Recognition: Awards should be presented promptly after the qualifying action or mission.
  • Appropriate Level: The significance of the award should match the level of achievement or sacrifice.
  • Documentation: All awards require brief documentation of the qualifying actions or service.

Award Display and Benefits

🎖️ Player Profile Integration

  • Award Gallery: Players can display their earned awards on their profile pages.
  • Ribbon Rack: Military-style ribbon display showing all earned decorations.
  • Achievement Timeline: Chronological display of awards with mission context.

🏆 Recognition Benefits

  • Community Recognition: Awards are visible to other players and mission designers.
  • Role Priority: Decorated players may receive preference for specialized roles in future missions.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Award recipients may be considered for squad leader positions.
  • Mission Access: Some elite missions may require specific awards for participation.
Mission Designer Note: Awards should enhance the gaming experience and encourage positive behaviors like teamwork, tactical thinking, and role-playing. Use them to recognize genuine achievements and foster a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie within your player community.