Yes. We DO enforce the 'Step Back Rule' or as you may hear around this game the 'Vocalize Rule'.
What exactly is this rule?
When taking damage, the Vocalize Rule takes effect. In short the Rule means: when a player (PC or NPC) is hit with any damage that player must make an appropriate noise and stop forward momentum as though being hit with a real weapon in medieval combat. The player must also take a step back.
Why is this rule enforced?
We enforce this rule for a few reasons, the most important being safety. Watching a player continue to run into another player who is wildly swinging a weapon does not usually end well, having this rule helps cut down on injuries. It also adds to the whole 'realness' of the fight. Acting out damage by yelling out in pain when you take a hit to the arm and staggering back looks much more exciting then shrugging off a debilitating wound and continuing forward.
We require all players to follow this rule and will be closely watched. Points will be awarded to players who go above and beyond the call of duty when acting out damage. These points will go toward the 'Role-playing build' that players will receive if the role-playing requirements are met.
NOTE: This rule is in place for SAFETY and not to be used for a players combat advantage. If players are found to be 'corralling' NPCs, they will be spoken to.