Crystals and Reputation points

As of 7.27.2012, we are starting these systems to encourage user participation and offer rewards for those who participate regularly and in a positive and constructive manner. Please note that you don't have to contribute game content to be included in these systems. Simply chatting, and being friendly can earn you crystals and reputation.

Crystals
Crystals are awarded based on your contributions to the forums. This number is only affected by you and your contributions. You will receive a certain number of points for posting, but points will also be awarded by administrators for very good posts, attending virtual events, or other outstanding community or game contribution. Please note we can also DEDUCT points for rude and/or unpleasant behavior.
Every 100 crystals are worth 1 shop credit (in the future).

On occasion, and as time allows for prizes, we will have raffles, auctions, and other sales sort of activities for real world items, in-game contributions, etc where your money is your crystals. Each event will vary (: once you've spent crystals that amount will be deducted from your total.

Reputation
Reputation points are awarded or taken away by members. This is a cautionary message: misuse of this system will lead to it's removal. Please only issue reputation for exceptionally good or bad posts. Do not use this as a way of punishing posters. Instead, use the report button link at the top of every post.
Every 10 reputation points is worth 1 shop credit.

In addition to point -> credit conversion, the top 5 in each category upon time of release (not including active developers), will be awarded a full version of the game along with a membership to premium content.

If we find that people are abusing either of these systems for their own benefit, or to intentionally harm other players', they will be removed. If at any time, either of these systems are removed, any fairly earned credits will still be awarded.

Please note that we reserve the right to change the point to credit ratio at any time or remove either of these systems all together. We will be sure to update you here in that event. Furthermore, any individual who qualifies for shop credits or a membership or game who the administration finds undeserving of any of these items will not receive their award. However, this action will only be taken as a severe penalty in extreme circumstances.

Sounds awesome!
Maybe you should specify a little more what shop credits can buy?
Also (just curious) who are considered active developers?

Active developers are people who area actively creating content at the time of release. Basically, people who have made a significant impact on the game and its development. Depending on the person, we will also award the game + membership to other important individuals in the community and past development.

Shop credits can buy you minor advantages in the game as well as prestige items. For example shop exclusive clothing items, soul bound single use items (health etc), Hunter Bracer upgrades, stuff like that. Things that make your life easier, but don't really break the game for everyone else. You'll also be able to buy faux-memberships with shop credits. Probably in intervals as small as a few hours. These allow you access only to the extra crystals so that when you know you're going to be hunting or raiding, you have a small advantage.

Membership comes with several perks such as a few very high level areas, extra crystal health locations accessible only by members (for health regeneration and monster storage), clothing, that sort of stuff.

Updated some info about crystals.

This system is looking nice, now we just need people to use it.
If you like somebody's post, upvote it.
If it's helpful info, upvote it.
If it's spam or negative comments, downvote it.
If it's critique or is otherwise within the rules, even if you disagree with it, leave it alone.
This system is not meant to be a popularity contest or a favorites tool.
-TheGood