Can I create custom abilities/powers/traits?

You're free to suggest them, but it's overall a no for having them in character creation. What's in the system is what's usable for everyone. We encourage members to explore their options and check out different combinations before committing to anything. :)

So every power is pre-made? How do I customize my character, then?

PACT's systems are made with modularity in mind. This means that customization comes from your combining of what's in the system, as there are a nigh-uncountable number of combinations.

Can I kill other OCs? Do I need their permission, or does IC reason count?

We operate on a permission-to-kill system for players. Outside of that, actions will of course have their IC consequences.

Can I expect to die in a GM run event? How difficult are events from a game perspective?

It would depend on the kind of event. Expect GMs to warn appropriately regarding danger - but in any case, approach every event with caution. It's better to overprepare and be a little too wary than caught offguard. 

Can I be in [x] leadership position in the USSO? If not, how do I earn it?

Initially, no. Characters won't immediately be allowed to be in a position where they have direct reports. Promotion opportunities and the like will come organically through RP and interacting with the world of PACT.

What if I realize that I hate the trait I picked? Archetype? Covenant? Patron? Stats?

We urge players to be sure when picking out their Character components. In the case that there are major balance changes or patches for these components, respecs may be allocated on a case-by-case basis.

Can I submit a character without [x]? How long do approvals usually take?

If it's indicated on the template, it has to be there for your character to be reviewed and approved. Approvals are done by our dear staff team and can vary based on schedules. We'll try to get back with feedback as soon as possible, but it might take a day or two during particularly busy times. We appreciate your patience!

What do supernatural encounters look like, how much are lethal, and are there good ones? How commonplace is the supernatural in general?

Supernatural occurrences are generally an "open secret" across the world of PACT, hence the passing of the Threat Protection Act in this world's US. They appear enough for the general populace to be aware, but that doesn't mean that you won't run into deniers or nonbelievers. They're more common in certain locations, the most relevant one in the setting being NEW SALEM. They come in all sorts of flavors as well, and while there can be good ones, it's usually safer to err on the side of keeping them contained for study.

If 1930s, how's the great depression going? Can I be someone fleeing the Nazis later on? Can I be ultra mega racist?

Although we are adapting the setting from the 1930s, expect some deviations from actual history in the interest of both plot and function. We want the focus to be on the supernatural happenings around New Salem, so while events like WW2 and the like MIGHT happen, they also just as likely might not. Humanity has been given a common enemy in the occult, weird, and supernatural, so expect much of the paranoia and conflict to happen around that.

Also, no. While discrimination IRP will definitely remain, albeit toned down because of the aforementioned occult happenings, you can't use the setting as an excuse to be ultra mega giga racist OOC. Please don't try.

I'm a wizard and I realized that guns are awesome, how do I buy one IRP?

Being a USSO Operative, yes, you can have access to a firearm if you so wish, especially when creating a character with a field position. It'll still work with the same basic attack rules.

What is the general technology level of this alternate 1930s world? Can my character have like an automaton arm? 

Assume no internet, cellphones, or anything information age. While you WILL have pagers and the like, we'll generally be on the lower-tech side of things - but keep an eye out for alternative/occult tech possibilities! If unsure, feel free to consult a GM.

... But yes. You can have a basic automaton arm.