Factions

A faction packages mentorship, perks, chains, and expectations together. The right one saves months. The wrong one burns you out or puts your API key in the wrong hands.

Where to look

In-game applications
Torn forums and reputable Discords
Referrals from players who actually help new accounts

Green flags

Clear rules and patient answers to basic questions
A place for newbie help separate from war spam
Honest talk about dues and API key needs
Accepts Limited keys when Limited is enough

Red flags

Full API key demanded with no explanation
Bots that play the game for you
Unexplained taxes or harassment
Throwing you into wars you cannot survive, then blaming you

Being a good recruit

Show up where they organize, say when you will be offline, hit when called, and ask questions in the right channel. Small steady activity still helps. More on keys: API keys & scripts.