The players set the agenda - literally. To play, players let the DM know what they want to do, and also look at when they are available to play. The DM does not schedule sessions.
"Hmm, I really want to explore the Caves of Eternal Sorrow. Hey, [name] and [name], want to come with? We could play next Tuesday evening, if the DM is available. I'll let him know."
No regular parties - every session aims to be a contained one-shot of sorts, with all players sharing the same world. Your session begins and ends at home base. You might be on an adventure with [name 1] one time, and [name 2] the next.
Sharing your knowledge - Players keep logs and make maps, so this can be used by other players.
"I see that the expedition into the Caves of Eternal Sorrow went three levels deep, but there was another level they didn't have the supplies for. [Name] and [name], want to go there next time?"
No plot in the traditional sense. Your characters will have goals and personalities, and the world will be as alive as possible. From that, 'stories' can emerge, but there's no 'you are the chosen ones!' narratives.
Exploration is dangerous. The world is hostile, and your progress can be measured with how far you're able to wander from home base.
