Cookie Policy
Last Updated: January 1, 2025
This Cookie Policy explains how Pathway uses cookies and similar tracking technologies. By using our website and service, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this policy.
1. What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files stored on your device (computer, tablet, or mobile) when you visit a website. They help websites remember your preferences, keep you logged in, and improve your browsing experience.
We use both first-party cookies (set by us) and third-party cookies (set by external services like Google Analytics) to provide and improve our service.
2. Types of Cookies We Use
2.1 Essential Cookies (Required)
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be disabled.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| auth_token | Maintains your login session | 7 days |
| csrf_token | Security protection against cross-site attacks | Session |
| discord_oauth | Discord authentication state | 10 minutes |
| theme | Stores your light/dark mode preference | 1 year |
2.2 Analytics Cookies (Optional)
These cookies help us understand how users interact with our service to improve it.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| _ga | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _ga_* | Google Analytics - persists session state | 2 years |
| _gid | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Google Analytics - throttles request rate | 1 minute |
Data collected: Page views, time on site, device type, browser, location (city-level), referral source
Privacy: Analytics data is anonymized. We do not link analytics to individual user accounts.
2.3 Marketing & Advertising Cookies (Optional)
These cookies track your browsing to show you relevant ads and measure campaign effectiveness.
| Service | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Google Ads | Retargeting and conversion tracking | 90 days |
| Facebook Pixel | Social media advertising and remarketing | 90 days |
| Twitter Pixel | Track ad performance on Twitter/X | 30 days |
Note: We only use marketing cookies if you consent via our cookie banner. You can opt out anytime.
2.4 Functional Cookies (Optional)
These cookies enhance functionality and personalization.
| Cookie Name | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| preferred_language | Remember language selection | 1 year |
| sidebar_collapsed | Remember UI preferences | 1 year |
| tutorial_completed | Track onboarding progress | 1 year |
3. Local Storage & Session Storage
In addition to cookies, we use browser storage technologies:
- Local Storage: Stores draft campaign data, character builder progress, and UI preferences locally on your device (never expires unless cleared)
- Session Storage: Temporarily stores form data during your browsing session (clears when you close the tab)
- IndexedDB: May store offline data for character sheets and campaign content (enables offline access)
This data stays on your device and is not sent to our servers unless you explicitly save or sync.
4. Managing Your Cookie Preferences
4.1 Cookie Banner
When you first visit our site, you'll see a cookie consent banner. You can:
- Accept All: Allow all cookies (analytics, marketing, functional)
- Reject All: Only essential cookies will be used
- Customize: Choose which types of cookies to allow
4.2 Browser Settings
You can control cookies through your browser settings:
⚠️ Warning: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from logging in and using the service.
4.3 Opt-Out Links
- Google Analytics: Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on
- Google Ads: Ads Settings
- Facebook: Ad Preferences
- Industry-wide opt-out: Digital Advertising Alliance Opt-Out
4.4 Do Not Track (DNT)
We respect Do Not Track signals. If your browser has DNT enabled, we will not set analytics or marketing cookies (but essential cookies are still required for functionality).
5. Discord Bot & Mobile Apps
Our Discord bot and potential future mobile apps do not use cookies, but they do use:
- Device IDs: To identify your device for push notifications
- App Preferences: Stored locally to remember your settings
- Analytics SDKs: To track app usage (you can opt out in app settings)
See our Privacy Policy for more details on Discord and mobile data collection.
6. Third-Party Cookies
Some cookies are set by third-party services we integrate:
- Discord: When you authenticate via Discord, they may set cookies (see Discord Privacy Policy)
- Stripe: Payment processing may use cookies for fraud detection (see Stripe Privacy Policy)
- CDN Providers: Content delivery networks may cache resources
We do not control third-party cookies. Please review their privacy policies.
7. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Cookie Policy as we add or remove services. The "Last Updated" date at the top reflects the most recent changes. We'll notify you of significant changes via our website or email.
8. Questions?
If you have questions about our use of cookies:
See also: Privacy Policy | GDPR Compliance