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Joined: 15 Jul 2008
Posts: 725
Location: Wexford, Pennslyvania
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Another guide by DCW69
What is Roleplaying?
For most of you people who don't know what roleplaying is then well I'll explain it too you here. Roleplay is basically taking part in ongoing stories with one or more people. Why do people do this you ask? Well it's simple really it's too have fun within the craft of imagination. Some people are quite deft while others aren't so much. There is also a plus side too roleplaying. This is improving your writing skill, and can help get rid of some writers block. However, it's only one form of writing so if you are serious about undertaking writing, your should explore other methods of exercising and learning skills.
How do I Roleplay?
In a majority of roleplay's you have to undergo approval by the moderators in charge. You need to create a "set up" post or reply to others. Here is an important tip. Be sure to ALWAYS read the playing rules (Most likey posted on the front or main page.). In order to do this, it's important to know your subject matter. For example, if the Roleplay is set aboard the Titanic, it would be beneficial to both you and the other role players if you did a little research or activated prior knowledge on the topic. Liek any writing you have to do research. And learning about something you like is really fun. *Smiles* Before you begin to write in a forum. Take this into thought, read the other posts so you get a feel of how other players write. Usually all posts are writen in third person unless otherwise stated in their guidlines, (He, She, They, etc.) You should never respond to a post that is sent Attention to a name. These posts are all part of an established storyline. On the other hand, you can write a post where you introduce your character. Make sure you know what the time of day, and the season, and etc. and have them arrive or emerge in a way that corresponds with the story; including (Attention anyone) in your subject line.
Creating your character(s)
When creating a character be creative and use your imagination. The following are a few pointers in the right direction:
Name:
Male or Female:
Age:
What do they look like? Eye color, hair color, complexion, etc. :
What social class are they?
What is their education?
Family ties.
Why are they in the setting?
What do they want from life?
Are they happy? Why or why not?
Remember details are important. Also get to know your character. Think about how they would react to certain situations or conversations. Respond as *They* would not as you would. You can create a character profile which explains your character(s). It also can show picture(s) of what your character looks like. But try to keep it close to your character description as much as you can.
Replying to a post
A post had captured your interest, what do you do?
Firstly, remove all excess parts of the post, adding your response after the last few lines. Only retain a few lines of the orginal post as this will cut down the size that will be sent to the list or posted to a board. Change the subject line so it is Attn to the name of the character you are responding to. Some roleplay games place a tag line at the end of their posts., if this is the case you too, should add the tag, (eg tag Charlotte).
One thing you should never do, is write for the other character. Yes, it will slow things up a little, however, the other writer had spent time developing the personality and background for their character. It's not your pplace to decide how the other character will react. Only write what your character does, the other writer will fill in gaps when the reply.
Lastly, use spellcheck on your posts. If you want others to reply, bad spelling won't achieve the results you are looking for. And definitely DON'T PUT ALL CAPS, IT LOOKS LIKE YOU ARE YELLING ;D
Roleplay Etiquette
There are five curtesies that should be followed during roleplay.
1.) Copying another writers character is not only stealing, it's plain rude. If you enjoy their writing go along the same lines as them.
2.) Never maim or injure someone else's character without their express permission.
3.) Once you have sent a post, be patient. If after 24 hours and still no response, try again.
Moderated status is to protect the roleplaying list from spamming and profanity. Once you have played for a short while, you can request to place on normal status.
4.) Keep profanity and erotic content out of your posts unless the post is set up for such language and imagery. Most will tell you in the rules if these are welcome or not. The roleplay age rating will give you a clue.
5.) When posting something to the group that is not in character, it is polite to start the subject with OOC (Out Of Character). Though personal letters, cute fwds, etc. should be kept for private mail.
Happy roleplaying! |
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