Post by seekeroftales on Jan 17, 2007 12:21:39 GMT -5
How To Start An RP :~:
I am no authority. However, I try to approach any subject logically. Keyword "try". Having confessed my ignorance and ineptitude . . .
RP ORIGIN BASICS 101:
You don't have to be good or have anything set in mind to start an RP. You only need three(3) things: a character to introduce, a name for him or her, and a scene to play in. From there, everything else you inclued might be considered extra icing on the cupcake.
Possible Extras:
You may choose to introduce multiple characters, some of whom may remain unnamed until later in the RP(conceivably, you may have some reason for doing so). You may post a potential cast of characters and their suggested roles {Agatha Christie did this in most of her books, I believe}. You may try to explain where you wish your RP to go, what you think makes it worth doing, what makes it unique, in your opinion. You may choose to set the scene in a narrative style, then switch to a first or second person perspective. You may choose to outline a very general plot, or be relatively detailed. You may even wish to post your RP for "ghosting" before you submit it to the RP Forum it belongs in.
In regard to the plot of your RP, there are those regular RPers who prefer not to have things laid out. Then there are those who like knowing where they are going. Feel the Dinotopian RP waters and make a decision accordingly. Or you just may not have the ability to plan things out, within you. Don't worry, there are some among us who like to organize things. Personally, I get the impression that the members here at Dinotopian RP are very willing to go with the flow, especially if that flow comes from the person(s) who started the RP and if they are allowed a free hand to spice things up and introduce their ideas. This being the case, it might prove to be wisdom on the part of an RP's originator to have set plotpoints in mind. You must decide for yourself if you intend to start an RP. Or you may choose to ignore this matter altogether, of course. That is your right and your concern.
My Preferances, Perhaps Yours Too:
I for one am more inclined to work on an RP if I have at least a general idea where it's "Director" is headed with it. These RPs where a Dolphinback or "Skyfall" is introduced lend themselves to a certain set objective; the standard destination of Waterfall City. That was done already, both in ALAFT and in the first chapterbook, Windchaser. Let us try to come up with something new. We have imaginations.
I also do not see the need to stretch a simple idea into an epic, although it can certainly be done. From small beginnings can grow large, wonderful things. I feel that a cleverly written story is just as good as one that is exciting. Also that a point of thought we like should not go wasted; short stories have their place in expression, are worthy of development as are the great epics. Short stories are easier. Can we not do short RPs? I feel that we can, indeed that they are a desireable product. Different ones that center around the same characters can always be strung together later. An "RP Short" simply needs a goal close at hand, then a cast and writing crew to get there. Why should an RP be drawn out? I like the thrill of seeing things reach their intended completion. An RP with no set destination or objective can get tiresome and frustrating, can it not? I think doing short works together could be very enjoyable. An end close in sight is always motivating.
I like rapid progress. Anyone else? It's great to see an RP take off. Why should it ever touch the ground again? There are slow times and there are busy times, but steady progress is not to be considered an impossibility. All it takes is mindfulness, perhaps a little dedication. Are we just playing at this? For some it is a hobby. For others it is a dream, a passion. Why should not the passionate work together, so that those less so do not drag them down? Effort speaks of passion, as does quality. Quantity speaks of drive and personal initiative. Inventiveness speaks of imagination and realism speaks of life's experience. Consistancy speaks of care and dedication. Please, do not debate these things with me. They are my thoughts, my opinions. Please respect them. A poet's words can be torn down by someone who is deaf to beauty, though their master himself is underterred in his speech, is not harmed in spirit.
SUGGESTED ADVANCED ORIGIN FORMAT:
Below are some of the things that I, personally, would like to see inclueded in an RP's origin post.
Lead Character(s) List ~ A "lead" character is probably one who is part of the story from the start or near, and then remains with it throughout. An RP's originator can be expected to develope one or two of the lead characters -- in support of his story -- and to roughly outline a few more for suggested use by potential participants. Names may be suggested for these and I do not believe that a simple overview of their personalities would be remiss. It seems to me that psychological development is key to the strength and presence of an important character; consistancy therein is highly desireable. Some lead characters might be dropped before the finish of an RP, but will not lose their statis. Participants may choose to create a lead character, though that character would likely not depart from those of the originator, unless directed or desired.
Supporting Cast List ~ This could be short or long, depending on; how many participants there are in the RP, how long the RP is intended to be, and how ambitious the RP's Creator is. From the start, an RP's originator should have a short list of possible supporting cast characters for participants to draw from, or from which to be inspired. And again, personality overviews could be most helpful. And, too, names may be suggested for these. Logically, this would have to be updated as the RP progresses and new characters come into the story. Supporting Cast members would likely have to be a part of the story for a while before moving up from their "plotmover" statis.
Plotmover Cast List ~ This should not suggest names, as these possible characters may go unnamed. Instead, certain types of characters are outlined(personality overviews) to move the story along in some critical way. Whoever brings that character to life wins the right to name him/her. None of these characters would normally be expected to be in the story for very long. An example is Degdah the styrachosaur from TWB. Any character that becomes a fixture in the RP should be moved to one of the lists above.
Cameos ~ I do not encourage this, but you may choose to involve official characters. I do believe it would be appropriate to refer to them offhand, however. That is, assuming that the RP does not take place prior to their time. Also, you may choose to have a likeness of yourself appear in an RP, or perhaps a friend, if you have their permission.
Time Period ~ You might select one outright or hint at one through your characters, perhaps within their extended bios if you have them up. Standard time period here at Dinotopian RP is modern day, but this is not mandatory. A date set in times past may discourage some potential participants from joining, though(Dakota, Standtall). Or vice-versa.
Opening Scene ~ This is set by an RP's originator and may be laid back or could involve immediate peril. It may lend itself to certain following developments or may be free of suggestion it its entirety. Here is where you lure participants.
Ghosting ~ "Ghosting" may be done in a seperate topic thread dedicated to a certain RP. It certainly may, however, be done Out Of Character(OOC). I feel that "ghosting" should be clearly identified, though, under OOC but marked "GHOST" so as to catch the eye. Not yet a common practice among RPers(perhaps not even known), I believe that Ghosting may become the lifeblood of the future's more successful RPs. "What is it?", you may ask. I expect you may have an idea. The best translation for the term "ghosting" may be "planning ahead". Simply put, "ghosting" is where you suggest the course the RP may take immediately; you make a few suggestions to whomever may consider posting in the RP next. You may create a simplistic draft of how you feel the characters in the present scene may act or react; physically, vocally, emotionally, expressions, gestures ect. Even the scene itself may be the object of the Ghost; weather, passers by, in-city points of interest, out-city plant life of interest, a celebration/festival scene ect(Some of us have absolutely no descriptive ability and need all the help we can get!). I doubt it could be worth setting a Ghost in our posts regularly, but if we have an inspiration/idea or someone expresses an interest in having help with their characters, it would be great if we all were prepared -- or at least willing -- to Ghost. Also to, if an RP had no outlining or pre-planning stage, then periodic Ghosts may be set via OOC(perhaps just by the Director) to help its participants see where it could or should be going. {I will hopefully have a demonstration of what I mean by "ghosting" up soon, under a seperate topic titled "Ghosting An RP".}
Direction ~ There are leaders and then there are followers; some of us thrive on direction. A "director" is loosely or tightly in control of the RP he/she wants to lead. This is to be considered a position of relative responsibility; an RP lives or dies according to the support behind you, as you call the shots which effect its development, course and eventual concluesion. The originator of an RP may reserve the right to direct its development. If such is his/her intention, then this should be made clearly known from the start. He/she should be aware, however, that a tyrannical manner will not attract participants. And if you are not well respected or have proved yourself rigid and difficult to work with, then you may be working all alone(in which case, you might as well be doing a private fan fic). Or there may come a time in an RP's progression when its participants may decide to elect a Director.
Objective ~ What is the point of your RP? What are you trying to craft, what are you trying to say through your characters? Are you looking to develope some of your own concepts? Is there a moral? Do you just want to do something exciting? Via the medium of your characters and with the help of any participants you can attract, where will the storyline go? Do you have plans or are you open to anything and everything? The more of these questions(and others of your own mind) which you can answer, the clearer others may see what you are trying to do. Depending on your goals and "vision" they may want to help you. Perhaps very much so.
Role Call ~ This is generally to be enacted by an RP's Director when he/she sees the need for a new character, be this person a "plotmover" or a "supporter". The Director should be clear about the sort of character he wants, or he may choose to let a volunteer bring in another character through freestyle development.
Tone/Mood ~ This can be expected to shift for a longer RP. However, for those intended to be shorter, it may be wise to select a tone for the work; light, funny, humorous, serious, uplifting, touching, (please add to this list) ect.
Background ~ This may be given outright or throughout the story, perhaps in flashbacks. Or in a lead character's biography, as is more generally traditional. You may choose to be detailed and lengthy or simplistic and short. Or perhaps you do not feel the need to establish an RP's background? It may be wise that you see what you can come up with, though.
Restrictions ~ These would be set by either an RP's Director or originator. They may concern practically anything. It would be well to keep in mind, however, that the more "rules" you set for the participants to follow, the fewer parties you will attract.
RP Rating ~ This should be agreed upon between an RP's participants or set by its Originator or Director. It is very possible to have an exciting and fresh story and garner no more than a G rating. Any short RPs intended to have a "touching" tone should not exceed "G". Swearing should automatically demand a PG rating, and any vivid descriptions of violence should merit a rating of PG-13. To avoid a rating of PG-13 should not be difficult; violence need only be hinted at or its scenes may be skipped over, to a point where a character may reflect on its course and/or survey its results. No "R" content should be permitted, indeed will not.
I definitely want everyone's feedback on all of the above points! But, please, let us not quibble . . .
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I am no authority. However, I try to approach any subject logically. Keyword "try". Having confessed my ignorance and ineptitude . . .
RP ORIGIN BASICS 101:
You don't have to be good or have anything set in mind to start an RP. You only need three(3) things: a character to introduce, a name for him or her, and a scene to play in. From there, everything else you inclued might be considered extra icing on the cupcake.
Possible Extras:
You may choose to introduce multiple characters, some of whom may remain unnamed until later in the RP(conceivably, you may have some reason for doing so). You may post a potential cast of characters and their suggested roles {Agatha Christie did this in most of her books, I believe}. You may try to explain where you wish your RP to go, what you think makes it worth doing, what makes it unique, in your opinion. You may choose to set the scene in a narrative style, then switch to a first or second person perspective. You may choose to outline a very general plot, or be relatively detailed. You may even wish to post your RP for "ghosting" before you submit it to the RP Forum it belongs in.
In regard to the plot of your RP, there are those regular RPers who prefer not to have things laid out. Then there are those who like knowing where they are going. Feel the Dinotopian RP waters and make a decision accordingly. Or you just may not have the ability to plan things out, within you. Don't worry, there are some among us who like to organize things. Personally, I get the impression that the members here at Dinotopian RP are very willing to go with the flow, especially if that flow comes from the person(s) who started the RP and if they are allowed a free hand to spice things up and introduce their ideas. This being the case, it might prove to be wisdom on the part of an RP's originator to have set plotpoints in mind. You must decide for yourself if you intend to start an RP. Or you may choose to ignore this matter altogether, of course. That is your right and your concern.
My Preferances, Perhaps Yours Too:
I for one am more inclined to work on an RP if I have at least a general idea where it's "Director" is headed with it. These RPs where a Dolphinback or "Skyfall" is introduced lend themselves to a certain set objective; the standard destination of Waterfall City. That was done already, both in ALAFT and in the first chapterbook, Windchaser. Let us try to come up with something new. We have imaginations.
I also do not see the need to stretch a simple idea into an epic, although it can certainly be done. From small beginnings can grow large, wonderful things. I feel that a cleverly written story is just as good as one that is exciting. Also that a point of thought we like should not go wasted; short stories have their place in expression, are worthy of development as are the great epics. Short stories are easier. Can we not do short RPs? I feel that we can, indeed that they are a desireable product. Different ones that center around the same characters can always be strung together later. An "RP Short" simply needs a goal close at hand, then a cast and writing crew to get there. Why should an RP be drawn out? I like the thrill of seeing things reach their intended completion. An RP with no set destination or objective can get tiresome and frustrating, can it not? I think doing short works together could be very enjoyable. An end close in sight is always motivating.
I like rapid progress. Anyone else? It's great to see an RP take off. Why should it ever touch the ground again? There are slow times and there are busy times, but steady progress is not to be considered an impossibility. All it takes is mindfulness, perhaps a little dedication. Are we just playing at this? For some it is a hobby. For others it is a dream, a passion. Why should not the passionate work together, so that those less so do not drag them down? Effort speaks of passion, as does quality. Quantity speaks of drive and personal initiative. Inventiveness speaks of imagination and realism speaks of life's experience. Consistancy speaks of care and dedication. Please, do not debate these things with me. They are my thoughts, my opinions. Please respect them. A poet's words can be torn down by someone who is deaf to beauty, though their master himself is underterred in his speech, is not harmed in spirit.
SUGGESTED ADVANCED ORIGIN FORMAT:
Below are some of the things that I, personally, would like to see inclueded in an RP's origin post.
Lead Character(s) List ~ A "lead" character is probably one who is part of the story from the start or near, and then remains with it throughout. An RP's originator can be expected to develope one or two of the lead characters -- in support of his story -- and to roughly outline a few more for suggested use by potential participants. Names may be suggested for these and I do not believe that a simple overview of their personalities would be remiss. It seems to me that psychological development is key to the strength and presence of an important character; consistancy therein is highly desireable. Some lead characters might be dropped before the finish of an RP, but will not lose their statis. Participants may choose to create a lead character, though that character would likely not depart from those of the originator, unless directed or desired.
Supporting Cast List ~ This could be short or long, depending on; how many participants there are in the RP, how long the RP is intended to be, and how ambitious the RP's Creator is. From the start, an RP's originator should have a short list of possible supporting cast characters for participants to draw from, or from which to be inspired. And again, personality overviews could be most helpful. And, too, names may be suggested for these. Logically, this would have to be updated as the RP progresses and new characters come into the story. Supporting Cast members would likely have to be a part of the story for a while before moving up from their "plotmover" statis.
Plotmover Cast List ~ This should not suggest names, as these possible characters may go unnamed. Instead, certain types of characters are outlined(personality overviews) to move the story along in some critical way. Whoever brings that character to life wins the right to name him/her. None of these characters would normally be expected to be in the story for very long. An example is Degdah the styrachosaur from TWB. Any character that becomes a fixture in the RP should be moved to one of the lists above.
Cameos ~ I do not encourage this, but you may choose to involve official characters. I do believe it would be appropriate to refer to them offhand, however. That is, assuming that the RP does not take place prior to their time. Also, you may choose to have a likeness of yourself appear in an RP, or perhaps a friend, if you have their permission.
Time Period ~ You might select one outright or hint at one through your characters, perhaps within their extended bios if you have them up. Standard time period here at Dinotopian RP is modern day, but this is not mandatory. A date set in times past may discourage some potential participants from joining, though(Dakota, Standtall). Or vice-versa.
Opening Scene ~ This is set by an RP's originator and may be laid back or could involve immediate peril. It may lend itself to certain following developments or may be free of suggestion it its entirety. Here is where you lure participants.
Ghosting ~ "Ghosting" may be done in a seperate topic thread dedicated to a certain RP. It certainly may, however, be done Out Of Character(OOC). I feel that "ghosting" should be clearly identified, though, under OOC but marked "GHOST" so as to catch the eye. Not yet a common practice among RPers(perhaps not even known), I believe that Ghosting may become the lifeblood of the future's more successful RPs. "What is it?", you may ask. I expect you may have an idea. The best translation for the term "ghosting" may be "planning ahead". Simply put, "ghosting" is where you suggest the course the RP may take immediately; you make a few suggestions to whomever may consider posting in the RP next. You may create a simplistic draft of how you feel the characters in the present scene may act or react; physically, vocally, emotionally, expressions, gestures ect. Even the scene itself may be the object of the Ghost; weather, passers by, in-city points of interest, out-city plant life of interest, a celebration/festival scene ect(Some of us have absolutely no descriptive ability and need all the help we can get!). I doubt it could be worth setting a Ghost in our posts regularly, but if we have an inspiration/idea or someone expresses an interest in having help with their characters, it would be great if we all were prepared -- or at least willing -- to Ghost. Also to, if an RP had no outlining or pre-planning stage, then periodic Ghosts may be set via OOC(perhaps just by the Director) to help its participants see where it could or should be going. {I will hopefully have a demonstration of what I mean by "ghosting" up soon, under a seperate topic titled "Ghosting An RP".}
Direction ~ There are leaders and then there are followers; some of us thrive on direction. A "director" is loosely or tightly in control of the RP he/she wants to lead. This is to be considered a position of relative responsibility; an RP lives or dies according to the support behind you, as you call the shots which effect its development, course and eventual concluesion. The originator of an RP may reserve the right to direct its development. If such is his/her intention, then this should be made clearly known from the start. He/she should be aware, however, that a tyrannical manner will not attract participants. And if you are not well respected or have proved yourself rigid and difficult to work with, then you may be working all alone(in which case, you might as well be doing a private fan fic). Or there may come a time in an RP's progression when its participants may decide to elect a Director.
Objective ~ What is the point of your RP? What are you trying to craft, what are you trying to say through your characters? Are you looking to develope some of your own concepts? Is there a moral? Do you just want to do something exciting? Via the medium of your characters and with the help of any participants you can attract, where will the storyline go? Do you have plans or are you open to anything and everything? The more of these questions(and others of your own mind) which you can answer, the clearer others may see what you are trying to do. Depending on your goals and "vision" they may want to help you. Perhaps very much so.
Role Call ~ This is generally to be enacted by an RP's Director when he/she sees the need for a new character, be this person a "plotmover" or a "supporter". The Director should be clear about the sort of character he wants, or he may choose to let a volunteer bring in another character through freestyle development.
Tone/Mood ~ This can be expected to shift for a longer RP. However, for those intended to be shorter, it may be wise to select a tone for the work; light, funny, humorous, serious, uplifting, touching, (please add to this list) ect.
Background ~ This may be given outright or throughout the story, perhaps in flashbacks. Or in a lead character's biography, as is more generally traditional. You may choose to be detailed and lengthy or simplistic and short. Or perhaps you do not feel the need to establish an RP's background? It may be wise that you see what you can come up with, though.
Restrictions ~ These would be set by either an RP's Director or originator. They may concern practically anything. It would be well to keep in mind, however, that the more "rules" you set for the participants to follow, the fewer parties you will attract.
RP Rating ~ This should be agreed upon between an RP's participants or set by its Originator or Director. It is very possible to have an exciting and fresh story and garner no more than a G rating. Any short RPs intended to have a "touching" tone should not exceed "G". Swearing should automatically demand a PG rating, and any vivid descriptions of violence should merit a rating of PG-13. To avoid a rating of PG-13 should not be difficult; violence need only be hinted at or its scenes may be skipped over, to a point where a character may reflect on its course and/or survey its results. No "R" content should be permitted, indeed will not.
I definitely want everyone's feedback on all of the above points! But, please, let us not quibble . . .
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Is it just us?