Lesson 2: The Basic Rules of Roleplaying

[Rose Hathaway]

Lesson 2: The Basic Rules of Roleplaying

Roleplaying is, like I said before, writing. It depends on the GM's demands on how much you write, what the plot is, etc, etc. There are basic rules to be followed, however, and it's mostly out of common courtesy.

• No godmodding. Godmodding is pretty much controlling other people's characters without their explicit permission. For example, I'm roleplaying with Mayari. Mayari's character is Jane, my character is Dick. (Note: This is not proper roleplay format, this is merely an example and should not be followed)
  
  Dick: *tackles Jane and smacks her with a stuffed animal then stabs her*
  
  This would be considered godmodding, as I did not allow Jane adequate time to put up a fight.
  
• Don't kill other people's characters without permission. This is also out of courtesy. You don't just go on a homicidal rampage for no reason. It has to be related to plot, the creator of said character has to know about it, and it has to be explained.
  
• Use good grammar. Typing liek dis can really get on people's nerves. Sure, maybe the occasional typo or Im due to phone/iPod usage is okay, as long as it doesn't take away from your post and make it difficult to read.
  
• What the GM says goes. The GM created this roleplay. (S)He has the plot in their head, they know how they want it, they pay attention to what does and does not go with that idea in his head. You may disagree with the GM, perhaps explain why and propose an alternative idea, but in the end, GM has the right to say no.
  
• Don't leave them hanging. Were you supposed to post something just now? Or were you supposed to join a roleplay and they're waiting on you, but you're too busy or forgetful to join, or maybe you lost interest? PM the GM and explain yourself. It allows them to move on and keep the roleplay going.
  
• No Mary Sues/Gary Stus. The definition of these two terms are pretty widely known, however Sues/Stus are ridiculously over/underpowered characters, that tend to dominate the role-play in one way or another. Not sure if your character is a Sue? If you're worried, one of the older members/admins/mod(s) will tell you. Not worried? We'll make sure you know your character is a Sue anyway.
  

These rules may be added on to by the GM of a roleplay, and you should pay close attention to what they want in a roleplay, maybe their reputation as a GM, and other elements of the interest check BEFORE you join the roleplay. Make sure you be nice to them about their rules, and they have the right to report you if they feel you're taking away from the plot.