by Sylvia Wrigley

Created on: May 05, 2008   Last Updated: December 06, 2010

A good role-player isn't the person with the most imagination. There are basic rules of etiquette that will enhance everyone's experience. A good role-player will not only take these into account but watch out for other players and ensure that they are comfortable and taking part. Role-play can be an organised game or a two minute exchange in a chat room - the details aren't important. Playing nice, is.

Meet Larissa, an experienced role-player and Heffenlumpa, who is still struggling to find her way. They will give us examples of good and bad role-play in a basic scenario with Peter.

* Don't take control of other people *

Larissa: I walk into the room and see you sitting there. I smile, hopeful that you'll be happy to see me.

Heffenlumpa: I walk into the room. You jump up, thrilled to see me. We hug each other and sit down to talk.

Heffenlumpa has decided Peter's response and effectively taken away his turn. He might have wanted to act distracted or even unhappy at the interruption but Heffenlumpa has forced him into her view of the scene.

* Keep the action going *

Larissa: I reach out and take the coffee you made and take a sip and then place the cup down with a clatter. Ugh, no sugar!

Heffenlumpa: I reach out and take the coffee you made me.

In this instance, Heffenlumpa is purely reacting, which means that the pressure stays on Peter to keep the story moving. Larissa has added in some action which gives Peter something to respond to (or he can ignore it if he chooses).

* Don't anticipate other peoples responses *

Larrisa: I make a funny face, trying to get you into a better mood.

Heffenlumpa: I make that funny face that always makes you laugh. You can't keep glaring at me with my eyes crossed!

Both Larissa and Heffenlumpa are doing the same action, but Heffenlumpa is including a shared history (which should be decided in advance if possible) and predicting the response, which reduces Peter's freedom to respond. Give other players time to react - even if it means only doing "half a turn" for your own action.

* Don't get stuck on a script *

Larissa: I can't believe you've walked out - I thought we were going to spend the evening talking in front of the fireside. I throw another log on the fire and sigh.

Heffenlumpa: I jump up to stop you from walking out. We're spending the evening here, you can't leave!

* Keep everyone involved *

Larissa: I notice Heffenlumpa still standing in the doorway. "Do you have any idea what upset him?"

Heffenlumpa: I chase after

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>