Sigh... It seems like Ultra, I, and Rico are the main posters now. Smeggdoff comes in and posts every now and then, and SS comments on Ultra's 1337 RPing skillz. No clue about Wonderbat. We got a new guy named Mike, too, but I think he's gonna be left behind by Ultra's plot advances. Things go by pretty slowly, so I had to invent characters and strike up a plotline. Yaay.

Anyone interested in joining? The title says School, but it's more squad-based ninja action now.

Wonderbat's around the forum, but he never really posts here that much. I'm pretty much the only guy RPing as Ryu at the moment. Nevertheless, DDK's point about there being three main 'movers' is true.

I'd wish Mike would be around more often, but I don't like to keep things stagnating so much. Otherwise, people would lose interest, and that's not an option I wanna pursue.

As things stand, the main 'conflict' in the Konoha RP is an upcoming confrontation between DDK's character Reiki and the ANBU of other ninja villages. Rico's character Rico is currently in an emotional whirlwind, and Special Squad One just gained a new member - Hyuu - but is dealing with the events of Kai and Akura exhibiting demonic tendencies (Kai has become a hanyou - half-demon - and the Oni within Akura is trying to take control).

Expect the battle with the ANBU to start by the end of this week.

Indeed. =P

Let's see... This has been bugging me for a while now. Each of the original Genin have been showing their stuff, and I've been trying to draw up some ranking. Not really important or anything, but it helps set things straight in my mind. Here's my take on the rank of the original eight Genin in certain aspects based on my observations thus far:

Physical Strength:

Kai >>> Genonosuke > Suki > Ryu > Diao = Riko = Izzy > Akura

Ninjutsu strength (including non-attack jutsu):

Ryu >>> Riko > Diao?(seems right) > Suki = Genonosuke(current, he was at Izzy's level before Riko convinced him to try metal jutsu) > Kai > Izzy (Ninpou, Sexy no Jutsu, Needle Rain... He'd probably rank higher if he actually fought once in a while. <__> Randomized or something. Less Deus Ex Machina in the future, I promise.

I don't know why I drew this up, but it seems to ease things in my mind. All this will probably be subject to change during the RP, but who knows? I guess it kinda ruins the fun if you overanalyze stuff, though.

As for others... Reiki's not all that good of a Jonin. He's had lots of training in different areas, but lack of focus has driven him into a mediocrity of sorts. Kukuru has talent, and some training, which will be explained later, as well as a link to a certain famous historical figure of Konohagakure.

Little tidbit about Kukuru: She was inspired by a character from a cult classic RPG series called Arc the Lad. I took a very basic form of her background and Narutized it, twisting it to my own liking. Call me unoriginal, but this Kukuru's almost nothing like the character she's based off of. =P The rest of my characters are completely original. Except Buugen the Pellet Master(wait, was it Buugen? O_o), whose fighting style is a tiny reference Ultra should have noticed. >_>

By the time the fights come around, you'll probably know more about all of the Star Ninja than you want to. Bleh.

Glaive's going to be fun to write for, I can already tell. He's in a state of mental breakdown, and will be going from coherent to just plain NUTS in relatively short times, as already seen in the RP. Last seen pretending to be a boat and swimming to the Fire Country from the middle of the ocean. O_o;;

And I think I have too many characters. >_< Good thing most of them are minor and will be out of the way past this arc...

I caught it. I just didn't say. 😛 (points to Deidara and skips away)

Well, some people might consider joining, but as it has over 350 posts, would you expect them to read all that before they could join? It is a bit much, unless you are willing to wait a couple weeks or so. To encourage new people to join, a summary might be helpful, but I haven't seen summaries work very well in the past.

Mike took only a couple of days to read through about 270 posts. An extra 80 isn't going to hurt.

Now if it was 1,000, then you might have a point (will post a summary after the end of the current conflict).

This is a good idea Way...nice one^^

(Chronicles of Asterion RP)

Still looking for new people in here^^ Also, Vic, Pkrp, I'm kinda waiting for your characters to react to the situation too. If you don't post soon I'll move it along, but if you have something to add, go ahead.

Also, I hope we do get a few new ppl join. What I have planned wouldn't really work with too few people, and if we don't get a few more soon, I may be forced to close the RP I'm afraid.

Come on in all^^

Wraith

The only reason why I'm on limited time nowadays and not as active as I used to is due to School, and other such things. Like I sleep at 10pm eastern time nowadays as well. Weekends I can be truly extremely active though.

And yeah, I read through that many post's because I love to read and I can read fast. I don't know about others- but you might consider summarizing the RP for some people.

I get the feeling that most RPers are on for casual RPing. If I guess right, that means that they don't always have the time to read hundreds of posts each day. People like Ultra Sonic 007 and I can, but I wouldn't expect everyone to.

That sort of thing is one reason for this topic: people who don't have the spare time to make their own can make requests for RPs. Then they can RP in a genre they wanted to.

It is true that this is the fastest moving RP right now. I think part of that is based on the holidays greatly affecting people's schedules, but it is also in part due to the people involved.

I think it helps for people to already know about the anime this is based on. Was it "Naruto"? Haven't seen it myself, yet. Anyway, the RP has an anime-style, which makes it considerably different from your basic RP. In a good way, of course!

Do need more people here. This is a large-scale sort of fantasy. It is very open in terms of who you can be, and defines clearly the basic boundries for you to follow. There are still several Guilds not represented.

This is a Fantasy/medieval type RP I've been thinking of doing. It takes place in a village/city (small for a city, big for a village or town) that lies directly in the only path through the mountain range that separates East from West. The main characters grew up there, and join a youth as he prepares to hunt...The Black Knight. Years earlier, The Black Knight kidnapped his older sister. He was too weak then, and vowed that when he was stronger, he would rescue his sister.

The day he sets off, the village elders say that it is foolishness. But they don't stop him or stop anyone that wants to join him, because they are old enough to make their own decisions.

One of the key features I was planning on having was actual growth of the characters. They begin with one sword and a few farming tools, no magic, and no armor (except maybe some makeshift gear). As the story progresses, they each find they have more power than they thought, as their potential opens up. They will go from being just youth to powerful adventurers, but it will still be up to them to decide their course. Will they be heroes? Or villains? Or just be out for themselves, for good or ill?

What sorts of things would rock your Fantasy boat? I'm open for suggestions. I have a pretty elaborate but simple culture for this village, and of course there are more twists than just a journey to find The Black Knight...what sort of twists would you want to see?

Yes; the RP is based on the manga/anime 'Naruto', save for the fact that it takes place six years before the beginning of the show. This also means it takes place six years AFTER the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox attacked the village. With the exception of some canon characters like the Third Hokage, Hatake Kakashi, etcetera, all of the characters are original (the canon characters, however, play relatively minor roles in the RP; most of the focus is on the original characters). The basic 'hook' for this RP is the squad of characters the my own character - Yagami Hiroto, a Jonin-level ninja - commands.

Basically, the plot revolves around this squad. In the anime/manga, ninja - upon graduating from the Ninja Academy - become part of a three-man squad commanded by a Jonin. However, eight characters were combined under the command of a Jonin to form Special Squad One (a ninth member has been added after the Water Country Arc). This makes for a lot of group dynamics.

And yes, it is a fast growing RP; it's already the 4th-largest RP on the front page (behind Open Season, The Rise and Fall, and Evalc's RP), and it's only been around since September. It'll probably be the 2nd-largest by the end of the week.

(Konoha Ninja RP)

I started to notice it in the RP and thought it was more my imagination than anything but the posts here have me wondering. Is Rico going to get to interaction with anyone other than Hiroto and NPC's? I meant for him to be an angsty outcast at first but he's not going to break out of it unless people interact with him. I got about one sentence of exchange with Diao till something stopped it. I didn't really add Adei so I talk to myself, he's an NPC thats in there for later and to try to pull Rico back into this RP since he seems to rapidly be being pushed to the side.

I'm re-evaluating if this RP is going to improve my creative writing or not. Bottom-line is do you guys intend in interact with him or not, I didn't ignore this RP for the pages, I was building a character that would be interesting and have a background thats different from the standard naruto character yet fit into the world.

On a mod note: Ultra, I refuse to debate the appropriateness of you and your little genin's erection. I don't make the board rules, I enforce them. As far as I know stuff of that kind of sexual nature is defined as inappropriate within the board rules. Which, as the admins always state, superceed the guild rules. Even if I WANTED to allow Harley's boobies and your hoohoo I couldn't.

This board is under US juristiction and the US is much less lenient about sexual crap than it is about violent crap. A 14 year old can see people's heads exploding in a rain of puss and sinew but they can't see T&A. If you want to debate the subject, contact an Administrator like harley did. If they give me the okay to allow it, [mills lane]I'll allow it.[/mills lane]

Otherwise if its something I'd be embarassed to read to a class of grade schoolers, I'll censor it. Again if the Admins say its good, its good.

The appropriateness of it has already been settled with; I'm not trying to get around that. I was just saying that, anatomically speaking, Izzy's 'incident' was plausible.

As for your character note Rico, things were getting a bit hectic with the current ANBU plot; once this plot clears up, there'll be a big downtime between missions. Character interaction is coming up.

(Konoha Ninja RP)

Didn't say it wasn't, just telling you the board rules.

And good, I'd was begining I wasted my time making a naruto world form of the Warden. I'm bide my time and give the rest of the RPers some flashback background on what "Tengoku" is and Rico'Ki's limitations are.

~Rico

On a note related to the Mod Note Rico gave to (Konoha Ninja RP), but applies to all RPs:

There are lots of things that aren't regularly covered in RPs. Things like eating, drinking, sleeping, and bathroom breaks aren't always covered. Things like shaving and other personal grooming moments aren't always covered either. Some of these things are just assumed to take place, or mentioned in passing, but usually, I would think it is because it would take away from the RP.

Why do we do it? Any ideas on this concept? The title of this topic will be (Food...Who needs it?)

I think a lot of it depends upon the genre of RP. Whether the goal is a realistic or humorous situation, these little 'inconveniences in reality' can make or break an RP. It's not just limited to the things I mentioned above, either.

I think it's going to be interesting to see what people have to say on this topic.

(Food...Who needs it?)

That's actually quite interesting. As you said, they're not alwyas covered very well, and in fact, if they are they're only mentioned in briefing the majority of the time... but what I've found is that, during the course of the RP, they do eventually happen.

For instance, in the Roleplays I've been in, Forest of the Future and Shadow's Revenge, instances when food and bathing were mentioned and did occur, sometimes in great detail, yet these only happened quite far into the story, around the 40 page mark. o.o

A reason why I think these are hardly mentioned is, in fact, that they're quite boring, and makes the RP become quite slow. If it's well written, I certainly wouldn't mind reading about a character eating a meal, but even then, its hardly the most exciting thing to read, is it? Especially compared to the rest of the story, notably one of great importance and the world threatened and such.

However, stuff like food being eaten, coffee being drunk and the characters bathing usually happen later when there's a lull in the story, a break for the characters. And its usually later when in actually gone quite in depth because of character building... strangely enough, instances like this do help to build and develop a character already gotten up to that point. It's at this point where a bit more fleshing out of the character is done, after we've learned, from a lot of excitement and such, a little bit more about some of the characters personal preferrences and such. For instance, in Forest of the Future, in a particular bit of a break for the group of characters, they would be having breakfast. One character, Suzie, who was only briefly mentioned to be a glutton in a bio, was actually displaying this in the roleplay. Another character, Alex, who had never experienced food like it before, didn't eat it and was hardly fond of it.

In short, details like eating food, and bathing and such... they can be good in adding little details to established characters, and if written well, can be very interesting to read. But I should imagine it doesn't happen much because parts of this are hardly exciting to read, and after we've experienced them for so long our entire lives, we want to read something and write something a bit more new, interesting and exciting, eh?

In which case, stuff like this would happen during breaks of the more important parts of the roleplay. But it may only recieve a passing mention, because really, reading about a character eat a meal, or wash themself really isn't that exciting especially compared to world saving, or fighting undead zombies etc. If it's well written, that's great, but then again writing a breakfast eating scene IS particularly difficult, and hard to make it appear particularly interesting. Again, details like this can make the RP move a bit more slowly, and again compared to usual RP fare, isn't that interesting.

Which is why I guess it's hardly ever really expanded upon, other then in later parts of the RP when a bit more fleshing out of the characters occurs and when there's a lull in the main action.

Well, in the Konoha RP, food is mentioned quite a bit, as is sleeping and drinking. Also, earlier in the RP, we showcased Geno taking a leak over the side of a boat. So yah, we've got that angle covered.

Food...who needs it?

Tru dat, Pach, it does generally make for a slower section of an RP to describe things like that, however mentioning these things, even if it's only in passing, does tend to add to the realism somewhat...for example, in one of the first posts in The Rise and Fall RP, one of the characters is reading the paper to see if there is any news on Sonic the Hedgehog, and as he is doing this he pulls out a beer can and starts drinking it. IMHO this makes the story so much more realistic and easier to visualise.

Granted, if the entire post was about drinking a can of beer, it'd be boring, but mentioning things like that in passing, or even in detail provided it's done right, as you said, adds to the realism of the characters, the story, and the whole RP in general as far as I figure.

Black Knight

This looks like an interesting idea Way^^ A few questions though. You say the characters would start out with basic equips and gain more as they go along...would the RP be run as a sotr of game, where you have money and you have to buy things at shops etc, or would it simply be a case of "Character went to the shop and saw armour, so he bought it"?

Also, if it is the second option, who would decide when and how the character upgrades? Would it be the player him/herself, or the RP writer?

General RP discussion

That's a good idea about people who have ideas but not much time requesting them^^ I for one would be happy to take on a request if I was able and was asked

Also, I have several more RP ideas of my own that I intend to try in the coming weeks and months, hopefully to revive the Guild somewhat, as it seems to be going through a bit of a quiet patch at the mo.

And on a side note, I am looking to expand my RP creation frontiers somewhat, and for such I have been thinking:

At some point in the near future I would like to try creating a co-operative RP, writing a story along with someone else! If anyone might be interested in doing something like this, let me know and we can discuss it^^ As mentioned above I have plenty of RP ideas, or if the other person has ideas we could try one of them...I'm good either way ">

Wraith

I have a character already brainstormed for that. Lol. Tell me when you start that up, Ill join and try to be as active as I am tonight. ^^

It's a good idea, and it seems completely original. GOod lucky with that.

(Black Knight RP)

I'm glad you think so. I guess it depends upon 1) when I actually write it up and 2) when I think it is a good time. Maybe within the next 10 days? I'll keep you posted.

lol I wasn't thinking the characters would be able to buy stuff, but that is a good idea! I was thinking more along the lines of finding gear and beating opponents to take their weapons and supplies. But if they ended up going to either the Eastern or Western nations, all they'd have to do is get a little money, and they could get some premium equipment...or take a step down the dark path and steal the good stuff.

The people of the village we start in rely a lot on their Saint to protect them, so the few weapons they have are more for decoration and status than anything. The only reason the group ends up with one sword is because it is one of The Black Knights' weapons!

The Saint plays a big role in this RP. He is the focus of the culture of the village, and in return for various ceremonies he protects them. Their village would be a prime location for warlords to put a stranglehold on trade routes, and is a key position in any war, but The Saint takes measures to make sure that never happens. Thus, the East and West are largely at peace with each other. Most people of the village have not seen The Saint, but he is out there...somewhere....

So, bottom line on equipment is more a finders-keepers basis. The town in the pass will only have shops that cater to travellers, so generally weapons and armor won't be available, unless they go to the East/West nations.

I still have to decide what sort of a magic system to use...but I do know no one will begin knowing how to use magic.

Black Knight

I see what you mean Way, but I'm not sure you understood my questions fully. I mean would it be one of those paper RP games, where you start out with so many items, so much money, etc, and you have to subtract some every time you buy something or use an item.

Games like that usually have HP stats for the characters too, and battles are fought by comparing statistics etc. This is the sort of thing I was meaning when I said, "will it be a game style RP?"

I must admit, I'm not into the game style, and if it was I probably wouldn't be joining, but if it's done more like a story than a game, then I'd be interested^^

Also, about who upgrades the character...if it was left up to the player to update their character I can forsee some who aren't as used to RPing coming up to a defeated enemy and taking everything they own, plus a few things they didn't even have on them, and their character becoming uberly powerful while the others are left with nothing. To avoid this, it may be best for the RP writer (ie. you) to decide exactly when and where upgrades like new weapons etc come from, and who gets them, to avoid someone accidentally powerplaying their way into having uber equipment right at the start of the story.

Just my two cents...let me know what you think.

Wraith

(Black Knight)

Hmm...I guess I did misunderstand, but I probably got too focused in on another idea. This RP wouldn't be like a video game with HP scores and things like that, so no need to worry about that. Starting equipment will be decided by the players, but I'll list the sorts of things that are available. They'll have enough money to survive if they travel a lot.

I was planning on a more open-ended RP, giving the characters more opportunities to use their surroundings. If they beat a bandit, they can loot his stuff, and early on it will be better than anything they had already. Other such opportunities would exist.

The increasing of power would be less equipment and more magic and special abilities. Getting some armor would help, but isn't necessary...

Ah, those are battle systems. (HP, MP, and so forth) - those are generally frowned on here in the RP guild anyway. Heh.

Like I said before I already have an idea for a character, but having no swords kinda crushed my weapon idea for him. But I'll live with something like a stick. Will this RP be humourous or simply strict adventure?

Vi's RP (Hunted)

I'm amazed its stayed relitively alive this long. Vi dosn't have much time on her hands, and yet it still trundels along, stoping every two posts for a month long rest before soulduring on to the next two XD
Theres a lot of ideas still there for this RP, but the GM symply isn't around often enough.

supershadow70 has decided to alter his character's age; Shiranui Izumo is now 14 years old, which would be two years older than the other original members of Special Squad One (Genonosuke, Riko, Akura, Kai, Daio, Suki, and Ryu). As for why, we'll just say he was held back two years for bad grades or something.

Okay, I will write up this RP within the next 3 days, possibly even today. There's an art gallery I need to look at again, so I can feel the culture as I create it. I've thought a lot about it, and hope to put in enough detail to make it interesting, but not so much that it will take hours to read the first post! 😛

Mike: With your character idea, I don't know the specifics (obviously), but here's something...: The Ceremonial Guard for the town have the only real weapons in the town, and practice with them on a regular basis. They never have fought anybody for real, as The Saint protects them, so the weapons are more for decoration and the ceremonies than anything. What I'm getting around to is that your character could have already had experience with swords, being in training for the ceremonies, and so he could use anything of sword-size with great effect (i.e. as you suggested, a stick). They wouldn't let him take one of the swords with him, but he could already have substantial skill when they find one, or he could borrow my character's sword. I hope that made sense, and if it didn't, I can clarify. Either way, don't worry too much about it, as my opening post should explain a lot of things if I do it right.

Wraith: I never did answer this part exactly, so I'll answer it now: the other players decide exactly what they start with, and the RP maker (i.e. me) will decide what they get and when for the rest of it. Two exceptions to that; 1) If there is something in the environment (i.e. a rock or branch) that I didn't mention as an item, the players can use it. The Environment is your friend . 2) When it comes to stores, I think it will be more of a joint maker/player thing, as to what you can actually get. East and West will have a drastically different selection, also.

Before I finish it and put it up, though, I do have one question which is a matter of preference than anything: Species. I think regularly in terms of humans, except in specific cases (such as my own stories, etc.), but in RPs I generally like to allow access to Furries (Mobians, as they are commonly known as, at least by me o.o ). So, here is the question: should there be humans in this RP, or not? I was thinking of having Mobians/Furries originate from the East nations and Humans originate from the West nations, and the traveler's town in the center is a mixed bag.

Minor note but of great importance: I may change the name of the RP when I put it up, because I only intend the first part of the story to revolve around The Black Knight. If I can't think of anything good, though, I'll keep it. I won't ask for suggestions on this because no one has the picture of it that I have.

I really want this RP to be enjoyable, so if there's anything you want in a fantasy-type RP, bring it up and we'll toss it in. I was thinking of having things like Frost Giants and so on...

Black Knight

Thanks for clearing that up Way^^ If it's a story rather than a game I'm definitely in^^

On the Humans note:

Personally, I'm not bothered, as the character I have in mind is not Human. I'm waiting for the first post to clarify some details, and I'll also PM you my bio to make sure it's ok.

As to wether to have Humans or not...

I figure not to have Humans adds a little to the whole fantasy idea of the story, making it less "Real World" and more "Imagination" and "Fantasy"...

...however...

...if the story was to veture TOO far into the unreal, it could run the risk of becoming detatched from reality to such an extent that it becomes difficult to follow. Admittedly if the characters are animals with Human attributes (furries) this would be less likely.

Also...

...I have noted that some people on this board seem to prefare playing Humans rather than Furs, and it's possible that the idea of not being able to play a Human would put them off slightly, maybe even to the point of not joining. Much as some of us are quite happy to dissapear from real life altogether, there are others who prefare to have a solid grounding in something real to start from, namely, playing a Human.

Obviously the final decision would be up to you, however thinking about all the variables and possibillities, my reccomendation would be to have the option of playing a Human if the player wishes, but make that simply one option of many^^

That's my viewpoint anywho.

Wraith

After playing Mega Man X: Command Mission, I've really considered this possibility for a Mega Man X RP for the forum. Basic opening plot, is that X, a Reploid named Cipher and a team of rookie Maverick Hunters (the other chars) descend onto an "abandoned" Reploid/Mechaniloid factory to determine whether it's still in operation - but things turn bad and a few NPC team members are killed/maimed in the process. Suspicion is tossed around about who's Maverick and who's not, and the definition of becoming Maverick will come into play as it is discussed by the characters. Some of the characters may be seduced/convinced by Mavericks who convey the philosophy they've developed to explain things, or at least attempts will be made. Also the question of "resurrecting" Reploids is brought up, why it's supposed to be illegal (if a Reploid has gone Maverick before, there's nothing to prevent it from being a Maverick the second time around), and of course what types of Reploids are more prone to becoming Maverick (notably, most of them are animal-type Reploids - which might mean that the basic programming used to recreate the more bestial traits causes some sort of mental "regression" that makes it easier to be exposed to the Maverick Virus).

One character I'd also like to introduce would be a stereotypical "bubbly blonde" character - a female Reploid specializing in explosives and bomb disposal. Her psychology would be due to the strain caused by her line of work, an adaptation to the fear of being blown to smithereens nearly every day. She'd be perfectly happy and cheerful even in the face of danger and panicking comrades, though she'd also get upset or angry at comparatively insignificant remarks from fellow Hunters.

I don't really have much specific plot to do aside from the opening and the possibility that the characters will end up investigating a breakout of resurrected Maverick Hunters and the scandal/conspiracy surrounding them.

Not much more thought into this, I'd prefer all the characters to be more at a "standard" Maverick Hunter level - they could be exceptional but most of them should be newbies or otherwise not as experienced/powerful/unique as X or Zero or Axl. It'd be fun to explore life as a Reploid - maybe a character could be an operator like Nana from MMXCM, or some other non-combat role thrown into the adventure. Be nice to see how that rolls.

MMX RP Concept

Interesting idea, and due to the lack of regular MM RPs of any variety, I concur that it would be a good idea.

I've been thinking about one for a long time...I have a few characters in mind, and was thinking of throwing in some surviving humans from post-MMX5&6. By myself, I didn't really have enough actual plot points to make a real RP.

I think one of the primary problems that has plagued MM RPs in the past is the combat-driven RP. Combat every minute works in the games - I don't see how it would work in an RP. So, more character moments, more mystery, more drama, etc. could make it something people would want to join.

But to make it so that only players who have played the series would limit us too much...even if an advertisement for it was put down at the Robot Museum. I doubt many people would join. Now, if it was done in a way that didn't require knowledge of backstory, characters, and so forth...then it might work.

Am I wrong in my guesses? Is there a general interest in an MMX RP? If it were basically any other RP (i.e. not a typical MM RP of the past, but rather something on par with most Sonic RPs), with the main difference being MMX characters, would you join? (I hope that last part came out okay)

Forest of the future

I'm a little lost in the plot with this one.

Bar Wraith and Cipher. Tergonaut and I have talked about various plot elements and now that I have settled down into better accommodation, I feel as if I can pursue this!
... it's the only one I am clued up on and probably the reason why I only ever seem write for that one.
Sorry I have been detached Terg. Same goes for the net all way round though
So I owe a post there...

The scene with Taffy's group though. To be honest, I'm a little lost who's in the group, who's not, who's new e.t.c and what everyone's current state is. And what their current mission is again. I was wondering whether someone could explain this to me in a few lines rather than make a mountaineous summary =/

I could take Eclipse, Susie and Caine a few steps forwards, as I have some ideas. But do I have James' and Terg's consent for this? *is a hot on consent*

Okely dokelies. I would love to this RP running again

Forest of the Future

Okay then, the situation with Taffy and her group...

They've arrived at the Combine Headquarter building in Danberg. They've since split up into three groups, Eckli versues Ricardo the Hamster, and Factor, Carrion and Riku are still in the groul level entrance room. Bucky is unconscious in a nearby alley outside with Karya and Zephron, who are staying ready to move in if needed.

Taffy, Max, Alex and Lena are busy ascending fire escape stairs to try and... I forget. Is it to retrieve information on the location of the other Chaos Emeralds or the Combine itself? Or is there another Chaos Emerald there already? Either way their destination is the top of the building.

And as it stands, the Chaos Emerald situation follows as such: Eckli has one, Ricardo has one, Wraith has one, and the forest/wood area that Eclipse, Caine and Suzie are in are meant to have one as well. The other three are, I think, unknown.

Forest of the Future:

Basically they're infiltrating the complex to see if there are any more Chaos Emeralds as well as to investigate what they can about the Combine. There aren't any Chaos Emeralds, but this Combine base's leader is somehow connected to the Hunter/Slayer projects.

The other three Emeralds really should be kept for other locations/areas, we've accounted for many of them fairly quickly. But it shouldn't be a problem.

No probs Ben, it happens - and you have my permission, I have some ideas to offer on Cipher/Wraith developing Wraith's abilities which would also discuss emotions influencing the powers of the Emeralds, but go ahead, I'll offer ideas if you want them

Hey if you have some ideas for progressing the storyline for Caine and company then that would be great Ben! Feel free to go right ahead, i was hoping you'd post soon anyhow!

Missed you a bunch

Let's get the RP rollin'!

Well Riku hasn't tried to go bitey bitey on Carrion...

ANYWAY, at least the summary is detailed enough...at least the story hasn't progressed to fast...

O.o Is it just me, or has the whole RP Guild gone quiet? Not that there's anything particularly wrong with that. I guess it must have something to do with the holidays... >.>

Glad to see I'm not the only one affected by them.

The Black Knight

Well, for those of you who read what I wrote about it previously in here, you might be aware of a few differences between the planned version and what came out. I admit, here I goofed up. I rushed myself to get it done, and didn't pay enough attention to what I had originally intended.

Nonetheless, there's a lot of potential here, and it might be better off this way, rather than how I originally planned it! Where shall we go from here? I guess we'll find out!

Wayfarer, you've got one on board for the MMX RP. I've been trying to succed in this field, and fail miserably.

MMX RP

Okay then, Ace, that's good to hear! I had put that one on the back burner, but I am feeling like it's about time to bring it forward and give it some life! I'll ezmessage Tergonaut and see if he's still interested in using his idea. Otherwise, I'll have to default and adapt mine. I've been thinking about ways to combine the two ideas, and I think I have it figured out. We'll just have to see, eh?

General RP Stuff

I think this is really important. What is it that RPers look for? I ask this because there has been a pattern I have seen, where fewer and fewer people join RPs and visit regularly.

Is it just an all-encompassing death of the RP Guild, or are people biding their time and waiting for things that interest them?

Also, how much have the holidays affected RPers? At this time, I blame that for the bulk of the loss of people, and believe that soon, when everything calms down, people will return.

As I personally look to expand my experiences, I will join just about any kind of RP, but I don't assume for a minute that everyone is like that. What sort of things do you look for, what would catch your eye? Is it having a short introduction, or do you like long ones better?

UFO in Snow Newbie RP

I know it isn't as open-ended as the classic Newbie RP, and I'm sorry for that. I was hoping more people would join it. You know, see the (Newbie RP) part and hop right in. Am I just being impatient? Or did I really goof up and make an RP that few people want to join?

I really think that when I make an RP, my style turns off quite a few people. I can't really prove it, as from the time I first arrived here people have been dropping like flies from being regulars here.

So, any tips for improving? What changes could I make that would include more people, and be inviting to their eyes?

Horror RP in development

I've got some great ideas, and I'm preparing an RP with a complete story and background. Is this something people have an interest in, or is a horror RP a bad idea?

X RP? Count me in as well.

As to what RPers look for...I think that varies. I enjoy a good story with good imagery.

SHMUP RP

I had this idea for a SHMUP RP. Basically, you would pick a ship, destroy other ships that other people have, avoid getting killed yourself. that's it.

That sounds more like a game of Battleship, not an RP, n/o. Reasons for destroying other ships...?

At my board, my friend has started up a Collab story (extensive RP per ce), and has really found no interested people to help with hit. Its a great concept, if you want to check it out it's here. Anyway, with that aside I look back to Way's question on 'general rp' discussion-isms. I like Way, try to join any RP I can- but obviousily this is majoritily a Sonic board so the interest may be there. Personally, I think the Guild's time has come and gone- and it is just lasting its death as long as it can.

General RP stuffs

I agree with Mike, in the sense that the Guild has had less activity lately than it has at times in the past. And we've seen a shift in the regular RPers that come here, it's really been years now for the Guild and so of course things change over time.

But I really think the Guild is only the way it is now because we're starting to get into ruts. Most RPs are expected to have some huge-butt post to start things off, people jump on newbies who try to make an RP but end up making maybe one or two paragraphs. I'm not knocking that because I want to see everyone helping each other become better RPers - but if we immediately have like four or five people posting only to tell the post starter that they need more detail in their RP, that can scare off people who might turn out to be good roleplayers.

I don't really know what it is lately - and I've hardly been roleplaying myself recently, though I really want to keep up with at least Forest of the Future even though it's dying off right now. But, maybe we're all setting our expectations a little too high, maybe we've lost sight of what makes RPs fun and interesting.

Now obviously we haven't lost it entirely, or else we wouldn't be having the activity that we do have. I'm not trying to paint a doom-and-gloom picture here. And in many ways we have a finer and more mature bunch now than ever. Long gone are the days of the "Golden Age" where the Guild used to be dominated by pseudo-FPS stories and war games that only included certain individuals who would not adapt to the changes that started happening where newer people wanted to create stories, really dramatic and powerful stories where you cared about what was happening to the characters. But, nevertheless, I think because we've gotten used to a higher standard, we're starting to lose people who may very well be fine RPers, given a little time and effort.

And remember, not every RP starts out with an epic starting post; some of the best RPs I've seen only started out with IC posts that began in a single sentence! Those of you around for the first Newbie RP, City Bound, know that thing just outright exploded thanks to the help of Gideon Kalve Jarvis. And that story actually reached an ending that everyone liked, or at least most of them liked; few RPs ever reach a proper ending like that. And how did it start off? With a huge honking OOC post, and a single sentence describing...I wrote the sentence myself and I don't even remember how it started. I think it was at the edge of Robotropolis. But that thread ended with thousands of well-written posts. And Forest of the Future became immediately popular as an RP and got a whole bunch of people to join it - and only more recently has died off like it has. It started off the same way that City Bound did, with a single sentence of IC!

Now, there was another newbie RP that was started out by Wayfarer - bless his heart, always trying to get people into new RP concepts and ideas, and hopefully has helped people think more creatively - that didn't explode with activity at first like the others, and in fact died fairly quickly. Why is that, when he wrote such a detailed and well-written first post?

I think that part of it is the general interests of everyone who is currently part of the Guild; not everyone likes stories about flying saucers and normal people. But I hypothesize that part of the reason the Guild is struggling in any way right now is because we are being too non-open in our minds to plot developments, character interactions. The newbie RPs were excellent because they allowed such a wide variety of characters but provided enough basic background - in a single sentence! - that people had a general feeling of what characters were and weren't allowed.

And there wasn't the feeling that the plot depended entirely on a single person to run the thread. That's something I see as a complaint for RPs dying all too often - "we were waiting for someone to post but they never did." And that's perfectly legitimate, but if you really are excited about an RP and somebody else isn't posting as fast as you like, PM them or otherwise contact them and let them know how excited you are and what you'd like to do. Maybe you'll excite them back into the RP, or at least you'll know if they're still actually interested or not in continuing.

But heck, some of the best RPs I've ever been in hardly featured the RP starter during it - I remember a number of occasions where the RP starter started an RP, but it took off without him or her and ended up being a blast. One of my very first RPs was in one of the "Golden Age" wargame RPs, and ironically enough it was one of the best experiences. I was RPing a robotic villain character along with two other players, a Chaos-allergic thief and a time-traveling echidna, and somehow they all got working together to fight against entire armies. But it didn't start out that way, in fact my character was directly at odds with the time traveler at first! But that's the wonderful thing about RPs, your characters make decisions seemingly on their own and when that happens, things seem to flow more smoothly and it becomes natural and fun to RP.

Maybe I'm harping about something that people don't see as a concern or disagree with. After all, the Guild isn't required to see a particular amount of activity per month or whatever. And I'm sure some people like having everything laid out for them exactly. But try to make the most of any RPing spark of inspiration you have for any story you're in or want to be in. And while a good framework of rules is good and important to start from, remember that some of the most successful RPs and most popular ones, began from only a single sentence of IC.

I agree and dissagree Terg...there are things I'm with you on and things I'm not.

I agree that there is too much detail wanted for RPs nowadays...I have tried a number of RPs myself, and have found that unless you spell out a whole lot word for word in the first post, not many will join. There seems to be a distinct lack of imagination in the Guild at the moment...when I first arrived, people were coming up with all sorts of wierd and wacky characters, and because they were all so different and insane, they were very interesting and exciting! Nowadays it seems most characters created in RPs are very steriotypical and 2D, without much background or imagination in them.

The imagination idea also brings in the settings for RPs...it seems that we have reached a stage where an RP is almost immeadeately doomed to faliure unless it is a Sonic RP. Granted, Sonic is the theme of the board, and the majority of RPs should be about him, but the sheer lack of enthusiasm for almost anything at all other than that is a real shame to see...what happened to the fun Sci-Fi threads, or the cool Fantasy ideas, or the other stuff?

I can't explain this decline...it is true we seem to have lost a number of the good stalwart RPers we had just a short time ago, but I don't think that is the reason for the decline. We have also had an influx of newbies, and some could say it is their fault, but this I don't think either...I am currently RPing with some of them, and (although I hardly think myself qualified to say this) I see real talent in them, and think they could go far! Unfortunately, it is the atmosphere of the Guild that is stifling them, not the other way around.

What I disagree with is what you are saying about one-line introductions and Newbie RP threads...yes, I think it is a good idea to give slightly less information and let RPers bridge the gap themselves rather than doing it for them, however you do have to build at least some foundation there so they can see where to aim at. Granted, some of the Newbie RP threads have had one-line introductions, but I would say the reason they took of is simply because they were so open...everyone knew that it was completely up in the air, so they kinda went mad. With the majority of RPs, that do have a storyline and some kind of structured plot, a little more detail is required.

When a newbie comes to the board, they have an idea for a full story and want it to go exactly the way they planned it (my first RPs were like that), and if people were to enter with absolutely anything, they would probably get upset as it wouldn't fit their idea and leave anyway. I think it is thoughts along these lines that cause people to be less likely to join one line intro RPs, unless they have "Newbie RP Thread" emblazened across the top of them. In cases like these I think it would be best if someone was to step in and give a little pointer to the newbie to help them a little, then people would be more likely to join and the RP would take off...the newbie would be happy and stay.

I agree with you about lots of people pointing out to a newbie though...I think it should be the unwritten rule that if advice has to be given, only one person give it. For a newbie to come back to five different posts all telling him the same thing is crushing...if someone has already pointed out the mistakes, don't post just to repeat exactly what he said.

That's my take on it anyway. With regard to how to pick up the morale around here again, I'm afraid I honestly don't know, but what I will say is that I think it would help if everyone here made a consious effort not to be pulled in by the depression! I have seen a few good RPers on this board, when faced with declining RPs, begin to shorten their posts themselves, use less imagination on them, or even give up an RP altogether! This will only end up adding to the problem in my view...whereas if we all try to keep up the standard as best we can, no matter what, maybe it will even start to fight back against the drop somewhat^^

Moan over...you may continue whatever you were doing

Wraith

General RP Stuff

Ah, the 'Golden Age', as Terg so happily put it. I remember them well, despite being MIA for some of it.

Quote:I was RPing a robotic villain character

Vorallon, Terg? =P

The Guild is just going through another phase in it's life. This always happens. There's always some big rise in activity for a while, and then it drops down and becomes almost close to minimal.

I used to be an avid RPer here in the Guild, Terg and Mike can both clarify that =P But for the past one, two years, there's just been so much going on in my life that I've decided to drop from most RPs, such as one of Alex Warlorn's old ones, where it was just me and him trudging through post by post.

I want to get back into the RPing world, but, in a sense, I'm afraid of commitment, because whenever I do, something major usually happens shortly later, and I have to leave the scene again. I've let down so many people over the years because I've repeatedly dropped in and out of RPs.

I've even tried once at my own RP. It never even made it to the second page.

I've had a look at some of the RPs which have started up, like Wraith's Universes Collide, but I don't tend to usually like to join after a second page is made =/

Some have interested me, like Kainwannabe's The Fortress of 'Daywalker' because it seems quite similar to the Underworld.

But, back towards the topic. I've seen ideas thrown left and right around here, from a Lord of the Rings RP, to Gundam, and even just a simple training RP for people's characters to do just that, train.

I say just give it a bit more time, and some of the newbies will impress us with fresh, new ideas to the Guild. I know I'm looking forward to it =D

Okay, people. I give. I decided to make my own Megaman X RP. Except it is different. It chronicles the events of Maverick Hunters and/or anyone residing in the HQ, without a mission, not doing anything in particular. In other words: It's a Roleplay version of Megaman X: Down Time, one of the best Web-Comics out there. The RP is called MHT, and it stands for Maverick Hunter Tomfoolery. Anyone in?

Recently I've considered a concept RP idea, which has been done before but never to a finish. Dungeons & Dragons. In a sort, I have no idea how the story would begin. I certanitally wouldn't want to work off of the cartoon. But I would like to do one. I'm not sure, how'd it work. But remember this is just a idea- Im just blowing off steam and well desire to RP.

Anyone comments, suggestions, tips?

And any people interested?

I've learned only one thing in my little experience of Board RP's. Long winded epic trilogy story lines are doooooomed to fail. I mean seriously most of your players get tired and drop out of the game early because there just dosen't seem to be any ending in sight. Thats the whole point of any story is that there is an ultimate ending. Good or bad I need closure fast or I'll just fall asleep.

Not to say we need fast food style RPing. But I guess what I mean to say is. If you're going to make an RP. Pick an ending and stick with it. If you start changing up too much as the RP is happening you'll get yourself confused. Then you'll loose sight of your vision, people will get bored and eventually drop out.

So I guess heading an RP is like hearding sheep...or a cattle drive. Only...hopefully. The ones you are guiding aren't stupid and are clever and creative in their own right.

Sorry, being relativley new in the community, I'm rather late to the party, but I was wondering if you did start the D&D rp. If so, its too bad I missed it, but I hope it went well enough

Yowdy there, Spunky. I don't think they did start that RP, but I could be wrong.

Welcome to the Guild.

Spunky, no one responded to the interest in my idea, so the RP never was started. Not the one I was brainstorming anyway to answer your question.