Chat
Glossary terms related to chat RPGs. Chatroom games were originally played on platforms such as AOL and IRC but today are played in Discord servers. They come in a wide variety of forms.
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Telnet
What is Telnet? Telnet is a basic way to connect to another computer over the internet using just text. In text-based roleplaying games like MUDs (multi-user dungeons), it’s often used to log into the game’s server and interact with the world by typing commands. Players use Telnet to explore, talk, fight, and roleplay – all
Sparring
What is sparring? Sparring is a form of combat in roleplaying games (RPGs) that simulates a fight or duel between characters primarily for training purposes or to settle disputes within the game. Unlike other forms of player vs player (PvP) combat, sparring does not result in permanent character death (permadeath), making it a safer and
Trolling
What is trolling? Trolling in a roleplaying context refers to behaviors intended to disrupt gameplay, provoke other players, or derail the narrative of the game. Trolls often engage in actions or dialogue that breaks game immersion, antagonizes players, or leads to non-constructive outcomes. Their tactics can vary from sarcastic remarks and annoying other characters to
Trigger (psychological)
What is a trigger? In the context of text-based roleplaying games (RPGs), trigger refers to any topic, action, or type of content that could negatively impact the well-being of a player, potentially causing emotional distress. Players often agree to avoid triggers to maintain a safe and enjoyable gaming environment. Additionally, in the realm of multi-user
TPB
What does TPB mean? TPB stands for “the player behind,” meaning: the player behind a character in a roleplaying game (RPG). It’s a term commonly used in text-based RPGs to distinguish between the comments and those of their character. TPB is often seen in parentheses or as part of a signature in messages and posts
RP hook
What is an RP hook? An RP hook or roleplay hook is a narrative device used to engage and motivate players to initiate or continue roleplaying. It serves as an incentive for other players’ characters to interact with each other or pursue certain plot lines. RP hooks can be character traits, mysterious events, intriguing items,
RL
What is RL? RL stands for “real life.” It’s a term used to differentiate the everyday, non-digital world from the virtual or game environments in which roleplaying, gaming, and other digital interactions occur. RL can be used as both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, RL refers to activities, responsibilities, and interactions that
Power-posing
What is power-posing? Power-posing in the context of roleplaying games, especially text-based online roleplaying, refers to a form of gameplay where a player inappropriately dictates the actions or reactions of another player’s character without their consent. This practice is seen as a breach of roleplaying etiquette because it removes a player’s agency over their character
Plot
What is a plot? A plot in roleplaying games refers to the sequence of events and character-driven storylines that provide the framework for the game’s narrative. Plots can vary greatly in complexity and scale, ranging from simple quests to intricate networks of interwoven story arcs. They serve as a motivational and structural backbone, guiding player
PB
What is a PB? PB stands for “playby.” It refers to the practice in text-based roleplaying games where players use images of celebrities, models, or other public figures to visually represent their fictional characters. This term is essentially synonymous with “faceclaim,” although the usage of one term over the other can vary by community. Regardless,
Offscreen
What is offscreen? Offscreen refers to events or actions in a roleplaying game (RPG) that happen in the background and are not actively roleplayed or written about. This concept of offscreen events allows for the development of characters, plots, or world-building elements without requiring them to be explicitly detailed or played out during game sessions.
Oldbie
What is an oldbie? An oldbie is an established or experienced player in the context of roleplaying or online gaming communities. This term highlights someone who has been part of a game or community for a significant period, often possessing extensive knowledge of game mechanics, lore, and culture. Unlike newcomers or “newbies,” oldbies are familiar
Newbie
What is a newbie? A newbie is a new or inexperienced player in a roleplaying or gaming context. It refers to someone who is just beginning to explore the game or genre and is still learning the basic rules, strategies, and etiquette. Newbies might lack familiarity with common terminology, game mechanics, or story elements, but
Mun
What is a mun? Mun is short for “mundane.” In the context of text-based gaming and online roleplaying, it refers to the player or individual behind a character. The term “mun” contrasts the player in real life with the often fantastical or extraordinary characters they control. As the player, the mun is responsible for making
MOTD
What is a MOTD? MOTD stands for “message of the day.” The MOTD is a special announcement or information displayed to users when they log in or connect to a game, chatroom server, or similar platform. The content of an MOTD usually includes updates, rules, events, or greetings and is set by the server administrators
OC
What is an OC in RP? OC stands for “original character.” It’s a character, created by a player or writer, that does not exist in the official storyline, setting, or universe of the game, book, or series being referenced. As the term implies, original characters are unique to the creator’s imagination and are not part
RP
What is RP? RP stands for “roleplay” or “roleplaying.” It’s the act of adopting the identity of a fictional character and making decisions as that character rather than as oneself. It involves thinking, speaking, and acting based on the character’s background, personality, goals, and motivations, which can be distinct from the player’s own. Roleplaying is
Player
What is a player in an RPG? In the context of RPGs, a player is an individual who controls and brings to life a character within the game. Players make decisions for their characters, engage with the story, and interact with other players and the game master (if there is one). Players also help create
Moderator
What is a moderator? A moderator, often found in games with chatrooms and forums, is a staff member or volunteer tasked with assisting new players, maintaining order, and enforcing the rules and standards of the game. Moderators act as guides, rule enforcers, and community managers, ensuring that the game environment is welcoming, respectful, and fun
Main
What is a main? The term main refers to a player’s primary character in a roleplaying game (RPG), especially when they play multiple characters (known as “multiplaying“). This primary character usually receives most of the player’s focus and development efforts. Mains are often more detailed, have richer backstories, and are used in more significant storylines
Tavern RP
What is tavern RP? Tavern RP (sometimes also called “tea house RP”) refers to a form of roleplaying that takes place in a casual, often social setting, typically mimicking the atmosphere of a medieval or fantasy tavern. It is a type of social RP where players gather in character to discuss events, share stories, or
Scene
What is an RP scene? A roleplay scene in text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) is a chunk of the story where characters interact with each other or their surroundings. Each scene usually (but not always) has a specific setting and a clear purpose, like solving a problem or moving the plot forward. Scenes are the backbone
OOC
What is OOC? OOC stands for “out-of-character.” It refers to actions, conversations, or thoughts that do not pertain to the character’s role in a game, story, or session. OOC is used to differentiate between the player’s thoughts and their character’s actions to avoid confusion and maintain the integrity of the roleplaying experience. Alongside the concept
Literate
What does literate mean in RP games? Literate in the context of text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) refers to a preference or requirement for players who are literate and fluent in the game’s primary language. This ensures that participants can effectively communicate, understand complex narratives, and contribute detailed, well-constructed responses. Literacy in this context goes beyond