MUSH (Page 2)
Glossary terms related to MUSHes (Multi-User Shared Hallucinations). MUSHes are MU* games that generally focus on writing, roleplaying, and storytelling over coded systems and mechanics.
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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
PC
What is a PC in a roleplaying game? PC stands for “player character.” It’s a character in a roleplaying game controlled by a player, as opposed to an NPC (non-player character), which is controlled by the game master or the game itself. PCs are central to the game’s plot and are the avatars through which
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
NPC
What is an NPC? NPC stands for “non-player character.” It is a character in a roleplaying game that is not controlled by a player but by the game’s codebase, an administrator, or is written as part of the background or environment to enhance storytelling. NPCs are used to fulfill various roles such as quest givers,
L&L
What does L&L stand for? L&L stands for “Lords and Ladies.” It refers to a genre of roleplaying games (RPGs) that focus on the social dynamics, intrigue, and relationships between members of nobility. These games often emphasize character development, political maneuvering, and interpersonal relationships over combat or adventuring. Players might take on the roles of
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
Linkdead
What is linkdead? Linkdead refers to a situation in text-based online games, especially in multi-user dungeons (MUDs) and similar roleplaying games (RPGs), where a character remains present in the game world but the player controlling the character has been disconnected. A linkdead state can happen for various reasons, such as an internet outage, a computer
IRL
What is IRL? IRL stands for “in real life.” It’s a term used to differentiate between things that happen in the real, physical world from those that happen in a virtual world or game. IRL is often used in text-based gaming, online forums, and digital communications to draw a line between the digital persona and
Imm
What is an imm? Imm is short for “immortal.” It refers to a member of a game’s staff in a text-based roleplaying game (RPG). Compared to regular players, imms have elevated privileges and responsibilities. They can create content, enforce rules, and manage the game’s environment. In some games, they are also known as “wizards,” “gods,”
Idle
What is idle status in games? Idle in the context of online roleplaying games (RPGs) refers to a state where a player is logged into a game but is not actively participating or performing any actions. This can occur for various reasons, such as the player being away from their keyboard (AFK), attending to real-life
ICA = ICC
What is ICA = ICC? ICA = ICC stands for “in-character actions equal in-character consequences.” This concept is used in roleplaying games (RPGs) to signify that the actions of a player character (PC) within the game world have consequences that are consistent with the game’s setting and rules. It encourages players to think about the
IC =/= OOC
What is IC =/= OOC? IC =/= OOC stands for “in character does not equal out of character.” This is a fundamental concept in roleplaying games (RPGs). It differentiates the thoughts, feelings, and actions of the character from those of the player controlling the character (mun). The distinction is important for maintaining a clear boundary
IC
What does IC mean? IC stands for “in character.” It refers to the actions and speech of a player’s character within the context of a roleplaying game (RPG). Unlike being out-of-character (OOC), when you’re IC, you’re portraying your character as they exist in the game’s setting, distinct from the your own personality in the real
IAW
What does IAW mean? IAW stands for “in another window.” This term is used in text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) and online gaming communities to indicate that a player is present but not currently focused on the game’s window. In this case, the player is not away from their keyboard (AFK); however, they are engaged in
Helpfile
What is a helpfile? A helpfile (also written “help file”) is a digital document designed to provide players with information and guidance on various aspects of a game, such as mechanics, systems, controls, and lore. Typically accessed from within the game, these files can cover a broad range of topics, from how to engage in
Head Builder
What is a Head Builder? Head Builder is a title given to a key staff member in a multi-user dungeon (MUD) responsible for designing and creating the game’s environments. They decide on the themes and layouts of various areas within the MUD. Beyond their own building tasks, they select and manage other builders, who contribute
God-modding
What is god-modding? God-modding is a term used in text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) to describe a situation where one player takes control of another player’s character without their permission. This often includes dictating how the other character feels, reacts, or acts in a given scenario, effectively removing the other player’s ability to contribute to the
Marty Stu
What is a Marty Stu? Marty Stu is a term used to describe a male character in fanfiction and roleplaying games (RPGs) who is portrayed as excessively ideal, lacking flaws, or unrealistically powerful, to the point where it undermines the game’s narrative credibility. Marty Stu characters are typically flawless, succeed at almost everything they attempt,
FTB
What does FTB mean? FTB stands for “fade to black.” It is a term used in text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) to indicate the backgrounding or omission of a scene or part of a scene. This technique is typically employed during moments that are either highly intimate, extremely violent, or otherwise not suitable for the public
Freeform
What is freeform RP? Freeform in the context of roleplaying and writing games refers to a style of play that emphasizes narrative freedom and creative expression over rigid structures and rules. In freeform games, players are not bound by strict turn-taking, detailed stat sheets, or the outcomes of mandatory dice rolls (typical features of tabletop
FC
What does FC mean in RP? A faceclaim, commonly abbreviated as FC, is an image chosen by a player to visually represent their fictional character in online text-based roleplaying games. This image is usually of a celebrity, anime character, or any other public figure or artwork. However, faceclaims can also be original, commissioned artwork. FCs
ERP
What is ERP in games? ERP stands for “erotic roleplay.” It refers to a form of roleplaying where the participants engage in narratives that involve physical intimacy, often leading up to and including sexually explicit behavior. This type of roleplay is characterized by its focus on romantic, sensual, or sexual scenarios between characters, typically in
Emote
What is an emote? An emote is a way for players in text-based roleplaying games (RPGs) to describe their characters’ actions and express emotions through text. Unlike “says,” which are used strictly for speaking, emotes allow players to convey body language, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues. Emotes are used to enrich storytelling and character
Consent
What is consent? In the context of roleplaying, consent refers to the agreement between players regarding what can and cannot happen to their characters within the game. The concept of consent is important for ensuring that all participants feel safe, respected, and comfortable with the game’s events and outcomes. Consent covers a range of actions,