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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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
Mary Sue
What is a Mary Sue? A Mary Sue is a type of character often found in stories, particularly in fan fiction and amateur writing, who is perceived as overly idealized and lacking realistic or meaningful flaws. This character is typically the embodiment of wish fulfillment for the author and can disrupt the story’s balance by
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
VNPC
What is a VNPC? VNPC stands for “virtual non-player character.” It’s a concept used in text-based roleplaying games, particularly multi-user dungeons (MUDs), to imply the presence of non-player characters that are not directly coded or controlled within the game’s environment. These characters are considered to be part of the game’s setting, contributing to the atmosphere
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
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,”
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