MUSH (Page 3)
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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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