Ideas/Insights (Page 2)
Articles that explore text-based games, roleplaying, and storytelling. These pieces share ideas, examples, overviews, and thoughtful discussion to help readers better understand the space.
Latest posts
10 Ways to support your favorite text games and game creators
Discover 10 ways to support your favorite text games and game creators, especially indie games that could use the marketing boost.
Ways to welcome and include new players
Looking for more ways to welcome and include new players? In this post, fellow roleplayer Petal shares her 11 tips for oldbies in RP MUDs.
How to use medieval fantasy language in RP
Learn what's important - and what's not - when roleplaying with medieval fantasy language. Plus, Amika returns with her tips for using Archaic English!
Erotic roleplay (ERP) and consent in games: what you need to know
What is erotic roleplay (ERP)? This post covers what you need to know about ERP and consent in text-based games, plus advice for game admins and staff.
10 Ways to spice up your tavern RP
Tavern RP is a type of social roleplay that is set in bars and pubs. Here are 10 ideas to keep your tavern roleplay from becoming stale.
Toxic gaming communities: how to identify and deal with toxic behavior
Learn what makes a game or gamer toxic, as well as tips for avoiding toxic gaming communities and handling toxic behavior.
The 5 basic multi-user dungeon (MUD) styles and you
An introduction to the 5 basic MUD styles, including what you can expect and how to find a suitable game.
100+ Rare colors to intrigue and inspire
Spice up your writing with this updated list of over 100 rare colors. Some etymology and tips for usage included.
Mental health and gaming: 10 practical tips
When it comes to mental health and gaming, there are simple things you can do to live and play healthier. Learn 10 from Bre, a mental health coach, in this post.
MU* help systems: 15+ ideas for improvement
A great MUD help system has certain features that make it easy to use and maintain. Here are 15+ ideas for game implementors.
7 Great reasons to play a text-based RPG
In this post, I offer 7 great reasons to play a text-based RPG, whether it's a multi-user dungeon or a chatroom-based game.
List of character flaws (150+) with examples for writers and roleplayers
A list of character flaws you can use to make your characters more dynamic, relatable, and compelling. Over 150+ options, plus examples for writers and roleplayers.
What is metagaming in RP + 6 examples
What is metagaming in RP, and how do you know if it's bad? I break it down for you in this post with several examples.
25 essential multi-user (MU*) game terms and what they mean
Tired of sounding like a newb? Check out this list of essential MU* terms. You'll sound like a pro in no time.
4 Types of multiplayer writing games you can play online for free
Learn about 4 types of multiplayer writing games you can play online for free. Includes examples and popular game directories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ideas/Insights category?
Ideas/Insights is for articles that explore text-based games, roleplaying, and storytelling from a practical or historical angle. These posts focus on understanding how things work, why certain patterns appear, and what creators and players can learn from them.
What kind of content appears in this category?
Topics in this category often include game design approaches, roleplay practices, community dynamics, writing considerations, and common challenges found in text-based games.
How is Ideas/Insights different from Guides?
Ideas/Insights articles are exploratory and explanatory. They aim to help readers think through a topic or situation.
How is Ideas/Insights different from Essays?
Ideas/Insights focuses on understanding and navigation. Essays focus on developing and examining a particular perspective or line of reasoning.
Who is this category for?
Ideas/Insights is for players, writers, admins, and designers who want a clearer understanding of text-based games and the communities around them.