What does OC mean in online roleplay?
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 of the canon or official narrative. They are often used in fan fiction, roleplaying games (RPGs), and other creative endeavors to add personal flair and new dynamics to existing worlds.
OCs can vary greatly in complexity and background, from simple additions to fully fleshed-out characters with detailed histories and personalities. They allow players and writers to explore narratives and interactions that are not confined by the original work’s boundaries.
OC: a brief history
The term OC appears to have started as informal shorthand in online fan communities and text-based roleplaying games. Fans used it to easily label characters they created themselves, especially when discussing or showcasing their work separate from official stories.
Over time, OC became standard vocabulary in a wide range of online writing and gaming spaces. Its meaning broadened as more communities adopted the term for their own creative activities.
How it's used today
Players and writers often use the term OC when participating in collaborative storytelling or text-based games. It helps identify which characters have been created by participants rather than drawn from the source material or canon.
Types of games where the term is commonly used include:
MUD, MUSH, RPMUD, PbP, Chat RPG, Social media RPG, MMORPG, RPI, RPE, Fanfiction forums.
OC examples
- In a Dungeons & Dragons campaign, a player creates a gnome bard named Jinko who travels the land searching for his lost family’s ancient songbook. Jinko is not part of the D&D official lore.
- A fan of the Harry Potter series writes a story featuring Lira Blackwood, a wizard from a small European country attending Hogwarts, who is not mentioned in J.K. Rowling’s original books.
- In a Star Wars fan fiction, an author introduces Kira Sunstrike, a Jedi Knight who survived Order 66 and seeks to rebuild the Jedi Order. Kira Sunstrike does not exist in the official Star Wars universe.
- A participant in a superhero roleplaying forum creates Night Falcon, a vigilante with no superpowers but with advanced martial arts skills and high-tech gadgets, set in a city not found in any existing comic book.
Myths and misconceptions
- Original characters are only for amateur writers. Many believe that only beginners create OCs or that they cannot be as compelling or as fun to play as canon characters. However, many OCs are well-crafted and add significant depth to the narrative or game.
- OCs cannot be as interesting or complex as canon characters. In reality, many players prefer the freedom that original characters provide, allowing them to develop richer personalities, backstories, and motivations without being limited by established guidelines.
- OCs are always overpowered or “perfect,” commonly referred to as “Mary Sues” or “Gary Sues.” While this stereotype exists, many creators strive for balance and realism in their characters and choose to incorporate believable flaws and limitations.
- OCs have to fit perfectly within every detail of the established setting to be valid. While it’s important for OCs to respect the tone and logic of the universe, creative interpretation and expansion are often encouraged in fan communities and roleplaying groups.
- Once an OC is created, it cannot be changed or developed further. Many believe you have to stick strictly to your character’s original concept, but evolving, updating, or even reinventing your OC is a common and accepted part of collaborative writing and gameplay.
OC FAQs
What’s the difference between an original character and a fan character?
An original character is entirely the invention of the person creating it, without any basis in the original work’s canon. A fan character, while also created by a fan, is based heavily on the existing world or characters of a specific fandom but isn’t part of the official storyline.
Can original characters be used in any type of roleplaying game?
Yes, OCs can be used in almost any type of roleplaying game, whether it’s a tabletop RPG, a text-based online game, or a live-action roleplaying game (LARP). They add individuality and personal storytelling to the gaming experience.
How do I create a well-developed OC?
To create a well-developed OC, start by defining their background, personality, motives, and relationships. Consider their strengths, weaknesses, and how they fit into the world of the game or story. It’s also important to ensure they are balanced and integrate well with existing characters and settings.
Is it acceptable to use someone else’s OC?
It is generally not acceptable to use someone else’s OC without their permission. Using another’s OC without consent can be considered disrespectful and a form of plagiarism. Always ask for permission and respect the creator’s wishes.
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