What does on-grid mean in MU* roleplay?
On-grid, in the context of a multi-user dungeon (MUD) setting, refers to events, actions, or interactions that occur in-character (IC) on the game map in areas accessible to other players.
This term emphasizes the aspect of the game that is directly playable and interactive, where characters can meet, events can be witnessed, and actions can directly influence the course of the game.
On-grid activities are contrasted with off-grid occurrences, which happen offscreen, in the background, or off the main map, thus not directly affecting the immediate gameplay or interaction between players.
The term highlights the spatial and participatory aspects of MU* games, focusing on the importance of location within the game’s world for character interaction and narrative development.
On-grid: a brief history
The term seems to have started in early MU* communities, where players needed a way to talk about actions happening visibly within the shared game environment. As text-based roleplaying worlds grew, “on-grid” became a shorthand for anything unfolding in locations marked out on the in-game map.
Over time, the use of “on-grid” spread beyond just map locations to describe any play that is publicly accessible and open for other players to join or witness.
How it's used today
Players use “on-grid” when talking about events and roleplay that happen in publicly accessible parts of a shared virtual world. This helps others know that something is taking place where it can be observed or joined by anyone present in the mapped game space.
Types of games where the term is commonly used include:
MUD, MUSH, RPMUD, Chat RPG, Social media RPG, RPI, RPE
On-grid examples
- Random encounters between characters in a city’s streets, leading to impromptu roleplaying sessions, alliances between clans, or conflicts.
- A scheduled in-game event at a specific location on the map where players gather to participate in a festival, tournament, or battle.
- A quest given by a non-player character (NPC) that leads players on an adventure across various on-grid locations, interacting with the environment and each other to achieve their objectives.
Myths and misconceptions
- On-grid interactions are the only meaningful or important part of MU* games. While on-grid activities are crucial for direct interaction and engagement, off-grid elements also play a vital role in enriching the world and backstory, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
- Only futuristic or sci-fi games have a “grid.” In fact, the grid refers to the game map in any style of MU*, regardless of the game’s setting.
- On-grid always means public visibility to every player at all times. In reality, certain on-grid locations may still be restricted or have limited accessibility, but the events are still considered on-grid if they occur within the mapped, shared areas.
- On-grid actions don’t need to be recorded or reported. However, many games encourage logging or sharing key on-grid events to keep the narrative coherent and ensure players stay informed about in-game happenings.
- On-grid play only happens in designated “main” areas, like city centers or common rooms. In truth, any mapped or accessible part of the game world where characters can meet and interact is considered on-grid, no matter how remote or rarely used.
On-grid FAQs
How does on-grid gameplay differ from off-grid?
On-grid gameplay is marked by direct interaction and engagement within the game’s designated play areas, where players can encounter each other and engage in live roleplaying. Off-grid, in contrast, involves narrative elements or character actions that occur outside these interactive spaces, often used for background development or storylines not immediately accessible or interactive for all players.
Can off-grid events influence on-grid actions?
Yes, off-grid events can significantly influence on-grid actions and gameplay. While off-grid events occur outside the direct interaction space, they can set the stage for on-grid activities, drive plotlines, and affect character motivations and world dynamics that play out in the interactive areas of the game.
How do players transition events from off-grid to on-grid?
Transitioning events from off-grid to on-grid usually involves integrating the outcomes or consequences of off-grid actions into the live, interactive gameplay. This can be done through character dialogue, discovered items, in-game events that reveal what happened off-grid, or direct narrative intervention by the game’s storytellers.
What is the significance of being on-grid for character development?
Being on-grid allows for dynamic character development through direct interaction with other players and the game environment. It provides opportunities for characters to evolve based on live roleplaying experiences, decisions made in real-time, and the unpredictable nature of player interactions, which can lead to more nuanced and complex character arcs.
See: Investment, stakes, and conflict in RPIs.
How do game masters manage on-grid activities?
Game masters manage on-grid activities by facilitating interactions, ensuring the game’s rules and narrative coherence are maintained, and sometimes orchestrating events that bring characters together. They might also monitor the game space for consistency, help resolve disputes, and guide overarching storylines to ensure a cohesive and engaging gameplay experience for all players.
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