seen my fair share of RPGs. Now one thing I've noticed is that there
are basically 2 types of plots that I'll discuss here. They both have
pluses and minuses, so its basically all on preferance. I've seen
them all in both chat and message board and acouple of other rpgs.
"Free Range Plots"
Alright, this is the nickname I've given to plots that are basically
controled by the members. In other words, the GM doesn't have much
input, besides basically contesting the rules and making sure
everythings within regs. This works great because it allows a lot of
member freedom. It also spawns a lot of new ideas for plots which is
another plus. For some odd reason they also seem to get members to
work together. One more good thing about this sort of plot is that
the rpg usually lasts forever or until the members leave. Mainly
because it allows for endless amounts of ideas. The fun only stops
when the inspiration does. However on the downside, along with this
freedom, you ussually end up with alot of fragmented stories that
don't make sense. Also with all the originality issues you get you
also get unoriginality issues, and trust me they go like mad these
days. This sort of plot also has a tendency to create very bitter
enemies or for that matter no plot at all. I've seen cases where a
rpg is basically a chat with actions or a board to talk on. One
excellent example of this, and long running, is
www.nuclearstorm.com . It has one of the most liberal plots..
"Enforced Plots"
Another nick I've given to some rpgs. This type of plot is more
focused. The gm or gm's take actual part and for that matter seem to
enjoy the rpg alot more. These sorts of rpgs are taking place a lot
more. The positives on this sort of plot is that it has a definite
story. There is a beginning, middle, and a conclusion. They are also
very very detailed, which means you can basically get lost in a
world, which is what rpgs are sposed to do. All sugar and candy?
Afraid not, along with all these positives, there are negatives.
These sort of rpgs tend to have focus more on main characters letting
some characters feel left out or not as important. Which I can say is
bad cause if a player doesn't feel important then why play? Another
bad thing that can happen is that sometimes the plot seems rigid or
too strict, not allowing for too much freedom. The only other bad
thing I can think of is that there is actually an end. Although some
have found a way around this. One very good example of this is
www.foreverzero.org . It is a very high quality rpg and managed to find
a way around the "end" distraction.
Alright thats all for now...
Katsura Kogoro
