UTOPIA | Page 63

Player 2: “Wouldn’t he just fly in circles? Because physics?” roleplay (rōl’plā,) v. To act out a fantasy, especially with a group. v. To act as (a character) as part of a fantasy, especially with a group. n. The practice of roleplaying Roleplay is not something that was invented online. Dungeon Masters are continuing a legacy, and honing skills passed down from a time where all history was spoken and the only social media that existed was a campfire. It is a narrative art. A form of storytelling that allows participants to explore their differences, to immerse themselves in another reality, to build a world that is a refuge from one they cannot fully control without political backing or wheelbarrows of cash. Character creation and world development are not skills that can be perfected or improved overnight. The commandments below have been passed down from generation to generation of writers and roleplayers. They are applicable in chat rooms, forums, tabletop and any other roleplay medium you find yourself exploring. It is true that roleplay should be fun, but it is a cardinal sin in fiction when your fun impedes the fun of others. I THOU SHALT NOT CLAIM IT UNLESS YOU CAN EXPLAIN IT. Player 1: “My character is a supervillain who is immortal and has one wing he uses to fly to places.” Player 1: “No, it’s rp lol.” Yes, it is true that in a fantasy world, you can do whatever you like. But, like the real world, there are fundamental laws and forces that keep the fictional plane spinning. To not take the time to figure out a probable explanation; even a basic one for your creation’s amazing power or complex backstory means you are either a lazy player or that the roleplay is very casual. It is always a good exercise to imagine how you would fe