[Mature] Godmoding: Blasphemy or Neccessity?

[Zangya]

So. I posted this on an RPG-Directory that is mostly filled of the type of roleplayers that post what their character does, and then just purple prose their way through the rest of the post during the time they wait for the other character to post what they react. Posts go somewhat like this, except oftentimes in longer phases:

Sue's post

"Hi," Sue says to Bob as she walks up to the bar ans sits next him. I would post more of the conversation but the RPG's strict rules that I cannot control another character's actions make me have to write my deepest, darkest thoughts repetitively.

Bob's post

"Hi," Bob says back, and now we just repeat what was said above.

Now, I posted it on there for two reasons: A.) I was trying to see whether it would be worth my time or not to post Chubbs' link there, to attempt to get mucho zeni in the way of referrals. B.) Yes, it is true, I am tossing around ideas for a supervillain rpg and a star wars rpg. I'd like to see what your reactions are, seeing as rules on godmoding (besides rping the other character's thoughts) are generally lax around here.

For the link to the discussion on RPG-Directory, PM me, unless an staffer says it is okay for me to edit the link in since it is not an RPG.

[Celipa]

My definition of godmoding is different.

To me, godmoding is where you roleplay your character as infinitely powerful and write up roleplays where they remain undisputed in their strength and just thrash other PC opponents.

[Krillin]

If you don't make the Star Wars RPG in the next two hours, I will be making my own and marketing as better than your's (that is, "practically perfect in every way").

God-moding is absolutely necessary. Unless roleplaying is supposed to be a tedious endeavor.

[Zangya]

Then to you, I'm guessing, "powerplaying" would be the equivalent of their "godmoding"?

EDIT@Krill: If you want, you can come help me get motivated on the documentations explaining everything =] Help ftw

[Celipa]

Yes. That would be correct.

I agree with Chris. And in addition, I offer this up: Haven't you already made a Star Wars RPG? xD

[Yamu]

I've had a bottle of champagne and am starting another so apologies if this doesn't make sense.

God-modding around here really doesn't happen much. People who come here are creative types that are focused on conveying a story that (hopefully) other will enjoy. Once in awhile you get someone who is new who write a spar where they kick and SSJ2's ass with some uber-technique in their best moves, but generally people obey the rules in interest of the story.

Like you said, if you strictly prevent people form posting about the other character you'll never get anything done. Personally, I always check people's character vaults, talk to them on AIM or PM, an read a couple of their RPs to get a feel for their character before I write them, hell I've been doing that with Bra and Amadeus for 'Origins'.

Any RPG will have Munchkins who focus on 'winning'. Personally if you create a good community in your RPGs the focus will be on characterization and the powerups and items only factor in as a way of advancing the story. There is a reason why so many powerups occur in DA, it is a big deal and makes an impact when someone breaks through to that new level.

I'm not sure if that answers your question...if not ask it again and I'll try again?

[Krillin]

Zangya, I'd love to help, but I can be very opinionated. Just a fair warning.

Celipa, if you're asking me, the answer is "Yes". There were a number of things I made, which many people joined and said, "Dood, this is awesome", then never roleplayed on.

Like...Pine Valley. =(

[Celipa]

Yeah. I was one of those people. I roleplayed on Pine Valley for a little while, though.

[Krillin]

I think the definition that Zangya is using here is where you can write what the other character is doing during the time summed up in your post, even if you are generating new material about the other character.

I've been on quite a few RPGs that don't allow god-moding (something we take for granted here). It gets deadly dull after awhile.

[Zangya]

That is the definition I was going for, Krillin.

Now, don't get me wrong, I've seen very good posts on some of these RPs, but most of the time, the story stalls and they don't get anywhere anytime soon.

[Violet]

My definition of godmoding is different.

To me, godmoding is where you roleplay your character as infinitely powerful and write up roleplays where they remain undisputed in their strength and just thrash other PC opponents.

Godmodding blows.

[Bujin]

Godmodding blows.

Yeah, that...pretty much explains it.

[Hellfighter 17]

On here, godmoding is taking too much leeway with another person's character. You can describe another person character's basic reactions/moves, but to go into detail about their motives, inner thoughts, and emotions without some form of agreement between the two of your is wrong. Also, you are not supposed to go against entrenched personality and physicsl traits; exempli gratia, Rad is known for being cocky and speedy (hehe), so to roleplay your character as easily outracing him and him being very afraid of your character would also be wrong (outside of story elements, of course).

[Reijin]

A lot of rpgs feel that any form or rping another character is god moding. I feel that your intentions while doing so make that decision. For the sake of making posts that aren't just a single line. However, we have had people just wreck someone's character with bad roleplaying a few times.

[Bra]

It has, indeed happened. Tim is right. I remember an old Kirano who completely altered my character to suit his RP. It was actually kind of funny, but I had to make a point to wave my magic 'that never happened' wand.

I also agree with Rei, that RPing someone else's character is necessary for depth. Just do the character justice, and nobody complains. They way we're set up as far as godmoding rules is the most favorable style I've ever been in - I've played in both kinds. The only way a strict 'no godmoding' rule works is if the game is played live, over something like IRC. But even then, it sucks because you always have to round everyone up at the same time and that just doesn't work out.

[Raditzu]

RPing someone else's character is usually referred to as "bunnying."

Regardless, it's essentially for multiplayer writing.

[Belle Hibiki]

I've had a bottle of champagne and am starting another so apologies if this doesn't make sense.

God-modding around here really doesn't happen much. People who come here are creative types that are focused on conveying a story that (hopefully) other will enjoy. Once in awhile you get someone who is new who write a spar where they kick and SSJ2's ass with some uber-technique in their best moves, but generally people obey the rules in interest of the story.

Like you said, if you strictly prevent people form posting about the other character you'll never get anything done. Personally, I always check people's character vaults, talk to them on AIM or PM, an read a couple of their RPs to get a feel for their character before I write them, hell I've been doing that with Bra and Amadeus for 'Origins'.

Any RPG will have Munchkins who focus on 'winning'. Personally if you create a good community in your RPGs the focus will be on characterization and the powerups and items only factor in as a way of advancing the story. There is a reason why so many powerups occur in DA, it is a big deal and makes an impact when someone breaks through to that new level.

I'm not sure if that answers your question...if not ask it again and I'll try again?

... If it happens so often, doesn't that by definition NOT make it special?

/offtopic