Writing Style and Interacting with Other Characters

We’ll be using third person tense (although if writing your own character’s current thoughts or current dialogue, feel free to fudge things as needed :)

As to interaction, that is one of the topics we’ll address in the game. In general, the Narrator will often move characters, including maybe yours, as needed. In terms of speaking for, and moving other characters, that varies from game to game. We’ll practice that as we go. For now, you probably want to stick to your character and what we call NPCs = Non-Playing Character (more on NPCs in the game).

Posting Speed

In Storium this is one area that varies GREATLY. You do want to be mindful of a Narrator’s expectations, but also realize people live lives beyond Storium. As a beginner’s game, it is hoped that each scene can be completed in about a week’s playtime and that most writers will post during each scene. Because this is a beginner’s game, I will often move a scene along even if not every character has played.

Along with that, if you will be away or unable to post, set your vacation mode on and just drop a note to me or the game to let us know. You can always take a break if needed and then jump back in later.

Regarding Characters - you can create one of your own or take one of the premade characters. If you take a premade character, you can add or edit as you wish. I recommend look first to see what characters have been made and try to create a character that might compliment the others.

Here are a few items to keep in mind as you settle in to play (I have adopted these from great Narrators like Twisted_Gnome, Furare, Prester and zeromusic - thanks!)

• This game is set to Public. While many games are private or will set the comments to private, this game is open so others may see and learn as well. Keep personal, private information out of the comments (you can not delete/edit comments).

• As this is a beginner game, we are not focusing on the concepts of being “historical”, “period”, “Story plot” accurate rather how to use Storium cards and writing/game dynamics. You often will be asked to focus on a specific type of card or type of reaction as we are “practicing” different skills.

• Think about what you are posting in terms of length and others replying. A sentence or two may not offer enough material for others to easily interact. If you want to create a conversation/dialogue, you may want to try a different method such as private message or working in the Green Room (we’ll cover this more during the game).

• Read your fellow writers’ posts carefully. Make sure the person you are interacting with is in the same place as your character and also keep in mind what a writer might reveal about a character in her/his post.

• Be active in the comments/Green Room and talk to the other writers. We are building a community around this story as well as writing the story.

• Always make sure a writer is ok with any move/dialogue you want to make with her/his character. If someone moves your character in a way that seems OOC (out of character), just let them know and let me know. I can request a revision and we can make sure the story stays on the happy track.

• Be patient and respectful of your fellow players/writers. This is supposed to be fun!!!!

• In case I did not mention it, have fun :)