Submitted by Relentless96 on Sun, 2007-11-25 00:26.
I think it is a slightly touchy subject when you mention messages in the context of RPG's. I think this stems from some of the stigma that has been associated with RPG's, namely the supposed relationship between DnD and Satanism. However, I think that roleplaying is the perfect medium to test views and opinions without hurting anyones feelings.
In fact, I think this is what is so great about roleplaying. Sometimes, the line between what is right and wrong, good and evil, is blurred to the point where both perspectives are justified. This makes for memorable gaming sessions, plus helps us as people grow from our imaginary experiences.
After all, though our adventures in our games might be made up, does it make our verbal exchanges invalid? Just because we contest opinions in the guise of other characters, it does not make our argument/debate irrelevant. If anything, it is an opportunity to explore perspectives other than our own for the sake of good sporting fun.
So, I do support messages in RPG's. From the author of the RPG's perspective, it is an opportunity to share their views with others. Even better, players can then test those views through playing characters born in this world. This adds to the players understanding of the message being delivered, as they are placed in situations directly or indirectly related to it.
As for what message I would personally push for in a game, it would be the concept of honesty and honour dying in the modern world. Many can argue that the concept of honour is still present in the current day, but I feel that it is a dwindling resource. The game would place characters as people with strong moral compunctions in a world without any. Often a right deed would not give any return at all, if even a thankyou. The players are simply trying to make a difference in a corrupt world because their personal code won't let them do anything else.
I enjoy blogs such as this, as they challenge us to think about what we really appreciate about gaming. Thanks for starting such an interesting topic.
Challenge your morals as well as your reason
I think it is a slightly touchy subject when you mention messages in the context of RPG's. I think this stems from some of the stigma that has been associated with RPG's, namely the supposed relationship between DnD and Satanism. However, I think that roleplaying is the perfect medium to test views and opinions without hurting anyones feelings.
In fact, I think this is what is so great about roleplaying. Sometimes, the line between what is right and wrong, good and evil, is blurred to the point where both perspectives are justified. This makes for memorable gaming sessions, plus helps us as people grow from our imaginary experiences.
After all, though our adventures in our games might be made up, does it make our verbal exchanges invalid? Just because we contest opinions in the guise of other characters, it does not make our argument/debate irrelevant. If anything, it is an opportunity to explore perspectives other than our own for the sake of good sporting fun.
So, I do support messages in RPG's. From the author of the RPG's perspective, it is an opportunity to share their views with others. Even better, players can then test those views through playing characters born in this world. This adds to the players understanding of the message being delivered, as they are placed in situations directly or indirectly related to it.
As for what message I would personally push for in a game, it would be the concept of honesty and honour dying in the modern world. Many can argue that the concept of honour is still present in the current day, but I feel that it is a dwindling resource. The game would place characters as people with strong moral compunctions in a world without any. Often a right deed would not give any return at all, if even a thankyou. The players are simply trying to make a difference in a corrupt world because their personal code won't let them do anything else.
I enjoy blogs such as this, as they challenge us to think about what we really appreciate about gaming. Thanks for starting such an interesting topic.
http://www.1km1kt.net/Aaron-White.htm