NPC Service

[AlchemistFox]

NPC Service Idea

I assume we make new topics according to what we mean ^^
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@Hera, I knwo we discussed some of this over MSN, but I just felt like posting it, for easier discussion, and perhaps new ideas might be formed due to feedback..
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This basically works in one of a number of ways.
[Lets assume there are a list of players, that are avalible for the NPC service.]

1. One can 'hire' a player, to play a pre-made character that any one have made from before.
2. One can 'hire' a player to play a character that is made for a spesific situation in a spesific RP. Example: Arena opponents, Temporary enemies, random pedestrians of importance.
3. One can also make it so that a player, can make a shit-load of characters, and have then linked. And a player, can borrow one of said characters, to play them in a RP for a limited time.

In the case of option 1; one cna basically ask anyone that is listed, to use any of their pre-made characters, to act as a NPC in a specific situation in any RP. Off course the player have to agree to do this, and the situation have to be explained.
Example

• One asks Hera, to play his character Felldoh as an arena opponent.
  If so, they must decide who will win if that has any relevance to the storyline that the 'renter' has in mind. Unless it should be battled out as normal.
  In this case, Hera decides if he feels his carter is up for it. Or not. this is a decision for the char owner to decide if he feels the character would do as asked in any case.
  Like it would not make sense, to ask a pacifist to be an arena opponent.

In the case of option 2; one will state what role the char will have, and make a mini bio, if not a complete one, that is made for the desired role.
This can be anything. But often one could assume; Specific enemies, temporary sidekicks/partners, unique merchants, Leaders of random armies. Etc.
Example:

• One asks the listed players to play "this" character. The character has to be linked, or posted in that post. And explain the relevance he has to anything. It also have to be explain how he will enter, and leave, if that is of any relevance. In specific cases, the "Entry" might be rather important.
  In this case, any random player might take on the role of said NPC. More like the first one to read it, can choose to take on the role, or not.

In the case of option 3; Lets now assume my list for the sake of argument.
This list, have the same characters as displayed in my Hall of Heroes topic, it is just simpler to look through.

• In this case, the 'renter' chooses a character, and asks the owner of it in a topic, if it is ok to use that char for [insert NPC job here].
  In this case, the 'renter' have to poste one, or several, examples on how they would play said character, to show the owner that they would indeed play out the character according to the personality stated, and not change it.
  This is important, since the maker of a character ,might have put in a lot of thought into this, and if the character is original, then the owner sorta has an unofficial copyright over said char.

In any of these cases. There might have to be a 'NPC service' where the players that are willing are listed. And the characters avalible for option 3 are listed. As they might be made to a lower level of detail, then normal.

This is what I have for now.
Hera: Feel free to post up anything if I missed, or misunderstood your part of the idea.

 

[Fair_Game]

Interesting idea, you guys should run with it!

My only concerns would be how comfortable an RPer would be letting someone else use there Character. This is basically approved God-Moding.

I've got some mixed feelings about this one but it couldn't hurt to try!

I also liked one thing in particular that you said:

If so, they must decide who will win if that has any relevance to the storyline that the 'renter' has in mind

Two things here, one I really don't believe story lines apply to Arena battles. Not to say that they don't exist just that they don't usually work out very well, or they end up very disheveled and thrown together.

And two, you touched on one of my next experimentations. The 'decide the outcome/outline a match' idea. Which will have two combatants flip a proverbial coin and decide who wins then together write a story based on that.

Deciding an outcome gives you a bonded sense of direction....or it could possibly constrict the freedom of writing one feels, the rush of not knowing whats next...I'm uncertain (thats why I want to test it.)

Good luck to you on this idea!

 

[AlchemistFox]

Interesting idea, you guys should run with it!

My only concerns would be how comfortable an RPer would be letting someone else use there Character. This is basically approved God-Moding.

Well, in this case, it will not be G-modding. As the 'renter' will be in 100% control
he is literally lending the character. So the owner has no control of said char, in said RP.
This is why I suggested making a list of char's, that is not ones own.
To make up for this.

I've got some mixed feelings about this one but it couldn't hurt to try!

I also liked one thing in particular that you said:

If so, they must decide who will win if that has any relevance to the storyline that the 'renter' has in mind

Two things here, one I really don't believe story lines apply to Arena battles. Not to say that they don't exist just that they don't usually work out very well, or they end up very disheveled and thrown together.

Well, this is if the 'renter's' victory is a part of something larger.
say, the renter needs an opponent, that can guarantee him winning, since hte aren prize might be an item of great importance of the storyline.

This idea does not work in RPB's off course.
it is only a temporary thing in ORPG, or URPG's

And two, you touched on one of my next experimentations. The 'decide the outcome/outline a match' idea. Which will have two combatants flip a proverbial coin and decide who wins then together write a story based on that.

Deciding an outcome gives you a bonded sense of direction....or it could possibly constrict the freedom of writing one feels, the rush of not knowing whats next...I'm uncertain (thats why I want to test it.)

Well, I sorta explained this above.

Good luck to you on this idea!

Thanks. ^^


This NPC idea is only to help some RPs move on, and perhaps make it easier on some players, that are not used to, or feel secure enough to, take control over multiple characters.
Perhaps in one RP, they all want an item that a merchant have
perhaps a NPC 'rental' thing can be done to make that work
as the NPC player can take on the role of the Merchant, to get an objective side of things.

If one things about this, this service can have many areas of usage.
and sadly, some exploitable areas as well.
but it is up to the final "product" (IF it gets used) to make sure that don't happen.
As a set of rules will eb erected if it gets used.

 

[Contra Fates]

I do remember talking about this with Throttle, and I do believe it's a good idea. I'm just going to give my feedback on each option.

Option #1 & #2: I think you will see the most activity in these areas. I think it's rather safe to say that most RPers like having a 'partner in crime.' If an RPer is aware of the skills of another, I can see them wanting to borrow them for an RP.

Option #3: Though it is a good idea, I'm not too sure how often it will be used. The reason I say this, is a lot of RPers might feel as though it's more of a challenge to 'live up to the expectations' of playing someone else's character, as opposed to just creating their own. I know I'd be hesitant to play another skilled RPers character, because I'd be too concerned about playing the character correctly.

I just think that the first two options would see the most use in RPs, especially since the whole point of RPing is for the interactive factor to it. RPers would rather have someone else on their team, than feel like they're RPing with themselves by taking on someone else's character.

Those are just my two cents. I really like the NPC Rental idea, but I just think it'd be best to employ the first two options.

As for placement of this idea, I think it'd be best in 'The Dojo,' since that's the heart of the RPer training.

 

[AlchemistFox]

I do remember talking about this with Throttle, and I do believe it's a good idea. I'm just going to give my feedback on each option.

Option #1 & #2: I think you will see the most activity in these areas. I think it's rather safe to say that most RPers like having a 'partner in crime.' If an RPer is aware of the skills of another, I can see them wanting to borrow them for an RP.

Option #3: Though it is a good idea, I'm not too sure how often it will be used. The reason I say this, is a lot of RPers might feel as though it's more of a challenge to 'live up to the expectations' of playing someone else's character, as opposed to just creating their own. I know I'd be hesitant to play another skilled RPers character, because I'd be too concerned about playing the character correctly.

I just think that the first two options would see the most use in RPs, especially since the whole point of RPing is for the interactive factor to it. RPers would rather have someone else on their team, than feel like they're RPing with themselves by taking on someone else's character.

Those are just my two cents. I really like the NPC Rental idea, but I just think it'd be best to employ the first two options.

As for placement of this idea, I think it'd be best in 'The Dojo,' since that's the heart of the RPer training.

yeah, I agree about the 3rd option.
I just felt like adding it, since Hera mentioned something about it.
And it IS a valid choice. but as you stated, I too am rather sure that it will be the 2 first that will have 95% of the 'usage'

I have already tested this "service" at a lesser RP forum, and I have seen it at several forums
Some using it more then others.
In any case, the 2 first options are the ones that enters the classification of NPC 'rental'
The 3rd choice, enters "im too lazy to make a char, Ill borrow yours" state.
and as you state, many will hesitate, since they might not live up to the expectations.
In any case, this is an idea, that might take on, or it might be ignored. So, if it is to be used, I dont htink it is a good thing if I take it alone for example. It sorta have to be implemented to the RP system.
As we have approval issues.
As it is a NPC, normally it wont need approval
but, in this case, it is so much more, os it might need something anyway.

 

[Contra Fates]

In any case, this is an idea, that might take on, or it might be ignored. So, if it is to be used, I dont htink it is a good thing if I take it alone for example. It sorta have to be implemented to the RP system.
As we have approval issues.
As it is a NPC, normally it wont need approval
but, in this case, it is so much more, os it might need something anyway.

Just so I make sure that I understand, you mean that if the idea is to be implemented, it should be carried out by Throttle and I, and integrated into the system? That's obviously fine with us. You've done enough work already just by posting up the detailed proposal.

 

[AlchemistFox]

Just so I make sure that I understand, you mean that if the idea is to be implemented, it should be carried out by Throttle and I, and integrated into the system? That's obviously fine with us. You've done enough work already just by posting up the detailed proposal.

Not nessesairily just you 2
One can make a list, of those hat volunteers
but if so, one have to "filter out" the ones that you mods, feel are good enough to do this.

So, if Julius volunteers, he is a good RP'er, and I would let him join.
As would I do if Hera was a member.
I'm sorry, but I have not RP'ed with you, so I can not vouch for you, but I assume you have skills ,or you would not be mod.
And Hera have vouched for you on several occasions ^^

So. I would like to sign up if it gets entered.
and one should have a list of a few NPC players, as nto everyone have time to RP, at any given time.

So, in the end, it is up to you mods now this will work.
As I'm the bringer if the idea. You have to form the other rules, based on how you see that it would work the best, in favor of your system.

 

[Contra Fates]

Not nessesairily just you 2
One can make a list, of those hat volunteers
but if so, one have to "filter out" the ones that you mods, feel are good enough to do this.

So, if Julius volunteers, he is a good RP'er, and I would let him join.
As would I do if Hera was a member.
I'm sorry, but I have not RP'ed with you, so I can not vouch for you, but I assume you have skills ,or you would not be mod.
And Hera have vouched for you on several occasions ^^

So. I would like to sign up if it gets entered.
and one should have a list of a few NPC players, as nto everyone have time to RP, at any given time.

So, in the end, it is up to you mods now this will work.
As I'm the bringer if the idea. You have to form the other rules, based on how you see that it would work the best, in favor of your system.

Ah, okay. That makes sense. We would definitely have a screening for RPers. We'll be doing the same thing for our 'Mentor Program,' once we're able to get that implemented. I do believe screening for NPCs would be rather easy though, if RPers choose to use one of their already-approved character bios. We'll likely split up the NPCs into sections, as well.

For example: NPCs that were designed with battling in mind will be in a 'Battle Category.' Whereas, characters that were created more for storyline use will be placed under a 'URPG/ORPG' category. Do you have any objections to that idea?

 

[AlchemistFox]

Ah, okay. That makes sense. We would definitely have a screening for RPers. We'll be doing the same thing for our 'Mentor Program,' once we're able to get that implemented. I do believe screening for NPCs would be rather easy though, if RPers choose to use one of their already-approved character bios. We'll likely split up the NPCs into sections, as well.

For example: NPCs that were designed with battling in mind will be in a 'Battle Category.' Whereas, characters that were created more for storyline use will be placed under a 'URPG/ORPG' category. Do you have any objections to that idea?

Nah, it seems logical
as a tank of a character, hat does live for battle and nothing else, have little to do in a story based RP

and a drama char, have little to do in a RP War ^^

Off course, there are those that fall in between, so they might be a story char, that can hold a battle as well.
So yes, I see the logic in the 'categories'

And, if needed, i have a set of rules, and a base of an application sheet if you like them
they might not suite the system you have made here at FFF, but id be glad to give it to you, and you cam modify it to the needs that is here.

 

[Contra Fates]

Nah, it seems logical
as a tank of a character, hat does live for battle and nothing else, have little to do in a story based RP

and a drama char, have little to do in a RP War ^^

Off course, there are those that fall in between, so they might be a story char, that can hold a battle as well.
So yes, I see the logic in the 'categories'

And, if needed, i have a set of rules, and a base of an application sheet if you like them
they might not suite the system you have made here at FFF, but id be glad to give it to you, and you cam modify it to the needs that is here.

I actually just thought about the 'in-betweeners' after I posted. There will likely be a category for characters that can do both jobs well: battle and story.

And, wow, you've really put a lot of effort into this! Please, feel free to post the application in this thread, or PM it to me if you'd prefer.

 

[AlchemistFox]

I actually just thought about the 'in-betweeners' after I posted. There will likely be a category for characters that can do both jobs well: battle and story.

And, wow, you've really put a lot of effort into this! Please, feel free to post the application in this thread, or PM it to me if you'd prefer.

Ill take hat as a compliment ^^
Yes, this thought have lingered in my mind for ages now.
and I thought, now that this forum opened, it was almost as it was calling for me to jam in this ^^

here is a base for the different versions.
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for the 1st version. This is basically the "can you play YOUR char in [RP]"

-Character name: This is the name of the pre-made character you'd like to "Hire"
-RP: This is information on the RP you want the char to appear in. A link is required.
-Time: Estimated time that the char will be "hired". It does not have to be listed in "days", it can be listed in "Till [insert plot stage here] happens" This off course, can change as time goes.
[[NOTE After said time is gone, the character will leave, in such a way that he should NOT be followed, this is to terminate his role in the RP]]
-When/How: When will said character enter, Right away, after a certain event. State, and explain here.
Will the character just walk around a corner, and greet his friend. Or try to kill them with a ranged attack.
-Info: This is the most important tab. This will explain what the char will be doing. Is he a friend of [Name] char. Or is he an enemy of the world. Will he be bound in killing a specific character, or the clichè one of destroying/enslaving the world.
-Changes: This is if there need to be any changes to said character. If the character are to be evil, and the char sheet states he is good, naturally that is given. But if the char is to be slightly modified. Perhaps the humor are to change, or the way he considers about killing. Such stuff. State any wish for character change here.
-Other: Is there anything other that does not fit into another tab, List that here.

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The "play this char in this RP":

-RP: This is information on the RP you want the char to appear in. A link is required.
-Time: Estimated time that the char will be "played". It does not have to be listed in "days", it can be listed in "Till [insert plot stage here] happens" This off course, can change as time goes.
|-Then: After the time is gone, what will the char do. Will he die, kill himself, or just wanter off, seeking his own goals.
-When/How: When will said character enter, Right away, after a certain event. State, and explain here.
Will the character just walk around a corner, and greet his friend. Or try to kill them with a ranged attack.
-Info: This is the most important tab. This will explain what the char will be doing. Is he a friend of [Name] char. Or is he an enemy of the world. Will he be bound in killing a specific character, or the clichè one of destroying/enslaving the world.
-Other: Is there anything other that does not fit into another tab, List that here.
-Char: Here is where you will write the character you wish to have player, or link to one.
As stated, it does not have to be as detailed as a normal character.
Simply the basic info is needed. And one need not think too much about balancing, as it will be taken care of by the NPC player.
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The mini bio MUST contain this:
--
-Name:
-Race:
-Gender:
-Age:
-Appearance:
-Personality:
-Weapon(s):
-Magic:
-Skills:
-Other:
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It can be altered to fit a specific RP, but the basic info IS needed.
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Extra info

If you request a NPC, said NPC will NOT be played by you for the time requested.
For that time, some other player will take the role as that character.
The character can be a random NPC already in the RP, or some one that you make up.

In Either case.
Make a new topic in here, that that is named accordingly.
Template: -Char(s) name(s), Job/position [RP NAME]
Template2: -Job/position, Char(s) name(s) [RP NAME]
For example.
|-Jon Smith, assassin [AE]
|-The assassin Jon Smith [AE]

If you want a character names: Jon Smith, that is an assassin in the RP named AE.
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If there is anything else, feel free to ask, be it in this topic, voa PM, or MSN. ^^
Im just glad that you like it ^^

 

[Contra Fates]

I am incredibly impressed. That template will be extremely useful for Throttle and I, I can't thank you enough for putting so much effort into this idea.

I've already rep'd this post, because...well, there was no way I couldn't. xD

 

[AlchemistFox]

I am incredibly impressed. That template will be extremely useful for Throttle and I, I can't thank you enough for putting so much effort into this idea.

I've already rep'd this post, because...well, there was no way I couldn't. xD

Heh, thank you ^^

but I'm fine with the fact that you like my idea, and are obviously thinking of using it.
So, as it gets worked out, it will be an everlasting (or at least as long as it is there) proof to myself. ^^

I'm looking forward to his this will look as it is completed ^^

 

[Hera Ledro]

As you know from our discussions over the last few weeks, Fox, I was already in favour of bringing this to fruition. However, with the RP Section renovation and RL stuff, we never really got around to fully discussing this change.

I, for one, am in favour! As all ideas do, this may need some tweaking, but we'll see what Contra and I decide

 

[Fair_Game]

I don't know if its been mentioned before but I would like to offer a suggestion for your NPC service :

How about Monster NPC's.

The RP section could hold a contest to inspire activity with members that would include a 'most creative monster' contest. Anyone would be able to enter at any time and those who created usable monsters would have their bio's added to an Arena 'Monster NPC/usable NPC' section, they could receive a point towards their reputation as prize and maybe a signature?

You could also have a group of interested RPers (I for one would be interested) who would RPB as Monsters. You could call them 'Monster Handlers'. Possibly have a Monster Handler Guild and a 'Monster Handler Request thread' that allows members to challenge specific beasts for practice.

Those monsters could be included as conditional stipulations in Tournaments or in legendary matches. A Handicap system if you will.

If you'd like I can think of an almost infinite number of uses for such a thing. Here's a few :

Steal skills now allowed.
In accordance with Red Fox's idea : a story building scenario.
Monsters can be affected by Status effects.
Members would be allowed the satisfaction of defeating beasts.
This would make for an incredible Training ground as Members could be coached based on their performance.

I'm sure I can come up with more....perhaps special monsters that have unknown weaknesses that you have to figure out based on context clues...to hone an RPer's ability to read between the lines? I don't know.

Thats all I have at present, Hope it helps and good luck with your idea!

 

[AlchemistFox]

I sorta assumed that this would enter the realm of the 2nd scenario, where a mini bio where presented, and in such a case the race would simply be classified as monster.

But I like the idea, a lot in fact.
The contest, and the RPB benefits are quite large.

Though, ultimately it is Hera and CF's decision, thought I think it is something worthy of at least mentioning.
And even if it is not implemented as its own "thing" in the beginning, a contest can simply be started by the "leaders" of it at a later date.

But knowing Hera, I'm almost certain he will loaf through it, and make something of it.

@Hera:
This can be implemented as a subsection of choice 2, or you can make up a part 4 specifically for beasts in the "monster" class.
Some mindless beasts, some intelligent creatures.
These might be just as important to a storyline progress, and as F_G stated, they can be excellent RP tools, as one can use poisons and other status elements against them that are normally not allowed in RPB's

If it is up to be, Id be glad to enter it, not sure if it should be a sub section of option 2, or make it an option 4.
But it might be rather simmilar to option 2, and therefore might be best to have it there.

 

[Contra Fates]

I really like the idea of Monster NPCs, because it would be an easy way to train some of the less-experienced RPers, and also to use monsters in contests, as Fair_Game previous mentioned.

Since this Forum is a Final Fantasy one, we could even use monsters from say...Final Fantasy VIII. The Beastiary in the FF8 Strategy Guide lists all of the statistics of the monsters, and I've seen a handful of bios within Hall of Warriors utilize FF8 spells. We'd already have all of our monsters pre-made and ready to go.

All we'd need are people who wouldn't mind playing them during these battles.

 

[AlchemistFox]

All we'd need are people who wouldn't mind playing them during these battles.

Well, I for one would be glad to, it sounds like fun.
And If I'm not wrong, I seem to remember F_G volunteering as well.

That is at lest 2 people. ^^

 

[Contra Fates]

Well, I for one would be glad to, it sounds like fun.
And If I'm not wrong, I seem to remember F_G volunteering as well.

That is at lest 2 people. ^^

I'd volunteer for it as well. It'd be pretty easy to do, I'd think, and it would be fun to play the monsters, while being restricted to their magic list, strengths, and weaknesses.

What do you think about using FF8 monsters, Red Fox? I think they'd really be ideal for this idea.

 

[AlchemistFox]

Well, that depends.
As a FF8 fan, I know them somewhat, thoguh I need a "sheet" for them in any case, since my memory is not perfect.

But I dont think we should limit them to the FF8 universe, as FF7 had some interesting as well.
Not to mention the later in the series.

So, I think that one should allow more or less ANY "beast" that one can find a decent "bio" for, as it would not be fair to have only FF beasts.

But I'm not against using FF8 beasts.

But, as I have said more then once, This is my idea yes, but it is not restricted to my decisions.
I have supplied you with the idea, and a LOT of relevant details. And I have also stated in several cases, that it the staff the decides.
So you don't have to ask me to take us of other stuff. As it is you that decides in the end any way ^^