SDRP Member Feature
From its humble beginnings, SDRP has sought to provide roleplayers with thorough mentorship within a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. And, while we are a “school” of sorts, we see our members as more than just students. It isn’t enough to have a passion for the written word or a love for the game; it’s to possess an insatiable desire to improve, to tap into hidden potential, to harness and own the ability to create the impossible. Here, we've witnessed worlds molded, characters fleshed out, and adventures woven more times than we can possibly count--arriving by vehicles of tireless imagination, leaving deep impressions in their wake. They go by many names, but their goal is essentially the same: to tell a story.
But just who are these unsung masters of their craft?
We, at SDRP, would like to finally shed some light on those responsible behind the emerald curtain and show our gratitude by presenting a monthly featurette, dedicated to you, our fellow roleplayers. For we are nothing without you. heart
- October 2015: Thornwick
- Thornwick: Why do you roleplay?
Thornwick
Mainly because I enjoy writing. Roleplaying allows me to sharpen my writing abilities, build worlds, and create a range of multifaceted characters. That aside, I enjoy writing with others. It’s fun to go on an adventure with friends. I think that’s something that most roleplayers can relate to.
Thornwick: What sort of characters do you enjoy creating?
Thornwick
I don’t think I enjoy creating a specific type. I, honestly, love all the characters I’ve created, protagonists and antagonists alike. As long as I did a decent job at making them well-rounded, then I’m happy.
Thornwick: How has SDRP contributed to your roleplay abilities?
Thornwick
Before joining SDRP, I thought I was creating/participating in complex RPs; now, I was just kidding myself. SDRP has exposed me to some of the most intricate roleplays ever created; it also gives an opportunity to learn how to properly roleplay and create one of my own (SDRP Academy).
Thornwick: What puts you off a roleplay?
Thornwick
There are a number of things that can cause me to jump ship.
#1 - Inactivity
Inactivity is quite common, and it’s my number one roleplay killer. Whatever the case behind the inactivity, it’s simply this: “Got too busy for a post.” I don’t blame anyone for Real Life (I get real busy, these days, too), but do the GM (everyone else involved) a solid and let them know that you’re unable to keep up with the roleplay.
#2 - Lack of Motivation
This is “busy’s” half-brother. Players begin to lose interest for one reason or another, and, despite the GM’s attempts to revive their roleplaying spirit, they’re just done altogether. Again, I can’t blame anyone for this. I’ve met really talented writers/roleplayers, but, later down the road, they outgrow the activity and find something else that impassions them.
#3 - Post Formatting
I honestly can’t stand overly complicated post formats--the kind with pictures, quotes, and statuses (i.e. where they are, what they’re doing, and what mood they’re in). It’s worse when colored font is thrown into the mix. Go to a bookstore and randomly pick up a novel, just leaf through the pages briefly. What will you see? Words, in plain black print--and just that. Roleplaying is basically a collaborative piece between a group of writers. Roleplays are stories. I want to immerse myself in that world by reading about it. Shortcuts like status updates and pictures devalue the importance (and joy) of reading and the game, itself. Remember: you’re part of a roleplay, not on Facebook or Twitter.
#1 - Inactivity
Inactivity is quite common, and it’s my number one roleplay killer. Whatever the case behind the inactivity, it’s simply this: “Got too busy for a post.” I don’t blame anyone for Real Life (I get real busy, these days, too), but do the GM (everyone else involved) a solid and let them know that you’re unable to keep up with the roleplay.
#2 - Lack of Motivation
This is “busy’s” half-brother. Players begin to lose interest for one reason or another, and, despite the GM’s attempts to revive their roleplaying spirit, they’re just done altogether. Again, I can’t blame anyone for this. I’ve met really talented writers/roleplayers, but, later down the road, they outgrow the activity and find something else that impassions them.
#3 - Post Formatting
I honestly can’t stand overly complicated post formats--the kind with pictures, quotes, and statuses (i.e. where they are, what they’re doing, and what mood they’re in). It’s worse when colored font is thrown into the mix. Go to a bookstore and randomly pick up a novel, just leaf through the pages briefly. What will you see? Words, in plain black print--and just that. Roleplaying is basically a collaborative piece between a group of writers. Roleplays are stories. I want to immerse myself in that world by reading about it. Shortcuts like status updates and pictures devalue the importance (and joy) of reading and the game, itself. Remember: you’re part of a roleplay, not on Facebook or Twitter.
Thornwick: Let’s do a writing exercise just for fun: The object on your left is what you’ll be using to defend yourself during a zombie apocalypse. In five sentences tell us how you fair. (Note: Be creative.)
Thornwick
"I was drinking my morning roma when it happened. Their gurgling moans drifted through the locked doors and windows, and a shiver coursed through me that shook my mug out of my left hand. It crashed onto the floor, sending a shower of debris that went in every direction. It was over then; they’d heard everything, and were now making a rabid attempt to break into the house. There’s only one place to hide..."
Thank you, Thornwick, for indulging us with this interview. For those of you pressing to know more about this month's rising roleplaying star, feel free to stick around and chat! Stay tuned for next month’s member feature. It just might be you!
