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NPC Continuity

Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:30 pm
by Munmun
I think it would be a good idea if the DMs kept threads for each NPC in the DM forums so they could keep track of what the NPC has been doing and who they have spoken to. It gets annoying when the personality of a NPC changes completely depending which DM is on.

For example: if I make friends with a NPC by doing a task or favor for them they shouldn't suddenly forget we are friendly the next time we meet and treat me with a lack of respect.

I suppose this would create a little more work for the DMs but it shouldn't be too bad if they just log on to the forums for a minute after a session and note down what they've been doing with NPCs. Even just a list of which characters are friends with them would go a long way.

Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:42 pm
by darrenhfx
I'll raise the issue in our DM forum, you have a point.

Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:48 pm
by Shy Girl
I agree, I know I'm new to ALFA but I've seen it in other servers before. It leads to all sorts of commotion.

Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 11:59 pm
by JaydeMoon
As a long time DM:

Suggestion:

Open a single thread for NPCs

Each post in the thread is for each faction. You can keep track of factions and what they know by simply editing the post. All DMs have moderator rights to the forum, shouldn't be a problem.

The post with the info includes the NPCs (named and generic) in that group as well as where they are located in the creature palette. You can also note (for named NPCs) any personality traits or quirks, who they have met, who they are friendly with, etc.

DM adds a new faction, add a response.

If a faction dies out, just delete that post.

(Keep in mind by faction I don't necessarily mean a mechanical faction)

This keeps NPC threads from cluttering the forum and gives your DMs a place to put info on NPCs.

I always wanted to do this but the amount of effort needed to get this done after years of IG stuff was very daunting. Starting from the beginning should make it a lot easier.

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2008 12:19 am
by Wynna
We've got threads for ongoing plots. It's more a matter of simply playing right up to and past whatever deadline (work/family/school) we all face, then giving XP, then being late to whatever deadline we face. And still finding time to post updates. Hard enough to just keep up with the plots, much less the individual NPCs.

All that grumbling done, it's what we signed on for and we'll try.