Beginner’s Guide to Online Text Based Roleplay (RP)
Welcome! If you’re brand new to text based RP, this guide will help you understand the basics and feel comfortable jumping in.
💡 What is Text Based RP?
Text based RP (roleplay) is storytelling with others through writing. You create a character (canon, OC, or crossover) and interact in a shared world by writing their actions, dialogue, and feelings. Think of it like a collaborative novel or improv acting but in text form.
🖊️ Writing Style Basics
- /me Style:
Used in chatrooms or so RP. Example:/me adjusts her bow and smiles. "Are you ready for the mission?" - Third-Person Paragraphs (Forum/Discord):
A more detailed style, often 2–5 sentences or more. Example:
Minako adjusted her bow with a small grin. “Are you ready for the mission?” she asked her tone playful but steady. - No One Liners, No Novels (Unless Agreed):
Try to give your partner something to work with, but don’t stress about length. Quality > quantity.
🎭 Consent & Comfort
- Always ask before doing big actions (like hurting someone’s character, romance, or NSFW).
- If unsure, use OOC (out of character) brackets: ((like this)) or [like this].
- Respect boundaries your fun shouldn’t come at your partner’s expense.
🌍 Getting Started
- Pick Your Character – Canon, OC, or AU. Write a short bio or even just a few personality notes to start.
- Find a Setting – Could be a forum, Discord, F-Chat, or even private messages.
- Join a Scene – Introduce your character naturally. Don’t force them in; just have them notice, enter, or react.
- Build, Don’t Control – Add to the story but don’t take away your partner’s choices. Avoid “godmodding” (controlling their character without permission).
🪄 RP Etiquette
- Read Before Posting – Make sure you understand the flow before you jump in.
- Communicate OOC – If you’re unsure, ask! Most players prefer clarity.
- Stay Patient – People have real lives, so replies can take time.
- Be Encouraging – RP works best when everyone feels welcome and excited.
✨ Example Starter
Here’s a short starter you could drop into a casual RP:
The café was warm and cozy, filled with the scent of fresh pastries. Minako slid into the booth by the window, tapping her fingers on the table as she waited for her friend. “I wonder if they’ll actually be on time today…” she mused with a playful smirk.
🌸 Final Words
Everyone starts somewhere. Don’t stress about being “perfect.” RP is about collaboration, creativity, and fun. Write your character how you imagine them, communicate openly, and you’ll find your groove before you know it.