Ganden posted Jan 17, 12
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, Class Story, EA, Electronic Arts, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, RP, Sa Chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR, World Story
Is roleplay the main form of gameplay for you in The Old Republic? Have you set aside BioWare's class and world stories to make time to engage in conversations with other players in-character? It may be more difficult than we think. BioWare has held true to their superiority in storytelling compared to other game developing companies. The class stories are nothing short of epic, and having to put aside the constant struggles that your character faces on numerous different worlds may prove more of a challenge than we expected. Sa Chi, the author of All The Galaxy's A Stage, believes this is the case for him, as he makes a long overdue confession. Here is a short snippet of what he has to say:
"My confession is an interesting one. Never before has an MMO caused me to set down my 'Heavy Role-Player' badge. In other games, RP has constituted the majority of my time and energy in-game. However, for as long as I am working through the Jedi Consular story, I have to set this badge down. RP is simply not the primary focus right now – BioWare’s story is."
What is the case for you in The Old Republic? Has BioWare's story sucked you in and away from roleplaying? Is a particular class story impeding on your potential for roleplay? Let us know what form of gameplay, be it BioWare's story or roleplay, that has taken up majority of your game-time in The Old Republic.
Beltane posted Jan 9, 12
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all the galaxy's a stage, author: beltane, ask a jedi, BioWare, Roleplay, sa chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
Now that roleplayers have had several weeks to churn through a small portion of the content BioWare has given us, it is a logical time to start considering how roleplay will really work in The Old Republic, as well as how much we will allow the game environment to influence our character development. Sa Chi, author of All The Galaxy's A Stage from fansite Ask a Jedi, raises several interesting points in his last two articles. First, Sa Chi delves into the interesting debate which has sprung up about BioWare's quest dialogue in The Dissonance of Determined Dialogue. Whether or not players decide to actually take their class storylines in character, it is hard to deny The Old Republic makes it easy to pick dialogue choices that at least fit the general traits of many character types. For example, if your character concept is a Sith who really wants to do the right thing despite being, you know... a Sith... BioWare's story makes this perfectly possible. As Sa Chi mentions, our quest storylines provide a fantastic place for inspiration, but roleplayers should be wary of taking every detail in character. Darth Zash can only have so many apprentices, after all. For his next article, Time Out (Of Character), Sa Chi discusses the necessity to sometimes "pause" roleplay to discuss, out of character, what the most logical or fair way to proceed with the scene is. This is most commonly seen in roleplay in terms of conflict resolution, such as deciding whether the parties involved will emote out a fight scene or /duel to determine the winner through PvP. The article brings up a valid question: how willing are you, as a roleplayer, to drift out of character to make sure everyone is on the same page, in character? Be sure to visit the latest edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage to comment on these interesting talking points, or share your opinions in the comments below.
Ganden posted Dec 24, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, Sa Chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
Roleplayers in The Old Republic should be well into their character's class stories. With eight playable classes, each with their own unique story, there are so many talking points about the twists and turns that each class has to face in their adventures amongst the stars – details which we won't spoil for those of you who are still in the early stages of the many epic chapters you're still yet to face. During your play-through, you will notice a number of game features which are yet to be added to the game. These features have been discussed previously on SWTOR-RP, and yes, we're talking about sitting on chairs and chat bubbles.
In an edition of Sa Chi's weekly column, All The Galaxy's A Stage, sitting in chairs and chat bubbles is discussed. Additionally, he revisits the issue of the Legacy System where players are forced to apply one surname to all of their characters on the one account – although you can hide this via the options menu. Without rehashing on the Legacy System which we touched on last week, tell us how your gaming adventures have developed so far. How much of the story have you completed? Without posting any spoilers, tell us which classes have shocked you the most. Post your answers in the comments section.
Ganden posted Dec 18, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, Jedi Knight, Legacy System, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, RP, Sa Chi, Sith Inquisitor, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
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A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, every character had the same surname. Hang on, what? If BioWare were the creators of Star Wars, this may have been the case. Jar Jar Skywalker. Yoda Skywalker. Bossk Skywalker. They've got a ring to them, don't they? Actually, no they don't. If you haven't picked up on it yet, we're mocking BioWare's Legacy System. As much as we're all in love with BioWare's work that they've conducted over the last three years – perhaps even longer – we can't help but gape in shock at the decision made by a company that claim to be exactly what we are – roleplayers. The Legacy System allows a character that has finished Act I in The Old Republic's story to select a surname. That surname applies to all of the characters on the one account. What this means is, you'll have one big happy family!
As roleplayers, surely we're not that keen on the idea. We like diversity in games with our characters, but in The Old Republic's case, it won't be possible. What is possible, however, is completing removing any sign of the Legacy System from our characters. There is an option in-game that allows you to hide your Legacy surname. This works for roleplayers, as we don't want your Jedi Knight being mistaken as the sibling or matrimonial partner of your Sith Inquisitor. But just how against the idea are roleplayers? Sa Chi covered the topic of the Legacy System in an edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage where he included a poll, but the results weren't flattering for roleplayers. Head on over to the article to view the results.
What do you think of the Legacy System? Is it a blight on the roleplayers of The Old Republic? Does it work for you? Or are you undecided? Come on, you're roleplayers. You all have opinions!
Ganden posted Dec 11, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, RP, Sa Chi, Social Points, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
Character appearance in an MMO is an important aspect of a roleplayer's game. We want our characters to look how we picture them in our minds and on paper. However, does that always work out as intended? We cannot control what appearance content is included in a game, so we're forced to work with what we've been given by the game's developers. Will BioWare deliver a wide range of armor and clothing options in The Old Republic? We believe so, but only time will tell. And if it is truly unique clothing and armor that you wish to don in the game, you're going to want to take on what has been dubbed as the roleplayer's hidden grind – the social points system.
Grouping up with players in the game will earn you social points when you're interacting with NPCs. These points will then allow you to purchase unique social equipment from particular vendors. These vendors hold some truly original pieces that may just complete the image of your character for The Old Republic. So, is it going to be one of those systems that's more of a chore than a leisurely activity? All The Galaxy's A Stage – an RP column written by Sa Chi over at Ask a Jedi – addresses the issue of social points and how they can affect a roleplayer's gaming experience. Here is a snippet of what he has to say:
"I’ve come to a conclusion that clothing that results from both social and alignment points is a hidden grind for roleplayers. Personally, I will be fine with this grind since I like the PvE and crafting elements of the game, and enjoy taking some time out to play through the story and quests (which, let’s face it, is an infinitely improved experience for RPers over other non-story driven MMOs). However, I have the feeling that some RPers are going to be a little dismayed by this. Some RPers want to get on and RP. And this is a hurdle that has to be overcome."
Head on over to Ask A Jedi to view the latest edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage. Alternatively, let us know what you plan to do about the social-point grind in The Old Republic. Is it something that you're going to be focusing on post-launch? Or will you be focusing more on your roleplaying endeavours? Let us know in the comments section.
Ganden posted Nov 27, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, Cantina, Coruscant, EA, Electronic Arts, Galactic Republic, Jedi, Jedi Temple, LucasArts, Nar Shaddaa, NDA, Republic, role-play, Roleplay, RP, Sa Chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR, Tython
BioWare opened the flood gates for wanting testers of The Old Republic over the weekend, with almost everyone who has registered for game testing, plus those who have acquired testing keys from numerous fan sites, rushing into the game to see what it has to offer. The NDA has been lifted and testers are free to discuss whichever aspect of the game they wish to. For Sa Chi, the author of the weekly column titled All The Galaxy's A Stage over at Ask A Jedi, roleplaying potential was his focus in his latest discussion.
The Old Republic consists of many large and open worlds for roleplayers to explore, bustling with life, character, and places for roleplayers to segregate to to get their RP on. Such places include the Jedi Temple on Tython, the many upper level sections of Coruscant for members of the Republic, as well as the shady cantinas on Nar Shaddaa. Sa Chi takes us through his experience in TOR, explaining some of the potential RP spots and features, and he shares some of the upsides and downsides that roleplayers may face in particular parts of the game. Here is a snippet of what he has to say:
"The Old Galactic Market was definitely worth a visit. But then so was the Jedi Temple. I can see Jedi RPers heading there for setting the stage. The Temple and surrounding grounds will be a great point for Master-Padawan RP scenes without a doubt. There are wonderful rooms off the beaten track that really add to the feel of it all. Whether you set a scene in the combat training room, the lecture hall, or train your Padawan amongst others practicing their levitation and Force Lifting skills, you are sure to find the setting you want."
If you've experienced TOR in game testing and have some thoughts to share about potential RP, be sure to add to the comments section of this article. Launch is only so far away, so it is about time we start ironing out some of the best RP spots and features that BioWare's fantasy world has to offer.
Ganden posted Nov 20, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, Guides, Lightsaber, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, RP, RP Guides, Sa Chi, Scruffy Looking Nerf Herder, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
Entering into the world of roleplay has its joys and unforgettable moments. As roleplayers, we strive to create a sense of immersion whilst delving into a whole new world. The limit of our imaginations and abilities to create are put to the test, as we use our wonderful minds to create adventures in a virtual reality full of life, and in the case of the members here at SWTOR-RP, a virtual world full of lightsabers, evil-doers, heroes, and scruffy-looking nerf herders. However, just like any community group, the world of roleplay also has its vices. Veterans of roleplay become set in their ways, whilst newcomers may find it difficult to conform, and we find ourselves in a battle over who's group is more superior, more unique, and more exclusive. It is the battle of the cliques.
The issue of cliques in roleplay is raised by Sa Chi in an edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage. He talks about some of the issues that newcomers may face when coming across the grumpy old veterans of roleplay, as well as pointing out some great resources to the newbies of roleplay to help them get started. And where else would these great roleplaying resources come from other than here at SWTOR-RP?
"Sites like swtor-rp are filled with helpful players, and in particular have a team of RP Guides (that I’ll be covering in a future article). If you are looking for ways to come in out of the cold don’t hesitate to ask for help. In my experience the community is filled with very helpful players. Get clear on what you are looking for from RP and ask around."
Just as Sa Chi points out, newcomers to roleplay shouldn't be put off by the veteran-only exclusive roleplaying groups. Be sure to check out the full article at Ask A Jedi, and feel free to comment on the issue of roleplaying cliques, as well as sharing any experiences with such groups in the comments section below.
Ganden posted Nov 13, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, LucasArts, Metagaming, role-play, Roleplay, RP, Sa Chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR
In any MMO, metagaming is a constant issue faced by roleplayers across the board. Though some people may be confused about the word's meaning, it basically represents the idea of using information obtained via resources other than within the game itself to influence your in-game decisions. An example of this for players of The Old Republic would be using information from other eras within Star Wars lore to benefit your character's greater knowledge. The main issue of metagaming for roleplayers in MMOs is simply using such information to benefit your roleplaying endeavours, giving you an upper hand in moments of dialogue and conflict with other players.
Sa Chi has chosen the cover the topic of metagaming in an edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage. Not only does he provide an example of his own use of metagaming, but he also has a little hint for players new to the RP scene. Though it may be a simple hint of common knowledge for more experienced roleplayers, some of us may still succumb to the grasp of metagming and its effects. Here is a little snippet of what Sa Chi has to say:
"If you spend time in a community having lots of out of character (OOC) discussions, or if you follow forum RP and gain knowledge about RP events your character was not a part of, then it is possible that this information might somehow influence your RP. In my earlier years, I’d find myself not reading RP stories my character was not involved in. After all, what I don’t know OOC can’t influence me, right?"
Head on over to Ask A Jedi to view the metagaming edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage. Feel free to discuss the issue here in the comments section.
Ganden posted Nov 7, 11
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Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, Darth Hater, DarthHater, David Bass, EA, Electronic Arts, Fan Site Summit, LucasArts, Mos Eisley Radio, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, The Old Republic, TOR, Twitter, Tziena, Vaanthe
We've previously announced that two of the senior staff here at SWTOR-RP, Tziena and Vaanthe, will be heading to the second Fan Site Summit being held at the BioWare base in Austin, Texas. We were privileged enough to have received an invite from Community Coordinator David Bass, and we'll be attending alongside some of the big guns of fans sites for The Old Republic. Ask A Jedi, DarthHater, and Mos Eisley Radio are amongst the thirteen fan sites who will be attending. However, the announcement of our invitation and who will be attending is old news. The new news is... the Summit has begun! Tziena and Vaanthe are now in Austin with the developers from BioWare. Envious much?
Tziena and Vaanthe will be keeping us up to date with the happenings from the Summit. Be sure to follow our Twitter page for all the news. If you don't have a Twitter account, perhaps now is the time for it. We hope to see a number of tweeted pictures from Tziena's and Vaanthe's experience with BioWare, and be sure to stay tuned to SWTOR-RP for further updates when they become available.
Ganden posted Nov 5, 11
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All The Galaxy's A Stage, Ask A Jedi, Author: Ganden, BioWare, EA, Electronic Arts, LucasArts, role-play, Roleplay, RP, RP Tracker, Sa Chi, Star Wars, Star Wars The Old Republic, SWTOR, SWTOR-RP, SWTOR-RP Wiki, The Old Republic, TOR, Twitter, Wiki
It is no secret that SWTOR-RP hosts a newly-launched wiki for roleplayers in The Old Republic. Some time ago, we announced the launch of the site where we saw an influx of our members who began creating their character wiki pages. We've spread the news of our wiki on Twitter, as well as our thread on the official TOR forums. Additionally, it seems that the launch of our wiki has also reached the ears and eyes of the team at Ask A Jedi. All The Galaxy's A Stage -- a weekly column by Sa Chi -- focuses on the some of the roleplaying resources available to players of The Old Republic in a once-a-month RP Tracker. This month, our very own wiki page has been brought under the spotlight and close review.
Not only does Sa Chi discuss the features of the wiki, but he also provides his opinion on what the wiki has to offer compared to other wiki sites. Fortunately for us, he has nothing but praise for the work conducted by our wiki team at SWTOR-RP. According to Sa Chi, they've outdone themselves. Here is a mini snippet of what he has to say.
"From what I understand, the wiki design team opted to spend several months configuring, coding, and testing the best possible wiki they could. In my opinion, this effort was undoubtedly worth it. As a member of the RP community I would like to extend a big thank you to the many spies that died to bring us…Oh wait, wrong context."
Be sure to head on over to Ask A Jedi to view the latest edition of All The Galaxy's A Stage. Feel free to discuss your thoughts on our wiki here in the comments section below. Whether you love or hate what our wiki team have done with their concoction, let us know what you think.
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