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It means this is not a stereotyped hack-and-slash computer RPG or a 'murder hobo' scenario, and probably shouldn't be played as one. In a hack-and-slash, players are largely free to act without moral bound other than the game engine's mechanical enforcement, and very little is penalized, but this is problematic for more truly freeform roleplaying because it leads to either a railroaded and therefore unsatisfying story, or a story with nonsensical outcomes. That's not how a realistic world works. Players are collectively free to create their own destiny and outcomes, and in order to do so they should consider the consequences of actions in real-life terms. Put yourself in your character's horseshoes: judgment calls that would be questionable or problematic in real life will be treated that way in this world as well. Decisions with real-life bad consequences will get in-game bad consequences. Bad enough decisions can even result in characters getting killed or otherwise landing themselves in a position with no possible good ending. It means this is not a stereotypical hack-and-slash computer RPG or mindless 'murder hobo' outing, and probably shouldn't be played as one. In a hack-and-slash, players are largely free to act without moral bound other than the game engine's mechanical enforcement, and very little is penalized, but this is problematic for more truly freeform roleplaying because it leads to either a railroaded and therefore unsatisfying story, or a story with nonsensical outcomes. That's not how a realistic world works. Players are collectively free to create their own destiny and outcomes, and in order to do so they should consider the consequences of actions in real-life terms. Put yourself in your character's horseshoes: judgment calls that would be questionable or problematic in real life will be treated that way in this world as well. Decisions with real-life bad consequences will get in-game bad consequences. Bad enough decisions can even result in characters getting killed or otherwise landing themselves in a position with no possible good ending.
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But overall there's some room for (reasonable) leniency; making a good effort to use realistic good judgment and some common sense should yield good outcomes. Players should not expect their characters to be shielded from having to bear the consequences of clearly bad or nonsensical judgment. But overall there's some room for (reasonable) leniency; making a good effort to use realistic good judgment and some common sense should yield good outcomes.

'A Hideous Lament' Player Briefing

This is the briefing for prospective players of the A Hideous Lament Campaign.


Player Briefing:

Gusty, a unicorn knight of some local fame, has arrived in a town near Flutter Valley announcing her intentions to recruit a small expeditionary force of a few brave ponies. Time is of the essence, and anypony courageous enough to answer her call must be ready to depart for action immediately!

After rounding up what interested prospects are available on short notice, she's ready to make her picks and form her team. The following candidates may be considered for selection.

What to expect:

Gusty and her companions inhabit a world meant to be engaging and immersive. Story, characterization, and plausible narrative are central to this: as a roleplaying game, players are expected to do just that; play out a character's role in realistic (for the setting) terms.

What does this mean?

It means this is not a stereotypical hack-and-slash computer RPG or mindless 'murder hobo' outing, and probably shouldn't be played as one. In a hack-and-slash, players are largely free to act without moral bound other than the game engine's mechanical enforcement, and very little is penalized, but this is problematic for more truly freeform roleplaying because it leads to either a railroaded and therefore unsatisfying story, or a story with nonsensical outcomes. That's not how a realistic world works. Players are collectively free to create their own destiny and outcomes, and in order to do so they should consider the consequences of actions in real-life terms. Put yourself in your character's horseshoes: judgment calls that would be questionable or problematic in real life will be treated that way in this world as well. Decisions with real-life bad consequences will get in-game bad consequences. Bad enough decisions can even result in characters getting killed or otherwise landing themselves in a position with no possible good ending.

Players should not expect their characters to be shielded from having to bear the consequences of clearly bad or nonsensical judgment. But overall there's some room for (reasonable) leniency; making a good effort to use realistic good judgment and some common sense should yield good outcomes.

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the adventure. Gusty and the flutterponies are counting on you. Don't let them down!


See also:

A Hideous Lament Campaign Introduction

Characters

A Hideous Lament:Player Briefing (last edited 2017-05-31 06:44:06 by WinstonDeleon)