The World of Layonara

The Layonara Community => Introduce Yourself => Topic started by: Pen N Popper on May 04, 2007, 09:34:19 pm

Title: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on May 04, 2007, 09:34:19 pm: When I first joined the server, I was astounded by how much IC info I could find on the forums. I thought, "This is terrible! Everyone will metagame!" It wasn't long, however, before I realized how much I truly appreciated the wealth of information I could find out about others. You see, I have a problem: I am a metagamer.

Yes, it's true. You see I play this game because I like a good story. I like epic battles, heroes and villains, intrigue and plot. More often than not I am quite content being a voyeur of the tale rather than its star. Unfortunately, sometimes the stories get obscured by this layer of obfuscation called NWN.

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I strongly believe that more of this would be beneficial in our day-to-day RP as well. All of our PCs have their little stories, histories, flaws, fears, and dreams. Sometimes I feel like we're all in rubber bubbles, in our own little worlds. I can see your PC but his/her story is bouncing around inside out of sight. I try very hard with my PCs to pop your bubbles. Unfortunately, I am a bubble too and we just bounce off each other mostly.
That sums up what metagaming means to me. I want to know your stories OOCly more than ICly. Layonara is a place where I can see those stories and enjoy them.

Some choose to use these wonderful stories to abuse and cause angst to others. Why? They use the information they learn ingame so that their PCs can dominate another, control them. Why? I know why: They think it is how you win the game.

Layonara is a novel, no a library of novels. There is no winning alone. The more novels you can read, even partially, should be your goal. How many stories do you know? Only your own? Do you have one?

I started to write this thread in the General Discussion thread. I realized, though, that this is who I am not just my opinion. I am not a bard, but a reader. Metagaming is good. Story writers call it foreshadowing.

My PC asked ICly the following:

[SIZE=16] How will you be recalled in legend and lore? Or will you be remembered at all?[/SIZE][/I]

Well, will you? When Layonara fades away and we find each other later in life on other forums, what will people remember of you and your PCs?

I have a rock named after my first PC on a PW. Now that's what I call winning.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: s0ulz on May 05, 2007, 12:58:27 am: Bravo, PnP, Bravo!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: hawklen on May 05, 2007, 02:49:44 am: How will hawk be remembered? Hmm. Who would ever forget him!

And nice post PnP. I do enjoy OOC journals and the submissions. They are fun to read.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Chuckles_McChuck on May 05, 2007, 10:37:40 am: PnP, I accually agree with you whole heartidly on this one. I unfortunately don't have the time to detail myself on other stories, but I did have a fear. It was why I wanted to do a WLDQ. I figured my time in playing Lia was almost numbered, either by having to stop for varrious reason, or giving her to the DM's for various reasons. The last thing I wanted, even far moreso then her dieing, was to have the character forgotten.

Heh, unfortunately most of her story, her past, ideas, events, personality are all in my head, and not quite as much written at all. I decided to rectify this with Silaqui and already with a lvl 6 character I have 10 pages worth of journal entries in microsoft word. This post however inspired me to get my butt moving on writting the life of Lia Di'makiir for her tombstone in Willows weep ;).

I think we need more people like you onboard PnP (and there probably are alot, heh). The main reason I enjoy Layonara, is because in heart, I consider myself a writter, a novelist of sorts, and I think most players here are. Even though this is just a hobby of mine and will never be more, why write if noone will read and share your stories?
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Hellblazer on May 05, 2007, 08:09:49 pm: Well i guess that makes me a metagamer too. I love to read the stories and journal of other and do a good job at leaving it on the forum. I think you are right on many point on how much we do not know enough of the others stories and how thy interact with the world that is layonara with their own actions and thoughts.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Anamnesis on May 06, 2007, 04:02:39 pm: I love to write and tell stories. I love to share them. I love to know that I have an effect on others stories too which is why I love Layo so much. There are soooo many talented writers here that alot of times stories seem to write themselves with various character interactions. My favorite by far recently to write has been between Krysthalien and Elohanna, but in the midst of all this I have developed a real friendship with the person behind Krysthalien and been able see how other characters develope in their lives. How we all grow together by sharing a part of stories with each other and in ways I have been tempted to move my journals back to the regular forum because, even if there is a bit of metagaming involved. The stories are wonderful!

And if you know a bit OOCly you can sometimes collaborate to enrich the world we all have come to love by creatively molding our characters lives into one anothers.

SO LONG AS ITS AGREED UPON.

I love stories that flow and don't feel forced though, that feel as if its the right fit for the characters, and will shy away from interaction with those who can't seem to RP without obvious metagaming or forcing themselves into a situation.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Tanman on May 06, 2007, 04:36:27 pm: I'd have to say PnP that the definition is not quite right. Urban Dictionary and Wikipedia state that:

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The act of using outside or previously gained knowledge within a gaming universe for personal gain or advantage.
John was accused of metagaming when he immediately moved his player to the most protected area of the map to snipe the enemy team members, since he had played the map before and knew from experience.

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Urban Dictionary: metagaming (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=metagaming)

There is a whole post thread here EN World - Morrus' D&D / d20 News & Reviews Site - General - Meta-Gaming: Definition (http://www.enworld.org/showthread.php?t=131782) that define what metagaming is. So by in large...PnP what you do is not metagaming but the abuse is.

This does not transcend to just CDTs AT all however. It's using any external information to dictate what your character is going to do is metagaming. . .knowing that another player is leaving and doing something causes your character to do something totally out of the blue or things that just doesn't make sense is one such example.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Harlas Ravelkione on May 06, 2007, 04:57:42 pm: Thank you for making this post, a reminder to us all what this is about :)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Blackguy on May 07, 2007, 09:03:06 am: This is also one of the reason why I keep writing those shortstories with Gotak. A good reminder that he will be remembered past the years.

Maybee its time to write a new shortstory.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Lilswanwillow on May 12, 2007, 01:29:52 pm: ya know, I want to write a story... A long story.

But I don't just want it to sit and rot away.

Where would I place this story other than in my journal?

at least, the strongly edited version...
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on June 15, 2007, 10:23:43 pm: I'll be on Layonara less frequently over the coming months. I've always played at off-peak player number times but it's gotten to the point where I have to chose between standing idly about or soloing. Hopefully I can pop in for a GM quest now and again.

My computer doesn't support any of the higher end graphics games so I'll be riding NWN as far as it will take me. I am very much looking forward to the next incarnation of Layonara.

Many thanks to everyone over the months for teaching me so much more about RPing, NWN mechanics and systems, and community. My sincere gratitude to the NWN team of area and system designers: You really let me bring my character ideas to life with a depth I wouldn't have thought possible. Layonara is the benchmark by which I will compare other PWs for years to come.

I will continue to visit the forums here.

"I've thought up and ending for my book!" said Bilbo and turned to face the wizard to tell him aloud, "'And he lived happily ever after… to the end of his days.'"
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: stragen on June 16, 2007, 07:57:20 pm: It will be sad to see you go. All characters will be missed.

-Stragen
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Varka on June 17, 2007, 08:06:04 am: It is a shame to see you leave mate but I hope to see you again..somewhere or somehow.

May it be via IC or a few tells - always nice to chat with you over various aspects/themes.

I guess that your other idea:
"WANTED: RPers to join strict group" it will be put on hold until further?
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on August 22, 2007, 10:36:46 am: I told myself I would explore other PWs until Nibor/Chongo's release came out, and though it took longer than I really wanted to be away the experience was positive.

Chongo's areas outside Dalanthar are superb! He definitely has an eye for mountains and encounters. (Bumblebee met a quivering palm on the return journey but managed to sneak past the Soul Mother.)

I'm very much looking forward to catching up ICly on your PC's stories, and OOCly on your own summer adventures.

See you ingame!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on August 22, 2007, 10:48:20 am: SWEET! PnP's back!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: s0ulz on August 22, 2007, 11:45:06 am: I'm so glad you came back PnP. The moment I saw you IG, I just rushed in to see if it was true and I must say... it felt great to have you along :)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Honora on August 22, 2007, 11:46:31 am: PnP is back!!

Pen, you need to check out Prantz re: that thing I sent you...you remember...
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: LynnJuniper on August 22, 2007, 11:49:07 am: Welcome back PnP! I'll try to get the story about how we all brought light back to Layonara to you, if I can get off the first paragraph ;)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Falonthas on August 22, 2007, 12:06:05 pm: that means the paperboy will work in hempstead
yay
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Dorganath on August 22, 2007, 12:28:35 pm: Quote from: Falonthas
that means the paperboy will work in hempstead
yay

Um, nope. I don't know to what extent it's working or not, and so he's been removed for the next patch. Sorry. Have to work with what I have, and I most likely don't have time to make him work. If I find out otherwise, he might go back in, but for now, the Paper Boy has been promoted to Staff Writer.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Masterjack on August 22, 2007, 12:53:45 pm: Yahh..PnP is Back!!! *does a little happy dance*
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Mooneyes on August 22, 2007, 12:58:27 pm: It's good to see you back! *smiles*
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Dorax Windsmith on August 22, 2007, 06:22:26 pm: Welcome back, great to see you again :) !
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: osxmallard on August 22, 2007, 06:29:33 pm: The paperboy is working in Hempstead... and is selling advertisements for the new issue of the Whisper coming out soon. Sorry, you can no longer try and buy healing kits +1 off the poor lad.

Welcome back Pen.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Dorganath on August 22, 2007, 06:33:08 pm: Yep...misunderstanding on my part due to incomplete information. The Paper Boy will stay.

Thanks osX for helping PnP get it tested.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Odranoela on August 22, 2007, 06:38:14 pm: Nice!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: ShiffDrgnhrt on August 23, 2007, 10:23:56 pm: *waves to PnP*

Welcome Back! Your dreams were your ticket out....

Welcome back Popper ;)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on September 20, 2007, 05:43:06 pm: In over my head building a new computer from parts of my old one. Can't wait to see shiny water, though, and *gasps* shadows!

Back in a week or two or .... eep!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: ShiffDrgnhrt on September 20, 2007, 05:45:49 pm: Hurry back! I want to sell my story!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on September 25, 2007, 08:21:03 am: Parts ordered. Soon there will be the rich aroma of SLI goodness wafting about the room from the dust burning atop the hot graphics cards. (Or there will be the smell of burning parts accompanied by the screams of a hardware newbie.)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on October 07, 2007, 09:06:18 am: What a prescient statement: There were indeed smoke and sparks. Lots of time reading up on NWN2 features and definitely missing the Layo goodness. Still at least a week away from working machine again.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on January 14, 2008, 07:28:16 pm: Greetings!

Yes, I'm still lurking about. Mostly I hope to see the post describing the new platform that Layonara will be based upon. I've been playing on a hardcore NWN2 PW these past few months (which I love!), but have found that my expectations for the community at these other PWs is severely high, thanks to the Layonara staff. This is causing me some problems in fitting in elsewhere. Be thankful you have such a kind staff and community on here!

I've had some time to grow accustomed to the NWN2 systems available out there on these PWs. I'd say that things are progressing, but that expectations still far exceed what is available. To be honest, returning to NWN1 doesn't seem at all bad to me. The scenery is not all that more impressive in NWN2 that it would outweigh basic things like customizable clothing and other scripts.

I still enjoy trying to guess what platform the Layonara team has chosen to base their work upon. There are just too many cool things out there, though, for me to put all my chips onto one. I've enjoyed trying out the FPS games (TF2, CS:S, old Quake mods, etc.). There's something appealing about playing a turn based system in a FPS-ish game (like Mount&Blade).

Another thing that has become very clear is that any 24/7 PW should have a web or IRC interface. Very much like the LORE letters here, but being able to "park" your PC in an RP tavern that you could visit during your away-from-game time would be superb. Ideally you could conduct business transactions (items for gold) as well as RP. Heck, you could even put Google advertising around the interface and trickle in income.

Hope all is well with you and yours,
PnP
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on January 15, 2008, 12:56:46 am: huh... interesting idea on that last paragraph, PnP. and great to hear from ya!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on November 17, 2008, 04:23:23 pm: "Real life" has captured me in its vice (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/vice)-like grips. Layonara never was a five hour per week type of place so I'll offer a wave and hope to see you when time allows.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pseudonym on November 17, 2008, 04:55:38 pm: *returns the wave*

Nice (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/nice) to (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/to) see (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/see) you're (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/you're) still (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/still) alive (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/alive) and (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/and) kicking (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/kicking) . (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/full%20stop)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: miltonyorkcastle on November 17, 2008, 04:56:57 pm: Was just wondering about you yesterday. Have fun! We'll be here when you get back.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Tobias on November 17, 2008, 08:47:11 pm: Ophy still misses her Dubbel!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Chazzler on November 18, 2008, 02:52:07 am: Doth come back, the DarkFire will avail you.
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: mumbles on November 18, 2008, 03:10:27 pm: Yeah me and Tobias were only just talking the other day wondering where you had vanished to mate , Any way hope you find some time in future to pop in if not , take care
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Pen N Popper on June 27, 2009, 08:22:42 am: Feeling the need for creative outlet. Might need to figure out how to play Layo with just a couple hours free time. Possible?
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Lynn1020 on June 27, 2009, 09:28:48 am: Sure it is. :) Just log in and play. ;)
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: Hellblazer on June 27, 2009, 10:56:24 am: Eh nice to see you back!
Title: Re: Pen N Popper, metagamer
Post by: gilshem ironstone on July 08, 2010, 08:54:21 am: If you see this thread Pen N Popper, it is possible. To maximize your time, you might want to either post a Player-Event on the calendar so you can create some focus for your block of time, or perhaps PM some people and see if you can get a common time to do what you would like to do.

Anyway you slice it, I would really like to see you back here as you were always a favorite. When I returned you were one of the people I would look for hopefully on the Server Status.