From:	Marc A Renouf <jormung@*****.UMICH.EDU>
Subject:	Re: Roleplaying
Date:	Wed, 1 Feb 1995 13:01:35 -0500

On Wed, 1 Feb 1995, Stuart Marsh (aka Cinder) wrote:

> I have a problem with my players in the group. They all talk to each other
> as players, and don't talk to each other as there characters, how can I get
> them to actual be there characters more?

This one can be difficult. I guess it all depends on the players
in question. Many times it suffices to remind them during role-playing
sessions that they should conduct themselves in character. Also, set an
example. The NPC's should also be in character, not just "Yeah, OK, two
Ingram Smartguns, comin' up."
Maybe at the beginning of every session, have them go over their
answer to the "twenty questions" they answered in character creation.
This serves to refresh their memories as to why the character is the way
it is.
Another good thing to remind them of is accents. They can go a
long way toward getting people to think and act in character. If your
character is from Ireland, he should talk like he's from Ireland. If's
he's a drek-kicked Rastafarian ganger, well... you get the idea.
Once the players get started, it will get easier for them. They
will find they can slip into character much more quickly and
convincingly. I have one player (male) who plays a female "femme-fatale"
type physical adept. Some of his subtle gestures and facial expressions
are perfect. But it was hard for him at first.

Marc ("Jah love, mon." --Charlatan)