Yep, it totally depends on the FC. RP FCs often have one or more of the following characteristics that non-RP FCs typically don't have:
In terms of effects on your story, RP FCs typically have a stronger relationship among characters and more of an emphasis on their plots intertwining. This usually, but doesn't always, mean that the leadership has some authority to declare certain concepts and histories as too far outside lore to be acceptable, for example. If nothing else, you'll need to make sure your character's story works for getting you into and staying the group ICly. Ultimately, you cede some of your authority to write whatever you want in return for having a group where your story can interact with others'.
What FC to recommend depends on your character concept and what you want to get out of RP. Different groups cater to different characters and players; if you like being OOC most of the time, joining a heavy RP FC probably isn't going to be a good fit. If you like a gritty, low magic, survival-by-the-skin-of-your-teeth RP, joining a group of powerful adventurers who challenge the threats of ancient ruins isn't going to be a good fit, either.
- A concept for the FC's existence in game (i.e., the FC is considered an organization that is RPed as existing in the game world).
- Scheduled RP events.
- An IC linkshell, or use of the FC channel, for RP.
- A backstory explaining the existence of the FC.
- An application process that requires you to describe your character's background and personality to make sure they mesh with the group.
- A probationary period during which you're expected to RP with the membership to see if you're a good fit.
- An IC interview process to ensure the character gets along reasonably well with the IC leadership and has a reason to join the group.
- Policies prohibiting interference with RP or harassment of RPers.
- Policies specifying the social contract the group uses for RP (e.g., when you're considered to be IC, what level of consent is required for different actions, when retcons are allowed).
- An emphasis on RP events over PvE events.
- An overarching plot or plots that involve the entire FC.
In terms of effects on your story, RP FCs typically have a stronger relationship among characters and more of an emphasis on their plots intertwining. This usually, but doesn't always, mean that the leadership has some authority to declare certain concepts and histories as too far outside lore to be acceptable, for example. If nothing else, you'll need to make sure your character's story works for getting you into and staying the group ICly. Ultimately, you cede some of your authority to write whatever you want in return for having a group where your story can interact with others'.
What FC to recommend depends on your character concept and what you want to get out of RP. Different groups cater to different characters and players; if you like being OOC most of the time, joining a heavy RP FC probably isn't going to be a good fit. If you like a gritty, low magic, survival-by-the-skin-of-your-teeth RP, joining a group of powerful adventurers who challenge the threats of ancient ruins isn't going to be a good fit, either.
The Freelance Wizard
Quality RP at low, low prices!
((about me | about L'yhta Mahre | L'yhta's desk | about Mysterium, the Ivory Tower: a heavy RP society of mages))
Quality RP at low, low prices!
((about me | about L'yhta Mahre | L'yhta's desk | about Mysterium, the Ivory Tower: a heavy RP society of mages))