People who 'roleplay' on public forums

Just an interesting thing that I'd like to discuss with you all.

We've all seen it.

Posters who take on an identity or style when they join a forum.

We've got several here on ATS

The Major, who's militaristic and to-the-point posts light up threads.

TeslaandLyne, who's unique and quirky posting style has a very similar effect.

A few more I won't mention because I haven't got quite as nice things to say about them

Anyway, individuals aren't the topic.

Roleplaying has been around since the days of the old dice and paper games, such as Dungeons and Dragons, and probably far before then under a different name.

It is acting, taking on a role, but without a real stage or audience. You could say the forum becomes that audience.

I can remember on a forum I used to be on many years ago, a poster used to answer for each of their separate personalities. They, supposedly, were schizophrenic, but I doubt that. As long as they had fun with it.

So what are your thoughts on roleplaying in non-roleplaying forums? Do you agree with me in that it lightens up what can sometimes be a boring, repetitive area?

Or do you think it is immature etc. and should be kept where it is wanted?

What are some of the more interesting examples you've seen? If they are members here and you think you may offend them by discussing it, then leave them anonymous.

[edit on 6-2-2009 by fooffstarr]

Time to meet the D Ego

Ah, I didn't know they had it in official policy.

Interesting.

Thanks for the heads up.

Now, does that stop us being able to discuss what we think of it?

I find myself quite a bit less aggressive on this forum than in real life. More "zen" I suppose.

I've found the written word always more attractive than the spoken, so maybe it calms my nerves a bit..

Actually if you want want to see the "other side" of my digital ego, check out the site on my signature and read my review of the Killers new album.. You'll see what I mean..

I'm digitally bipolar.

Never heard of this before, but it makes sense--I've known a lot of people who used various personas for online interactions, I figured it was just a natural development, same as people use a different persona for work, one for hanging with their friends, one for dates, and etc. All the same person/personality, needless to say, just highlighting different characteristics.

What do I think of it? Um. I think it's a good reminder not to take too much at face value online, and I guess as long as it's not completely dishonest and doesn't hurt anybody... but it bugs me, to be honest. I like to think people are mostly genuine, even online. ^^