Desperado
Training Mutant
Former teacher. Former husband. Former agitator. Former slave.
Posts: 29
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Post by Desperado on May 15, 2007 0:22:35 GMT -4
As much as I hate to do this in the middle of a plot, I realized I needed to before I forgot to. I don't know any way of saying this delicately, so I'm just going to say it: I'm leaving. The reasons are many, varied, and I'm too lazy to list them. However, I'm not lazy enough to give one piece of advice: Criticize.
My biggest problem with most sites is not the n00bs trying to pwn everything. It's not the admins or mods being #$%holes. It's the older, more experienced players not telling the newbies what to do to become better. I suck at this whole "role-playing" thing, and I am aware of that fact, but no one has ever told me what I'm doing wrong, and thus I can't fix it. Like right there, that was like two run-on sentences, but no one would have mentioned it.
I know people think that criticism is bad, but it's not. Flaming criticism is bad, but constructive criticism is just what it sounds like: constructive. Through it things grow and build. In all of my time here I could have become a much better roleplayer, but no one told me how. Experience helps, but not as much as hands-on instruction. So, I leave this site, not much better at RPing than when I started here, and my only bit of parting advice is in-line with the Desperado's philosophy: Don't allow another me to happen.
Thank you all for the experience. You've affected me probably more than you'll ever know.
Sincerely Yours, The Desperado Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2009 A-A-A Whoop!
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Post by Gambit on May 15, 2007 6:55:36 GMT -4
I'm very sorry to hear that you have chosen to leave, though I do think I see where you are coming from. I hope I'm not one of those @$$hole admins, though. ;D
In our defense, a lot goes on behind the scenes that no one is aware of, and we have contacted people, even in the very recent past, regarding their writing. If you were not contacted, it was because we didn't see anything obviously wrong and didn't feel the need. The thing to remember about this site is that to many of us, myself included, it was our first RPG like this, if not our first RPG altogether. It's hard to criticize others when we're still learning ourselves.
Another thing is that it is often hard to distinguish what is accidental and what it artistic style. When I write, my MSWord hates me. I'm forever ignoring red and green squiggly lines, red because of the accent that I refuse to change, and green because I'm a big fan of fragments. Word hates them, but I choose to use them for impact. It is part of my writing style.
You do bring up a very interesting point, though, and if you are willing to listen, I do have a suggestion. What if we started an open discussion about this? Say, if you were willing to stick around, we could select a few of your posts, or maybe let everyone choose at random, and we could have an open discussion about what we think is great, and what we think you could improve on. We could turn it into an ungoing thing on a volunteer basis. If others are having similar doubts, they could ask that people focus on some of their writing and offer constructive criticism. It would be a way for us to all become better RPers, and also to destroy any possible 'elitism' that people may feel exists.
Sound like anything you would be interested in? If not, then I respect your decision to leave as is and wish you only luck in the future. And we're always here if you change your mind, or even just wanna pop in for a little chat.
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Post by Callie on May 15, 2007 9:15:29 GMT -4
...god damn internets.
I can't remember what I said!!
Um...something about liking Gambit's idea...but if you're still planning on leaving..
You've always been there *sniffle* since Pyromane! *sniffle* I don't think I've...like...hardly EVER actually been in a scene with you dude, apart from once or twice, and that saddens me, I wish we'd interacted more, but alas, 'twas not to be.
I'd say something astute and clever, but, a) I'm having to type this out again, and b) damn man, university, money, exams, it's all crazy, totally frazzled. Gonna miss you!
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Post by Panthera on May 15, 2007 9:32:54 GMT -4
You are one of the nicest, sweetest, and most intelligent people I have ever met. Sure, it's only on online friendship, but when you know someone for quite a while, you still become attached to that person in some way.
I respect your decision and in turn agree with what you've said. I would like to comment, but I'm not very good with wording things, so please don't take offense anyone.
Another thing I really wanted to add, is the fact that there are 3 OCs on this site that have great rping skills (me included). I know I can write well when I have good chemistry with someone else and Des and I had that. Callie, you are the other one I speak of. You are excellent as your feral character and I enjoy your posts considerably. It helps me with my character.
Now, my criticism. I am very well aware of schedule and such, so please don't take this as a posting consistency thing or how often one posts. That has nothing to do with this. This is going to come from the heart and I'm being blunt, sorry. As much as I look forward to my part here, I still feel like I'm just a visitor. In the 16 months I've been here, I have role played on a serious level with 3 people. I know I would have had more time with one, but she was in a situation with her character where she couldn't. In those 16 months, I have noticed that Des and myself really don't have much interaction when it comes to the main story plot. It becomes very discouraging to role play when our characters are, well, ignored for the most part. This is coming from my point of view and what I've seen. And I'm not speaking for Des, but myself.
He already knows that I think he's one of the best role players out there. I would really hope, Des, that you do reconsider your decision, but know that I support it too. Having originals is very hard work to obtain a "canon" type status for the site. Callie did it and from what I read, very well. We're just having a real hard time fitting in I think, which doesn't make for wanting to role play much.
I will personally miss you with all my heart here. You've made my character who she is. I've only had help from one of other character and without either of you, I wouldn't be here. Now, I shall go and get myself a nice box of tissue and say goodbye in my own way.
Take care sweetie and you know how to reach me.
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Post by Kitty Pryde on May 15, 2007 10:17:06 GMT -4
Well, since everyone else is doing the mature thing, I think it's about time I balance things out by being totally immature by doing this...
*tackleglompcling* Don't leave us, Desi! *pouts* We can change!
I would have a lot more to say if I didn't have literally, like, two seconds before I gotta rush out the door. I'll try to write up something much more concise and mature later.
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Post by Callie on May 15, 2007 10:48:37 GMT -4
Aww Sapph *sweatdrop* that's really sweet of you to say.
I think part of the problem lately is that things have been so busy! We're trying to get everybody involved in the plots as much as possible, but it's kinda hard - the only reason some people get more involved than others is simply the ties that're already there, we kinda use 'em.
Buuuuut, I will tell you that the plot we have coming up, the thing that's being set off by the fight we have at the moment, will give EVERYBODY plenty to do, and we're trying to get as many people involved in a big way as possible. Don't worry, things are gonna get shook up. That's all I'm saying ^_^
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Desperado
Training Mutant
Former teacher. Former husband. Former agitator. Former slave.
Posts: 29
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Post by Desperado on May 15, 2007 10:59:27 GMT -4
I come back after six months and get glomped, and now that I'm leaving I get glomped, too. The heck?
That sounds like a good idea Gambit. Have at it. Just be warned, some of my past posts really do suck, so I don't recommend some of them be put up.
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Post by Gambit on May 15, 2007 12:01:01 GMT -4
Thank you for reconsidering. We spend so much time, especially lately, focusing on the big plots and the glaringly obvious issues, that we don't often see the what others do unless it is brought to our attention. I'm always looking to improve the site and make it fun for everyone involved, so if people do have issues with any aspect of it, I appreciate that they are brought to my attention so they can hopefully be dealt with. That goes for the issues that Sapphire raised as well. I cannot be all seeing all the time (especially with wonky eyes). ;D
And no worries, we've all written posts we're not proud of. I'm at the advantage (sort of) that my earliest posts no longer exist. I fully admit that they were horrible and plenty OOC.
How about we start something in the Feedback forum? It shouldn't be just for stating the awesomeness. And if you have specific threads or posts you would like people to look at for whatever reason, feel free to link them.
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Post by scott on May 16, 2007 7:06:35 GMT -4
As someone who has played at various sites with you for several years now I can honestly say I don't think you 'suck'. Like Gambit said, I don't think any of us contacted you about improving your writing because it was never a problem that I can ever remember. Believe me, if it had been, we would have.
For the most part this isn't a site that's about criticism like that. If it's requested we can certainly help you out with some, but the way I look at it is that you got accepted because we liked what we saw. From there you're just a co-writer in the bigger picture. None of us are professional writers, we're all just trying to do the best we can. Except Guido...he's a no talent ass clown. (it says it in his avatar)
I'd like to see you stay, if possible.
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Post by Tatiana on May 16, 2007 11:41:03 GMT -4
Des, I am going to miss you more than I can say. You are the only one who would consistently post with me. But I understand how you feel. Apparently I don't have good RP skills myself as an OC. That hurts sometimes, but I am a sucker for crying and pain which I do all the time, so I stay. I hope you come back someday so I can actually have somone to post with.
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Desperado
Training Mutant
Former teacher. Former husband. Former agitator. Former slave.
Posts: 29
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Post by Desperado on May 16, 2007 12:30:27 GMT -4
"Every time I get out, they pull me back in." -The Ever-lovin', Ever-livin' Thing, Fantastic Four #538
I hate doing this, because I know that secretly some of you were popping champagne and celebrating (at least, that's what I was doing, so I can only assume it's what the rest of you were doing).
I can't go. I'm not gonna give the reason, because I know what the reaction will be. At least, I think I do. There's a 76% chance that I'm right about the reaction.
Suffice it to say, if I go I'll feel like an ass. Well, like even more of an ass than I normally am.
I swear that I wasn't planning this, btw. I really had every intention of leaving. I know that some of you still won't believe me, but I don't care.
That having been said, one of the primary reasons I was planning on leaving is still there: I don't like how Des turned out. His powers got way out of hand (last time I let you guys randomly create powers for me ;D), and he strayed very far from where I wanted to take him. So, I'm gonna do something that I swore I'd never do: I'm gonna revamp him. I won't do it yet, because I know how you guys are busy with the current plot and whatnot, but eventually I will. Make his powers simpler, revamp his backstory away from the emo-ness, the whole nine yards. I want him to be fun to play with, so that people will want to roleplay with him, thus negating one of the other primary factors of my leaving.
So, sorry to spoil your fun, guys, but it looks like I'm sticking around.
btw, I'm still waiting on that constructive criticism. ;D
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Post by Callie on May 16, 2007 13:18:06 GMT -4
you'll get it, when I'm not dead. *glomps* yey Desi!
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Post by Kitty Pryde on May 16, 2007 13:58:59 GMT -4
I don't know if any of this will make any sense, but since we’re all being blunt and honest, I figure I might as well write up a book to make up for my quick post the other day. Now, my criticism. I am very well aware of schedule and such, so please don't take this as a posting consistency thing or how often one posts. That has nothing to do with this. This is going to come from the heart and I'm being blunt, sorry. As much as I look forward to my part here, I still feel like I'm just a visitor. In the 16 months I've been here, I have role played on a serious level with 3 people. I know I would have had more time with one, but she was in a situation with her character where she couldn't. In those 16 months, I have noticed that Des and myself really don't have much interaction when it comes to the main story plot. It becomes very discouraging to role play when our characters are, well, ignored for the most part. This is coming from my point of view and what I've seen. And I'm not speaking for Des, but myself. When you say "ignored", just how to you mean? You mean like starting random threads that people don't answer the tag? Because if that's the case, I can guarantee that it's not just OCs that get that. In all honesty, most of the threads that I have started or whatever were ones that I contacted someone and was all "hey, wanna do something? I was thinking this..." in a PM first. Sometimes it's that secret, sneaky stuff that you don't see that makes it look easy for the rest of us, when it's really not much different. We all gotta work at it. Yes, it is easier for the canon characters to interact, mostly because they can always play off existing canon relationships instead of having to always start from scratch. If you have to meet everyone new, then it takes some time to really get involved, you know? As for the big plots, you mean like what's going on now? Or something else? For the Legacy Virus thing, Kitty getting sick was merely the luck of the draw. Literally. Her name was pulled out of a hat to get the virus. I just ran with it. Right now, with the crystal thing? I think most people are just running with it. Des, I am going to miss you more than I can say. You are the only one who would consistently post with me. But I understand how you feel. Apparently I don't have good RP skills myself as an OC. That hurts sometimes, but I am a sucker for crying and pain which I do all the time, so I stay. I hope you come back someday so I can actually have somone to post with. I can’t speak for everyone, but ouch. Kitty had circumstances keeping her from being involved with too many people lately, but that still stings. May I make a few suggestions, though? When starting out, it can be very difficult to get involved, and it’s not always a persons RP skills that are the issue, but how they present their character and the scene they want people to join. Random meetings aren’t always the best, especially places like the mall or a park or something. You have to look at what is going on in the big scheme of things at the time and wonder “is one of America’s Most Wanted going to be just chilling around the mall today?” or “would, say, Wolverine be out in the park enjoying the sunshine and watching the children play” or something, you know? Wildchild may not have had much opportunity to interact with many different characters yet, but he had a great entrance because he was able to be in a place where he would normally be, and Storm was able to do something she would normally do to find him. Like I said above, sometimes you really need to work on things and look at who the characters are that you want to interact with. That having been said, one of the primary reasons I was planning on leaving is still there: I don't like how Des turned out. His powers got way out of hand (last time I let you guys randomly create powers for me ;D), and he strayed very far from where I wanted to take him. So, I'm gonna do something that I swore I'd never do: I'm gonna revamp him. I won't do it yet, because I know how you guys are busy with the current plot and whatnot, but eventually I will. Make his powers simpler, revamp his backstory away from the emo-ness, the whole nine yards. I want him to be fun to play with, so that people will want to roleplay with him, thus negating one of the other primary factors of my leaving. This one I totally get as I have seen it a million times before. Personally, I’m a big fan of normal characters in extraordinary situations. Not every OC has to have this super tragic past that has left them traumatized and emo. And if a character does happen to have that, as many canons do as well, then it doesn’t have to define the character. Stuff like that, IMO, works best when used sparingly for effect. If a character is constantly whining about how tragic they are and how they need someone who understands them and how nobody does and nobody loves them or whatever, then it’s hard to want to get involved with them, for me at least. Again, this is totally all my opinion, and I’m not saying that Desi was like this, I’m just stating this in general. I enjoyed the little interaction I had with Desi and thought he was an entertaining character and an entertaining read. But I do totally understand where you’re coming from. It’s hard to continue to play a character once you’ve realized that they are not how you envisioned them, and if you’re no longer enjoying playing them as they are. Anyway, seeing as I’ve written like two pages of drivel, and probably none of it was helpful to anyone, I should probably wrap this up. None of this was meant to be specific or insulting or defensive or anything. I only intended to be helpful. Whether I accomplished this or not remains to be seen, and if I did manage to offend anyone with this, then I am truly sorry. So… yay, I’m glad you’re sticking around, Desi! *glomps again* mwahah, you shall never understand the method to my random glomping! And I’m one of those people that is afraid to give constructive criticism, but I’ll try to do something later on, hopefully.
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Post by Panthera on May 16, 2007 15:24:28 GMT -4
I was referring to you in my post about the someone who could'nt post.
All I'm asking is for canons to actually look at it from an OCs point of view. You create a character and wield it to fit into this boards verse. Obviously, it is impossible to jump right in and become an Xmen or Brotherhood member since your character isn't established. Creating a thread for your character to interact with others is hard, but Des came into mine and my character hasn't been the same since. A new original character walks on pins and needles so they don't upset the balance of the canons universe by creating anything that would disrupt or change the comic version of the other characters. For me, creating threads that would introduce her to people or even interact with others has proven to be a 35%(very random statistic) chance someone will join the thread. The plot lines are also very difficult on an original character since no one really knows their abilities or personality. So to me, that means, making singled posts about the past of my character or making singled posts about her emotions. This is sounding more confusing to me by the minute. I'm sorry. "Ignored" is how I feel in my character's storyline. Sure, I know there are other stories going on, but I feel as though I'm interrupting something by trying to start and establish my story so that others can interact and want to post with her to help it along and even possibly become a part of it. For me, it's almost a no win situation. And, I know I'm not perfect in my character either. Maybe I'm just so anxious to become a part of something and belong that I'm not seeing the help that has been there for me. For this, again I apologize.
But I'm taking away from Des' original posts, so I'll stop and allow for him and his concerns to be addressed.
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Post by Callie on May 16, 2007 16:28:36 GMT -4
*shuffles in* As an original character who has 'made it' so to speak, I feel I can address some of what you've said, Sapph.
The thing is, I've had plenty of characters on this board who have done really well, and those who haven't, to be honest, part of the reason Callie did so well was because I brought her over from another board, where some of the same players had the same characters, so I had some ready made ties that I could use to my advantage.
The simple fact of the matter is that starting with ANY character is hard - I took on Chamber, for example, and that one kind of died on me, because I didn't get much interaction - partly because I didn't push for it, and partly because everybody had plots of their own going on at that time, I didn't really get a chance to get Chamber involved.
The thing is, most of the time it's not the big plots that get in the way of your own, it's the little ones - people who're busy with their own thing find it harder to get out of that in order to bring other characters in. This new big fight plot, for example, has given some newer characters a chance to try and dive in and get involved.
Generally, like in life, in an RP you have to have your character around for a bit before you can start getting other people involved in the meat of your storyline, unfortunately that's just the way it works, and it does take a lot of hard work - many characters I've had around have failed because I haven't had time to put the effort in, even Callie's dropped back into the background a few times where I've been really busy with real life. You just have to push at it.
To be honest, Sapphire, I think you're going about it the right way - you're posting as much as you can, you're still trying, and you've been making friends in the OOC parts of the board, that's the best way to do it - the more friends you make, the more you can go 'hey, wouldn't it be cool if we had a thread where this happened?' to people and try and get more involvement and more interactions.
Sometimes people can get lucky, they can do a couple of random posts and immerse themselves in the world as easy as that, sometimes, it takes hard work.
I think I've written a book now *sweatdrop*
Buuuut, in true modly evil fashion, there's something on the way that will hopefully help out everybody's concerns....
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