How to Start Roleplaying Online: A Beginner's Guide

What Is Online Roleplaying?

Online roleplaying (RP) is collaborative storytelling. Two or more writers take turns writing as their characters, building a shared narrative in real time. It is part improvisation, part creative writing, and part social activity.

Unlike tabletop RPGs (like Dungeons & Dragons), online RP usually does not involve dice rolls, game masters, or rule systems. The focus is on character interaction and story — not mechanics.

Types of Online RP

Chat RP

Real-time text conversation in character. Posts are usually 1-4 paragraphs. Fast-paced and spontaneous. Best for people who like thinking on their feet.

Forum RP

Turn-based writing on a forum or thread. Posts tend to be longer (3-10 paragraphs) and more polished. Slower pacing — replies might come hours or days apart. Best for people who like crafting detailed prose.

Group RP

Multiple writers sharing a scene or storyline. Requires coordination but creates richer worlds. Usually has a host or game master who sets the scene.

One-on-One RP

Two writers, their characters, one story. The most common format for serious character-driven writing. Allows deep exploration of relationship dynamics.

Step 1: Create a Character

You need at least one character to start. If you have never made an OC before, read our complete guide to creating an original character.

For your first character, keep it simple:

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• A name and basic appearance
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• A personality with at least one flaw
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• A motivation — what do they want?
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• One secret or unresolved conflict
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Step 2: Learn the Vocabulary

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• IC: In-character — writing as your character
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• OOC: Out-of-character — talking as yourself (usually in parentheses or a separate channel)
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• Godmodding: Controlling another person's character without permission (don't do this)
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• Metagaming: Using information your character would not know (your character is not you)
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• Semi-literate / Literate / Novella: Terms describing post length expectations
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Step 3: Find Partners or Groups

The hardest part of RP is finding compatible partners. Look for people who match your:

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• Writing style: Do you write one paragraph or ten?
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• Activity level: How often can you reply?
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• Genre preferences: Fantasy, sci-fi, modern, horror?
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• Content boundaries: What topics are you comfortable with?
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On CharHaven's matchmaking hub, you can set your preferences and browse potential partners filtered by style, genre, and availability.

Step 4: Start Writing

Your first post sets the scene. Describe where your character is, what they are doing, and leave an opening for the other writer to respond. Do not write the other person's reaction.

Example opener:

The tavern was half-empty, which suited Mira fine. She claimed a corner table, back to the wall, and spread a water-stained map across the wood. Her fingers traced a route that ended at a blank space — unmapped territory. She glanced up as the door opened, one hand drifting to the knife at her hip out of habit.

Step 5: Keep the Story Alive

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• React AND act: Every post should respond to what happened and push the story forward.
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• Give your partner something to work with: End your post with an action, question, or moment that invites a response.
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• Communicate OOC: If you need a break, want to skip ahead, or are not sure about a plot direction — say so.
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Ready to start? Join CharHaven, create your first character, and find your first writing partner.