It's been a while since I last posted and really should make a point of posting more. Now, I could make this one of those sentimental blogs about the importance of friends etc, but that's not what I want to talk about. What I want to talk about is how I've managed to keep active a hobby that is, to all sense and purpose, an incredibly social hobby!
Socializing has been difficult during these weird times! Being stuck in doors, 2 metres separation etc but thank God for modern technology. Yes, using the internet I have found ways to keep playing RPG's. Okay, it's not the same as rolling physical dice and watching peoples reactions but it does itch and itch though.
So, what have I been using to conquer this obsession of mine with escaping into a dangerous world where the wrong move can get you hurt (at least on paper) just crossing the street. Well, first I used a free site called www.Roll20.com. This was good, a bit 2 dimensional and every NPC and PC had to have a character sheet but I generally only scratched the surface with the features available. Then I upgraded to Table Top Simulator! Yes, a program that simulates a table top. Not free but worth the investment! So far I have ran Dark Heresy (a staple on my blog), D&D 3.5 as well as been a player in 3.5 and 5th. How do we talk to each other though you may ask? Well, we use Discord!
Now as I said before, it's not the same as having someone flesh and blood around you. The way you interact, the visible emotions. The laughs and jokes! The comradeship of players against the GM and the game mechanics. It can be intoxicating. Also, that interaction between people is so important. It's almost primeval, the posturing and stories. The gossip and arguments. All contribute to a healthy dynamic that can only be found in groups of people and, yes, i miss it!
Damn! It did turn into one of those sentimental blogs...