Ah, so you're past the front page, and now you want to know how to get started. I'll try to use as little jargon as possible to start out so you can understand me a little better, since I'm assuming you've nerver roleplayed - free form or otherwise. There are a few things you need to know before you start:
1. Don't be afraid. Most of us are really accepting of newcomers; don't let the jerks drag you down. If you need help while you're playing for the first time, feel free to ask for help from anyone, including me.
2. I am assuming that you are thirteen (13) years or older. Although even thirteen is a little young for some people's tastes, most FFRP channels will be PG-13. This means that there is violence and mild cursing, but no gloriously naughty scenes. If a description says "Mature" or "Advanced" roleplaying, they allow more descriptive violence and the -really- bad words.
3. I am also assuming you are somewhat computer literate. This doesn't mean you can program in Basic or program image maps in HTML. It just means you can install, open programs, and know the minumum computer vocabulary (title bars, buttons, icons, text boxes, etc.). It just makes things easier for the both of us.
4. You may have to go the extra mile to get the full experience that FFRP has to offer. This includes reading websites, obtaining an e-mail account, writing up a character sheet, or registering other kinds of accounts that will enhance the experience. As you may have or may not have noticed, FFRP is a whole world waiting for you, and I'll help you get the tools to explore it.
5. Most importantly, the ROMP's of roleplaying.
Respectful - The Internet's power of anonymity is overwhelming. People might be tempted to insult other people and act like complete jerks. However, that doesn't mean you have to fall into that trap. Think of roleplaying as talking to your friends - jokes are okay, but people do have feelings and can be hurt.
By the way, YOU ARE NOT GOD. I don't care if you're the President of Nigeria, have a sexier body than me, or if you have a hundred friends that are -so- much better than me, you are not a god(ess). Once you get into the realm of roleplaying, a lack of respect for other people will get you into trouble.
Open-Minded - Sometimes, you will confront strange principles, styles and new cultures. Not everyone is born in your country, and especially not your state. The best thing to do in this case is to not be critical.
Patient - You will not be the best free form roleplayer in the world at first, even if you've beaten your friends in Dungeons and Dragons or have written bestselling fantasy novels. Free form is something totally different and it will take some time to learn and master. Also, not all people type fast; you may have to wait a minute or two to get a reply. And a decent roleplaying session takes at least an hour, and finding a active place to roleplay may take an hour more.
Read on below. The rest of this information is split up into separate pages. Read what you don't know, skip the rest.
Exactly What -is- FFRP?
FFRP Lingo!
Connecting to IRC - Esy Style! (IRC, Part 1)
IRCing - Esy Style! (IRC, Part2)
