Unsurprisingly the most important feature to any text based RPG (role-playing game) is simply the role-playing. The name sums it up. In a RPG the player assumes the role, behavior and attitude of a character; talking, fighting and socializing with other player characters in such a way. The ability to interact with other adventurers is a primary element in text based RPG's, all of which can be done by simple commands. However with anything that is new, role-playing may be quite confusing at first. These 10 quick tips should hopefully clear things up and get you on your way.

1. Race

Before you even begin in a text based RPG you are given the option to choose the race you would like to play as. Remember that your race will tend to have an effect on your character's personality and role-play, for instance - the bigger "tank" races will tend to have a more macho, tough-guy personality. Not to worry though, most text RPG's will allow you a second chance to change your race should you feel the need to.

2. Put Pen to Paper

Write out a character background. Character backgrounds are great for discovering new characters and serve as useful reminders for the player while role-playing. Most text games even allow you to post a character background online for other adventurers to understand your history and habits. Written as a short biography, these are very useful for those at a loss as to where to begin.

3. Emotions in Motion

The great thing about text RPG’s are the endless supply of easy to use emotes, which players often find useful while role-playing with other characters. From a simple smile to a suffocating bear hug, these emotions are here to enhance your role-playing, so use them!

4. Polite and Friendly

When in character remember to be friendly and respectful to other adventurers. You will soon find that friendliness will be reciprocated, making role-play that much more enjoyable.

5. Remember to Stay in your Role

Remembering to stay in character while online may be quite difficult with the latest film or song on the back of your mind. But it is necessary to stay in character, especially in public areas. Failure to do so ruins the authentic atmosphere for other players. Most text RPG's also have policies against out-of-character behavior which leads us onto tip number 6.

6. Read the Game Policies and any Other Help Material

All text RPG’s will have different rules and policies. Therefore it is a good idea to read through these to see what you can and cannot do, as well as any penalties associated with out-of-character behavior. In addition to this, most text games will also tend to have helpful materials on topics such as role-playing, so read them as well to gain a better idea on how to enhance your role-play.

7. We Want You!

Most text based RPG's revolve around player organizations such as cities, communes and clans, each searching for new members daily. Within each city numerous roles will exist inside its structure which needs to be filled. Feel like commanding forces into battle? Or like the politics of becoming a city minister? There are always opportunities for role-playing within player run organizations. Some text based RPG's even have allow players the opportunity to marry and start a family by adopting other players as children. Assume the role of a parent, or the head of a great house. The possibilities are truly endless.

8. Be Seen

Seen a role within an organization that you would like to fulfill? Or want more opportunities to role-play? Strengthen your chances by increasing your visibility around your world. People often ask for help and organizations often run mini-games or fundraising drives. By responding and participating in these you not only raise public opinion of your character, but you also get to meet new people, providing yourself with extra opportunities to role-play.

9. Think

Think before you act. Your actions may seem pretty clever to you, but what about to bystanders? You may think that playing the role of a coarse drunkard may be quite amusing, but others may deem you as an annoyance. Being too melodramatic is also another cause of concern, don't overdo your role-playing. By thinking your actions through carefully, not only as yourself, but as a bystander, this problem should hopefully be overcome.

10. Look, Listen and Learn

There always is someone else out there who is more experienced and knowledgeable than you are. Therefore it is advisable to learn and take examples from other character’s role-playing styles. Advice is also another great thing as it gives you someone else’s opinion. You will find that learning and taking advice from more experienced players will help you out not only in terms of role-playing, but in other areas of interest as well.

Role-playing with a little practice, soon becomes second nature. These 10 quick, simple tips should hopefully make things easier and accelerate this process.