I'm not sure if anyone here can throw a little help my way regarding, specifically if possible, rp in a video game setting. (In this case, GTA V, but other examples would help as well!) If this isn't allowed, please let me know!

I have zero rp experience. A close friend of mine has been playing GTA V roleplay for a few years now and wants me to join him. I have been curious about rp for quite some time, but I have no idea how to come up with a solid backstory for a character when I haven't played any of the GTA games in years. Also, because the server we would be playing on doesn't open until May 1st, there isn't a whitelist of jobs or other information that would help me in really coming up with some decent stories. Should I wait until I have more information?

I am a friendly person and i am not worried about interacting with new people, but I am nervous about everyone else having years of experience. I don't want to make a mistake and ruin someone else's rp experience. As someone literally brand new to rp, what advice could you offer in general?

Thanks in advance to anyone with any wisdom for me. If you happen to participate in GTA V rp yourself and wouldn't mind me asking you a million questions, please feel free to smail!

I can't help you with GTA V rp because I've never done it (never played the games), but I've done rp for...13-ish years (had a bit of a break in the middle of those, though). It can be a lot of fun and is much like writing a story, you just have collaborators. I've never done a group rp, though, so I can't really give any insight on that (I prefer 1x1 cause groups make me nervous lol).

This blog has some great tips for rp, especially in the what not to do section. Definitely give that last link a read, because those are all really good things to keep in mind. And, everyone starts somewhere. As long as you're not blatantly breaking the rules, I would hope that the other members would understand that you're new to rp and be more forgiving for any mistakes. Maybe you and your friend can try a 1x1 to help you get into the swing of things?

As for your character, it might be easier to wait to make them when you have more information. Though, you could always come up with the basics like looks/personality, maybe even a rough draft for a backstory that is open to being added to. Since you haven't played the games in a while, maybe read over some wikis if you're unable to play the games right now? Or bounce some ideas off your friend if he's willing? One of my friends (who I rp with a lot) will give me input when I'm waffling between a couple of things or not sure on an idea and it's really nice to have a somewhat outside view.

I hope this helps somewhat. I'd be happy to try answering any other general questions you might have.

Thank you so much for the links! I'm sure that people will be understanding of the fact that I'm new to rp, but the section on what not to do is a huge help.

As far as the rough draft for a backstory, I've been working with my friend and I have some ideas, but I think you're right. It feels like it may be much easier to wait until the admins release more information so I feel more confident that my character makes sense.

You're welcome! Glad the links helped. c:

Oh, that's great that your friend is working with you on it! And yeah, for this more information sounds like a good idea. It would be a shame to get your character all fleshed out then learn that something or other isn't allowed and you have to go back and change things up.

I hope you have fun once the rping starts! :D