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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Mustrum_Ridcully" data-source="post: 5068192" data-attributes="member: 710">Generally, people should roleplay or similarily describe what they are actually trying to do. In combat, people cannot just simply add an attack roll against an NPC. They have to move into a position from which they can actually attack, for example. And sometimes there is an obstacle they first have to clear, or that at least grants the NPC some cover or concealment. Social situations are less strictly defined as combat situations, but that doesn't mean you can't require at least the equivalent of "movement" and interaction with the environment. Such an equivalent would be describing what they want to say instead of merely stating their intended goals. If they don't say the right thing*, they either can't roll Diplomacy Checks (the target is out of their reach) or it becomes more difficult (the target enjoys cover or concealment). And sometimes, they just use the right arguments and words and get a bonus. (They flank the opponent, or the opponent is flat-footed).*) What the "right thing" is, of course, should be discoverable by the players. Do they need to listen around what the guy in question wants? Do they have to ask him directly? Do they first have to do something? A set of tasks might be required that will cause the PC to interact with the environment.Of course, another aspect to consider is to ask yourself or your players - why do the players use this approach? Why do they not bother to roleplay? Are they not interested in it? Do they feel insecure about it and rather rely on a d20 roll and their skill modifier rather than being able to "guess" what you want them to say in a social encounter? Do they mistrust your interpretation of their words and descriptions? Do they feel bored by "acting in character" and would rather kill some monsters? Maybe the answers can guide you to some further solutions. Of course, it's possible you will realize that your group (or part of your group) just doesn't care for what you had in mind. But you might be able to find a compromises so that you both can have fun with the game.</blockquote>

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