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Message: <blockquote data-quote="TheSword" data-source="post: 9246610" data-attributes="member: 6879661">I can only really come at this from a DM point of view as I DM 90% of the time (though I do think the regular 10% is extremely important).My personal feeling is that it’s good to speak in both third and first person when acting out roles. I think most of my groups plays the same way but at least a few people aren’t comfortable with the first person approach and prefer to describe what they want.There are multiple reasons I like the mixed approach. First it makes those people who prefer third person feel more comfortable if I as DM do it some times as well. An endorsement of their approach if you like. Secondly I think speaking in third person is more precise when you’re trying to convey information. Thirdly that style is less exhausting that staying in character. Lastly it makes the times I do use 1st person more memorable.The only problem I would see with this style would be if your entire group wanted to be only one style - and you at that moment we’re using the other one. Then again I think it’s possible to respond in a different style to your fellow interlocutors.First person on the other hand is better for creating atmosphere and tone, and bringing a character to life. Often the early encounters in an session or new area will be first person. It is more likely to provoke a response from a player or the group if they are more likely to be engaging. My preference is to use 1st person for things or NPCs I really want the PCs to remember.In terms of PCs, I steal, liberally by trying to think how an actor speaks in a role and then modifiying it slightly if it’s a bit too obvious. I will then fix that actor in my mind or make a note of who they are for consistency. I don’t get too hung up on repetition. If two characters are similar then as long as they aren’t major NPCs I won’t get too hung up about it.In terms of getting in character - I find the best way is to find a phrase that I can say in that voice and tone really well as a marker. A key to unlock that accent. So if I was trying to do Richard Harris as Marcus Aurelius in Gladiator I would say the phrase “And what is Rome Maximus?” Because once I say that the test follows. I find most character will have some similar phrase. Ironically if there isn’t make one up, because you imagining the character saying it, is more important than them actually saying it, to get into role.The most important thing is to have fun and not get hung up about it. You’re not a professional voice actor (unless you are) so don’t feel obliged to behave like one. We frequently laugh when I remember part way through an NpC is supposed to be scouse or I do a really bad accent. Be humble, enjoy it.</blockquote>

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