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Message: <blockquote data-quote="payn" data-source="post: 9745014" data-attributes="member: 90374">Im actually a little more confused as the terms to me seemed like first person exploration vs third person exploration of the experience. The novel descriptions seemed to lead out of a single or main character point of view and into a more dramatic overview of all characters involved. This additional info seems to be framing around metagaming. While all of these things (to me) are different, they have similarities. As best I can re-frame it;Episodic vs serial? I think you can roll out all the usual suspects here in linear/sandbox styles of games. Either West Marching or plot based campaign games. The episodic, is a shorter more focused experience where the implications of the actions and their consequences are not revealed, if ever. Serial is a continuation in a larger scope where every session is connected and working towards a cohesive whole. Pros of episodic is that the experience can change with whatever whim the players have at the moment. Con obviously, is nothing is explored too deeply or expanded on. First person vs third person?How does one want to experience the immersion of the game? Do I imagine myself as an astronaut doing a space walk? Am I looking to see my PC as an avatar for my own imagination of doing a specific task such as that? Or am I using my PC as an anchor in a sea of moving parts that make up an ever evolving space opera story in its entirety? Both 1st and 3rd here are the vehicle for imagination in what draws people to play an RPG. Metagaming?   I think ones thoughts about metagaming will largely depend on answer of the previous items. In an old school skill play survival game, folks wont fret too much about metagaming as the point is to engage heavily the game. Likely doing so from a first person poking things with a stick, kicking in doors, and taking action. Where as, looking to immerse in the entire setting with dramatic beats is gonna require a certain acting accordingly despite meta game knowledge that might lead to more optimal actions.  My thoughts (if I have any of this correctly...)Honestly, I think most gamers fall between the "divide". There are moments where each is more or less fitting. The real challenge is the group dynamic becasue each individual is going to be more or less leaning into these aspects. Myself, for example, has learned I am much more of a serial third person kind of RPGer and have had to become more accommodating of somebody who prefers episodic first person play. At least if im going to make a game work with that person. There is a point too far for us to enjoy the game together. I wont really know until I do though. As much as I wish most folks I engaged the game with thought of it this deeply, many do not.</blockquote>

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