Authoring an Omniverse Story

Phase I - Determine a Story Premise

Try to think of a story that involves multiple characters (preferably five to ten). The story should have one or more central plot lines running through it and these central plots should involve each of the characters (probably in different ways).

Generally there are two approaches to the central plot. Either all the characters are basically on the same side (perhaps for different reasons), or some of the characters are diametrically opposed. This latter technique creates an environment not typically found in pen & paper role playing games. This means the players must outwit other players not an all powerful (but often merciful) GM.

Phase II - Create the Setting

In this phase you need to create the overall history/environment of your world that every player should be familiar with. This doesn't mean you have to chronicle every event since the beginning of time, just things that would be significant to the players understanding of the story. For example above you might want to mention that the galaxy is locked in an intergalactic war and that starships and light speed are common place things.

Phase III - Character Definition

Sketch out a rough background for each of the central characters (usually each "cast" member will be given to a player to control). The background should include not only what brought the character to this point, but also shed some light on what the character is like and what motivates them.

At this point it is also a good idea to begin to invent some subplots. Subplots enhance the story and make characters feel like they are not being forced to just complete one assignment. For example if the central plot of your story is how a team rebels try to overthrow an evil intergalactic emperor, you could still have subplots that are personal to each of the players, such as "Convince your father to return to the good side" or "Payoff a debt before bounty hunters catch you".

Phase IV -Develop Locations

Now you need to decide how many locations your story will involve. This doesn't have to be a large as you might think. For example, if part of your story involved a castle, you do not have to include every room. Often just a few rooms showing different styles works better than say 100 bedrooms all outfitted the same.

Usually it is a good idea to sketch out how the different locations connect to each other. You can also begin to add in some puzzle ideas like a locked door that requires a red skull key. Again, less is better at this point. Get a basic framework designed and move to the next phase. You can easily come back later and add in addition cool locations you are bound to think of as you work through the other phases.

Phase V - Develop Objects & Minor Characters

Spice up your world by thinking of objects (swords, rayguns, treasure, spell books, clues) that you can place at the different locations. Also think of a few minor characters that the Director can control and where they should be. Used effectively, minor characters are a pivotal component of the game. They often are the Director's best method for steering the outcome without obviously controlling it.

Phase VI - Media Development

At this point, use your notes as a reference to create individual web pages for each component. Ideally you should have a page (or more) for:

• The Story Setting
• Each Character's Background
• Each Character's Description (what others will see if they meet the character)
• Each Location, Object, & Minor Character Descriptions.

These pages can be as elaborate as you like. They can incorporate animated images, VRML, sounds, and anything else your web browser supports. However, we recommend that you first develop a basic page for each component and then go back and enhance selected pages. It will greatly enhance the cohesive feel of your game if you use a consistent appearance in your web pages.

Phase VII -Omniverse World Building

Once everything else is reasonably complete (at least for the first pass) start up the OmniAuthor software and enter in each of the components and link each to the appropriate web page. Then modify the types and action tables to account for things specific to your campaign. For example, make the "Unlock" command on the secret door only work from the type "Red Skull Key".

Phase VIII - Enjoy

Fire up the OmniHosting & Player software and play a test game. Make sure everything works the way you expected, then send it to your friends or post it on the Omniverse web site. Soon the whole world may be role playing your story.