The “Secret Squirrel”

What’s a “Secret Squirrel”?

Aside from the old spy-inspired 60’s cartoon critter, I am talking about role-playing alts. This is creating another character to try out role-playing and have fun with outside of your main(s). Why do this? It can be great for raiders or if you are a new to a RP realm and your main’s name is not shall we say “role-play friendly”.

This can also work if you are role-playing normally, but need a break from your main. RP Burnout can mess up your fun, so this is a good alternative to still role-play but keep your sanity with your main.

While there are no “rules” for this, here’s a few tips to get the most from your “Secret Squirrel” if you decide that could be a good idea for you:

Try something different.
Think of a good idea/concept for the alt. Try something new or experiment. If you are just breaking into role-playing, read some of my other sections on getting started and see what works for your playstyle.

How secret is “secret”?
How knows about your “squirrel”? Common sense: Don’t tell anyone that you don’t want to know, or may have regrets on later. Relax on an alt and have fun. Somehow this does get overlooked – so remember it.

Brief your “team”.
If you do tell folks, make sure they understand what and why you are doing it. Hopefully they can grasp it crystal enough not to blow your cover down the road. They may even want to help, who knows?

Go undercover.
This is great for getting your feet wet and scouting RP in your area/server. I would suggest being patient, don’t generalize and don’t get discouraged – especially in starter areas.

Start a stakeout.
Look around, see what’s going on. If it’s dead, move to the next area. RP mileage will vary from time and place, so keep that in mind. Remember, you’re not stalking. *grin*

Dodge the decoys.
See past the duel/guild invites and general “demon werewolf lesbian lovechild of Arthas and Thrall (with flames shooting out of my backside)” mentality and look for some RP – or make it!

Making contact.
Found a group or individual that may be RPing? See if you can make conversation with them. If it looks dicey or you think they may be busy – shoot them a whisper and ask. If not, just handle it in character (ICly) and see what happens. A nice touch after the exchange is a whispered OOCly “Thank You.”

Makes a good impression if the “mission” was a success. *grin*

Think outside the Alt.
Treat others fair and don’t abuse the “alt” card by being obnoxious and hurting folks. There’s plenty of boneheads doing that with their mains – don’t add to it. *grin*

Remember this isn’t work – it’s fun!
Don’t make this a chore. Have some fun with the character and play smart. Have an “alt” night and see what’s going on, or coordinate with RP events that you can make a “cameo” in and enjoy.

Take care, Agent 000!
/cloaks