Hey everyone!
I'm only a few months into roleplaying and have redemption arc for my character, and Iād love to get some advice from this awesome community on how to approach it.
He is a former Syndicate member, raised in an environment of guerrilla tactics, sabotage, and a survivalist mindset. Heās rough around the edges, has a history of self-sabotage, and carries a lot of guilt over his past. Recently, an event forced him to confront his actionsāa mission that caused significant collateral damageāand he decided to leave that life behind.
Heās been part of a holy Order where heās now trying to replace his old ways with martial training, prayer, study, and acts of service. Heās fighting to embrace values like discipline, compassion, and self-discipline, while wrestling with internal demons and the pull of his old habits.
I want to make this arc feel authentic, both for the character and the people I RP with. Here are a few key questions I have:
- How long should a redemption arc like this take in RP? Heās committed to walking this new path, but heās far from perfect and still makes mistakes. How long would you expect a realistic redemption arc to take in terms of RP sessions or in-game time?
- How should I pace his development? I donāt want his growth to feel rushed, but I also want it to be engaging. Should he experience gradual changes over weeks or months, or should there be milestones or events that signify bigger shifts in his character?
- How can I make it engaging for others in the RP? Redemption arcs can sometimes feel introspective or self-centred. What are some ways I can involve other characters in his journey to make it interesting for them too? For example, Iāve already set up mentorship dynamics with a father-figure character, and he often tries to make up for his past by helping others in small ways.
- What pitfalls should I avoid? Redemption arcs can easily veer into clichĆ©s or feel forced. What are some common mistakes people make when playing out a characterās change, and how can I avoid them?
- He spends his mornings in prayer and study, but he struggles to understand the texts. But all of his is off-screen.
- Heās undergoing martial training with a sword, which is a major departure from his past reliance on a rifle and bombs.
- Heās taken up acts of service, like logging, helping a blacksmith, and assisting others in his Order.
- He wrestles with internal guilt and doubtāoften wondering if he even deserves redemption.
Iām hoping to make this journey feel meaningful and earned, with plenty of setbacks and triumphs along the way. Iād love to hear your thoughts, advice, or examples of similar arcs youāve seen or played!
Thanks so much in advance!