What is Roleplay?

Roleplay (RP) in GTA V and FiveM is the act of creating and embodying a fictional character within the game world. Instead of simply playing missions or engaging in chaotic free-roam, you assume the persona of a unique character and interact with the world and other players as that character would.

At Unity RP, we focus on serious roleplay, which means maintaining immersion, developing realistic storylines, and respecting other players' experiences. Your character should have their own personality, goals, fears, and motivations that guide their actions.

In Character (IC) vs Out of Character (OOC)

In Character (IC) refers to everything your character says, does, and experiences within the game world. When you're IC, you speak and act as your character would, not as yourself.

Out of Character (OOC) refers to communication as yourself - discussing technical issues, server rules, or real-life matters. On Unity RP, OOC communication should be kept to a minimum and never mixed with IC interactions.

RP Terminology

Understanding roleplay terminology is essential for communicating effectively and following server rules. Here are the key terms you need to know:

RDM

Random Deathmatch

Attacking or killing another player without proper roleplay initiation or justification. All conflicts must begin with valid interaction and dialogue.

Example of RDM:

Shooting someone just because they walked past you, with no prior interaction or roleplay reason.

VDM

Vehicle Deathmatch

Using your vehicle as a weapon to intentionally harm or kill other players without proper roleplay justification.

Example of VDM:

Intentionally running over someone on the sidewalk for no reason.

NLR

New Life Rule

After your character dies, they forget the events leading to their death. You cannot return to the scene or seek revenge based on that knowledge.

How it works:

If you're killed in a robbery, your new life doesn't remember who robbed you or where it happened.

Metagaming

Using OOC Info IC

Using information gained outside of the game (Discord, streams, etc.) to influence your in-character decisions and actions.

Example:

Watching a stream to find someone's location, then going there in-game.

Powergaming

Forced RP / Unrealistic Actions

Forcing actions on other players without giving them a chance to respond, or performing unrealistic actions that abuse game mechanics.

Example:

Typing "/me knocks out player and takes all their items" without letting them respond.

FearRP / NVL

No Value for Life

Your character must realistically value their life. Don't act recklessly in life-threatening situations.

Example of NVL:

Fighting back when 3 armed people have guns pointed at you.

CK / PK

Character Kill / Player Kill

CK: Permanent character death - the character can never be used again.
PK: Temporary death with memory loss of the event.

IC / OOC

In Character / Out of Character

IC: Speaking and acting as your character.
OOC: Speaking as yourself, the player, about non-RP matters.

Server Rules Explained

Unity RP has specific rules to ensure everyone has a great roleplay experience. Understanding these rules is mandatory before joining the server.

Important

Breaking server rules can result in warnings, kicks, temporary bans, or permanent bans depending on the severity. Always read and follow the full rules available in our Discord server.

Core Rules Summary

Key Rules to Remember

  • Respect All Players: Treat everyone with respect. Harassment, discrimination, and toxic behavior will not be tolerated.
  • No RDM/VDM: All violence must have proper roleplay initiation and reasoning.
  • Value Your Life: Act realistically in dangerous situations. Your character fears death.
  • No Metagaming: Only use information your character would realistically know.
  • No Powergaming: Give others a chance to respond and don't abuse mechanics.
  • Follow NLR: After death, you forget what happened and cannot return to the scene.
  • No Exploiting: Report bugs immediately. Using exploits results in permanent bans.
  • Green Zone Rules: No criminal activity in safe zones (hospitals, police stations).

Character Development

Creating a compelling character is the foundation of great roleplay. Your character should feel like a real person with depth, motivations, and flaws.

Create a Backstory

Where did your character grow up? What shaped them? What brought them to Los Santos?

Define Goals

What does your character want? Money? Power? Family? Redemption? Goals drive storylines.

Personality Traits

Is your character hot-headed? Charming? Paranoid? These traits guide interactions.

Add Flaws

Perfect characters are boring. Give them weaknesses, fears, or bad habits.

Develop a Voice

How does your character speak? Accent? Formal? Slang? Voice adds authenticity.

Allow Growth

Characters should evolve based on experiences. Let the story change them.

Tips for Success

Pro Tips for Better Roleplay

  • Stay in Character: The more you commit to your character, the more immersive the experience for everyone.
  • Listen and React: RP is collaborative. Pay attention to what others are doing and build on it.
  • Yes, And...: Instead of shutting down scenarios, add to them. Accept what others offer and build upon it.
  • Embrace Failure: Not every scenario will go your way. Losing can create the best stories.
  • Take Your Time: Don't rush through interactions. Savor the moment and develop scenes.
  • Learn Keybinds: Knowing your controls helps you stay immersed without fumbling.
  • Use Emotes: Body language adds depth to your roleplay. Use emotes to express emotions.
  • Be Patient: Good RP takes time. Don't expect immediate action - let stories develop naturally.

What to Avoid

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Breaking Character: Don't suddenly talk about real life or game mechanics in the middle of RP.
  • Being a "Main Character": Don't make everything about your character. Support others' stories too.
  • Cop Baiting: Don't commit crimes just to get police attention without RP purpose.
  • Combat Logging: Never disconnect to avoid RP consequences.
  • Fail RP: Don't do things your character realistically wouldn't do.
  • Stream Sniping: Never use information from streams to affect gameplay.
  • Toxic Behavior: Keep salt out of RP. If you're frustrated, take a break.

Ready to Start Your Story?

Now that you understand roleplay, it's time to create your character and join Unity RP!