Being a RPer myself, the idea of having no RL (real life) function is highly desireable, but personally, in the EQ world, I don't think it is workable.
A EQ server is a world-wide game, where people are playing across multiple timezones (not to mention, a dateline). Add in the fact (although we don't want to admit it while playing), that RL really does exist and I think you come up with a number of factors that require some RL functions in a game, to make a RP world possible.
I see email as a communications tool. This tool can be used to actually enhance the RP experience by helping organize your next planned online time period.
Don't think so? Well consider this.
You have a dedicated local group of D&D players. There's a doctor in the group, along with a student and one guy who works shifts at the local mill. The DM has also taken on the role of organizer, arranging time and place for your next session. You have fought any battles together and have always managed to stay in role. Matter of fact, role has become so important that if someone can't make a session, noone plays.
Now consider this.
Take away the telephone, email, and snailmail. How long do you think your dedicated group of D&Ders are going to last?
Sure. Take away the /ooc, /shout, and /auction but please give us the tools that actually help build the experience.
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