Likes and Dislikes

[GanAiden]

I've been a member here for a little over a week now and I've noticed a recurring theme that has stricken me as a bit odd. Namely: Likes and Dislikes. I have, on various occasions, seen that they are a required part of the character profile to join a roleplay. And my question is: Why?

I agree, one's character should have a definite personality that defines their actions and reactions in-game. But really? To have to make lists of what they like and don't like? Both lists could go on forever with any realistic human being. I honestly don't believe that a person's idle fancies are going to affect them very much in most of the story-lines I see happening on this site. Lord Awesome of Awesometon is not going to defeat the evil demon king with his love for 'quiet days alone at home.'

The other sections that are traditionally used in character development (appearance, history, personality) are, to my understanding, all included because they will affect how your character acts in the world and around other characters in significant ways. Is it really so important to know that, in addition to all of that knowledge, your character likes chocolate, books and long walks on the beach? Maybe it is but, if that's the case, I'm sure that information has real depth behind it and would fit in nicely with the personality or history. If not, what's the point?

[Unicorn Luv]

The same reason they have anything besides personality, appearance, and bio; to make it look pretty. It is a bit of a spruse-up if you will.

[Prose]

I think Unicorn Luv is right. I think it is mostly there for "viewing" pleasure. I used to require strict character skeletons for all of my RPs and if something was wrong, you fixed it or you were out. I've come to change that though dramatically. Hell, throw up a name, avatar, and synopsis and you're in if I believe you can play your character correctly and consistently (I also understand that some people are still learning the rope of RP too).

But I think I agree with GanAiden. I don't think its really a relevant part of a character's profile. I have an amazing profile for Aleksandra and no where does it state her likes and dislikes. It goes through an explains her life and gives her physical description and a look into one of her personalities (needs an update for the two others personalities).