Writing a paper on authorship in tabletop RPGs played online

[Kludgel]

Hi, all, here's the deal:

I've been playing D&D 3.5 with my brother (the DM) and a few others this semester, primarily via Google Hangouts, facebook messages, and Skype. I'm also taking a doctorate-level course called "Writing in Computer Games," (though it extends to tabletop RPGs and boardgames, too) and have to write a paper to submit for publications & whatnot.

I decided to focus on the differences (if any) in the distribution of authorship and the way story is created when playing D&D online (via skype, etc) versus face-to-face. I'm particularly interested in whether DMs notice a difference in the way they plan/don't plan the plot (and what effect that might have had on the gameplay).

So I want to hear from you guys! (Please and thanks.)
Below is a list of prompt-type questions that you can use or ignore as you wish.

• Have you played TRPGs via social media (like Google+, skype, chat services)? Which game and what service(s) did you use? 
• GM or player?
• How would you describe your overall experience compared to playing face-to-face?
• Did you feel like you had more or less control over what happened in the story? What about compared to the other players?
• Is face-to-face more fun than online? Vice-versa? Why?
• Any other thoughts or experiences you want to share?

You don't have to answer these questions exactly; they're just to give you an idea of what I'm looking for. Thoughts on the nature of collaborative authorship in TRPGs are also welcome (especially related to computer- or internet-mediated games). Basically, I want your XP. Give me your XP.

Thanks!

[Ron Edwards]

Hi,

This looks like a poll conducted for outside research. It's not a discussion topic. Please do not post to reply.

If you'd like to help the author with his or her work, then contact them privately and proceed from there.

Best, Ron

[Kludgel]

Sorry about that, I was thinking that people would play off each other---someone's post sparking someone else's memory and things like that---but I see your point. 'Twas not my intention to type out of turn