Oh dear me! I have hit perhaps the greatest snag in the writing process for a JRPG- one that explicitly targets the essence of the character. The how of the what. The dialogue, the words, the voice of the character- these are all elusive entities for me. I have no problems drafting character arcs, moods, etc.- but I don't know how to convey them- this being the part where 'writing' is an issue, as opposed to conceptualizing a plot and how the characters all integrate into the dramatic organism that it is.
I think I should post an example of something I've done tentatively. For the record, I feel like it's overly Hollywood and stock. If anybody has advice, agrees, or disagrees, I'd appreciate the feedback
For the following dialogue, a small legend:
Y: This is you, the player.
R: Another individual with whom you have limited radio contact. No MGS video function here!
These chats take place as you progress through the level in question. So while you're moving about and as you hit certain checkpoints etc.
Introductory Chats:
Screen illuminates. You take control of some sort of stealthy operative, he holds a pistol with a laser scope in his hand. He wears a mask with two dark portholes set over the eyes, and in turn wears a body tight suit with padding to prevent damage.
he environment is a futuristic facility with sleek, modern lighting. The building consists in several atria, connected by passageways. A variety of messages warning 'contamination' and 'handle with care' are printed alongside several peculiar structures throughout the base. In addition, there are warning signs indicating the potential for electrical shock.
Radio Dialogue:
The first chat
Radio intercom: “Have you reached the penetralium?
Your operative: “Not yet. I’ve reached somewhat of an impasse. The security overlay seems to imply that there are a few electronic lock-outs I need to bypass in order to hit jackpot.
R: “Heh. If this was at all like the cloning facility, then there will probably be two terminals… Though you never know. Perhaps they decided against standardization.”
You: “I’d be surprised if they did though. Why on earth would there be a need for the one or two ‘modifications’? That’s just irrelevant to their entire ethos as it is. They're far too lazy to be original.”
R: “Just exercise a modicum of caution. Death is not an option.”
You: “Roger”.
Second chat
You: “One terminal down, and I think that you were wrong with your prediction. When I checked the power displacement after deactivating it, the reading says approximately 50% power remains invested in the lock. ”
R: “But are you really going to blame me for asking you to be careful?”
You: “That’s not what I meant… But this means you’ll have even less time to get in here. Don’t fuck this up. It’s not like you have a choice in the matter of ‘death’ either.”
R: “Yes. I’m going to get moving ASAP.”
You: “Preferably before the energic phenomena begins to multiply. I really don't have time to wait for you, and by then it will be too late.
R: “I’m well aware of the fact. I’ll see you on the other side. Paçe”
Third Chat
R: “I’m moving. Heavier fire than expected. I suppose they’re catching on to our plot.”
You: “You’re a pretty big target though… But think of it this way. If they really cared- If they wanted to stop it- they would’ve done something about this whole debacle earlier.”
R: *noises of weaponry* “At any rate. I’ll be safe soon- as soon as I enter the rooms designated “HANDLE WITH CARE!” Right? Don’t hesitate to activate the mainframe.”
You: “You got it.
Locates the Penetralium
Penetralium Environment: A large collection of screens and various keyboard interfaces are there. A glass window behind the screens shows a flickering glow of light. A complicated web of tubes that frequently terminate in circular formations surround the light. The light possesses a distinctly reddish-violet hue.
Fourth Chat
You: “I’m in.”
R: “Good… They nicked me since last time, so don’t be surprised if there’s a bit of blood when I make it back. Are you inputting the codes?”
You: “Not yet- I’ll start once we terminate contact here.”
R: “Good… Don’t worry about me, I’ll be there soon. Just finish it.”
You: “Yes. And I very much intend on savoring the moment.”
R: “Heh. You and me both.”
Ends Radio transmission
You: “Time for the ‘wipe’ then.”
Cutscene as you input the codes:
Internal thought process: “It’s hard to believe that we’ve come this far.
Is it because we’re strong? Or is it just that they’re weak? But meek ants in numbers-
*Static Crackle*
-easily devour larger foes.
But to deal with these ants you only need a match...
*Finishes inputting code*
And a big helping of kerosene.
* A sole automated female announcer rings off the words “Barrier on Energic phenomenon has been terminated. Please brace for any unexpected side effec-” Her voice abruptly halts. All lights in the facility darken and all additional mechanical noises die instantaneously.
Y: You have ruined our once good name.
*You hear the door behind you open*
R: We made it in time for the main event it seems.
*Abrupt crackle of static*
You: Time to die.
The screen breaks. A few discordant noises play until the main theme of the game is finally settled upon.
____
I feel like this is rife with corniness and over-stuffed Hollywood-isms. I don't know. I just feel like it's 'trying too hard' to set a move and is thus transparent. If anybody has a advice, I won't hesitate to accept it. I dunno, I just feel insecure over it!