What’s in a name?

Discussion in 'CHYOA General' started by HaremStarter, Mar 14, 2020.

?

If a story allows for custom names what do you do?

  1. What’s in a name? I just use the defaults.

    1 vote(s)
    16.7%
  2. Change them to people I know.

    1 vote(s)
    16.7%
  3. Change them to random names I think fit the story.

    4 vote(s)
    66.7%
  4. I like to put in celebs or fictional characters.

    0 vote(s)
    0.0%
  1. HaremStarter

    HaremStarter Really Experienced CHYOA Backer

    So I’ve decided to allow the reader to be able to adjust the names in my story for the first time. I was wondering what people do when given the choice.
     
  2. Thorn_

    Thorn_ CHYOA Guru

    Hmm. I typically forget that’s an option since most writers have preset names. Will sound harsh, but if they stick to something as lame as John or Jane(no offense to all the Johns and Janes), I like being able to change it since something about the blandness of it actually can end up rebuffing me a little
     
    insertnamehere and HaremStarter like this.
  3. HaremStarter

    HaremStarter Really Experienced CHYOA Backer

    I agree. If it says Aleister Price I might leave it. If it’s John Doe I’m definitely going to change it.
     
    Last edited: Mar 14, 2020
    insertnamehere and Thorn_ like this.
  4. insertnamehere

    insertnamehere Really Really Experienced

    Agreed - if the 'defaults' are John/Jane Doe, then it becomes off-putting. Otherwise, I only change them if they resemble people I know, as I find that way too weird. It's especially an issue if the story has weak characterisation, because then I can't help but picture that person, to the exclusion of any other imaginary figure. Please people, make your characters more than just the sum of their... sexual organs.