NPC Capabilities and Limitations

[Blaxican]

In a PvP environment.

If I was a sergeant leading a squad that only had 1 PC in it, how much control do I have over the NPC troops under my command? Can I describe what weaponry each member is carrying? How much control over them do I have; can I control their actions and tactics, even against PC opponents? Can a PC opponent control any of their actions, or would he need to treat them like PC's?

etc. In a nut-shell, I would like to know whether to treat NPC subordinates as mostly useless NPC's, or as if they themselves were PC's.

 

[Defiance]

NPC capabilities, in my opinion, are all dependent on the situation.

In your case, correct me if I'm wrong, you have a sergeant commanding a squad with one other PC in it, while all the rest are practically NPCs, right? If that's the case, then yes, you do have the liberty of controlling them as if they were your PCs, as well as their weaponry and armor. But do not individualize them, don't single them out and describe each individual emotions and feelings as you would a PC. These are NPCs, and thus are minor characters that keep the plot going smoothly. Your PC opponent would not be able to control these NPCs, but he would be able to attack them. It's up to you for their reactions or possible casualties.

However, the biggest rule to remember is to be rational.

But like I said, it all depends on the situation. If it improves the writing or feel of it, you could do it either way.

 

[Blaxican]

Ah ok, that's awesome. Thanks for the feedback.

 

[Solaris]

I tend to name pretty much any NPC the player characters interact with, and describe what the PCs would see - though not what's going on inside their heads.

Also keep in mind that the difference between NPC and PC is not a license to god-mode. NPCs do not suddenly get totally incompetent just because a PC shows up.