How important is storytelling in persistent state worlds, how does it differ from standalone games, and what are the keys to doing it effectively? What are the primary challenges to be overcome and the main pitfalls to be avoided? To what extent is it feasible to implement a story in which all the players can feel like they matter, or is providing a sandbox in which players can create their own small, personal and group stories the best that can be done?

Most efforts to allow individual characters to impact a PSW storyline will be under-appreciated. The fact that there are literally thousands of other players in this universe means that even if the world is changing as a result of player action, the player's individual actions were but a minor contribution to the effort. It is a limitation we have to face with this genre.

The good news is that the actions of individual players can and do have influence in a PSW. Consider what happens whenever a player engages with others in local events, participates in the social environment, or embarks on scripted missions or quests. In each case, the player's choices and actions serve to create their own local stories. There is a big payoff to focus on these systems because they are very rewarding to the individual and small group. Many players will also find it appealing to be able to create these stories, unfettered by a linear pre-scripted design.

The fact that portions of a storyline may not be player-controlled does not diminish the importance of storytelling. Effective storytelling is done on many levels. In a PSW, the history, the environments, and major and minor story arcs presented to the players are all important factors in their perception of the universe. A poor storytelling effort will likely leave players feeling the world is hollow at best and perhaps even distracting. In my view, a combination of good storytelling and good gameplay is required to make a great PSW. We want players to be immersed as well as entertained.