The underlying philosophy behind pushing people towards gathering information IC is simple- we want characters to interact, and we want players to learn skills rather than factoids. Character-character interaction is why we have cabals, why we award an experience bonus to groups, why we have an Inn, why we allow PK, etc. Discovering information In Character is a good way to sharpen your roleplay skills and make new allies (or enemies).

As for skills vs. factoids, this is also why we answer so many newbie questions by pointing people to helpfiles. It's not because we don't know. It's not because we're horrible typists and can't get the words out. It's because there's an enormous (and growing) library of information right at your fingertips, and it's better for both the questioner and the answerer if everyone learns to access it. If someone answers on the newbie channel, you're probably getting a 1-2 line answer. If you look up the right helpfile, you're probably getting a paragraph or two, and being pointed to other topics of further interest.

The same concept applies to character activities like gathering copper or finding stuff to wear. We could give you one place to look. But then what do you do when that area is changed, or when someone else is haunting the same spot, or when you're higher level and need a lot more? Or we can tell you to use the areas command and your maps to find places appropriate to your level, especially those places which have sentient occupants, and also to keep an eye for shopkeepers who might purchase goods. That answer is always right no matter what character you're playing.

valguarnera@carrionfields.com