Role playing is part of the fun of the game. If someone wants to role play for fun, I have no objection to that. But using role play to gain favors, it is something I will not tolerate.
About in game relationships, I think it is up to the player to decide. I myself would not mind, but I am aslo well aware of the risks taken. If one is willing to take the risk, then it is one responsibility to take the needed precautions and ready for the outcome for it.
I actually know someone that who allows his gf to play his character -- and the model of the character is a Girl Tarutaru. It is best to assume the gender of the player be unknown until that person tells you what his/her gender is. If someone prefers to remain anonymous -- he/she has the right to do so. But in the situation when it may matter, it is best to be honest. I myself always be honest I am RL guy -- but some people claim me actually play female role quite well >< saying I tend to use more femine language and behavoir... but anyway. I am a "straight" guy, and I come clean all the time.
IMO -- the best way to round it up :
It is just all up to the player how to play their character as long as it does not (edit:) intentionally hurt other's playing experience.
PS: I added the word "intentionally" because dramas and conflicts because of whatever reason is part of the game. There are times this game is really annoying as hell, or get you angry. That is matter of fact...
Edited, Wed Jul 27 22:37:04 2005 by scchan
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Amanada (Cerberus-Retired) (aka MaiNoKen/Steven)
-- Thank you for the fun times in Vana'diel
Art for the sake of art itself is an idle sentence.
Art for the sake of truth, for the sake of what is
beautiful and good — that is the creed I seek.
- George Sand
A designer knows he has achieved perfection,
not when there is nothing left to add,
but when there is nothing left to take away.
- Antoine de Saint-Exupéry