Rope

From IFWiki

Rope is notoriously difficult to implement, because of the wide variety of uses to which it can be put and the effects they have on object behaviour. They nonetheless appear in IF with some regularity. Don't expect them to be comprehensively implemented, but do expect them to be useful.

Verb list

  • TIE / UNTIE (object)
  • TIE (rope) TO (object), or vice versa
  • CLIMB (rope)
  • CLIMB (object) WITH (rope)

Applications

  • Restraining objects - for instance, a moving part of a machine that's spoiling your plans.
  • Connecting objects - or the PC - so that when one moves, so does the other. If there's a task which requires a lot of strength, there's an abundant source of motive power nearby, and you have a rope, this is probably a foregone conclusion.
  • Connecting two objects to form a tool - such as a long stick and a knife to form a spear.
  • Moving things from a distance - for instance, safely triggering a dangerous trap.
  • Fishing for things.
  • Pulleys. You may be able to lift more this way than you would otherwise be able to.
  • Pulling things around behind you.
  • Climbing aid. This is easiest if you're climbing down; tie the rope to something at the top, then climb down it. However, there are innumerable puzzles which involve getting a rope up or across something in order to climb it; usually something will have to be tied to the rope first, to act as a grapnel or make it fly further.
  • Useful for restraining uncooperative NPCs.
  • Tourniquet.
  • Helps control animals and lead them around.

Likely Rope Equivalents

Objects which share some features of rope, and may often take over some of its functions.

  • String, twine, fishing-line, cord, thread.
  • Chains.
  • Belts, strips of clothing, bandages, twisted bedsheets.
  • Wire, electric cords.
  • Hair.
  • Duct tape.
  • Vines or lianas.
  • Whips, flails and similar weapons.