Dialog is a pop-up window displaying a conversation between two or more characters. Two character portraits are displayed, with statements justified right or left to associate with the character portrayed on that side. Each set of statements is also labeled by the character's name. If more than two people join the conversation, character portraits will change to reflect the most recent pair of speakers.
Dialog may begin when opening an event on the Timeline, from the Messages section of a mercenary in the Roster, or during a Mission. Speakers may be members of the mercenary team, Contacts, or people encountered during a Mission.
Dialog may have branch points and decisions. These will display in a series of boxes at the bottom of the Dialog window, with a brief phrase indicating a potential direction of discussion. Dialog branches might return to the remaining branch options or might take the discussion in a different direction. Decisions might accept or reject an offer, delay a decision, or close discussion. Decision options are marked by a colored label in the text box. A decision will usually close other options.
Dialog options may choose how aggressive or agreeable the interaction should be. This can result in different reactions in the counterpart and even change relations with them. Decisions can also have significant impact on relations. Dialog is a primary method for directing the team through Storylines. Dialog during a Mission may be merely informative or entertaining, or it may change the Objectives of the Mission.
The TAB button will advance Dialog to the next statement. The ESC button will jump the discussion to the next branch point. Previous statements may be viewed by scrolling the Dialog up and down. At a branch point, clicking on an option box will select and activate that branch or decision. Branches may also be selected by using the UP and DOWN arrows. If no option is currently selected, the LEFT arrow will select the first option. SPACE will activate the currently selected option.