How do I introduce a doppelganger of a PC in such a way that no one knows which is which?

[Aaron Lehmann]

All --

This is not a Pathfinder-specific question, but more looking for ideas of execution of an idea for a curse I might want to spring on a character in my game.

I want to have the character given the services of a loyal intelligent zombie servant, which he can in no way get rid of. Over the course of time, the character will begin dreaming that HE is a zombie serving some other unfamiliar adventurer. At some point, the character will dream that he is fleeing from the adventurer, and falls asleep in the woods. He will wake up where he dreamed he fell asleep, and upon returning to camp, will see himself coming out of his tent.

Whatever happens next, I'd like the result to be that none of the players is sure which of the two is the real one. Has anyone else engaged in this kind of mind-game hi-jinks with their players? How did it work out? Can anyone see anyway to improve on my idea? Really, the only important bits are that there is a double, and the players are unsure which is real. And not just for that session; I want to string this out as a sword of Damocles kind of thing. I think I can get all sorts of plot meat off of this.

Thanks,

Aaron

[Rynjin]

Have the player who has been copied play the Doppelganger.

[Drake T]

Have the real PC get amnesia. The doppleganger was also a close observer, perhaps posing as a friend, or even better confidante. A local priest of the PC's deity? Forgive me father for I have lots of secrets I need to share with you.

The doppleganger knows more about how to *be* the PC than the PC does now.

[Drake T]

Or talk the character into taking a level of Oracle. Apply deaf, or cast blindness on the PC. Afflict him with the inability to speak as a curse. Things get more interesting...

[Drake T]

Throw a geas on the PC which prevents him from sharing the true identity. Look up the spell magic jar.

[Magda Luckbender]

Here's one way to do it. (Warning: TPK)

[Mojorat]

when i did it, i had the player of the Pc in question play the doppelganger.

[Remy Balster]

I really like the idea of asking the player to play the replacement. It adds a whole new level to the facade, and it adds a lot to the game.

Alternatively, you can have the player play the replacement without even knowing he is the replacement. That is a good way to screw with people's heads though.

[Broken Prince]

Have the player play both himself and the replacement, but do not tell him which is which. Ideally have him wake up from a nights sleep as both, at a tavern or some place the group does not keep watch.

You really need to find some way to duplicate the PCs memories and abilities or it will be worthless. Obviously none casters will be preferable.