I know it's possible to switch characters, but I'm not completely sure how to do so. Perhaps someone could give me a few pointers?

Also I could use some assistance in implementing player companions... y'know. Other players that will follow the player from room to room and be able to ask questions of, or engage in dialogue with.

Finally, I want to know if it's possible to create a screen above the actual text interface below that won't paste itself into the actual text, but rather as a static screen... like a background that will stay above the text and never move unless traded with a new picture.

Any assistance would be much appreciated ^_^

To change the POV, simply use the code, <Change player object to BLANK> (gui), or ChangePOV(OBJECT)

For the companions, create an object and call it a character. Give it conversations and move it with scripts every time the player enters a new room.

For the final question, I am unsure of any of that.

here's a thread already on some of the stuff you ask about:

viewtopic.php?f=10&t=3444

if you need help with doing anything, then ask, hehe!