Role-playing games

Template:Role-playing games Role-playing games (RPGs) are a genre of game where players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. Players take responsibility for acting out these roles within a narrative, either through literal acting or through a process of structured decision-making regarding character development. Actions taken within many RPGs succeed or fail according to a formal system of rules and guidelines.

History

The origins of role-playing games can be traced back to the wargaming community, where historical reenactments were common. The modern RPG developed from these games in the early 1970s, with Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) being the first commercially available RPG in 1974. D&D's success led to a proliferation of similar games, each with unique settings and mechanics.

Types of Role-playing Games

Role-playing games can be divided into several categories, each offering different experiences and focusing on various aspects of role-playing.

Tabletop RPGs

Tabletop RPGs are conducted through discussion in a small social gathering. Players use pen and paper to keep track of their character's development and the game's progression. The game is usually guided by a Game Master (GM) who narrates the game's story and controls aspects of the environment and non-player characters.

Live Action RPGs

Live action RPGs (LARPs) involve physically acting out a character's actions. Players dress in costume and interact in a real-world setting that represents the game world. Scenarios can range from simple improvised scenes to elaborate and scripted settings with predetermined outcomes.

Electronic RPGs

Electronic RPGs include video games and online games that use electronic media to facilitate the environment and gameplay. These games often feature complex narratives and detailed character development, similar to their tabletop counterparts.

Game Mechanics

RPGs typically rely on game mechanics such as character generation, experience points, and combat systems to facilitate the role-playing experience. These mechanics help define how interactions with the game world are quantified and resolved.

Character Generation

Character generation is the process by which players create their player characters (PCs). This usually involves selecting certain attributes, such as strength and intelligence, and abilities that affect how the character performs in the game world.

Experience Points

Experience points (XP) are awarded to characters for overcoming challenges and completing missions. Accumulating XP allows a character to grow stronger and more capable, representing their development and mastery over time.

Combat Systems

Combat systems vary widely among RPGs but generally involve a combination of strategy and chance. These systems often use dice rolls or other randomizing elements to determine the success of combat actions.

Cultural Impact

Role-playing games have had a significant impact on modern culture. They have influenced a variety of media, including literature, film, and television. RPGs have also been noted for their ability to foster creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

Controversies

RPGs have occasionally been the subject of controversy, often centered around misunderstandings about the nature of the games. Criticisms have included concerns about promoting violence or occult themes. However, research has generally not supported these claims.

See Also

• History of role-playing games
• List of role-playing game developers
• Role-playing game terms