A role-playing game (RPG) is a type of game in which players assume the roles of characters within a fictional setting and act out these roles through storytelling, decision-making, and character development. Players typically control a character or a party of characters, making choices that affect the story and the progression of their characters' abilities and attributes
. There are several forms of RPGs:
- Tabletop RPGs (TTRPGs) : Played through discussion, often with a game master (GM) who facilitates the story and rules, such as Dungeons & Dragons.
- Live Action Role-Playing (LARP) : Players physically act out their characters' actions.
- Role-Playing Video Games (RPG video games) : Digital games where players control characters in a story-driven environment. These include single-player RPGs and massively multiplayer online RPGs (MMORPGs) like World of Warcraft
RPGs often feature:
- A narrative or storyline with main and side quests.
- Character progression through gaining experience, improving skills, and acquiring new abilities.
- Settings commonly in fantasy or science fiction worlds.
- Collaborative storytelling in tabletop and live-action forms, while video RPGs automate many game mechanics
In essence, an RPG is defined by the player's immersion in a character role within a game world, making choices that influence the story and character growth independently of the player's real-world skills
