Online

by Michael Dishon

Created on: June 14, 2009   Last Updated: June 15, 2009

Being a fan of Role-Playing, I have had my share of experiences both online and off. When the question of "Which is better, Tabletop Role-playing, or Online Role-Playing?" comes up, I always say the same thing. Simply put, both. Neither one or the other is "better." However, there are a few things to consider when deciding which you should choose.

First of which: Who are you playing with, and where are they located? Online takes the lead early here. While table-top requires everyone to be at a determined location, online allows you to play with your friends from anywhere in the world, as long as they have a computer. Another thing to take in to account, is the type of players you're with. If your buddy like to crunch numbers to maximize his character in every possible way, using a chat-log system (a messenger system would work) the DM, as well as (if the player and DM allow) the other characters to easily keep track, and can scroll back to make accurate quotes whenever any questions come up.

Which brings me to my next point. Tabletop is fun when you get to act your character out, or use body language to dramatize your Role-Playing, but when it comes to keeping track of everything, and remembering what people said or did, online wins in this area as well. Sure, you can use microphones and chatting programs like TeamSpeak or Ventrilo, but it doesn't take much time at all to simply type out your rolls, and a little info on what you did, for reference purposes. This is mainly aspects that help the DM, but also allows the players to remain involved, even if they need a quick break for whatever reason.

The next thing to focus on, is the resources you have readily available. The biggest advantage of online Role-Playing, is that everything you need, is just a few clicks away, and more often than not, for free. Tabletop requires a few things before you can properly (and some would say, fully enjoy) Role-Playing. Books, such as Rule Books, DM Guides, Monster Manuals, Class/Character Handbooks, etc. Dice, room to play, figurines, character sheets, etc. (And if you're like me, snacks.) Some people can get by without figurines, or a couple of other items, but most of the items are required to play at all. Again, online there are sites, and resources just clicks away, and maybe some searching.

So far, it seems that Tabletop is better for the mood, and good times with friends. However, online is winning in convenience and availability. This reinforces my first point. Neither is better than the other, however, one or the other may be a better choice, given the situation. The list can go on and on, and there are always positives and negatives for every argument. So I'll summarize everything, and the people decide for themselves, which they should choose for their Role-Playing style.

First, let's review: Anyone with a computer and an Internet connection can Role-Play online. Tabletop requires everyone to be at the same place at the same time.
Online allows for quick access, accurate reviews and recaps, and helps the DM keep the game in check. Tabletop has a better atmosphere and can give you better memories of good times with your friends.
Online Role-Playing is readily available to anyone. Tabletop requires many items, to fully bring out the game.

Now, I want to get into the extras. These don't really impact the Role-Playing itself, but instead, other points and details of the Role-Playing session. Let's start with Artwork. The books give a basic idea on what items look like, but more often than not, simple Web searches (such as a Google Image search) can provide a wide range of visual examples. From items, to characters, to symbols and crests. If you lack a good artist for your group, most of the time you can print out images from the internet. With online play, you can also edit those pictures to change colors, (for example, you find the perfect portrait, but the hair and eye color is different.) and other little details to better fit your session. (Be careful not to post your edited images as your own work on sites though.)

Tools, such as calculators, dice rollers, random number generators, etc. Sure, it might be best to roll a physical die, instead of a virtual one, but when you need quick numbers, the computer has everything you need. Built in, is a calculator, and number programs are a dime a dozen. These can stand as back-ups if you manage to lose your dice, or forgot them.

Another thing, that is more of a personal note, is the wear-and-tear and worn-out feature. Constantly erasing and writing new figures on my character sheet can leave it looking nasty. Especially if you manage to get a bad eraser. With online character sheets, that doesn't matter. Everything is neatly written, there are no tears, or erase marks. (Unless you add them yourself) You can also fit a lot of descriptions in the box, since it has a scroll feature, rather than a physical space limit. This really helps when you have a lot of special items, effects, feats and skills. Notes also fall into this.

When you put it all together, there is no right choice. It's more fun, and interactive in real life Tabletop Role-Playing, but the convenience and easy access of a computer makes Online Role-Playing just as attractive. It all comes down to what you're looking for. A place to hang out with your buddies, or the convenience to play with anyone, anywhere, with easy access to missing resources.

However, this being a debate, I will make my choice as: Online Role-Playing is better.

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