2 of 36

Write now Article Tools

People toss the word 'RPG' around as though it explains everything that's in a game from the get-go. And though most RPGs do have a few common elements, there are actually quite a few wildly different games that more or less fit under the same heading.

Today when you say RPG you're most likely to be talking about something of the Final Fantasy brand. Characters line up in battle and take turns whaling on an enemy, doing damage based on a set of statistics that grow as you gain experience points. Quite often these battles take place on transitional screens and are purely menu-based. It's all about strategy and little about reaction time or imagination. These games are based on set stories with set characters, defined before you ever even open up the box.

But not every RPG works the same way. Some head in completely different directions, adopting only a few of these rules. Some might take most but then throw in a few other elements that make them a different experience entirely. So the question is, if you're new to RPGs, which kind is right for you?

The best way I can think of doing that is breaking down the various categories of RPGs and describing who best they suit. Then you can decide for yourselves which is up your alley.

Traditional RPGs: These games most closely follow what role-playing games were at the beginning. Think Dungeons and Dragons and you're on the right track. You create a character, set their stats and then send them out into the world, basing your decisions on whatever personality you feel best suits the character. These are often some of the most open-ended of games, allowing a great deal of exploring - you can follow the main story or not, it's up to you. In fact if you think you'd like these games you might want to try a table-top RPG, as computerized versions don't allow you to fully immerse yourself in your character.

Turn-based RPGs: These RPGs I've already described. Rather than one character (most of the time, anyway) you're given a party of three, four or five and sent out to rid the world of some great evil. The stories are relatively linear and the characters stick to their own personalities without much input on your part. I tend to enjoy the stories of these RPGs more than their traditional counterparts, as the writers have to make less provisions for going off the beaten path.

Action-based RPGs: Despite running off menus like turn-based RPGs these are more open, and allow you to move your character around the field of

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Finding the right RPG for you?
We want to hear your view. Write now!