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Gaming sparks creativity. Building a character, breathing proverbial life into them, and seeing them on their way to fame and glory gives rise to adventure. Because role-playing games are improvised, on the fly sort of fun, the imaginations the limit; creativity is the ticket to fun for not only yourself but the other members of your troupe. Many gamers go on to become fantasy and horror writers, men and women such as R.A. Salvatore, Robert Jordan, and Laurell K. Hamilton. There is no "social norm" in the world of role-playing games; it is each imagination for itself, a competitive, cooperative, creative journey.

Confidence is increased through role-playing. The ability to improvise actions and act out on behalf of your character takes courage. When I became a gamer, I was shy and very internal. My husband, Matt, convinced me to give it a try. Afraid but open to the experience, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to open up, come out of my shell, and have a good time. Gamers are some of the most interesting, fun, and spontaneous people in the world. Individuals, every one, role-playing gamers are spunky and incredibly friendly people.

Role-playing games increase problem solving skills. In every dungeon there are a million puzzles, dangers, and mind-bending decisions to behold. The pressure to, all in good fun, improvise a solution to problems that would otherwise perplex an individual with the ability to give it more thought, is a key component to being a successful role-player. Role playing games, at their very core, are mind games, built of layers and layers of riddles, problems, and complexities. To become a better gamer is to become more analytical, to become more analytical and understanding is the goal of each and every one of us.

Finally, role-playing can be used as an effective tool for teaching or problem resolution. Lessons may be taught in a game with the use of player-characters that one can carry to the real world. Moral lessons, such as the consequences of steeling, can be effectively proven in the game. Quarrels in interpersonal relationships, between friends, and even between married couples, can often be talked out using characters and scenario's not their own, but which mirror the reality of their very real situations.

The benefit of role-playing games, not only on the players, but also on those around them is evident. With the growing number of children, teens, and young adults taking an interest in this activity, friendships are made, new skills are learned, and a new spark of creativity is born.

Learn more about this author, Kristyn Marie Hammond.
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