3 of 5

Write now Article Tools

The basic principles of RPGs... Well, I suppose it all depends on what you mean by that... The purpose of an RPG is the same as any other game, really, escapism and entertainment. People don't play a game unless you want to have fun and find it interesting.

So what sets an RPG apart from the rest of the gaming community? As a gamer, I'd say that it's the fact that other games simply do not compare to the immersion and gameplay provided, but that is bias. If we're talking about table-top RPGs, I'd have to say the major draw is that they allow you to make your own character, and become a character that really represents you. It allows you to apply real-life logic and perform actions that are not limited to what the buttons on your controller, or the dice and board, or the cards, etc. can ever grant you.

So, the basics, most table-top games require a GM (game master) because the players are not in competition, but instead working together. They are usually attempting to quell some great evil, which often starts with simply attempting to gather gold, or become famous, or whatever individual characters have as their personal goal. Each character is different and usually fills some essential niche in the group.

Table-top RPGs usually use dice to simulate the many different conditions and random effects of the world, combat, or simple situational complications. The dice rolls are determined and augmented by the rules of the world, and regulated by the GM. The palyers will often overcome many obstables, both external and internal, and often gain experience (and levels), making them ever stronger throughout.

Every game is different, and every GM brings a different viewpoint to the table. All in all, the game is a way to escape the toils and problems of the real world and become immersed in a world where you are the hero, and more often than not, you are destined to face down and triumph over the darkness in the world, and your own lives.

Learn more about this author, Ryuka Tana.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Understanding the basic principles of role-playing games?
We want to hear your view. Write now!