A role-playing game (RPG) is a game in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. RPGs can be found in both tabletop and video game formats. In tabletop RPGs, players typically act out their roles through a process of structured storytelling, while in video game RPGs, players control a character or team of characters who undertake quests and may include player capabilities that advance using statistical mechanics. RPGs can be further classified into several varieties, including multiplayer text-based Multi-User Dungeons (MUDs), graphics-based massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), and single-player role-playing video games.
Some key features of RPGs include quests, which challenge the player with different combat and exploration challenges, and a set of rules that govern the game. In video game RPGs, characters grow in power and abilities, and players can upgrade these skills and acquire new ones throughout the game. RPGs rarely challenge a players physical coordination or reaction time, with the exception of action role-playing games.
Overall, RPGs are immersive experiences that allow players to build a character in a fictional world and explore it through quests and challenges.
