Learn
to Play

Learn to Play:

Introduction

Role-Playing Games

In a role-playing game ("RPG") some of the players play the parts of characters, deciding what those characters do.

• Electronic RPGs are played on videogame machines or computers.
• Live Action RPGs involve live actors and costumes.
• Paper and Pencil RPGs use books, dice, and other tools.

When we use the term "RPG" we usually mean "Paper and Pencil RPG."

Players

Traditionally, one of the players is a Game Master ("GM") who controls most of the game while the rest of the players control some of the characters in the game.These are called "Player Characters" or "PCs."

Creating Characters

Each PC has a "Character Sheet" that describes the character and the character's equipment, abilities, disabilities, and other attributes. Players sometimes create their own characters by filling out this Character Sheet according to the game rules.

Character Development

Sometimes PCs mature and develop during the game. These changes may affect the PC's Character Sheet. Character Development is often the result of a series of successful adventures. In more realistic RPGs, Character Development may require intense, long-term training.

The Game Master's Job

The GM sets up the PCs' adventures. This may mean developing a quest with obstacles, enemies, and other challenges. The GM should provide a large, engaging environment, allow the PCs to do (or attempt) whatever their players want, and help the plot to develop naturally.

Ideally, you would be able to play without any GM at all, but this usually only works in limited "Player vs. Player" scenarios.