RPG

A role-playing game (RPG) is a game in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. Their action decisions shape and define the personality of their character making these games interesting from a psychological standpoint.

There are non-computer-based RPGs where players act out these roles or discuss what their character is doing. Actions taken within the game succeed or fail according to a formal system of rules and guidelines and chance cards and dice often play a part in making things 'happen'.

Several varieties of RPG exist in electronic media, including multi-playertext-based MUDs and their graphics-based successors, massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). Single-player offline role-playing video games are those in which players control a character or team who undertake quests, and whose capabilities advance using statistical mechanics. These games often share settings and rules with tabletop RPGs, but emphasize character advancement more than collaborative storytelling.

To be called an RPG the character development must be the major focus. Some game forms such as trading card games and wargames are related to role-playing games as they contain an element of role playing, but they are not the true RPG form. The term is also sometimes used to describe roleplay simulation games and exercises used in teaching, training, and academic research.