role-playing game

noun

variants or less commonly role playing game
plural role-playing games also role playing games
: an adventure game in which players advance a character through a series of battles or quests to gain experience, strength, and skill as part of a progressive narrative arc usually depicting the hero's journey
An adaptation of the tabletop role-playing game Dungeons & Dragons, it [Baldur's Gate 2] aspired to digitize the rich experience of playing at a table among friends …Claire Jackson
Although very different from online role-playing games, some traditional games feature vast universes that increase the player's participation possibilities.Fran Calvo
abbreviation RPG

Word History

First Known Use

1996, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of role-playing game was in 1996

Dictionary Entries Near role-playing game

Cite this Entry

“Role-playing game.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/role-playing%20game. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

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