How to Choose the Right RPG for You

Your Guide to buying the best RPGs

Overview

This buying guide is designed to provide an overview of the different types of role-playing games (RPGs) available, their features, and the factors to consider when making a purchase. RPG games have been around since the mid-1970s, and since then, they have grown in complexity, variety, and popularity. Today, there is a wide range of RPGs available that can accommodate a variety of play styles, from solo adventures to multi-player campaigns. In this guide, we'll discuss the different types of RPGs, the features to look for when making your purchase, and some suggestions to get you started. Whether you're a longtime RPG fan or a newcomer to the genre, this guide will help you find an RPG that meets your needs.

Key features

  1. Genre: Consider what type of game you're looking for, such as Fantasy, Science Fiction, Historical, or Superhero.
  2. Platform: Determine which platform you'd like to play the game on, such as PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo.
  3. Game Mechanics: Consider what type of game mechanics you prefer, such as turn-based combat, card-based play, or real-time action.
  4. Game Length: Estimate how much time you'd like to spend playing the game, such as short bursts (e.g., 15 minutes) or long campaigns (e.g., 10 hours).
  5. Player Count: Decide how many players you'd like to play with, such as single player, local multiplayer, or online multiplayer.
  6. Price: Research the cost of the game, and consider whether you'd like to purchase physical or digital versions.
  7. Reviews: Read reviews from critics and users to learn about the game's quality and content.

See the most popular RPGs on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Dynamic Storytelling - RPGs offer an immersive and engaging narrative experience as the story unfolds based upon decisions made by the players.
  • Collaboration - RPGs require collaboration between players, often requiring them to work together to overcome obstacles or complete a mission.
  • Character Development - RPGs give players the opportunity to create and develop unique characters with their own distinct personalities, goals, and abilities.
  • Interactive Gameplay - RPGs offer a level of interactivity that many other games cannot, often requiring players to think creatively and strategically to progress.
  • Replayability - Many RPGs offer multiple playthroughs and alternate endings, allowing for repeat playthroughs and unique experiences each time.
  • Immersion - RPGs can provide an incredibly immersive experience that gives players the feeling of being in the world they’re playing in.

Cons

  • Time Commitment: RPGs take a lot of time to play due to their intricate rules and the amount of content some of them provide. It can take months or even years to get through all the content, so potential buyers should consider if they have the time and dedication to commit to a long-term RPG.
  • Cost: RPGs can be costly due to the need to buy rule books, expansions, and other accessories. Potential buyers should consider their budget before investing in an RPG.
  • Game Master Preparation: Many RPGs require a significant amount of preparation by the game master or DM to create an enjoyable and engaging game. This preparation includes creating the world, setting up NPCs, and creating plot points. Potential buyers should consider if they have the time to put in to this preparation.
  • Group Dependency: RPGs require a group of people to play, so potential buyers should consider if they have the ability to organize and get a group of people together to play.

Best alternatives

  1. Collectible Card Games (CCGs) - Games that require players to purchase booster packs of random cards to build a personal deck.
  2. Board Games - Games that require physical pieces to be moved around a board in order to win.
  3. War Games - Games that require players to command armies to battle against other armies.
  4. Miniature Games - Games that require players to use physical miniatures to represent characters in battle.
  5. Card Games - Games that use a deck of cards to determine the outcome of the game.
  6. Dice Games - Games that use dice to determine the outcome of the game.
  7. Party Games - Games that require multiple players in order to complete the game.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Dice - A set of polyhedral dice used in tabletop RPGs to determine the outcome of actions and events
  • RPG Rulebooks - The primary sourcebook for a tabletop RPG, containing the rules and information needed to play the game
  • Miniatures - Small sculptures used in a RPG to represent characters and monsters
  • Battle Mats - A visual representation of a battlefield, used to help players visualize the game world
  • Cards - Used in some RPGs to represent characters, items, or events during the game
  • Pen & Paper - Notepads, pencils, erasers, and other writing materials used to take notes during the game
  • Game Master Screen - A physical or virtual barrier between the game master and players, used to conceal dice rolls, notes, and other game information from players
  • Terrain Pieces - Trees, rocks, and other objects used to create a terrain for miniatures to interact with

Common questions

  1. What are RPGs? Role-playing games (RPGs) are an interactive form of story-telling, in which players create characters and progress through a game world by making decisions and rolling dice to determine the outcome of various events.
  2. Are RPGs difficult to learn? RPGs can be complex and challenging to learn, but many games also offer simple rules and starter kits that make them easier to understand.
  3. What is the best way to learn how to play? The best way to learn how to play an RPG is to read the rulebook and watch videos/tutorials that explain the basics. Once you've familiarized yourself with the basics, you can start playing with other experienced players.
  4. What do I need to play? Depending on the game you choose, you may need a dice set, character sheets, miniatures, battle mats, and other accessories. Some games also require a carpet or table to play on.
  5. What are the benefits of playing RPGs? There are many benefits to playing RPGs, including creative expression, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and social interaction. RPGs also provide an opportunity to explore different characters and settings.
  6. Are there any risks associated with playing RPGs? As with any type of gaming, there is always a risk of injury or discomfort due to long periods of sitting and intense mental and physical concentration. Additionally, some games may contain adult content that is inappropriate for younger players.

Trivia

In 2015, a Canadian man was arrested for stealing thousands of dollars of RPG materials from a local game store. He was caught after trying to sell a rare Dungeons & Dragons miniature - worth nearly $2,000 - on eBay. According to the police report, he had stolen more than $20,000 worth of RPG materials, including miniatures, books, and card sets. The man pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 18 months of probation. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.