A tabletop role-playing game (typically abbreviated as TRPG or TTRPG), also known as a pen-and-paper role-playing game, is a classification for a role-playing game (RPG) in which the participants describe their characters’ actions through speech. Participants determine the actions of their characters based on their characterization, and the actions succeed or fail according to a set formal system of rules and guidelines. Within the rules, players have the freedom to improvise; their choices shape the direction and outcome of the game.
From Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tabletop_role-playing_game
Now, the definition above may seem daunting, but it all boils down to the idea that tabletop role-playing games rely on theatre of the mind. While there may be miniatures (little figurines representing players, monsters, etc.) or fancy printed/constructed maps, for the most part, games can be played with as little as pens and papers for each of the players.
Theatre of the Mind?
When you imagine a theatre with a play performing, you conjure images of actors interacting with themselves, other actors, or the setting/backdrop. With theatre of the mind, you transport yourself into the shoes of one of the actors. Usually the GM has descriptors and you use your imagination to put yourself in your character’s shoes. You then play out a scene purely using your words and describing your actions and feelings as you interact with your fellow actors (other players).
How many players do you need?
For most TTRPGs, there is usually one Game Master/Dungeon Master (GM/DM) and then multiple players. The GM controls the setting, monsters, challenges, non-player characters, while the players interact with what the GM has set up story-wise. So as long as you have one person willing to be the game master and at least one other player, you can pretty much set up a game off the bat.
How do I choose which TTRPG to play?
It depends on what you and your group are interested in playing. There are some really popular games that have a lot of content already, but there are constantly new and fun TTRPGs being made. With an endless amount of content, you and your group won’t ever find yourselves starved for variety.
I started with Dungeons and Dragons 5e, as I noticed it was easy to get into with the amount of easy to begin guides and content available. However, I know there are others who prefer Pathfinder 2e or World of Darkness systems. I’ll most likely make a post detailing differences and highlighting pros/cons of different systems that I’ve had the pleasure of playing in the future, but for now, sticking with the popular systems will most likely ensure an easier time as they will have multiple websites dedicated to creating characters, understanding the systems, and facilitating playing.
You said there’s an endless amount of content. Does that mean I have to spend a lot of money to buy all the content?
No! Definitely not! If you really wanted to, you could get away with not buying ANY of the books and just utilizing websites such as PF2 SRD (for Pathfinder 2e), D&D 5e Wikidot (for Dungeons and Dragons 5e), and other online resources, but I really wouldn’t recommend it. Having the books allows you to reference rules, information, lore (knowledge of the setting of the game), etc. easily and can help you immerse yourself into the world better.
If you’re a player, you really only need the book that pertains to creating a character. If you’re a GM, you will probably need more books than that, but often times, the basics of what you need shouldn’t be more than 3 books. Sometimes, the GM and players might only need the same book, such as for the game Urban Shadows. You can, of course, buy all the books, if you so choose to. I myself have bought many reference books because I prefer having the physical book in front of me to reference as a GM when I am creating games, storylines, preparing for a session, etc.
With all that being said, I hope this article has been helpful in beginning your adventure into the world of tabletop role-playing games.
Thank you for reading!