What are Table Top Role Playing Games (TTRPGs)?

Table Top Role Playing Games (TTRPGs) are a unique blend of storytelling, strategy, and chance. Unlike board games, which are typically bound by strict rules and objectives, or video games, which are defined by programmed logic and graphics, TTRPGs allow for imaginative freedom, creativity, and flexibility. Players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting, following narratives guided by a story teller, often called a Game Master (GM). People love TTRPGs because they offer social interaction, unlimited creativity, and the thrill of unpredictable outcomes. They are about living out stories, facing challenges, and making meaningful decisions that shape the narrative.

How to Play TTRPGs

At the heart of every TTRPG is the Game Master (GM). The GM crafts the world, manages the rules, and acts as the main narrator. As a player, you will create and control a character, known as your Player Character (PC). Your PC will interact with the world, the characters in it (both player-controlled and those controlled by the GM), and play a pivotal role in the unfolding story. The beauty of TTRPGs is the vast array of choices available to players. While dice rolls might introduce an element of chance, your decisions as a player are paramount, making every session a unique experience.

Modern Tools for Online TTRPGs

The cherished pen and paper roots of TTRPGs have witnessed a digital evolution in recent years. Leveraging tools originally designed for business communications and video gaming, the intimate and tactile experience of traditional TTRPGs has been recreated in the online space.

  • Game Finding/Matching Platforms: These platforms connect players with similar interests and compatible schedules. They're the digital equivalent of a local gaming store's bulletin board, helping you find the perfect group to start your adventure.
  • Voice and Video Sharing Tools: Platforms like Discord offer voice and video channels, enabling players to communicate in real-time, share screens, and build camaraderie. For TTRPGs, where communication is key, these tools are invaluable.
  • Virtual Table Top Platforms: Tools like Foundry and Roll20 act as your digital play table. They provide maps, tokens, dice rollers, and more to simulate the tabletop experience online.

While many still cherish pen and paper, these tools bridge the traditional with the digital, connecting players worldwide. With these advancements, the spirit and camaraderie of TTRPGs flourish, accessible to both veterans and newcomers alike.

Popular TTRPG Systems Include

Delving into established universes is a fantastic way for newcomers to get a taste of TTRPGs. Here are some renowned systems to consider:

  • Dungeons & Dragons: The most iconic and widely played system, set in a medieval fantasy world filled with magic, dragons, and epic quests.
  • Call of Cthulhu: A horror-themed game, inspired by the works of H.P. Lovecraft, where players face unspeakable horrors and cosmic mysteries.
  • Star Wars & Star Trek: Immerse yourself in the expansive galaxies of Star Wars or embark on interstellar adventures with Star Trek. Whether you're wielding a lightsaber or exploring new worlds aboard the USS Enterprise, there's a story for you.
  • Marvel & DC: Don the mantle of iconic superheroes from both the Marvel and DC universes. Whether you're swinging through New York as Spider-Man or patrolling Gotham as Batman, these systems let you live out grand tales of heroism and conflict.
  • Pathfinder: Similar to Dungeons & Dragons, this game offers a rich fantasy world with its unique rules and lore, providing players with diverse options for character customization and storytelling.

Armed with knowledge of these systems, you can choose one that appeals most to your interests and dive into the exciting world of TTRPGs!

How to Start Playing with Player Character Games

Starting your TTRPG journey might seem daunting, but Player Character Games is here to guide you. We provide a state-of-the-art matching service, connecting you with the right players and GMs. Our platform is designed to help beginners dive in with ease, ensuring your first steps into this magical world are as smooth as possible. Join us, and embark on your Player Character's journey today!

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