The act of assuming and acting out a particular role or character, either for educational, therapeutic, or entertainment purposes.
Compound word from 'role' (from French 'rôle' meaning a roll of paper with an actor's part) and 'playing' (from Old English 'plegan' meaning to exercise or frolic). The combined concept emerged in the mid-20th century with developments in psychology and education.
The theatrical origin of 'role' as a literal roll of paper connects modern roleplaying games to ancient dramatic traditions, where actors would unroll scrolls to read their parts. This physical act of 'unrolling' one's character has become the metaphorical act of 'developing' a character.
Roleplaying has seen gendered participation patterns in gaming, with women historically underrepresented in tabletop and LARP communities, reflected in marketing and representation norms.
Use inclusive language when discussing roleplaying games: specify 'roleplay communities welcome people of all genders' when promoting, avoid gendered stereotypes about player types, and acknowledge diverse participation.
["interactive narrative","character simulation"]
Women creators in tabletop RPGs, LARPing, and improvisational theater have built vibrant inclusive communities; recognize designers like Kate Modeste, Cam Banks, and early female D&D pioneers.
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