Question

What made the first role-playing games different from all other types of games that proceeded them? Select all that apply.

A) An open rules format that allowed for almost limitless player choices, within reason and gamemaster judgment.
B) A game umpire, or judge, to run the game.
C) Game worlds that persisted from game to game, and grew and changed due to play.
D) Focusing on an individual character who persisted from game to game and grew with experience.

Answer 1

The first role-playing games differed because they had an open rules format, a game umpire called a gamemaster, persistent game worlds, and characters that evolved over time.

Step-by-step explanation:

The first role-playing games (RPGs) differed from previous games in several notable ways. First, they featured an open rules format, which allowed for a vast array of player choices, limited only by reason and the judgment of the gamemaster (option A). Compared to games like chess, where rules are fixed, RPGs offer a fluid experience where the possibilities were almost limitless, and players could shape the game narrative.

Secondly, these games introduced the concept of a game umpire or judge, known as a gamemaster (option B), who would oversee and run the game. This role is integral as the gamemaster facilitates the continuity of the game world and ensures compliance with the game's rules and guiding narrative decisions.

Persistent game worlds (option C) were another innovation of early RPGs. Unlike board games where the setting resets each time, RPGs allowed the game world to continue evolving and growing as a result of players' actions, contributing to a rich and ongoing storytelling experience.

Lastly, focusing on an individual character that persisted from game to game (option D) allowed players to develop their characters over time, gaining experience and abilities, which was a novel concept compared to most other games that preceded RPGs, where each game started with new pieces or characters.