noun

1) a game in which participants adopt the roles of imaginary characters in an adventure under the direction of a Game Master

2) role-playing video games  are a video game genre with origins in pen-and-paper role-playing games such as Dungeons & Dragons, using much of the same terminology, settings and game mechanics. They involve developed story-telling and narrative elements, player character development, complexity, as well as replayability and immersion.

The player in RPGs controls one character, or several adventuring party members, fulfilling one or many quests.

Electronic medium removes the necessity for a gamemaster and increases combat resolution speed. RPGs have evolved from simple text-based console-window games into visually rich 3D experiences.