The Functions of Role-Playing Games

This study takes an analytical approach to the world of role-playing games, providing a theoretical framework for understanding their psychological and sociological functions. Sometimes dismissed as escapist and potentially dangerous, role-playing actually encourages creativity, self-awareness, group cohesion and "out-of-the-box" thinking. The book also offers a detailed participant-observer ethnography on role-playing games, featuring insightful interviews with 19 participants of table-top, live action and virtual games.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments     
Preface     
Introduction     

1. Historical Evolution and Cultural Permutations     
2. Role-Playing in Communal Contexts     
3. Interactional Dynamics in Role-Playing Games     
4. Role-Playing as Scenario Building and Problem Solving     
5. Tactical and Social Problem Solving     
6. Role-Playing as Alteration of Identity     
7. Character Evolution and Types of Identity Alteration     

Conclusion     
Appendix: Interview Questionnaire     
Chapter Notes     
Bibliography     
Index