What is the appeal of RPG games? Think of Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, Baldur’s Gate 3, Skyrim, and whatever. Role playing games are more popular than ever. Let’s break down the reasoning behind that phenomenon.
So, is it the escapism? Perhaps that’s what it is. Most people don’t enjoy their lives and prefer to play RPGs as their second life. Actually, it’s quite sad. I’m not saying don’t play games either, just keep your play hours to minimum. Any addiction is bad.
RPG CLICHES < Most common cliches.
Core reasons why people prefer RPGs over other games:
- Character customization.
- Character development.
- Freedom of choice.
- Sense of progress.
- Good writing.
- Exploration.
- Grind.
Are Role Playing Games Addictive?
We’ve covered the appeal of RPG games. Now let’s talk about their addiction factor. Video game addiction is a real thing. Most addictive video games are multiplayer competitive ones. But what about the single-player RPGs? Are role playing games addictive too? The answer is yes. Role playing games allows you to become someone else and escape from real-life. It’s a form of escapism and that’s why RPGs are highly addictive.
For example, you might be getting bored in your school, job, or whatever and thinking about the RPG you’re going to play when you get home. Because in real life you’re a real person with real issues whereas in RPG you are whoever you want to be. Most likely you’re the hero. How can real-life compete with role playing games? It can’t, therefore people like to play role playing games for long long hours.
Now I’m not saying that the RPGs are bad for you. They are great as long as you don’t play too much. Also don’t invest emotionally in RPGs or in any game. That’s a recipe for disaster.
It’s not really a bad thing to play an hour or two for relaxation after a long day of productivity. Besides, you gotta reward yourself with something!