Re: What was the first RPG?

[djohnson@tartarus.ucsd.edu (Darin Johnson)]

mcarmack@freenet.columbus.oh.us (Michael Carmack) writes:
> I think you'll get a lot of varying answers, but here's my general definition.

You said "general".  Does this mean there are exceptions?

> In an RPG, the player gets a chance to create his character to suit
> his/her tastes.  At minimum this involves choosing a name, and ideally a
> race, class, even a picture if the graphics can support it.

What about "rpg" games where you are given a character to start with
(or multiple ones).  What about ones where you have a small set of
characters to choose from rather than create your own?  Al'Qadim,
The Genie's Curse didn't give you a character choice, and most would
call that RPG (probably says that on the box).  I guess there are
exceptions to this rule.

> There should
> be some numerical statistics involved to the character, including
> strength, intelligence, agility, hit points, etc.  (They could be called
> something else, of course, but we all know what they mean.)

Hmm, there are probably some non-computer RPG's that don't have
these...  What does "Amber" use?  I take it this is optional too.

> Some or all
> of these statistics should be able to improve over time, e.g. by gaining
> experience levels or some other method of advancement.

Why is this integral to RPG's?  (and not just computer ones)  Sure,
it's ubiquitous, but surely it doesn't need to be required.

> You should be able
> to equip your character(s) with different weapons and armor which will
> affect your luck in combat.

Unless of course, you roleplay something that doesn't deal with
combat.  Pen-and-paper RPG's certainly don't require combat.
(talking RPG here, most CRPG's are *soley* combat)

> Finally, you need to have some interaction
> with NPCs, even if it's as basic as getting the quests from the kings in
> Ultima I.

Guess this rules out Rogue, Temple of Apshai, Wizardry(?), and plenty
of others.

> I really don't see a need for much combat, except as a means to
> gain experience and to make the game more exciting.

Gosh, to gain experience?  Most role playing games give experience
in other ways (ie, for having good play sessions, completing
adventures, or for just role playing well).

I can think of exceptions to all of these rules for games
that some consider CRPG's (or even real paper RPG's).  I guess
it still boils down to "I can't describe it, but I'll know it
when I see it".
-- 
Darin Johnson
djohnson@ucsd.edu
       Support your right to own gnus.