Play-by-Post Role-Playing Game
Detailed Overview and Definition
The play-by-post role-playing game (PBP RPG) is a type of interactive storytelling where players engage in a text-based adventure, typically using a forum or chat application. In this format, players take on roles within a fictional setting and interact with each other through post-based gameplay.
Key Characteristics
- Players create characters and participate in a shared narrative.
- Gameplay is facilitated through a forum or chat platform, where players post responses to progress the story.
- The game master (GM) creates and narrates the setting, NPCs, and challenges.
- Players must use their creativity and problem-solving skills to navigate the game world.
History and Background
The origins of PBP RPGs are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the early days of online forums and chat rooms. The first known PBP RPG was likely created on the Internet Relay Chat (IRC) platform in the late 1990s. As internet access became more widespread, PBP RPGs spread to other platforms such as forums and social media sites.
- Indiannonline (formerly known as Indigo Online) is often cited as one of the first PBP RPG platforms, dating back to 1995.
- The Gamer's Chess community on AOL (America Online) was another early platform for PBP RPGs.
Technical Details
Character Creation
In a typical PBP RPG, character creation involves creating a unique individual with attributes such as name, age, occupation, skills, and equipment. The GM may provide pre-made characters or allow players to create their own.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay mechanics can vary depending on the specific game system used, but common elements include:
*
Indiannonline
*
Gamer's Chess
- MUDs (Multi-User Dungeons) are a type of text-based RPG platform.
- D&D Beyond, a digital tool for tabletop gaming, also hosts PBP RPGs.
Applications and Uses
PBP RPGs have been used in various settings, including:
References & Further Reading
Sources
The following sources were referenced in the creation of this article. Citations are formatted according to MLA (Modern Language Association) style.
-
1.
"Indiannonline." indiannonline.org, http://www.indiannonline.org/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
-
2.
"Gamer's Chess." web.archive.org, https://web.archive.org/web/20080931063028/http://www.gamerchess.com/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
-
3.
"D&D Beyond." web.archive.org, https://web.archive.org/web/20131206044001/http://www.dndbeyond.com/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!