Role Model: Emphasizing the "RP" in RPG

[Mitchformer]

Originally posted this one on LinkedIn some months ago, but thought I'd share it here seeing as it deeply analyzes RPG components that distinguish the genre from non-RPG titles that have things like leveling systems and Diablo-style loot.

Role Model: Emphasizing the "RP" in RPG

If there's one advantage that games have over other mediums, it's their ability to have the participant not just witness someone else's doings—but to put them in the middle of said doings. Of all the genres that promise an adventure that lets players realize their fantasies in sundry ways, role-play

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Keep in mind that the above's not gospel, so dissenting views are perfectly understandable to have and share. As always, constructive feedback is welcome!

 

[Antimatter]

This is a great write-up. I haven't found anything controversial in it, actually, it lists a lot of games I personally admire (yay for Yakuza: Like a Dragon mention), and you've managed to cover truly unique aspects that have always made RPGs my favourite genre.

And I would agree that the components you've named indeed separate the genre from other titles, because leveling systems and Diablo-style loot, or strategic combat, for example, can be present in non-RPGs.

Probably, one other component that could have been named is that sometimes in RPGs you are provided with alternative ways to play through whole chapters / big chunks of the game, and it's much more than tasks with multiple paths and long-lasting consequences. Good examples include Might & Magic VII where the second part of the game can be totally different based on the Light vs Dark Magic choice, Baldur's Gate II where you can try cooperating with Shadow Thieves or Vampires, you can skip the whole Sahuagin city and go straight to the Underdark, Dragon Age: Origins where your origin provided a completely different start to the game, or Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines where clan selection matters much more than just multiple paths.

 

[Cahir]

Indeed, a great write-up. I'm especially happy you have mentioned Alpha Protocol. I think this is a heavily underrated gem, that suffered from unforgivable quality state. In fact I don't remember playing buggier game in my life than Alpha Protocol. But, it's also one of the more exciting games I have ever played, and this includes more modern gems, like Red Dead Redemption 2, Ghost of Tsushima, Cyberpunk 2077, whole Assassin's Creed open world trio (Origins, Odyssey and Valhalla), Pathfinder: Wrath of Righteous or Disco Elysium.

I have played Alpha Protocol ages ago and my memory is fuzzy when it comes to details, but I can definitely confirm the gravity of the choice was massive. And it was not only a superficial choice, which is the main objection towards e.g The Witcher 3, from the story point of view. Here your choices have crucial impact on characters you meet and missions you do later. And from what I remember you have limited time for choosing a dialogue option, which in the light of impactful choices made this game truly exciting.

I dream of a solid Alpha Protocol remake or even a sequel. This franchise really shouldn't be buried and forgotten. I hope Obsidian will recall one day they have such a gem in their portfolio. Now, being under MS wings they could easily make a stunning AP game.