Full Description
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.
Contents
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
