Research
Research shows that tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) "excel at certain principles for maximizing learning, such as the use of narrative, memory encoding and cues, chunking, self-referencing and building on prior knowledge, testing, and elaboration and distinctiveness (link)." Emerging research indicates that TTRPGs may have an assortment of benefits for young people. Players have opportunities to practice social skills (e.g., conflict resolution and assertiveness), enhance creativity and imagination, and learn about the consequence of risk taking and impulsivity – both vicariously through their character in the game and through peer interactions around the table (Bowman & Lieberoth, 2018; Hughes, 1998). These findings indicate that acts of role-taking in TTRPGs may allow young people to develop new social skills in a small group context.
Tabletop role-playing games help players: