RPG

RPG is an acronym which stands for "Role Playing Game". This type of game began even before computers with tabletop RPG's such as D&D or Dungeons and Dragons. These games allow you engage as a specific Role inside of a world. Most of these games take place within a fictious setting. There two main types of RPG that being JRPG and WRPG.

JPRG

This means "Japanese Role Playing Game", which means the game was created within Japan, this applies to RPG's such as:

• Final Fantasy,
• Dragon Quest,
• Monster Hunter,
• and Pokemon.

Final Fantasy 7 as seen on it original release on the Playstation, courtesy of polygon

The games ussually depict Japanese elements in media, which show in the artistic elements of the game. Even with the limited graphics of older systems, the art stance can still be seen, especially with concept art, or art that is used to base in game images and animations on. Some of the most famous concept art is from Pokemon creator Ken Sugimori, who has drawings of all 151 original pokemon that appeared in Generation 1 (Red and Green/Blue for the uninformed)

An Illusration of the three Starter Pokemon of Generation 1(Left to Right: Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle)

The final main element when it comes to JRPG's is turn-based combat, meaning that you attack in seperate turns. This allows the player to strategize their moves to allow for maximum damage against their enemy. This system also allows for downtime allowing the player to clear their mind, also allowing for maximum strategy.

WRPG

The other form of RPG is WRPG, where the game is inspired by more western elements, most of the time with european fantasy. Examples of WRPG's include The Witcher, and The Elder Scrolls (which you might know from their most recent game, Skyrim)

Footage of The Witcher; courtesy of C|net

These games tend to focus on more flow-like combat. Unlike the Turn-based combat of JRPG's, these games tend to focus on a free-form environment along with its combat. This means that Combat will be more player orientated, relying more on quick reaction times and Comboing attacks than strategizing.