A role-playing game (RPG) is a game in which players assume and play out the roles of characters in a fictional setting. Players take responsibility for acting out these roles within a narrative, either through literal acting or through a process of structured decision-making regarding character development. Actions taken within many games succeed or fail according to a formal system of rules and guidelines.
There are several forms of role-playing games. The original form, sometimes called the tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG), is conducted through discussion, whereas in live action role-playing (LARP), players physically perform their characters' actions.
The design of role-playing games may include the creation of game systems, game settings, and scenarios for roleplaying; game designers engage in one or more of these activities as they create, revise, and develop role-playing games. For each designer, this list includes notable games that they designed or authored.
ENNIE Awards are presented for tabe top role-playing games. The Origins Awards are presented by Game Manufacturers Association for outstanding work in the tabletop gaming industry. The Charles S. Roberts Award and the Charles Roberts Awards Hall of Fame are given in recognition of excellence in manual tabletop games, with a focus on conflict simulations.
List of designers Following is a list of individuals who have designed one or more role-playing games, including live-action role-playing games and tabletop role-playing games, but excluding role-playing video games (see List of video game industry people and its children for video game creators). Artists are listed separately on the annotated List of role-playing game artists. Publishing companies are listed under List of role-playing game publishers.