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Traditionally, an RPG was played by a group of friends with one of the group assuming the role of "game master" and effectively running the game. These are often called "tabletop" RPGs because they employ rulebooks, pen/pencil, paper and dice of assorted shapes. Nowadays there are a great number of RPGs available in videogame format - everything from online games designed for any number of players (for example [[World of Warcraft]], [[Phantasy Star Online]], and [[Everquest]]) to single player story led games (for example, the Final Fantasy series).  Proponents of tabletop RPGs criticize computer and console-based RPGs for their relative inflexibility, since even the best computer-model can't be as ingenious as an actual game-master can.

Traditionally, an RPG was played by a group of friends with one of the group assuming the role of "game master" and effectively running the game. These are often called "tabletop" RPGs because they employ rulebooks, pen/pencil, paper and dice of assorted shapes. Nowadays there are a great number of RPGs available in videogame format - everything from online games designed for any number of players (for example [[World of Warcraft]], [[Phantasy Star Online]], and [[Everquest]]) to single player story led games (for example, the Final Fantasy series).  Proponents of tabletop RPGs criticize computer and console-based RPGs for their relative inflexibility, since even the best computer-model can't be as ingenious as an actual game-master can.

Since the 1980s, RPGs have come under a great deal of criticism from groups who feel that playing these games is inherently dangerous, especially to children, and could potentially lead to [[insanity]], [[murder]], [[suicide]], and [[occultism]].<ref>[http://www.crossroad.to/articles2/2003/occult-rpg.htm Kjos Ministries]</ref><ref>[http://theescapist.com/ The Escapist]</ref>

Since the 1980s, RPGs have come under a great deal of criticism from groups who feel that playing these games is inherently dangerous, especially to children, and could potentially lead to [[insanity]], [[murder]], [[suicide]], and [[occultism]].<ref>[http://www.crossroad.to/articles2/2003/occult-rpg.htm Kjos Ministries]</ref><ref>[http://theescapist.com/ The Escapist]</ref> RPGs have also been linked to an extreme [[atheistic]] world view. This is claimed because RPGs don't teach players about that all actions have [[Consequentialism|consequences]]. Many critics have also linked role-playing to unchristian and sacrilegious beliefs. This could be explained by many RPGs taking place in fictional worlds, where [[occult]] gods are worshipped.

Others have argued that RPGs can be used to teach mathematics, problem solving, social skills, and critical thinking to kids, especially those who might have trouble learning these skills in a traditional environment [http://www.theescapist.com/rwrpg/interview-rebeccathomas.htm]

Others have argued that RPGs can be used to teach mathematics, problem solving, social skills, and critical thinking to kids, especially those who might have trouble learning these skills in a traditional environment [http://www.theescapist.com/rwrpg/interview-rebeccathomas.htm]