Storytelling is one of the oldest living traditions, continuing today in the form of theatre, literature, television, and film. Roleplaying games evolved their own version of storytelling by piecing together a tale based on the outcome of dice rolls and player choices in the form of a game. Most roleplaying games require two or more participants. While all participants work to unravel the continuing story, one is directly responsible for the content presented.

The Director/Gamemaster
One player assumes the role of director or gamemaster (sometimes also called the referee or judge). This player has the responsibility to advance the plot, project the proper atmosphere, and assume the role of extras, monsters, and villains. The director essentially sets the stage for the players, just as his theatrical counterpart does for a play or movie. Being a good director is just one key to an exciting game.

The Other Players
Those not taking on the mantle of director portray the primary characters in the game, typically the protagonists. A player draws on his characterÕs abilities, training, personality, and background to bring the role to life. This is no different from performing in theater, except that each player picks his own lines in an improvised manner. A little creativity goes a long way and the more experience one gains in roleplaying, the easier it gets.

The Stories
A roleplaying story is just like a novel. It encompasses an entire series of events, starting with an introduction that prepares the players for what is yet to come. The story then presents a crisis or motivational element for the players, building tension and summoning them to action. A series of minor crises typically occurs at this point, finally building to the height of tension and dilemma. Finally, the denouement is reached, quickly diminishing the tension and resolving all the loose ends.

Props
Because roleplaying is an exercise in imagination, most require no props other than dice. Some, however, do utilize maps, miniatures, and possibly even playing cards to create a more-immersive experience. These props may or may not be optional.

Unlike board-games, miniatures games are played on flat surface with or without terrain features or scenery. This means rather than moving game pieces to designated areas on a board, they are positioned using a ruler's measurements, typically in increments of one-inch. Metal, plastic, or paper miniatures are used to represent the placement of individuals or units involved in the game. There are various scales of miniatures, but the most-common include 25mm (1/64), 28mm (1/58), and 30mm (1/54) -- these are often compatible with each other. 15mm (1/121 scale) miniatures are commonly used for larger battles. Mathematical calculations are often used to resolve conflicts

Stands
Some games utilize stands, which represent groups of miniatures. A stand could consist of four miniatures, for example, but actually represent a whole unit of eighty soldiers. They are more commonly found in games that focus on larger-scale battles.

Cardboard Counters
Counters, or chits, are sometimes used in place of miniatures. They can perform the same task, unless the physical dimensions of a miniature are required by a game's rules.

Maps
Rather than executing the action on or around three-dimensional terrain and scenery, flat maps are sometimes utilized. These are often overlaid with square or hexagonal tiles to calculate distances. Terrain and geographical features may be printed on them or they may simply be blank.

What is a supplement?
Many roleplaying and miniatures games are expanded with supplemental books. These add-ons often focus on new and optional rules, setting material, and adventures/scenarios. Put simply, these supplements extend the scope and/or potential enjoyment of a game.

What is a paper miniatures set?
This can be a downloadable or pre-printed set of paper figures. Precis Intermedia's Disposable Heroes® line comes in Statix (a single download), Customizable (user-selectable downloads that can also be printed and shipped to you), and Printed (pre-printed in full-color on cardstock) sets --and-- a-frame, tri-fold, and flat counter formats.

Third-party paper miniatures can vary -- see each item's description. © 2012 Precis Intermedia. All rights reserved.