roolipeli

Roolipeli, or roolipeli in Finnish, refers to a family of games in which players assume the roles of characters within a fictional setting. Typically a game master or narrator describes the world, while players decide actions for their characters. Outcomes are resolved through rules and often dice rolls or other randomizers. The aim is collaborative storytelling rather than competitive play; players develop characters, relationships, and a shared narrative over sessions.

Most roolipelit are tabletop games played with rulebooks, character sheets, dice, and sometimes maps or miniatures. They span genres including fantasy, science fiction, horror, comedy, and historical settings. Common mechanics include skill checks, combat resolution, resource management, and character advancement through experience points or skill improvements. Some games emphasize realistic social dynamics, others focus on fast-paced action; there are also independent and experimental systems.

Historically, roolipeli originated in the 1970s with early tabletop games such as Dungeons & Dragons and spread globally. In Finland, roolipeli culture developed through hobbyist clubs, magazines, translations, and local publishers, with communities meeting in schools, cultural centers, and conventions. Today Finnish roolipeli involves both Finnish- and English-language materials, and plays both in person and online, including live-action variations (larp) that blend performance with structured rules.

Roolipeli is characterized by its collaborative nature, emphasis on imagination and social interaction, and its adaptability to many settings and play styles. It remains a popular hobby worldwide, allowing players to explore narratives, ethics, and teamwork in diverse worlds.