The world of gaming has been forever changed by the rise of indie RPG games. These immersive, story-driven experiences have captured the hearts and minds of gamers everywhere, but where did it all begin? In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the first RPG and delve into the indie RPG games movement that has since taken the world by storm. Join us as we uncover the history of this beloved genre and discover the passionate creators who brought it to life. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just discovering the world of RPGs, this is a journey you won’t want to miss.
The Emergence of Role-Playing Games
The Early Years: From Tabletop to Video Games
The Birth of Role-Playing Games
The concept of role-playing games (RPGs) can be traced back to the 1970s, when tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) emerged. These games allowed players to assume the roles of characters in a fictional world, collaboratively creating a story through their actions and decisions. D&D, in particular, became a cultural phenomenon and inspired countless other tabletop RPGs.
The Transition to Video Games
As video games gained popularity in the 1980s, RPGs made their way to consoles and computers. Early RPG video games, such as Ultima and Wizardry, drew inspiration from tabletop RPGs and retained many of their core elements, including character creation, leveling, and exploration.
The Rise of the JRPG
The 1990s saw the emergence of the Japanese RPG (JRPG), which became a distinct subgenre of RPGs. JRPGs often featured turn-based combat, vibrant graphics, and complex, interconnected storylines. Notable examples include the Final Fantasy series and Chrono Trigger.
The Impact of Western RPGs
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Western RPGs began to make a significant impact on the gaming industry. Games like Fallout, The Elder Scrolls series, and Baldur’s Gate showcased more realistic and grounded settings, emphasizing player choice and consequence. This shift towards more complex narratives and world-building paved the way for indie RPGs to emerge as a distinct movement.
The Influence of Tabletop RPGs on Video Games
Despite the evolution of RPGs from tabletop to video games, the influence of tabletop RPGs remained strong. Many video game RPGs continued to draw inspiration from tabletop games, incorporating elements such as character sheets, dice rolls, and complex world-building. The blending of these two gaming styles allowed RPGs to continue evolving and expanding their scope, leading to the indie RPG movement that would emerge in the 2010s.
The Evolution of RPGs: A Brief Timeline
- The Early Years (1970s): The origins of role-playing games (RPGs) can be traced back to the 1970s, with the development of tabletop RPGs such as Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). This seminal game, created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, combined elements of fantasy, adventure, and strategy, allowing players to assume the roles of fictional characters and embark on quests in a rich, imaginary world.
- The 1980s: The 1980s saw the rise of computer RPGs, with games like Ultima, Wizardry, and The Bard’s Tale. These games were often turn-based and featured open worlds, non-linear gameplay, and complex character progression systems.
- The 1990s: The 1990s marked a significant evolution in the RPG genre, with the emergence of Japanese-style RPGs (JRPGs) such as Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger. These games were known for their engaging stories, memorable characters, and cinematic visuals, and they helped establish the JRPG as a distinct subgenre within the broader RPG category.
- The 2000s: The 2000s saw the development of Western RPGs, such as The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind, and the continued popularity of JRPGs, with games like the Persona series and Xenoblade Chronicles. This period also witnessed the growth of online RPGs, with the emergence of massively multiplayer online RPGs (MMORPGs) like World of Warcraft.
- The 2010s: The 2010s were characterized by a resurgence of indie RPGs, as the growth of digital distribution platforms like Steam allowed smaller developers to release their games directly to players. This led to a proliferation of unique, innovative RPGs, such as the indie darlings Undertale and Bastion. Additionally, the decade saw the continued evolution of JRPGs and Western RPGs, with series like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout expanding their scope and complexity.
- The 2020s: The 2020s have seen a continuation of the indie RPG movement, with titles like Hollow Knight and Spelunky 2 capturing the hearts of players. Furthermore, the ongoing success of MMORPGs like World of Warcraft and the rise of live service games, such as Destiny and The Division, have demonstrated the enduring appeal of the RPG genre.
The Indie RPG Games Movement
Defining Indie RPG Games
What is an Indie RPG Game?
An indie RPG game, short for independent role-playing game, refers to a type of video game that is created by a small team or individual developers without the backing of a large publisher. These games often have unique gameplay mechanics, storylines, and art styles that differentiate them from mainstream RPGs produced by larger studios.
Characteristics of Indie RPG Games
Indie RPG games are known for their innovative gameplay, creative storytelling, and distinct artistic styles. Some of the key characteristics of indie RPG games include:
- Narrative Focus: Indie RPG games often place a strong emphasis on storytelling, with complex characters, intricate plotlines, and thought-provoking themes.
- Experimental Gameplay: Indie RPG games are not afraid to take risks and try out new mechanics, which can lead to unique and innovative gameplay experiences.
- Customizability: Many indie RPG games offer players the ability to customize their characters, equipment, and gameplay experience, allowing for a high degree of player agency.
- Artistic Style: Indie RPG games often feature unique art styles that stand out from the more mainstream, polished graphics of AAA RPGs.
The Rise of Indie RPG Games
The indie RPG game movement gained momentum in the late 2000s and early 2010s, as the barriers to entry for game development became lower and digital distribution platforms like Steam and mobile app stores made it easier for small developers to release their games to a wider audience.
As a result, a thriving indie RPG game scene emerged, with developers experimenting with new gameplay mechanics, storytelling techniques, and art styles. Some of the most successful indie RPG games include the cult classic “Undertale” and the critically acclaimed “Stardew Valley.”
The popularity of indie RPG games has only continued to grow, with more and more developers exploring the genre and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in video game storytelling and gameplay.
The Rise of Indie RPG Games: A New Era of Game Development
The Evolution of Game Development
In the early days of gaming, the industry was dominated by a small number of large publishers who controlled the market. However, with the advent of new technology and the rise of the internet, indie game developers began to emerge, challenging the traditional power structures of the industry. These indie developers were often small teams or even solo creators who used their own resources and funding to create games outside of the traditional publishing channels.
The Democratization of Game Development
The rise of indie RPG games was a significant development in the history of gaming. It marked a turning point from an industry dominated by a few large publishers to one that was more accessible to a wider range of creators. The emergence of digital distribution platforms like Steam and the proliferation of crowdfunding allowed indie developers to reach a global audience without the need for traditional publishing channels. This democratization of game development opened up new opportunities for creators and led to a proliferation of unique and innovative games across the industry.
The Influence of Indie RPG Games
The rise of indie RPG games has had a profound impact on the industry as a whole. These games have challenged traditional conventions and have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in game design. They have also introduced new genres and gameplay mechanics that have since become mainstream. The success of indie RPG games has inspired a new generation of developers to pursue their passion for game creation and has helped to create a more diverse and vibrant gaming landscape.
The Future of Indie RPG Games
As the industry continues to evolve, the role of indie RPG games remains an important one. These games continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in game design and offer unique and innovative experiences to players. With the continued growth of digital distribution platforms and the rise of new technologies, the future of indie RPG games looks bright. As the industry continues to mature, it is likely that indie developers will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of gaming.
The Impact of Indie RPG Games on the Gaming Industry
The rise of indie RPG games has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, reshaping the way we think about video games and their potential for storytelling and player agency.
- Innovation and creativity: Indie RPG games have brought a wave of innovation and creativity to the gaming industry, with developers pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of game mechanics, storytelling, and player choice.
- This has led to a greater diversity of games and gameplay experiences, as well as a greater focus on player agency and emergent gameplay.
- Accessibility and affordability: Indie RPG games have also made gaming more accessible and affordable for players, with many games available for purchase on digital storefronts like Steam and GOG.
- This has opened up the world of RPGs to a wider audience, allowing players to experience a greater variety of games without having to invest in expensive hardware or physical copies of games.
- Support for niche and experimental games: The rise of indie RPG games has also provided a platform for niche and experimental games that might not have been viable under the traditional publishing models of the past.
- This has allowed for a greater variety of games to be made and released, as well as a greater focus on exploring new ideas and taking risks in game design.
- Community engagement and support: Finally, the indie RPG game movement has fostered a strong sense of community engagement and support among players and developers.
- Many indie RPG games are developed with the input and feedback of players, leading to a greater sense of ownership and investment in the games.
- Additionally, many indie RPG developers have built strong relationships with their communities, fostering a sense of trust and mutual support that has helped to build the genre’s reputation as a hub of creativity and innovation.
The Quest for the First RPG
The Origins of RPGs: Early Precursors and Influences
Tabletop Role-Playing Games
Tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the development of games such as Dungeons & Dragons in 1974. This game combined elements of fantasy literature, miniature wargaming, and storytelling to create a unique gaming experience. The success of Dungeons & Dragons spawned numerous imitators and adaptations, paving the way for the development of a new genre of games.
Computer Role-Playing Games
With the advent of personal computers in the 1980s, the first computer RPGs emerged. These games were inspired by tabletop RPGs and early video games like Moria and Wizardry. These early computer RPGs were often text-based and featured turn-based combat and exploration, as well as character creation and development.
The Birth of the Modern RPG
The first true modern RPG was Ultima, created by Richard Garriott in 1981. This game introduced features such as non-linear gameplay, character development, and a complex storyline. Ultima set the standard for future RPGs and influenced the development of the genre for years to come.
Japanese RPGs
In the late 1980s, Enix released Dragon Quest, a game that would become one of the most popular and influential JRPGs of all time. Dragon Quest introduced features such as a larger emphasis on storytelling, more detailed character customization, and a unique art style that would become synonymous with the genre.
The Indie RPG Movement
The 1990s saw the rise of the indie RPG movement, with games like Planescape: Torment and Baldur’s Gate. These games were developed by small teams of developers who sought to push the boundaries of the RPG genre, often experimenting with new mechanics and storytelling techniques. The success of these games paved the way for the indie RPG movement, which continues to thrive to this day.
The Candidates: The First RPGs in the Spotlight
In the world of gaming, there is a long-standing debate about which game can be considered the first role-playing game (RPG). Some argue that it was Dungeons & Dragons, while others point to early text-based adventure games. However, when examining the history of RPGs, there are several lesser-known candidates that deserve attention. This section will delve into the early RPGs that laid the foundation for the genre, shaping the future of gaming as we know it today.
The Early RPGs: Pioneering the Genre
The origins of the RPG genre can be traced back to the early 1980s, with the emergence of several pioneering games that blended elements of tabletop role-playing and computer gaming. One of the earliest contenders for the title of first RPG is the 1980 game “Dungeon,” developed by British software house New World Computing. This game was a text-based adventure that allowed players to explore a dungeon, collect treasure, and battle monsters. While not a true RPG by modern standards, “Dungeon” was an important milestone in the development of the genre.
Another early RPG that deserves recognition is the 1981 game “Akalabeth,” created by Richard Garriott, who would later go on to develop the iconic “Ultima” series. “Akalabeth” was a text-based game that featured a fantasy world with elements of magic, combat, and exploration. While it lacked the complex mechanics of later RPGs, “Akalabeth” demonstrated the potential for immersive storytelling and world-building in the gaming medium.
The Evolution of RPGs: Text-Based Adventures and Beyond
In the years following the release of “Dungeon” and “Akalabeth,” the RPG genre continued to evolve, with the development of more sophisticated games that incorporated elements of both tabletop RPGs and computer gaming. One notable example is the 1982 game “Bard’s Tale,” developed by Interplay Productions. This game featured a text-based interface, complex character creation and development, and a deep storyline that made it one of the most immersive RPGs of its time.
As technology advanced, RPGs became more graphically sophisticated, with games like the 1985 game “Ultima III: Exodus” featuring full-motion video sequences and stunning visuals. These games paved the way for the modern RPG, with complex storylines, deep character development, and intricate gameplay mechanics.
The Impact of Early RPGs on the Industry
While the debate about the first RPG may continue, it is clear that the early pioneers of the genre had a profound impact on the development of gaming as a whole. The early RPGs laid the groundwork for the modern RPG, with their emphasis on storytelling, character development, and player choice. As the industry continues to evolve, it is important to recognize the contributions of these early games and the innovators who created them.
The Debate: The Contenders for the Title of First RPG
There is no shortage of opinions when it comes to the debate surrounding the first RPG (Role-Playing Game). While many consider Dungeons & Dragons to be the pioneer of the genre, others point to earlier titles such as Blackmoor, The Fantastic Medieval Adventure Game, and Warwick Davies’ The Dungeon. Each of these games had a significant impact on the development of the RPG genre, and their contributions cannot be ignored.
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Dungeons & Dragons: The game that started it all?
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Blackmoor: The underdog contender
- The Fantastic Medieval Adventure Game: The hidden gem
- Warwick Davies’ The Dungeon: The precursor to the modern RPG
Dungeons & Dragons: The game that started it all?
Dungeons & Dragons was created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson in 1974, and it quickly became a phenomenon. The game allowed players to take on the roles of wizards, warriors, and other fantasy characters, and explore dungeons filled with monsters and treasure. The game’s popularity spawned a whole new genre of games, and it is often cited as the first RPG.
Blackmoor: The underdog contender
Blackmoor was created by Dave Arneson in 1971, and it predates Dungeons & Dragons by several years. The game was set in a fantasy world and allowed players to take on the roles of various characters, including warriors, wizards, and thieves. The game was unique in that it featured a large, detailed setting, and it was one of the first games to include elements such as hit points and experience points.
The Fantastic Medieval Adventure Game: The hidden gem
The Fantastic Medieval Adventure Game was created by Ernie Gygax, Gary Gygax’s younger brother, in 1971. The game was set in a fantasy world and allowed players to take on the roles of various characters, including knights, wizards, and elves. The game was unique in that it featured a large, detailed setting, and it was one of the first games to include elements such as hit points and experience points.
Warwick Davies’ The Dungeon: The precursor to the modern RPG
Warwick Davies’ The Dungeon was created by Warwick Davies in 1975, and it predates Dungeons & Dragons by several years. The game was set in a fantasy world and allowed players to take on the roles of various characters, including wizards, warriors, and thieves. The game was unique in that it featured a large, detailed setting, and it was one of the first games to include elements such as hit points and experience points.
Each of these games had a significant impact on the development of the RPG genre, and their contributions cannot be ignored. While Dungeons & Dragons is often cited as the first RPG, the debate over the true origin of the genre is ongoing, and it is likely that the answer will continue to be the subject of much discussion and debate in the years to come.
The Influence of Early RPGs on the Indie RPG Games Movement
The Legacy of Early RPGs: Inspiration and Influence on Indie RPG Games
The Early RPGs: A Glimpse into the Roots of the Genre
- Dungeons & Dragons (1974): The original pen-and-paper RPG, created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, which introduced the concept of character progression, role-playing, and world-building.
- The Ultimate Game of Dungeons and Dragons (1979): The first published version of Dungeons & Dragons, which established many of the core mechanics and rules that would influence subsequent RPGs.
- The Black Onyx Edition (1983): A significant revision of Dungeons & Dragons, which streamlined gameplay and expanded character options, further shaping the genre.
Adapting and Evolving: How Early RPGs Shaped the Indie RPG Games Movement
- Embracing Narrative-Driven Experiences: Early RPGs, such as Dungeons & Dragons, placed a strong emphasis on storytelling and player agency, inspiring indie developers to create games that prioritize narrative depth and player choice.
- Expanding the Scope of Gaming: Early RPGs allowed players to explore vast, open worlds and engage with complex, non-linear storylines. Indie RPGs continue this tradition, offering players immersive, atmospheric experiences that go beyond traditional gameplay structures.
- Influencing Mechanics and Systems: Early RPGs introduced groundbreaking mechanics, such as character leveling, skill trees, and equipment management. Indie RPGs often build upon these mechanics, experimenting with new systems and gameplay elements to create unique, innovative experiences.
- The Indie RPG Games Movement as a Modern Renaissance: Early RPGs laid the foundation for the indie RPG games movement, which seeks to redefine and revolutionize the genre by pushing boundaries, challenging conventions, and embracing diverse storytelling approaches.
In conclusion, the legacy of early RPGs is deeply ingrained in the indie RPG games movement. By drawing inspiration from the pioneering works of the past, indie developers are able to create innovative, narrative-driven experiences that continue to evolve and shape the future of the RPG genre.
The Evolution of Game Mechanics and Design in Indie RPG Games
The Roots of Indie RPG Games
Indie RPG games can trace their roots back to the early RPGs, which were primarily focused on text-based adventures and simple mechanics. These early games paved the way for the development of more complex RPGs, and indie developers continued to build on this foundation, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the genre.
The Rise of the Open-World RPG
One of the most significant developments in indie RPG games was the rise of the open-world RPG. These games allowed players to explore vast, interconnected worlds, with non-linear gameplay and multiple paths to completion. The success of open-world RPGs like the Elder Scrolls series and Fallout inspired a new generation of indie developers to create their own open-world RPGs, further expanding the genre.
The Emergence of Niche RPGs
Another trend in indie RPG games was the emergence of niche RPGs, which focused on specific themes or mechanics. These games often drew inspiration from other genres, such as tabletop RPGs, and experimented with new ways of storytelling and gameplay. Niche RPGs like Undertale and Stardew Valley became cult classics, and helped to establish the indie RPG game as a distinct subgenre of RPGs.
The Importance of Game Mechanics and Design
Throughout the evolution of indie RPG games, game mechanics and design have remained crucial to the success of these games. Developers have had to balance gameplay mechanics with storytelling and character development, creating engaging experiences that keep players invested in the game world. As the indie RPG game movement continues to grow, developers will likely continue to push the boundaries of game mechanics and design, creating new and innovative experiences for players.
The Role of Early RPGs in Shaping the Indie RPG Games Movement
Early RPGs played a significant role in shaping the indie RPG games movement by serving as a source of inspiration and innovation for independent game developers. These games laid the foundation for the modern RPG genre and influenced the development of indie RPGs in several ways.
One of the most significant contributions of early RPGs was the establishment of a narrative-driven gaming experience. Games like Dungeons & Dragons introduced the concept of an open-ended, non-linear storyline that allowed players to explore a vast and immersive world. This concept was later adopted by indie RPG developers, who sought to create games that emphasized storytelling and player choice.
Early RPGs also paved the way for character customization and development. Games like Ultima allowed players to create unique characters with customizable attributes and skills, which inspired indie RPG developers to create even more complex character creation systems. This allowed players to immerse themselves in the game world and develop a personal connection with their characters.
Another significant contribution of early RPGs was the introduction of a dynamic combat system. Games like Wizardry and Baldur’s Gate introduced tactical combat mechanics that allowed players to strategize and plan their attacks. This concept was later refined and expanded upon by indie RPG developers, who sought to create more engaging and challenging combat systems.
In addition to these contributions, early RPGs also influenced the development of indie RPGs in terms of game design and mechanics. Many indie RPG developers looked to early RPGs for inspiration and drew upon their design principles to create innovative and unique games. For example, the turn-based combat system popularized by early RPGs was later adopted by indie RPGs like the Battle Brothers and the Banner Saga.
Overall, the influence of early RPGs on the indie RPG games movement cannot be overstated. These games served as a source of inspiration and innovation, shaping the development of indie RPGs in terms of narrative, character development, combat mechanics, and game design.
The Future of Indie RPG Games
The Evolution of Indie RPG Games: Trends and Predictions
Emphasis on Narrative and Player Choice
One trend that is expected to continue in the future of indie RPG games is the emphasis on narrative and player choice. Players are increasingly seeking games that offer complex and engaging stories, with branching paths and multiple endings that reflect their choices. Indie developers are responding to this demand by creating games that place a strong emphasis on storytelling and player agency.
Integration of Multiple Genres
Another trend that is likely to shape the future of indie RPG games is the integration of multiple genres. Many indie developers are experimenting with blending traditional RPG elements with other genres, such as action, adventure, and strategy. This results in unique gaming experiences that offer a fresh take on the traditional RPG format.
Focus on Accessibility and Inclusivity
In addition, the future of indie RPG games may see a greater focus on accessibility and inclusivity. Developers are recognizing the importance of creating games that are accessible to players with different abilities and backgrounds. This includes designing games with options for customizable controls, alternative text for visual elements, and diverse representation in characters and storylines.
Use of Emerging Technologies
Finally, the future of indie RPG games may involve the use of emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Indie developers are exploring the potential of these technologies to create immersive gaming experiences that push the boundaries of traditional RPG gameplay. As these technologies continue to advance, it is likely that we will see more indie RPG games incorporating them in innovative ways.
The Ongoing Evolution of Game Mechanics and Design in Indie RPG Games
As the indie RPG game movement continues to grow and evolve, so too do the mechanics and design of these games. In this section, we will explore some of the key trends and developments that are shaping the future of indie RPG games.
Increased Emphasis on Storytelling and Character Development
One of the key trends in indie RPG games is an increased emphasis on storytelling and character development. Many indie developers are exploring new ways to create immersive and engaging narratives that draw players into the world of the game. This often involves a greater focus on character creation and development, as well as more complex and nuanced storytelling techniques.
Greater Use of Procedural Generation and Dynamic Worlds
Another trend in indie RPG games is the greater use of procedural generation and dynamic worlds. Procedural generation involves using algorithms to generate game content on the fly, creating unique and varied experiences for players. Dynamic worlds, on the other hand, are designed to change and evolve over time, providing players with a sense of agency and impact on the world around them.
Expansion of Multiplayer Options and Co-operative Play
Finally, indie RPG games are also expanding their multiplayer options and co-operative play. Many developers are exploring new ways to create social and collaborative experiences that allow players to work together to overcome challenges and complete objectives. This includes both online and local multiplayer options, as well as new forms of co-operative play that blur the lines between player and character.
Overall, the ongoing evolution of game mechanics and design in indie RPG games is driven by a desire to create more immersive, engaging, and innovative experiences for players. As the movement continues to grow and mature, it will be interesting to see how these trends develop and shape the future of RPG gaming.
The Continued Growth and Impact of the Indie RPG Games Movement on the Gaming Industry
As the indie RPG games movement continues to gain momentum, it is clear that its impact on the gaming industry will only continue to grow. With more and more developers experimenting with new mechanics and storytelling techniques, indie RPGs are pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of gaming.
One of the key factors driving the growth of the indie RPG games movement is the increasing accessibility of game development tools and platforms. With the rise of digital distribution platforms like Steam and the proliferation of game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine, it has never been easier for aspiring game developers to create and release their own games. This has led to a surge in the number of indie RPGs being released each year, as well as an increase in the diversity of voices and perspectives being represented in the genre.
Another factor contributing to the continued growth of the indie RPG games movement is the increasing popularity of crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon. These platforms allow developers to raise funds for their projects directly from their fans, providing a valuable source of support and enabling them to take greater risks and push the boundaries of what is possible in their games. This has led to a proliferation of innovative and experimental indie RPGs that might otherwise have struggled to find an audience or secure funding.
Despite the many challenges and obstacles faced by indie game developers, the indie RPG games movement remains a vibrant and dynamic force within the gaming industry. With its continued growth and impact, it is clear that this movement will continue to shape the future of RPGs and gaming as a whole for years to come.
FAQs
1. Who made the first RPG?
The first RPG, or Role-Playing Game, is often considered to be “Dungeons & Dragons,” which was created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson in 1974. This game combined elements of fantasy and strategy, allowing players to create characters and embark on adventures in a mythical world.
2. What is an RPG?
An RPG, or Role-Playing Game, is a type of video game that allows players to create and control characters, often in a fictional world. These games typically involve exploration, combat, and character development, and may be played solo or with others online.
3. What is the indie RPG games movement?
The indie RPG games movement refers to the independent development and distribution of RPG games, often created by small teams or individual developers. This movement has grown in popularity in recent years, allowing for a diverse range of RPG games that offer unique stories and gameplay experiences.
4. What are some examples of indie RPG games?
There are many examples of indie RPG games, including “Stardew Valley,” “Undertale,” “Bastion,” and “Hollow Knight.” These games often feature unique art styles, innovative gameplay mechanics, and engaging stories that have won them critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
5. How has the indie RPG games movement impacted the gaming industry?
The indie RPG games movement has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, providing a platform for independent developers to showcase their creativity and innovation. This has led to a wider range of RPG games being available to players, as well as increased competition and diversity within the genre. Additionally, the success of some indie RPG games has led to larger studios taking notice and incorporating similar elements into their own games.