When you think of a group people role-playing, you typically think of some “nerds.” playing in someone’s basement. However, narrative role playing games, such as Dungeons & Dragons can actually make you smarter, since it teaches you a variety of skills. Some players take things to the next level by dressing as their favorite character at conventions.
Advantages of Narrative Role Playing
- Increases Creativity-Narrative role-playing games, especially Dungeons & Dragons allows you to embrace your creativity. They come with many books allowing you to study your characters and skills, which allows the game master to direct the story better. However, each player must be creative to add to the story on their turn.
- Teaches STEM Skills-The fantasy game teaches you skills about physics and chemistry when deciding if certain magic spells are actually possible. With some creativity and math skills, you’ll learn how to make them work in many different realms.
- Builds Team Work-While role-playing games aren’t win or lose types of games, they require teamwork to keep the “story” moving. You’ll learn to work cooperatively and improve your social skills. These type of games are great way to strengthen friendships and get a regular group going.
Advantages of Cosplay
Cosplay involves dressing as a character from your favorite game or fandom and wearing it to various events. Cosplayers devote a considerable time and effort to creating or commissioning the ideal costume that speaks to them. Why do they devote so much time?
- Teaches creativity-It allows cosplayers to dig deep and be creative, especially if they’re making their own costumes. Some visit flea markets and junkyards for supplies. While their first costume may not be perfect, most cosplayers are enthusiastic about their efforts and eager to show it off.
- Character inhabitation-Cosplayers often select a certain character because it speaks to them. We all play different roles in our life-parent, business person, spouse, so often this character taps into our core being or issues. Some choose a specific superhero because of their strength or their journey from trauma to success.
- Community Integration-Many have discovered a large network and say they feel accepted in this community.
Role-playing and cosplaying are two plays to still play as an adult while learning some important life skills. If you need assistance adding more fun into your life, please contact us at (510)949-8668.
