Translation guide
RPG (role-playing game) in Japanese is typically referred to by the borrowed term RPG, but there are also native terms and related expressions for tabletop and video game contexts.
RPG
RPG (video game)
テーブルトークRPG
RPG (tabletop)
Referring to a role-playing video game (console, PC, mobile).
The most common and direct way to say RPG in Japanese, used for both video games and tabletop RPGs. Pronounced as the English letters.
最近、新しいRPGを買った。
I recently bought a new RPG.
The full Japanese term for role-playing game, often used in formal or descriptive contexts.
このロールプレイングゲームはストーリーが深い。
This role-playing game has a deep story.
Referring to a tabletop or pen-and-paper role-playing game.
The standard term for tabletop RPGs, often abbreviated as TRPG.
週末に友達とテーブルトークRPGを遊ぶ。
I play tabletop RPGs with friends on weekends.
Abbreviation of table-talk RPG, commonly used in Japanese gaming communities.
TRPGのシナリオを作るのが趣味です。
My hobby is creating TRPG scenarios.
Discussing RPGs as a genre, or the concept of role-playing.
Used broadly to refer to the genre, just like in English.
RPGは日本で人気のジャンルだ。
RPGs are a popular genre in Japan.
In casual conversation, RPG (アールピージー) is universally understood. TRPG (ティーアールピージー) is specifically for tabletop games.