RPG Actual-Plays are, quite simply, recordings of people actually playing a tabletop role-playing game.

Today’s Actual-Plays (often abbreviated to “AP”) go back to 2008, when Penny Arcade partnered with Wizards of the Coast to record a podcast called Acquisitions Incorporated (although there was a group that recorded a DVD of people playing together in the same year).

The podcast was well-received, but when The Adventure Zone and Critical Role launched (in 2014 and 2015 respectively), things really started moving. Since then, hundreds and hundreds of shows—both audio-only and video—have started up, and production values have been consistently raising the bar.

Why People Watch Actual-Plays Instead of Just Playing

If you’re new to the medium, you might be wondering this.

1. It’s storytelling you don’t control

Unlike a novel or scripted show, nobody knows exactly what’s going to happen—not even the GM (”Gamemaster”). That unpredictability creates real tensions and real stories, with the dice often responsible for huge twists and turns.

2. The cast often matter more than the game

The best actual-plays aren’t about rules mastery. They’re about chemistry: humor, drama, funny voices, dumb decisions. And sometimes smart decisions. And every once in a while, romance, believe it or not.

3. You can get a feel for systems without scheduling your own games

Curious about a new RPG but don’t want to read a 300-page rulebook? Watch an AP. You’ll feel the vibe quickly. This also applies to that long list of games you may never have the opportunities to play.

4. It’s background-friendly

Many shows are designed to be listened to like podcasts. Others lean heavily into visuals and editing. Some can be absorbed while you’re doing something else, and some grip you like a favorite movie.

Formats You’ll See

• Podcasts: Primarily or exclusively audio, with a wide range of production values, from one mic in the middle of a table to pro-grade multi-mic setups.
• Video shows: These also run a gamut of production qualities, and fall into 2 sub-categories:
  • Remote: The video you watch is a composite of multiple individual remote cameras. This became far more common when Covid hit. These are much easier to produce overall.
  • In-person: This requires a dedicated space, and often feature multi-camera setups and professional sets and lighting.
• Campaigns vs. one-shots: Long-running stories vs. single-session arcs. Some shows go on for years; others tell a story in a few hours.
• Live shows: quite a few groups do touring live shows, and it’s an altogether different—and delightful—experience watching your favorite cast roll dice in person.

Where do I start?!

There are a couple of logical first questions:

• What game do you want to watch? (You can view APs by game here)
• What form is best for you? Do you want a podcast-style you can listen to while driving, or a full-blown in-person filmed game? The APW search Format filter can help you narrow that down.
• What kind of mood do you like? Some channels and shows lean heavily into humor, whereas many others strive for a strictly serious, dramatic vibe.

I need recommendations!

Good news—the future of APW is getting recommendations based on your favorites and follows. So find some of your current faves and click the ❤️ button! And once you’ve done that, join the APW Discord and let us know what you’re looking for!