Beyond play: A scoping review of innovative applications of tabletop role-playing games

Felipe Garcia-Soriano; Maria Elena Fabregat Cabrera; Raúl Ruiz Callado

doi:10.31637/epsir-2026-2097

Autores/as

Felipe Garcia-Soriano University of Alicante https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3327-8989
Maria Elena Fabregat Cabrera University of Alicante https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0147-7025
Raúl Ruiz Callado University of Alicante https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6784-6225

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31637/epsir-2026-2097

Palabras clave:

Tabletop Role-Playing Games, Game-Based Learning, Therapeutic Role-Play, Social Innovation, Identity Exploration, Cognitive and Socioemotional Skills, Participatory Methodologies, Technology Integration in Play

Resumen

Introduction: Tabletop role-playing games (TRPGs) have transitioned from niche entertainment to powerful tools with applications in education, therapy, and social inclusion. Their unique structure fosters creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, yet comprehensive studies exploring their potential in diverse contexts remain limited. Methodology: This scoping review analyzed 110 studies using PRISMA-ScR guidelines, focusing on TRPG applications across education, mental health, advanced technologies, and community building. Data was extracted from academic databases, emphasizing studies in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Results: TRPGs showcased remarkable adaptability, improving learning engagement, cognitive development, and therapeutic results. Systems like Dungeons & Dragons dominate the field, facilitating identity exploration, socio-emotional learning, and collaborative problem-solving. However, linguistic biases, the lack of longitudinal studies, and overreliance on specific systems present challenges. Emerging applications include AI-driven storytelling, mixed reality integrations, and tailored educational interventions. Discussion: TRPGs offer immense potential for fostering inclusion, equity, and innovative problem-solving. Their adaptability highlights their role as tools for interdisciplinary collaboration and social innovation. Addressing gaps in diversity and quantitative research is critical to realizing their full potential. Conclusion: TRPGs are transformative tools for education, therapy, and social engagement. Future research should prioritize inclusivity, explore underrepresented populations, and expand technological integration to unlock broader societal impacts.

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Biografía del autor/a

Felipe Garcia-Soriano, University of Alicante

Sociologist, expert in social innovation, gamification and role-playing game design for the development of socio-emotional skills. PhD candidate in ‘Economics, Society and Business’ at the University of Alicante, he has been a visiting researcher at the University of Tampere (Finland) and has developed multiple projects in training, youth participation and organisational simulation. He has collaborated with educational, social and public entities in Spain and Latin America, with a line of work focused on the critical use of recreational tools. He currently combines his work as a project manager with applied research.

Maria Elena Fabregat Cabrera, University of Alicante

Maria Elena Fabregat holds a PhD in Sociology with Special Honours from the University of Alicante. She is a professor in the Department of Sociology I and a specialist in educational innovation, applied technologies and health sociology. She has worked in the private sector leading technological projects focused on education and ageing, and has coordinated university innovation programmes. Her teaching covers degrees in Sociology, Criminology and Education, and she has directed research work at multiple levels.

Raúl Ruiz Callado, University of Alicante

Raúl Ruiz Callado holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Alicante, where he currently serves as a professor in the Department of Sociology I. He has been dean, vice-chancellor and president of various academic networks, and has a solid track record in teaching and research in population sociology, social change and health. He has taught at universities in Europe and America and has directed numerous projects in the field of welfare and public policy. He is a member of national and international editorial and expert committees.

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