Hey, ama here. I’m a Ph.D. student @hokkaidouni, a member of @archaeorpg, and an illustrator. I’ll be your DM(dungeon master), so to speak, for this thread on “Critical Hits & Misses: Archaeology, Role-playing, and Online Engagement” for #PATC5. Let’s begin, shall we? (1/17)

While I have played #TTRPG (tabletop role-playing games) for several years, last year I encountered a group of archaeologists seeking a colleague to join their party for a playthrough of the introductory adventure the #LostMinesofPhandelver from #DND5E.
#PATC5 (2/17)

Our party has moved on Phandelver, but continues to ask questions raised in-game. What can ttrpgs offer archaeology? Conversely, what can archaeology offer ttrpgs?How can archaeologists develop models of digital engagement and collaborative storytelling via ttrpgs? #PATC5 (3/17)

First I want to consider the ways in which archaeology already utilizes role-playing, or assuming a role, which could be theatrical, educational, a simulation, or play. For example, field archaeology can be described as an adventuring party with a plot hook.
#PATC5 (4/17)

As the previous examples show, archaeology has the capacity and, dare I say, propensity for role-playing. Next, I'd like to discuss the role archaeology has within ttrpgs and how the discipline has contributed to its development.
#PATC5 (5/17)

In general TTRPGs depend on in-game archaeology, but encourage the pursuit of fame, glory, and riches over ethical considerations Most adventures are filled with ancient sites to explore, lost treasure to recover, and lore tied to fantasy landscapes and cultures.
#PATC5 (6/17)

These archaeological and anthropological themes within ttrpg have been addressed in critical readings. And many of the previous points are explored in research relating to #archaeogaming. Although it focuses on video games, this framework can extend to ttrpg. (7/17)

As archaeologists have developed video games, there are “homebrews” and established system-based resources informed by archaeology. For example, “The Archaeologist’s Handbook” offers useful information, plot hooks, and character builds for organizers and players. #PATC5 (8/17)

I want to conclude this thread by discussing the potential of digital engagement through ttrpgs. While the inclusion of “digital” might seem contradictory to a format with tabletop in its name, it encompasses recent trends in online spaces.
#PATC5 (9/17)

Since the advent of the internet, various platforms were used to host games & share resources. Recently, virtual tabletops have made games more streamline & recorded sessions are popular media forms. Series like @criticalrole & @thezonecast foster huge communities. #PATC5 (10/17)

There are various advantages to modeling archaeological engagement on this trend. For one, the ttrpg community has actively reinvented their public image and reached a wider audience. In doing so, they have gained support for their projects. #PATC5 (11/17)

TTRPGs offer a collaborative storytelling format oriented around aspects of archaeology, which audiences anticipate. Audience interaction through social media, forums, and chat features encourages further dialogue about archaeology.Our most viewed videos are ttrpg. #PATC5 (12/17)

While some systems maintain problematic elements, the general acceptance and expectation of unofficial content creates pathways to more holistic systems. Thus archaeological methodologies, theories, and ethics can be introduced to the game and audiences.
#PATC5 (13/17)

When it comes to sustainability, audiences respond positively to strong branding & consistent content production across most digital media platforms. It is important to understand how established series use these methods, and develop the skills to integrate them. #PATC5 (14/17)

So, where do we begin? @archaeorpg is in a formative stage, but other adjacent projects have engaged in digital dialogues via ttrpg. For example, @aznsrepresent balances actual play, critical readings of ttrpgs, & the creation of culturally sensitive content.
#PATC5 (15/17)

I’ll end on future considerations. As ttrpg content grows ubiquitous, is success based on quality of the show or the quantity of subscribers? Is it measured by the digital or the archaeological community? That needs an investigation check.
#PATC5 (16/17)

If anything, I hope this thread has encouraged a few readers to pick up a handbook or two, gather a few friends, and roll the dice. It has helped us pass time at home. Thank you so much for your time. #PATC5 (17/17)