Some RPGs prioritize the "moment" or the story over strict rules. This philosophy suggests that good stories rise above their systems, allowing for unconventional gameplay where the mechanics might even be "fudged" to create a more dramatic occasion.

Whether traditional or weird, most RPGs share these common elements:

Beyond the standard "Fighter, Mage, Thief" archetypes, the genre contains experimental and "strange" entries that push the boundaries of what a game can be:

Games like The Sticker Game defamiliarize standard mechanics by having players use stickers in a notebook to affect an alternate universe, blending physical artifacts with narrative choice.