Role-playing games have been a huge part of my life and a huge part of my training as a performer - learning social skills, meeting friends, and being a generally competent person - so I owe a lot to role-playing games.

The quote by Matthew Mercer, "Role-playing games have been a huge part of my life and a huge part of my training as a performer - learning social skills, meeting friends, and being a generally competent person - so I owe a lot to role-playing games," emphasizes the role of role-playing games (RPGs) in personal and professional development. Mercer highlights that these games provide opportunities to learn social skills, collaborate with others, and practice problem-solving, all of which contribute to becoming a more competent and confident individual.

The origin of this quote comes from Mercer’s experiences as a voice actor, Dungeon Master, and performer, best known for his work on Critical Role and other tabletop gaming projects. He credits RPGs with shaping not only his performing abilities but also his interpersonal skills, demonstrating that the skills developed through gaming extend far beyond entertainment and can have real-world applications.

The quote also underscores the idea that learning can happen through play and creative expression. Through role-playing, individuals develop empathy, communication, leadership, and adaptability, all of which are crucial for both personal growth and professional success. Mercer’s reflection illustrates that structured creative experiences like RPGs can be both educational and transformative.

Ultimately, Mercer’s words inspire a mindset that values learning through experience, creativity, and social interaction. They remind us that personal development can take many forms, and that activities often considered leisure, like role-playing games, can cultivate essential skills, deepen relationships, and prepare individuals for real-world challenges while fostering fun and engagement.