Actual Play

So what is actual play?

Actual play, also known as live play, is a type of game that is produced and shared in some capacity. It may be a podcast, youtube videos, or live streaming. While it is often streamed live, it doesn’t really have to be. Many people choose to record and edit it before putting it online.

Actual play is a great way of seeing how a game plays in real life, and are great sources of inspiration for old and new players alike.

Actual play ranges widely in size and production quality. Some are huge, with millions of followers, filmed in professional studios, while others are small home games that people choose to share with a webcam.

What actual games have in common is that they allow the viewer to sit in on other peoples sessions.

It’s a growing genre of entertainment in the gaming community, with some creators having made it into the more mainstream meadia.

While actual play can be great for inspiration, it’s important to remember that a lot of it is produced by peofessional actors and entertainers. That doesn’t mean their games are any less real than yours. But remember that the point is to have fun. Your game is no less valid because you don’t have costumes, sets, or oscar worthy acting.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some actual play.