This summer, not everyone could travel to the shores of a Polynesian lagoon or the top of an Andean mountain. But for many, the world of role-playing games has become a compelling alternative — a way to explore imaginary landscapes without leaving the living room. Role-playing games, once seen as niche hobbies, are now evolving into accessible experiences that offer adventure, creativity, and shared storytelling. These games allow players to step into different roles, whether as a daring knight, a cunning wizard, or a mysterious explorer, and together, they craft stories that feel as real as any vacation. Modern role-playing games have moved away from the old stereotypes of complex rules and long preparation times. Newer versions, such as Chrysalis, aim to make the experience more intuitive and spontaneous. Julien Bès, one of the creators, explains that these games are designed to offer an "imaginary refuge" — a place where players can escape into a dreamlike world without needing a game master or extensive setup. This shift has made role-playing games more appealing to a broader audience, especially as the popularity of fantasy and science fiction continues to grow. To attract new players, game publishers are focusing on making entry easier. Starter boxes — compact sets with dice, cards, and other materials — allow players to jump right into the action with minimal effort. Dungeons & Dragons, a leading name in the field, has embraced this trend with its latest starter box, which resembles a board game and can be played almost indefinitely. For newcomers like Pauline, who tried the box for the first time, the visual aids and structured elements helped her understand the game better. "It's nice to have imagination, but you need shared references to make it work," she says. In recent years, role-playing games have also gained a new wave of popularity thanks to "kidults" — adults who enjoy these games as a cultural and creative activity. This trend has helped the industry grow, and it has also made room for new games like Cosmere, which broke crowdfunding records with over $15 million raised. Based on the universe of author Brandon Sanderson, Cosmere offers players a chance to explore unique and exotic worlds, making choices that shape the story. Another game, Daggerheart, has also gained attention for its emphasis on shared storytelling and creative freedom, allowing players to shape the narrative together. These games are not just about rules and dice — they're about connection, imagination, and the joy of building something together.