How to Play a Video Game on Paper

Last Updated: December 29, 2021

What if you want to play a video game, but can't because you don't have any, or your parents say you can't play them, or your school doesn't allow it? What if you want play a game in school, in the car or anywhere and your Game Boy is dead? What if your parents are using the TV? Well then, why not play video games when you can make them on paper!

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:
Creating Your Own Characters

1
Get a blank piece of paper. It is recommended that you use graph paper, but any paper will do.
2
Draw some sort of monster on it, but don't fill up the page. It is highly recommended to use a pencil so you can erase when he gets hurt. If you have a pen, that is fine.
3
Give the monster a name and a health bar.
4
Draw one or two smaller characters. You can make them up yourself.
5
Give your character(s) a name and some health bars. Write a 100 above each health bar.
6
Draw a magic bar or a power bar or whatever you feel like.
7
Think up some attacks for your characters, and a few for the boss too. They should do varying amounts of damage.The strong ones use magic.
8
Have one of your characters attack. Subtract the attack value from the enemy when attacked.
9
Have the characters take turns attacking. You can play with your characters on the same team, or you can have all three go at it.
10
Once the boss is down to zero health, you have advanced to Level 2. Reward yourself by unlocking something like Power Armor or Fire Arrow or a new character. One idea is that every level you unlock a Fusion ability, which lets you merge two characters into one.
11
Once you're on level 2, keep going. There's really no limit in levels--just your imagination.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:
Using Pokémon Characters

1
Find or make up a Pokémon character. Draw its 3 evolution stages on a different page.
2
Do the same for the opponent.
3
Write up 4 moves, type, Health Points and status.
4
Use a health bar until one loses. Continue the game with levels and evolution as explained in Method 1.

Community Q&A

Question

Why should I use graph paper?

Community Answer

You don't have to, but the tiny squares make it easier for some people to draw proportions.
Question

Would you have to draw the attacks?

Community Answer

No, not technically. Just as long as you have a decent memory and/or can show that an attack hits by lowering the HP Bar, you're good!
Question

Could I use larger paper and play with more than one person?

Community Answer

Yes, you can do that.
Question

How can I make a platforme game on paper?

SolidSnake1246

Community Answer

Cut out a paper figure, draw a stage, and then get your paper figure and go through the stage.
Question

Could I make a fun RPG out of this?

Community Answer

Yes! Let your imagination go wild.
Question

I'm wondering if I should use a dry-erase board/marker. Wouldn't that make it re-usable and cleaner?

Community Answer

Yes, and you won't have random "attacks" all over the paper.
Question

Can I make a card game out of paper with Pokemon?

Community Answer

You can! Just make the cards and add their HP and attacks and you're set. They don't even have to be real Pokemon. Add in a hot dog or something!
Question

Is it possible to play Minecraft on paper?

Community Answer

It can be possible, but you would need to play it with modifications.
Question

How can I do this without my teachers noticing me?

Community Answer

Play outside of class. If you teacher is trying to stop you from doing something, it is most likely for a good reason.
Question

Shouldn't I just read a book or hang out with friends instead?

Community Answer

You can do whatever you like in your free time. If you'd prefer to do one of those things, go ahead. People have different interests.

Warnings

Don't make the boss too hard on your first time. You can always level up!

Thanks!
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If you're playing with multiple people, remember to play with someone who has an attention span long enough to enjoy the game.

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If you are at school or your job, don't add sound effects. Bosses and teachers will most likely get upset if they catch you doing this.

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