Random Numbers

[Snowreap]

you need random numbers because the outcome of specific actions can't be known in advance. there are lots of games where probability applies, even games with no random numbers at all.

consider chess. there are no random numbers in chess (except that your opponent may choose to make a 'random' move), but chess rankings are based on probability. when two opponents have the same ranking, it doesn't mean they will always draw, it means that they are each expected to win about as often as the other does. but the outcome of any particular game can't be known until the game is actually played.

consider target shooting or archery. even a novice has some probability of hitting the bull's eye on any given shot. whether they do or don't can't be known until they shoot.

role playing games have always tried to reproduce this effect, and the most straightforward method has been to use random numbers.

-ken