Hack, Slash, Heal, Repeat: Theorizing the Concept of the Murderhobo in Dungeons & Dragons

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33063/ijrp.vi18.1191

Keywords:

trpg, narrative, murderhobo, playstyle, practice theory

Abstract

This paper works to flesh out the concept of the murderhobo particularly in the tabletop game Dungeons & Dragons. As a term known in the gaming world, the murderhobo has not been fully or clearly defined in game studies, though it could prove a useful topic in terms of game culture and player behavior. This paper seeks to provide an examination of the concept through a practice theory lens and relates how it could be seen in a multitude of ways in the gaming space. This investigation lays the groundwork for more purposeful discussion of the topic and its tie to game culture.

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Published

2026-04-04

How to Cite

Dashiell, S. (2026). Hack, Slash, Heal, Repeat: Theorizing the Concept of the Murderhobo in Dungeons & Dragons. International Journal of Role-Playing, (18), 51–61. https://doi.org/10.33063/ijrp.vi18.1191