Freeform role-playing games occupy the middle-ground between traditional role-playing games and improvisational theatre. The players are typically in costume, with the degree of authenticity varying between and often within events. They usually have details provided beforehand about their character, and once the game is underway, the game is played by interacting with the other players in the way that they feel that their character would.

The organisers act as referees to resolve disputes and adjudicate conflicts, often with playing cards or some variation on scissors, paper, stone. Often the game runs in an entirely unexpected direction, and the referees are sometimes as surprised as the players at the outcome.

Some freeform games are set in a fantasy setting, others can be contemporary, historical or futuristic. Freeform games are a popular feature of some gaming conventions.

"Freeform" can also refer to computer-based (often chat-room-based) RPGs which lack rules, instead relying on the player's acting abilities and commitment to a good story. These systems must either rely on carefully selected individuals or strict moderation, in order to prevent less mature players from taking advantage of the rule-free environment.