Glademaster said:
Stats and experience points are what makes a RPG a RPG in the world today. Just because that was the meaning doesn't mean it is still the meaning.
Just because something is used incorrect doesn't mean we have to change the official meaning. People today call an ammo magazine "clips", but soldiers and other firearms professionals still use the term "magazine" because it's more correct (since a clip is specific type of ammo-holder that slots into a magazine to load it).
Just because Diablo and others has given people the assumption that stats = RPG doesn't make it true. Stats and XP are a
part of RPG, but as an outgrowth of that underlying
choice. In Deus Ex I can only install one modification into, for example, my skin mod slot. This is permanent, too. It's not only an upgrade for my character (Stat/XP), but it's a fundamental choice because on one hand I can install this mod that makes me able to wade through bullets like rain, or this other one that enables me to laugh off attempt to taser me or burn me with plasma.
That's how RPGs roll. They're about choice. These choices not only affect the story, but they affect how your character evolves. You don't move along some linear path ("You're you! But stronger in every fashion!") but have the leeway to change your path. I can go through and be sneaky one time, another I can be a combat monster, etc.
The meaning of words change like gay doesn't have the same meaning today. JRPGs are RPGs trying to argue the point they aren't is stupid because you still have choices to not to do side quests which is still a choice and you still play a role. Even still by your definition they are still RPGs. You can ***** about lack of choice until hell freezes over but they are still RPGs.
The choice is
not participate in content is hardly a choice. It's choice that means nothing. True choice has
consequence. You can do Quest X and get reward Y, but people Z suffer for it. If you refuse the quest-giver then later in the game people Z are doing fine but the questgiver's thugs ambush you at random tavern #34, etc.
Choice that means nothing is not a choice.