I think a lot of people play D&D for the opportunity to self-insert into a fantasy world and be a hero or other sort of badass. I know I do! It's a fun way to explore your creative side and build interesting characters through actions that have lasting consequences. Good groups feel more like collaborative storytelling - to the point where many authors often lend from campaign events in their writing.
For those that don't like face-to-face groups (or mouth-words in general), I'd highly recommend looking up online MUDs (multi-user-dimensions). They can be a lot like the D&D experience, where you're prompted to act through being given 'descriptions' of what's happening around you. The world's always there too - so there's no need to wait for a Dungeon Master or group in order to play!
Good MUDs also let players leave marks in the world's history and make a lasting name for themselves. It's something I definitely hope to get right in the MUD I'm building. :)
What software(z) are you using to make your MUD?
I'm using Evennia for the fundamental base objects and session handling and building everything else from there. It's coded in Python!
It's very barebones, but it's very open-ended and modifiable. :)
Neat! Thanks for sharing.
I've never played a MUD, sounds very cool!
Ye. Text-based is best-based bruv. 8]
I've found they usually appeal to the kinds of people who've played D&D for ages and get how roleplay can be used to influence events. Follow me if you're interested at all! I'll be starting blogging about my one soon and I'll be talking a bit about my history with playing them. :)