Using miniatures is a natural outgrowth of fantasy wargaming, from which role-playing games derived. As role-playing evolved, many games placed less emphasis on miniatures and maps, or none at all. Many games, both vintage and modern, nonetheless continue to support miniatures play, whether on a grid, hex map, or freestyle map.
Fantasy wargaming in an RPG context[]
Many games support the use of maps, with precise measurement and precise character movement. In this style, role-playing experience envelopes gameplay experiences that are basically tactical. Most such gams use a grid or hex map, or measure distances on a freestyle map.
Representation[]
Some games or tables use miniatures in a similar way, but not strictly adhering to a physical map, as in true fantasy wargaming. This may be because of a lesser interest in tactical play, or because the movement has escaped the defined parameters of a system. Miniatures are used to show position and distance. If there is a discrepancy in position, the GM can simply position the miniatures and consult with the players if they are in agreement as to the positions.
Visualization[]
Sometimes miniatures are used as icons rather than pawns. Miniatures can be moved around at will to show position and approximate distance, as well as displayed as a visual reference for a character. When miniatures are used purely for visualization, the game is not played as tactical fantasy wargaming.
Theatre of the Mind[]
Of course, some games dispense with miniatures entirely. This may be because the use of miniatures in visualization is seen as a hindrance to the imagination rather than a help, because tracking tactical movement is not feasible in that type of game, or because the game has a different emphasis than in representing a consistent physical reality. Particularly, less combative games may dispense with most tactical considerations.