Re-Spec

Overview

A common feature in RPGs, respecs are a quick and easy way for players to change the way their characters play. It's usually implemented to save high-level players some time from creating & leveling up whole new characters, just to experience a different facet of the game. In most cases, a respec refunds all the talent & attribute points, essentially allowing the player to redesign their character from the ground up while still maintaining their level of strength.
 

Massive Multiplayer Online Games

 
The concept of respec is very popular among MMOs where the players make huge time investments in their characters and still want to enjoy the different play-styles available to them. For example, in World of Warcraft, you can re-spec your talent points at anytime for a nominal gold cost and still maintain your gear & character attributes. It allows players of hybrid classes like Paladins to fulfill various roles depending on the challenge at hand.
 

Other Genres

With the increased usage of skill trees and talent points in other genres, it's becoming a common practice to allow players to change their specializations on the fly. For example, League of Legends allows players to re-spec their summoners before each round. This gives players the freedom to change their playing style depending on the kind of Champion they use.