I've always considered the difference between RPGs and CRPGs to be a very simple one.
In an RPG, a player may _attempt anything_ (they might not succeed, but there is no limit but your imagination).
In a CRPG a player may only attempt that which is permitted by the programming of the game. You are limited by the limitations of the program.
In an RPG, a player may _attempt anything_ (they might not succeed, but there is no limit but your imagination).
In a CRPG a player may only attempt that which is permitted by the programming of the game. You are limited by the limitations of the program.