Getting started with TTRPGs

Have you heard of Dungeons and Dragons, but are unsure where to find out more?

Unsure what the whole deal with tabletop rpgs even is?

Don't worry, there are resources to help you!

What is a TTRPG?

Part board game, part collaborative, improvised storytelling, with a sprinkle of your favorite genre. At its core, tabletop roleplaying games are about telling a story with your friends. Often, but not always, you play as one character throughout, with one person around the table presenting and representing the challenges you face. Dice rolls might represent the element of chance in your game. Will you make that difficult shot with your bow and arrow and pierce the dragon's tough hide? Why don't you for it!

Starting resources for D&D

Dungeons & Dragons, or D&D for short, is by far the most popular ttrpg system out there. But what's needed to get started? Most of your starting resources are already free online. The "basic rules" are a set of open, free essentials, without making the game overwhelming. There are several starting adventures out there by the official publisher, as well as beginner-friendly oneshots. You need a set of dice, but those can be digital in the beginning, just ask Google to "roll a d20" and you're good to go! Gather your party and get ready for an adventure!

https://dnd.wizards.com/what-is-dnd

Other TTRPGs - what's out there?

While D&D is by far the most popular TTRPG system, there are many options with different themes, settings, mechanics and difficulties. If the high fantasy setting of D&D isn't your style, perhaps you're more a fan of fighting monsters in a modern setting? Monster of the Week has you covered! Want to play in a bloody, dark social intrigue with vampires? Vampire: the Masquerade might be for you! There are hundreds of systems out there, chances are you can find something to fit your particular niche!

Finding a group to play with

This might be the biggest hurdle for people trying to get into the hobby. Many existing groups source their players from who's already in the community, and once a group is formed, that group will likeliy not accept new players for months or years. In addition, many ttrpgs require one of the players to take up the role of game master, which requires a more varied set of skills as a storyteller and arbiter of the rules. Even if you gather a group of other players, someone has to don the GM mantle. Forming a group is considered a difficult task, but not impossible! And if you feel up for trying your hand at game mastering, you should! It's much, much easier to find players for a game that already has a game master.

Ask questions!

Don't be afraid to reach out with any questions you might have! This club consists of tabletop nerds, some of which have been part of the ttrpg community for a good while. Chance is, someone here can help you out! Your question might even make its way into this guide. Happy adventuring!