Q&A for How to Play Dungeons and Dragons

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  • Question
    What are some good ways to start playing D&D if I'm interested but not sure where to begin and don't have a lot of money?
    Legends of Avantris
    Dungeons & Dragons Experts
    Legends of Avantris is a group of Dungeons & Dragons Experts and content creators of their successful eponymous YouTube channel. Composed of seven best friends whose passion is playing D&D, Legends of Avantris has built a multifaceted business, streaming on Twitch, running their YouTube channel, selling their successful merch line, producing their podcast, and launching their first Kickstarter campaign: The Crooked Moon, a folk horror supplement for 5th edition.
    Dungeons & Dragons Experts
    Expert Answer
    There are lots of ways to get into D&D without spending much money. You can find free online communities on sites like Discord to play virtually. That way you just need an account, not books or dice. Popular shows like Critical Role or Dimension 20 have Discord servers to meet other fans and play. Facebook also has groups to connect with players locally or online. If you prefer in-person games, check if your local game store hosts D&D nights. That's a great way to learn. Another idea is to get your friends together for a one-time game night. Order pizza, make characters, and give D&D a try just for fun. Often people find it so enjoyable that they want to keep playing after one session.
  • Question
    I've never played Dungeons and Dragons. Is it worth my money?
    Community Answer
    The books cost a lot. You should buy the starter kit to see if you like role playing games. If it is something you enjoy, then you should buy the books.
  • Question
    Does the dungeon master (DM) create the world from scratch?
    Community Answer
    Yes, the DM may create the world from scratch, but may also use a template found online or in a D&D book.
  • Question
    How do I get character sheets?
    Community Answer
    There are numerous websites that have pre-designed character sheets for various classes, or you can make your own.
  • Question
    Do I need a grid to play? If so, how large and what are the grid box sizes?
    Community Answer
    You do not need a grid. However, if you and your group are interested in using miniatures, then a 1 inch grid size is normal, with each 1 inch square marking 5 feet in the game. This can make battles more interesting, and having a ''mini" that shows off your PC's and their enemy can help the group picture whats going on in more detail.
  • Question
    We're just getting started. What do we need to be a DM?
    Community Answer
    Look up and/or purchase three core books; The Player's handbook, The Dungeon Master's Guide and The Monster Manual. You and your players would need to then read the books, and go on from there. You would also need to purchase yourself some dice. They usually come in a box from your local board game store, and the dice include a D4, a D6, a D8, a D10, a D12 and a D20.
  • Question
    We're just getting started and just want to see if we like this game -- what equipment is essential to playing for the first time? How much should these items cost, on the very low end?
    Community Answer
    Just get the players' handbook and a set of dice, which is all you need to be a player. You can spend as little as under 40 dollars (maybe less if you look around and buy used copies) and the player sheets can be printed out, so those are free.
  • Question
    Does the DM actually end up playing as a character at some point, or is he or she just controlling the game?
    Community Answer
    Generally, the DM does not have their own character. Instead, they control the game and the NPCs. However, the DM can do whatever they want since they're running the game.
  • Question
    What is the newest edition of Dungeons and Dragons?
    Community Answer
    The newest edition of Dungeons & Dragons is 5th Edition also known as 5e, released in 2014.
  • Question
    How can I bring myself to play when I'm scared of being judged for it?
    Community Answer
    I wouldn't be too worried! Being a nerd is "hip" these days. Everyone is pretending to know the most about LOTR lore and Harry Potter. Just find some other people who are interested in the game, and don't worry about what others think.
  • Question
    How do I know which type of dice to roll?
    Community Answer
    This information comes from the core set of rules. Certain actions require different dice. Dice rolls are also dependent on the players class, skills, and many other things.
  • Question
    How can I convince someone to let me join their group?
    Community Answer
    Just ask politely. If they are in the middle of a campaign, ask if you can come and watch. That way you can learn how the game works and join the next game.
  • Question
    Can I get good quality equipment off of Amazon?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can. However, shopping in a local store can help out small business owners and possibly introduce you to some cool people with similar interests, so that might be a good option as well if you have stores nearby that sell supplies/equipment for the game.
  • Question
    So, you basically make up everything as you go?
    Community Answer
    The dungeon master has descriptions of the areas, NPCs, encounters, and outcome of certain events, but it is largely improvisational, as there's no way to plan for every action that players make take. If you're a player, then yes; you develop your character as you envision, and then have the character react to situations and the environment in the manner you imagine he or she would.
  • Question
    How many people are needed to play?
    Community Answer
    You need three people: one Dungeon Master and two Player Characters (though more is better in my opinion).
  • Question
    What do I need to be a DM and how much does it cost?
    Stephen Jenkins
    Community Answer
    Only creativity is needed, and its all free. The DM guide gives basic rules you can throw out the window or use.
  • Question
    Is the starter kit a basic version of the three key manuals?
    Community Answer
    No. There is a basic version of the player handbook with instructions on how to play and create characters, along with a few character sheets, pre-generated characters, and a starter adventure.
  • Question
    Is there lore that should be followed?
    Community Answer
    There are some examples and templates, as well as a few suggestions for creatures and history, but nothing is set in stone. You can experiment with following templates or creating your own universe.
  • Question
    Can I play D&D with one person?
    Community Answer
    No, as you need one person to be the dungeon master, and at least two others to play characters.
  • Question
    Does every player need a set of dice?
    Community Answer
    No. You can use a website to roll, but it’s more traditional and efficient to use the real dice.
  • Question
    As a player, do you need to buy my own set of dice to enter into a game with others?
    Stephen Jenkins
    Community Answer
    No. You can borrow some. A good DM always brings extra dice for players. If no one shares their dice, you can always use a phone app or online dice roller.
  • Question
    Is there somewhere I can play an online game for free that's helpful for beginners?
    Roblox Community
    Community Answer
    Yes, there is a website called Roll20 where you can play many different games like D&D.
  • Question
    I want to be DM, but at the same time, I also want to play the game like the others. Can I do this?
    Community Answer
    Yes, as long as you are fair and balanced and do not rig the game either way.
  • Question
    How can I get a DM screen for playing?
    Community Answer
    You can purchase one at a book or comic store, order from an online retailer, or make one out of cardboard. The advantage of making your own is that you can print your own charts and info you want to glue or tape inside the screen.
  • Question
    Do I need miniatures?
    Extreme Gamer
    Community Answer
    You do not. You can use a whiteboard, a notebook, or move dice around the table.
  • Question
    How should game play work? I am playing a game with an individual who jumps in to do something every time the DM tells us something. I spent half of the last session doing absolutely nothing.
    Stephen Jenkins
    Community Answer
    Warn him. I have been that guy before. He may not even realize he's doing anything wrong. You could even make him turn into the damsel in distress if you find it humorous enough.
  • Question
    Can I be DM without the books?
    Extreme Gamer
    Community Answer
    Yes; DnD Beyond provides all the necessary stats and creation for D&D. You need a pen, paper, a few players, and your imagination. Then you're ready to DM.
  • Question
    Why do we need books if everything is about imagination?
    Extreme Gamer
    Community Answer
    The books determine the consequences of your actions. They determine the characters' stats, the NPCs, and the dungeons.
  • Question
    How do I play the non-tabletop version of D&D? I've been told there's a board game and a player-controlled version.
    Community Answer
    You may be referring to Dungeons & Dragons Online with regard to the player-controlled version. This is the computer version in which you create a D&D character and explore the realm.
  • Question
    Is this game a board game, collectible card game or a roleplaying game? I am very confused.
    Community Answer
    It's a roleplaying game; you keep track of your character's specifics on your character sheet and react to the situations the DM presents. While use of tabletop maps and miniatures are frequently used, it's not a requirement to play. Cards (other than perhaps keeping track of spells) are not typically used.
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