Picking your first tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) can be daunting. Here's a quick guide to help you get started:
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Know what you like:
- Story type (fantasy, sci-fi, horror)
- Rule complexity (simple vs. complex)
- Game length (one-shot vs. campaign)
- Group size (typically 3-5 players plus GM)
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Compare game systems:
- Beginner-friendly options: Monster of the Week, Fate, Roll For Shoes
- Consider cost and format (physical books vs. digital)
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Work with your group:
- Match player skill levels
- Find a Game Master
- Agree on learning curve and schedules
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Pick your game:
- Try before you buy (starter sets, free rules)
- Ask for help online or at local game stores
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Consider extras:
- Additional materials (dice, maps)
- Online play options
Remember, there's no perfect game for everyone. Start simple, keep an open mind, and focus on having fun with friends.
Quick Comparison:
| Game | Complexity | Genre | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| D&D 5e | Medium | Fantasy | All-around play |
| Monster of the Week | Low | Horror | Quick, casual games |
| Fate | Low | Any | Narrative-focused play |
| Call of Cthulhu | Medium | Horror | Mystery solving |
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Know What Games You Like
Picking your first tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) is exciting. But before you jump in, it's smart to figure out what you like. Let's break down the key things to think about when choosing your perfect game.
Pick Your Story Type
What kind of world do you want to play in? Maybe you're into slaying dragons in a fantasy realm. Or perhaps exploring far-off planets in a sci-fi universe is more your speed.
A survey of 60 TTRPG players found that 38 of them pick their game based on the genre they like or the vibe they want at the table. That's a big deal!
"Usually it's the genre, but the other leading factor is how complex the system is." - @DelvesDaily, TTRPG Player
Choose Your Rule Level
TTRPGs come in all shapes and sizes when it comes to rules. As a newbie, you might want to start simple.
Rules-light games are easier to learn and jump into. Some popular ones are Risus, Mouse Guard, and Fate.
"A rules-light system would probably serve a new group better – they tend to have fewer and simpler rules, relying more on winging it with whatever sounds cool/plausible." - Anonymous RPG Enthusiast
Fate is often recommended for new players. It's free, popular, and easy to pick up. It's a great starting point if you're not ready for a more complex game.
Plan Your Game Time
How much time can you and your friends set aside for playing? Some TTRPGs are built for long campaigns, while others work great for quick, one-shot adventures.
If you're just starting out, try something small first. A one-shot game is a simple adventure you can finish in one session, usually about 4 to 5 hours. It's a great way to test the waters without committing to a long campaign.
Count Your Players
The number of players can make a big difference in your game choice and experience. While TTRPGs can work with different group sizes, there's often a sweet spot.
Most people find that 3-5 players plus a game master (GM) is the magic number for TTRPGs. But you can play with just one player and one GM, especially in games made for smaller groups.
Michael Z @zayzayem, a seasoned TTRPG player, says:
"3 or 4 players, plus one GM. You might be able to manage 2 players and one GM. One player and one GM is not a good fit for new players, but when you have some experience, perhaps."
For beginners, starting with 3 players using simplified or "jumpstart" rules is often a good bet. This setup allows for interaction without getting too complicated or leaving players waiting around for their turn.
Compare Game Systems
Picking your first TTRPG? Let's break down what you need to know.
Simple vs. Complex Rules
TTRPGs come in all flavors, from quick-and-easy to brain-bending complex.
Simple systems? Great for fast, fun games. Complex ones? Perfect for those epic, immersive adventures.
"Simple systems rock for one-shot fun games. Complex ones? They're the secret sauce for epic tales that really get players fired up." - Anonymous, RPGnet Forums
But watch out. Complex systems can get messy. Sometimes you'll need to "fudge" the rules, which kinda defeats the purpose of having all those details in the first place.
Best Games for Beginners
New to TTRPGs? Check these out:
- Monster of the Week: Think Supernatural or Buffy. Easy to learn, light on rules. Character sheets? Just two pages. You'll be slaying monsters in no time.
- Fate: Old-school simple, but fits any story like a glove. Use stats you make up and simple dice rolls. It's spawned a bunch of other games, like The Dresden Files and Fate of Cthulhu.
- Roll For Shoes: Six rules. That's it. Perfect if you want to start with just the basics.
Check the Price Tag
Don't forget to count the cost. Some games need a ton of books, others want special dice or gadgets.
Take D&D. You're looking at about $150 for the three main rulebooks if you buy 'em new and hardcover.
Books or Digital Games
Old-school books or new-age digital? Your call.
Books feel great in your hands and don't need batteries. Digital versions? Cheaper, searchable, and fit in your pocket.
Many games offer both. D&D Beyond, for example, sells digital D&D stuff. You can get the Player's Handbook for $29.99, plus they throw in character builders and online play tools.
Work With Your Group
Picking your first TTRPG isn't a solo mission. Your crew plays a big role in the game you'll end up with. Let's break it down.
Player Skill Levels
Your group's probably a mix of TTRPG veterans and total newbies. No worries! The trick is finding a game that clicks for everyone.
Got a mixed bag? Try Dungeon World. It's a chameleon of a game that can adapt to different skill levels. As one player put it:
"Dungeon World is like the Swiss Army knife of TTRPGs. It's got something for everyone, whether you're a first-timer or a grizzled adventurer."
Finding a Game Master
Every TTRPG needs a ringmaster - the Game Master (GM). They're the storyteller, the voice of NPCs, and the game's engine. Make sure someone's ready to take the wheel.
All newbies? No problem. Take turns being GM. It's a great way to find out who's got a knack for it.
How Hard to Learn
Some games you can start playing in minutes. Others? Well, you might need to hit the books first. Be real about how much time your group wants to spend learning rules.
Want to jump right in? Check out Lady Blackbird. It's free and has a tiny 16-page rulebook. You could be rolling dice within an hour of downloading it.
But if your group loves crunching numbers and diving deep into mechanics, Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition might be your jam. Just be ready for a steeper climb.
Match Schedules
Let's face it - syncing schedules is often the biggest hurdle for TTRPG groups. Tackle this head-on from the start.
Kristen, a game writer and Dungeon Master, drops this wisdom:
"Communicating your desires and plans will ensure that you have found the right group to play with."
Not sure if you can commit to a long campaign? Start with a one-shot game. It's a great way to test the waters and see if your schedules actually line up.
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Pick Your Game
You've done your homework. Now it's time to choose. Let's break down how to pick your perfect TTRPG.
Try Before You Buy
Want to know if a game's right for you? Play it! Many TTRPGs offer free quick-start rules or basic versions.
Take the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Starter Set. It's a great way to test the waters of the world's most popular TTRPG. You get pre-made characters, a short adventure, and a condensed rulebook. In 2023, it'll set you back about $20. Not bad for a ticket to adventure.
Or check out the Call of Cthulhu Starter Set. This horror RPG gives you three scenarios, including the fan-favorite "Dead Man's Stomp". It's perfect if you want to see if solving mysteries and battling cosmic horrors is your thing.
Start With Free Rules
Many TTRPGs give away their basic rules online. It's a risk-free way to explore different game systems.
The Basic Fantasy RPG is a complete, rules-light system inspired by 1980s classics. And guess what? It's 100% free to download and use.
There's also the Aleph RPG, a full fantasy system under Creative Commons. It's got everything you need to run a fantasy campaign without spending a dime.
Find Help Online
TTRPG players love helping newbies. Don't be shy about asking for advice.
Reddit's r/rpg is a treasure trove of info. One user says:
"Go to the places where people are, and ask around. If you're looking for a niche system, search for players on their specific Discord server, forum, or Facebook group."
Local game stores are great too. They often host game nights or can connect you with nearby groups.
Plan for the Future
It's fun to dive into a new game, but think about the long haul. Consider themes, complexity, and time commitment.
Like quick, casual games? Try Monster of the Week. Inspired by shows like Supernatural and Buffy, it's easy to learn and perfect for groups that can't commit to long campaigns.
Want something deeper? Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition might be your jam. It takes more time to learn, but with tons of sourcebooks and adventures, it can keep you hooked for years.
Other Things to Check
When picking your first TTRPG, there's more to think about. Let's look at some extra features that can make or break your game night.
Extra Game Materials
TTRPGs often come with more than just rules. Take the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Starter Set. It's packed with dice, character sheets, spell sheets, pre-made characters, and a rulebook. That's enough to get five players rolling right away.
But why stop there? Some extras can level up your game:
- More dice sets
- A dice bag or tray
- Map-making stuff
These can really spice things up. As one RPGnet Forums player said:
"A good set of dice and a nice battle map can make all the difference. It's not just about the rules - it's about creating an immersive experience."
Story Length
TTRPGs come in all sizes. From quick one-shots to epic sagas that last years. Think about what fits your group best.
One-shots are perfect for trying new games or playing with different people. They usually wrap up in 4-5 hours, all in one sitting.
For longer games, aim for something you can actually finish. A 7-15 session campaign hits the sweet spot. It's long enough to build characters and plot, but short enough to see the end.
One RPG fan shared:
"I've managed to stitch together long-ish stories or mini-campaigns over 7-15 sessions or 16-30 sessions into a sort-of longer-form campaign on a couple of occasions."
Making Characters
Character creation can be a game in itself. Some systems let you roll up a character in minutes. Others? Hours of planning and backstory writing.
For newbies, pre-made characters are a lifesaver. They let you jump right into the action without drowning in rules.
If you do make characters from scratch, think about how complex it is. Monster of the Week, for example, uses just two pages for character sheets. Quick and easy to get started.
Playing Online
These days, many TTRPGs offer online play. If you're planning to game remotely, check out virtual tabletop (VTT) platforms.
Here's a quick look at some popular VTTs:
| Platform | Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Roll20 | Free to $99.99/year | Built-in video/audio chat, character sheets |
| Foundry VTT | $50 one-time | Highly customizable, self-hosted |
| Owlbear Rodeo | Free | Easy to learn, lightweight |
Just remember, most VTTs don't have built-in video chat. You might need to use something like Discord to talk.
Conclusion
Picking your first TTRPG is a big deal. It's the start of countless adventures. We've covered a lot, so let's wrap it up.
There's no perfect game for everyone. But now you've got the info to make a smart choice.
The goal? Find a game that clicks with you and your friends. Maybe you'll dive into D&D 5th Edition's fantasy worlds. Or maybe you'll solve creepy mysteries in Call of Cthulhu. There's a game out there for you.
Starting simple is okay. Games like Monster of the Week or Fate Core System have easy rules. You'll be rolling dice and telling stories fast.
TTRPG author Lucas Olah says:
"An open mind... is integral to the game."
Keep that in mind as you explore TTRPGs.
Think about your group when picking a game. All newbies? Go for clear rules and pre-made adventures. The D&D 5th Edition Starter Set is great for this. It's about $20 in 2023 and comes with a short rulebook and a ready-to-play adventure.
Don't forget free stuff. Many games have free basic rules online. Basic Fantasy RPG is totally free. It's a simple system inspired by 1980s games.
Remember, it's about the journey. Enjoy the group storytelling, the surprise dice rolls, and the friendships you'll make.
Need help? The TTRPG community is there for you. Check out online forums, game stores, or TTRPG conventions. You'll find friendly people ready to help.
Your TTRPG adventure starts now. Grab your dice, get your friends, and start your story. As Short Rest Studios says:
"May your rolls be high, your creativity boundless, and your journey through the realms of tabletop RPGs be truly legendary!"
FAQs
What is the easiest TTRPG to learn?
New to tabletop RPGs? Don't sweat it. Here are some games that won't make your head spin:
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: It's the big name for a reason. Clear rules, tons of online help, and a fantasy world that's easy to dive into. Perfect for TTRPG newbies.
Fate Core System: More into storytelling? Fate's got you covered. It's all about the narrative, with rules that don't get in the way of a good tale.
Savage Worlds: Want to jump right into the action? Savage Worlds keeps things simple and fast-paced.
These games come with easy-to-follow instructions and have big online communities ready to help you out.
How to get started with tabletop games?
Ready to roll some dice? Here's your game plan:
- Pick your poison: Look into different TTRPGs and find one that clicks with you.
- Round up your crew: Grab some friends or find fellow gamers online.
- Get your gear: Choose your game and grab the essentials (rulebooks, dice, snacks).
- Learn the ropes: Get familiar with the basic rules. Don't worry, you'll pick up the rest as you go.
- Build your character: Work with your group to create characters you'll love playing.
- Find a Game Master: Decide who's running the show. New to this? Take turns!
- Roll the dice: Jump in and start playing. Remember, it's all about having fun!
What is the easiest tabletop RPG to play?
"Easy" is in the eye of the beholder, but some TTRPGs are known for being newbie-friendly:
Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: It's popular for a reason. Clear rules and tons of resources make it a breeze to learn.
Fate Core System: If you're more about the story than the math, Fate's your game. It keeps things simple and puts the focus on spinning a good yarn.
Both games offer quick-start guides and have communities full of players ready to help you out. So pick one, grab some dice, and start your adventure!
