dnd-newcomers

[cinder forum]

Anyone got any tips for DM'ing? I'm going to try it for the first time

[jade sierra]

Demand cookies from players. Always 💯 a good idea 😛

||Do not do this unless they have a sense of humor.||

[jade sierra]

Decide what sort of game/adventure you want to focus on, and make sure your players know it before you start. You want to set expectations ahead of time, so people can plan their characters and concepts appropriately.

[lavish nimbus]

I’m new to the game and haven’t even made my first character yet now so I find a dm and a game then make my character or how would I go about starting everything

[inner thistle]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[jade sierra]

The best way to be ready for a game as a new player is to read The Player's Handbook. If you're not the reading type of person, there are also a number of Youtube videos that can cover the basics at least.

Also, that ^ 😅

[inner thistle]

^^

We also have channels for finding games too!

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[inner thistle]

Make sure you read the pins in the channels :)

[lavish nimbus]

Ok thank you now would there be anyone you know that would be willing to walk me through I learn best when someone kinda takes me through a step by step process

[cobalt frigate]

I highly recommend Critical Role's "Handbooker Helper" tutorial videos on Youtube.

[lavish nimbus]

Ok I’ll check it out thank you guys this is a great discord everyone’s amazingly helpful

I’m not going to lie I was nervous thinking other players would look down on a neewbie like me but you all been so awesome such a great community

[jade sierra]

Everyone was a newbie at some point! Hope you have an amazing experience!

[lavish nimbus]

I think I should with you guys backing me up thanks again

[smoky sun]

Hello It's nice to meet everyone. I'm new to playing D&D and I'm interested in joining a campaign. I'm looking forward to playing 5th edition campaigns.

[pastel lichen]

welcome !

[smoky sun]

Hi. nice to meet you

[twin cedar]

Hi, I'm Joe. I've played first edition for a little while, but now I want to get into 5e.

[pastel lichen]

Welcome!

?new

!new

Hmmm there is a bot post that lists all the starter resources

[jade sierra]

Probably a mod command

[pastel lichen]

Like free rules and what not

[jade sierra]

The info is in the pins for the channel, too. 🙂

[pastel lichen]

Ooh! Good to know. Check pins for the free basic rules 🙂 helps get right in

[twin cedar]

Cool thanks!

[smoky adder]

There’s an article here with some good advice.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/159-starting-strong-at-your-first-dungeons-dragons

[compact bramble]

How do I join a group of people who could help me begin my first adventure? I feel completely stupid trying to start on my own.

[obtuse ocean]

#looking-for-players #750812887697588356

[echo kelp]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[echo kelp]

^ Any of these channels are for finding a D&D game

[novel citrus]

their are rules?

i gess im fallowing them

[topaz garnet]

They mean the game rules

[carmine vigil]

Can I use DND beyond to simulate the starter pack dungeon for free?

[smoky adder]

Could you clarify a little? What exactly are you trying to do?

[exotic river]

What source book(s) would yall recommend if I'm looking for a lot of monsters and a lot of player races?

[topaz garnet]

Mordenkainen presents Monsters of the Multiverse

[gleaming kestrel]

yep, DnD beyond offers the set of rules and the Lost Mines of Phandelver for free, the only thing that you would be missing out are the dice

[simple goblet]

There are free digital dice available on the site, or you can cheaply pick up a physical set online

[orchid ore]

great book

[crude musk]

So for the app, you don't need to set anything up there other than sign in with the same account you use on D&D Beyond. Your characters and books will be downloaded and you'll be good to go

For campaigns, just go to My Campaigns and select the option to create a new one. Give it a name and maybe a description, then hit create. You'll see an invite link in the top right; send that link to your players and they'll be able to either join with a character they've already made, or make a new one directly in the campaign.

As a DM, you can also create unassigned characters directly within the campaign that your players can claim

[loud tangle]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[lyric fjord]

Where can I join public campaigns?

[simple goblet]

What do you mean by Public Campaigns?

[lyric fjord]

Like somewhere ppl allow others to join

[crude musk]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[jade wigeon]

If any newbies want to join a 40 min Zoom call today (Noon EST) where I teach you the Players Handbook please let me know! I'd like to practice teaching the game to newcomers.

[indigo sail]

I was just about to ask if anyone can teach me alittle abit as I have been wanting to play DnD for a while but never had the motivation till now so yeah i wouldn't mind! || @jade wigeon ||

At what time do you host this call?

[crude musk]

This should be taken to private messages

[indigo sail]

How long does a campign session normal last

[crude musk]

Depends on the group

Some tables do 2-3 hour sessions, some do upwards of 6

[uncut galleon]

I wanna host a game but I'm completely new to DMing I have an idea but I have no Idea on how to format it

[simple goblet]

Start small and spiral outwards as your group progresses. You only have to build the bulk of the story as the party is about to experience it. As long as you know the primary antagonist, motivations and themes then you can build 🙂

[uncut galleon]

That actually helps more then I've been told

[gleaming kestrel]

I would recommend watching "The Local Area" video from Matt Colville

[uncut galleon]

The Local Area Is it on youtube?

[gleaming kestrel]

yep

[uncut galleon]

ty

[magic socket]

How do you make a character sheet? I did mine in beyond, but that's just a crutch and doesn't teach you anything

[simple goblet]

Have you read the chapter on creating a character in the Basic Rules? That walks you through the important choices and the meanings of the stats 🙂

[smoky adder]

Is there a specific part of the sheet you had questions about?

[crude musk]

that's more of a #character-discussion question, but any race with custom origins

[magic socket]

I guess just things like modifiers and what all affects them

[hot silo]

Hi everyone i was wondering if this was the right server to ask a Question, Im currently running a game with some vampires and one of my players is a Paladin, Is there an item or spell the Vampire can use to not be detected as an Undead ?

[mortal garden]

You could probably come up with your own item/spell, but to start you off, you might find value in Nystul's Magic Aura! https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells/nystuls-magic-aura

Mask. You change the way the target appears to spells and magical effects that detect creature types, such as a paladin’s Divine Sense or the trigger of a symbol spell. You choose a creature type and other spells and magical effects treat the target as if it were a creature of that type or of that alignment.

[simple goblet]

I think Ring of Mind Shielding prevents creature type identification from via telepathy so might be another one to use as inspiration

[fresh fable]

Are your players dhampir?

[hot silo]

The party is fey and humanoids

[fresh fable]

So none of your party members are dhampir? Dhampir count as humanoid so don’t show on Devine sense

[smoky adder]

To do it manually, you’d start with your ability scores, then calculate your ability score modifiers.

After assigning your ability scores, determine your ability modifiers using the Ability Scores and Modifiers table. To determine an ability modifier without consulting the table, subtract 10 from the ability score and then divide the result by 2 (round down).
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#3DetermineAbilityScores

You can find that table here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#AbilityScoresandModifiers

Then the rest of the bonuses are typically a combination of some ability score modifier and potentially your proficiency bonus.

Your proficiency bonus is based solely on your character level, as shown here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#CharacterAdvancement

[slate ravine]

hello is a sorcerer a good class and even though some classes are a little better than others they are all close to being equal to one another?

[untold flint]

It's all a question of what it is you want to do. Sorcerers have a smaller selection of spells they can learn compared to Wizards, and do not come with the ability to cast spells as rituals(utilitarian spells where you can take longer to cast them without using a spell slot). Their upside is their use of Sorcery Points to modify the way their spells are cast with tricks like extending the range or duration, re-rolling low damage rolls, protect allies from area-of-effect spells, etc. The #dnd-discussion or #character-discussion channels might be better places to discus the pros & cons of each class. Just keep in mind that there is no definitive ranking of classes, it's all about what suits your playstyle and the character you want to create.

[smoky adder]

Pick whatever interests you most! (I’ve had a lot of fun as an artificer.)

[surreal rune]

Hi

Can someone show me where I should introduce myself?

[crude musk]

You don't need to

Just jump into conversations

[echo kelp]

Pro-tip: read the room before jumping in

[uneven fable]

where doth one find a game to join?

[thick bison]

#looking-for-players

[ruby compass]

How do I join a new campaign

[thick bison]

You just find one you like and if there are any restrictions make sure you fit them then just pm the dm

[robust reef]

Hi Guys,

I'm new to d&d and have played 2-3 times with some friends. Everyone seems interested and willing to play but having a dm is something no one is 100% good at or ready for. I tried it once and definitely missed a few things but somewhat followed the campaign. And tips for playing as the DM? We were playing The Lost Mine of Phandelver.

Also I currently made a human paladin character. Kind of always liked the sword and shield type characters, do you guys have tips for a noob?

[digital helm]

Check out Matt Colville's YouTube series "Running the Game"

[grand shoal]

Smite everything

[brave granite]

If YouTube is your thing there are dozens of D&D related YouTubers. Matt Colville is a favorite, start at the beginning and then pick topics you're specifically interested in after the first dozen or so.
I also recommend Matthew Perkins LMoP videos. There are others who talk specifically about the adventure that are good, but I like his best.
Handbooker Helper is a lovely starter series, mostly for players, it doesn't get super in depth, but for basics they are light and easy.

If you prefer to read your content Sly Flourish has a book, a blog and a YouTube channel. Also I hear great things about the Alexandrian, but I rarely have time to read blogs anymore.
Discord servers are also great. There's a good one specifically for LMoP and another for Newbies (both players and DMs), and probably hundreds more.
#1 DM tip is communicate with your players! It can sometimes that can be difficult and uncomfortable if you're not used to it, but it's really so important. As are safety tools, even if you're playing with friends. I've had triggers come up in game that I didn't know would trigger me. If I didn't know, how would my friends have a chance of knowing?
And lastly if DMing doesn't feel comfortable you can always hire a DM to run for your group. Prices vary but the average is about the price of an outing to the movies. You can play in a one shot to "see how it's done" or hire someone for a longterm campaign. Either way you can ask questions and get a feel for the game without feeling on the spot. Often the assumption is that the DM has all the answers, that isn't true, but it can feel safer to play for a while first.

Good luck and have fun!

[restive gate]

Hiya! I've never really played D&D before, but my dad loves it and often plays it with friends or watches critical role. I thought it was pretty cool, so i wanted to do it. Anyone have tips on how to get started?

[crude musk]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[robust reef]

@grand shoal everything will be suited.

@digital helm thanks for the recommendation.

@brave granite appreciate the info and tips. Thank you.

[mint citrus]

heya

i was wondering if I'm allowed share my work over YouTube

[crude musk]

That's not really a newcomers question

[mint citrus]

basically it's a homebrew world compatible with DND rules

oh

[crude musk]

Might wanna ask in #dnd-discussion

[mint citrus]

k

ty Davyd

[magic socket]

what's the best class for a new player

[mortal garden]

Some folks will recommend a “martial” class like Fighter or Rogue.

But in my experience, the best one is the one you are really, really are interested in playing. That motivation helps a lot when learning!

[inner thistle]

Indeed. That said casters can be a bit more learning intensive^^

[untold flint]

A Fighter with the Champion subclass is probably the "simplest", but it's also not terribly interesting for a lot of players, so a newbie might find themselves getting bored with it. For casters, I found Warlocks pretty easy to get into as a newer player. Fewer spell slots that recharge on a Short Rest meant not having to budget my spells over the course of a full adventuring day. And Eldritch Blast means always having an effective at-will attack unless the DM throws a Helmed Horror at you 🙂 Warlocks can be pretty backstory-heavy, but it wouldn't be hard to work out a streamlined story with the DM.

[steady ember]

I once played a warlock whose backstory wasn't determined until like 6 months into the game

I guess it kinda depends on the campaign

[pastel comet]

I am confused on how this works I am taking a feat and it says it will increase my wisdom by 1 but when I take it nothing changes on my sheet

[untold flint]

Which feat?

[steady ember]

Sounds like a technical issue

[echo kelp]

#ddb-support is the best place to ask about technical issues

[mortal garden]

Ah that might be correct. A lot of things on your sheet are keyed off of your ability score modifier which only changes on even numbers.

[echo kelp]

But also caching is a wonderful and terrible thing - sometimes waiting 10 minutes resolves it

[pastel comet]

telekenetic

i plan on using that with spike growth to push people around in it

[smoky adder]

Can you share a link to your character?

[pastel comet]

https://ddb.ac/characters/70846532/abm08w

[woven topaz]

HI, i am cerberus i have never play DnD but want to learn i am looking for some one to help me learn how to play.

[untold flint]

That shows your Wisdom is 16 and you don't have the Telekinetic feat. What happens when you take the feat?

[pastel comet]

it is alot of fun i found a great dm that has helped me alot post something in looking for dm

[pastel comet]

nothing

[woven topaz]

ok will do thanks mate

[pastel comet]

i can change it and see if its maybee something i missed

[untold flint]

Also, you're a Level 3 Tiefling, how do you already have a feat?

[smoky adder]

Welcome! We’ve got some helpful starters links here, but if you’ve got any specific questions, feel free to ask!

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[pastel comet]

well I did not start as a tiefling there was some reincarnation that took place and our dm let us keep our stats

at lvl 4 i can take a feet

i was a human before

[smoky adder]

Anyway, if your Wisdom is 16 (+3) normally, adding one would take it to 17 (also +3).

You’d need to get to 18 before the modifier changes to +4.

[pastel comet]

that is what i thought but i did not see a change just wanted to make sure I understood how it worked

https://ddb.ac/characters/70846532/DvnO77

i changed it am i just missing it somewhere?

[smoky adder]

Ah, I see. You’ve got an override on your Wisdom score, which always sets it to 16.

If you delete the number there, it should all work as expected.

[pastel comet]

probably happened when the reincarnation happend

tyvm

[smoky adder]

Based on that screen, it looks like Telekinetic should bump your normal 15 (+2) up to the current 16 (+3).

[half barn]

I just got in to dnd and dont know where to start in discord. I know that there is communities to play together, (this is my first one) but i dont know where to find the game that people play online and with the community. This is my first time i am playing online, even though i dont have much experience with dnd. Any tips?

[inner thistle]

We have a bunch of helpfull tips here in this channel just for that :)

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[half barn]

ah

thanks

will read, and if i have any more questions, i know who to ask :)

[mellow garden]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[fossil lark]

So, I'm some what new to D&D, most of my friends that are into and do D&D gave me the jist of what happens and anawered afew questions that I had, some time ago I made my first character and made a race for my character so now I mainly want to just join a session to get the feel for how it is

[smoky adder]

Welcome! We’ve got a few channels here to help you find a game. 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[lyric fjord]

im new

[vast dock]

Hello, I was wondering if there is someone that maybe could guide and help me finish building my character, answer a few questions. If we can have like a chat where I share my screen. That would be great.

If that's possible.

[lyric fjord]

Im new at dnd so cant someone help me

[crude musk]

We have lots of useful resources in the message above

If you're looking for specific help, feel free to ask questions

[lyric fjord]

Im confused

[crude musk]

By what? People here are very helpful

[vast dock]

Sup mate. What's a Generation method?

[crude musk]

It's the method you use to generate your ability scores. There are three official methods; standard array (a fixed list of numbers you put where you want), point buy (build your scores from a pool of points), or random using 4d6kh3 (roll four dice, drop the lowest number, add up the rest)

[vast dock]

Alright. Cool.

[gloomy ridge]

How can I include my new bought collectors Edition of Players, Monsters and Dungeon Masters Handbook into the D&D Beyond App? Don't want to buy everything again. Ordered IT via Amazon.

[crude musk]

You can't; there is no way to redeem physical books on D&D Beyond after you've purchased them
The only bundles (that include codes emailed to you when you buy the bundle) are sold through the Wizards of the Coast D&D store; dndstore.wizards.com

[gloomy ridge]

Okay thanks for your help

[river perch]

hey, just wondering if rolling for stats are all the same dice? just wondering, i’m making one of my first characters without the website

[frank oyster]

Yes. Rolling for stats are 4d6.. keep highest three

[river perch]

thank you so much!!

[crude musk]

yep, 4d6 (four six-sided dice), drop the lowest result and add up the rest

[frank oyster]

Np

[river perch]

thanks for your help! i’m going to start my first session with my brothers in a few weeks

[frank oyster]

Awesome. I hope it is a blast. Enjoy!!

[river perch]

thanks!!!

[gloomy ridge]

So this is the reason I can't choose Dark Elf in the race list I think?

[crude musk]

Yep, it's not included in the Basic Rules/SRD

[frank oyster]

You can get just that race alone if you dont want to guy whole sourcebook. They are cool that way

Buy not guy

[gloomy ridge]

Okay, will have a look. Thanks

[jade wigeon]

If anyone wants to join me for a 40 minute review of the Player's Handbook over Zoom send me a DM

[crude musk]

@jade wigeon please use #dnd-advertisements in future

[elder schooner]

Hey, do I make a character first, or do I join a game first?

[halcyon forge]

Most DMs will want you to make a character for their game, so while building a character mechanically and having a basic idea of what sort of personality you'll want can be helpful, I'd be careful about anything more than that.

[elder schooner]

Aye gotcha

thanks!

[terse viper]

any advice on how to find a group and dm?

[fallen surge]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[fallen surge]

You find/make posts in these channels, to find a group

[lyric fjord]

can someone help me understand what to do

[echo kelp]

Check out the pinned message on this channel. Lots of useful information to help get you started. But ultimately it comes down to you read the rules to figure out how the game works, maybe watch other people play the game, then you maybe try your hand at making a character, then you find a group of people to play the game with and join in with the fun.

[terse viper]

can someone help understand the 5e character sheet for roll20?

[echo kelp]

Doesn't Roll20 have forums? They might be better at answering your questions about how their D&D 5e sheet works.

[terse viper]

oh

ok

[echo kelp]

I'm sure others here might be able to help but yeah, best to get support from the company that actually creates that tool.

Even though I play on Roll20, I generally don't use it's tools beyond the map/tokens. I use DnDBeyond for my character sheets.

[terse viper]

ohhhh

should I try that

[echo kelp]

Well I do suggest you test things out and decide what tools work best for you and how you like to play.

[dense umbra]

I've mostly played on roll20 completely (character sheets included). If you're starting a character from level 1 from the original PHB materials, you should be able to drag and drop all the stuff from the compendium roll20 has available, but beyond that it gets iffy on what stuff they have for free and what stuff you have to pay for/just make yourself

[echo kelp]

DnDBeyond also only offers the SRD/Basic Rules materials for free - everything else needs to be purchased or created by yourself.

BUT DnDBeyond does allow you to purchase specific items without needing to buy the whole book - so it can be easier to just get specifically what you need.

[glacial mica]

My 11 year old nephew just announced that he wants to play D&D with a couple friends for his birthday in 2 months and wants me to DM. I loved the game when I was his age but I haven't DM'd in like 30 years and will likely have to run the adventure online. Anyone have any recommendations to help me pull of a fun adventure for them that will give them a positive experince.

[lyric knoll]

Hi, I just started playing dnd yesterday for the first time. Took hours to make a character and now I have no idea what to do. Any suggestions? I'm totally new to all this so any suggestions would be helpful.

[ashen junco]

@glacial mica ya man, lost mines is real easy and a great D&D feel

[versed oasis]

In 2 months? Yes: Run Dragon of Icespire Peak online with some slightly experienced players playing L1 characters, so you can get back into the swing of DMing. 2-3 sessions online will set you up. I think that's better than Lost Mine, since DoIP has choices of almost stand-alone quests the players can choose from. Helping the party create characters may be a challenge (take a lot of time away from play), so you may want to have a set of pre-generated characters ready for them to choose from.

[limpid wing]

I too have yet to find a campaign or anything to get into with my character. I played this game 20 years ago with a book and group of people. It was fun and would live to do again and thought about buying the $500 bundle but cannot figure out how to start a campaign. Technology handicapped I feel

Hope to be on a campaign and playing soon.

[fresh fable]

https://locator.wizards.com/ find a store near you 😁

[crude musk]

Also we have have finding channels

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[steady ember]

I ran a game online that consisted of 2 8yos, an 11yo, and the dad of two of them. I was also teaching them how to play D&D and Roll20. I ran it as thus: an opening encounter fighting stirges, they meet a grateful druid, who tells them that X needs rescuing (I knew the 11yo and 8yo had recently gotten a baby brother, so basically they rescued their baby brother). They encountered a few natural obstacles (river, tall rocks, slippery terrain), then did a boss fight and rescued their baby brother.

I had the players make their character sheets before the game, and I looked at them to know what their skills were, and based the random encounters/who the kidnappers were on that.

I found running a module to be more difficult as a new DM. Now that I have 4 years of DMing under my belt, I understand how to read them.

The suggestions of running a short campaign with other folks is a good one. Running a game with kids is insanity. They all want to talk at once and they all want to fight all at once. You have to keep things very simple, not because kids are stupid, but because half the time they aren't listening and the other half of the time they are overthinking it.

[glacial mica]

That is the sound of experience 😆

[glacial mica]

I have decided to go with Dragon of Icespire Peak. I picked it up for Roll20 and D&D Beyond (Redundant I am sure). I am watching some sessions on YouTube and I am going to try to run it with some adult friends first, so I can work out the process. Thank all for you suggestions.

[sleek arrow]

Hey everyone, im new to DnD, i've spent probably $400 on DnD books on DnDBeyond but i've only ever played one actual game at my local comic book store. Now i have an Itch i just can't scratch. would love to find a group to play more regularly.

[lyric fjord]

Hi im new to dnd how do i play this

[slender cape]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[slender cape]

Here are some resources to get you started, the YouTube series is really helpful as I used it when I started too.

[tacit topaz]

How do I calculate “to hit” in combat? I am new to 5e

[crude musk]

Your to hit bonus is (before any other special bonuses such as magic items) the relevant ability modifier (usually strength or dexterity) plus your proficiency bonus (if you're proficient in the weapon)

So for example, if you have a greatsword (which uses strength) that you're proficient in, your proficiency bonus is +2 and your strength modifier is +3, your to hit bonus will be +5 (+2 prof +3 strength)

If you're using a +1 longbow (which uses dex), your dex bonus is +5 and your proficiency bonus is +3, your to hit would be +9 (+5 Dex, plus +3 proficiency, plus +1 magic item bonus)

[tacit topaz]

Gotcha. But what is the # need to roll

[little briar]

the AC of your target.

[tacit topaz]

Thanks

[tacit topaz]

What is DC?

[crude musk]

It's the "Difficulty Class", a numerical value representing how difficult a task is

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/using-ability-scores#AbilityChecks

[wooden frost]

Hi, i need help with the roll 20 character list becoes im making a cac sheet for a friend but i cant edit something's that need to be edited and add a subclass as well

[crude musk]

This channel is for topics relating to the basics of D&D, if you need help with roll20 the best place to ask would likely be their forums

[high brook]

what does wisdom do?

[crude musk]

None of the ability scores do anything innately
Instead the game references them

[high brook]

ok

thank you

[smoky adder]

There's a number of examples here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/using-ability-scores#Wisdom

[tacit topaz]

How does resistance work?

[crude musk]

It reduces the damage you take from a source you're resistant to by half (rounding down)

So say you're resistant to fire damage and take 19 points of fire damage from fireball. You would instead take 9 points of damage (half of 19 being 9.5, which you round down to 9)

[tacit topaz]

Thanks.

[umbral aurora]

Hey everyone! I'm a new player who doesn't know all of the rules of DandD, but i really want to learn. Anyone who would be willing to train me/play afew rounds, please DM me! Much love!

[tacit topaz]

May I have a rule book reference?

[inner thistle]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources:

• The FREE (!) Basic Rules can be found here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules
• Check out our New Players Guide, which walks you through the basics: https://www.dndbeyond.com/essentials
• Here's an article walking you through making your first character: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/724-new-players-guide-making-your-first-character
• A Todd Talks clip about introducing people to D&D: https://youtu.be/yHRDn-f03nE
• Need some guidance on how to play D&D over the internet? Here's a full article walking you through the details (https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online) and a How to play D&D online with Lauren Urban on Todd Talks (https://youtu.be/_ThfJ3NTdC4)
• Need more? Here's a collection of all of our New Player's Guide's for you to check out! https://www.dndbeyond.com/tag/new-players-guide

Don't forget to check out our server rules in #520291181083754516 and also pick your roles (to unlock more channels) in #880965682462875679

You can access these resources at any time by referring to the pinned message in this channel!

[smoky adder]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/combat#DamageResistanceandVulnerability

[umbral aurora]

When you roll to determine your hit points, do you do that once for permanent, or does it happen before every encounter?

[lyric fjord]

How do I link my discord to DDB

[echo kelp]

Hit Points are determined at the start of your character and then at every level up (not encounter)

[echo kelp]

Log into your DnDBeyond account on the website and under your profile there should be an area to link your Discord account.

[lyric fjord]

Thank you

[umbral aurora]

I'm choosing an elf, what spell should i choose for cantrip?

Whatever that means...

[crude musk]

You might wanna take a look at the basic rules
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[echo kelp]

Yeah give the basic rules a read through. Then if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask them here or in an appropriate channel.

[smoky adder]

That’s here, if you’re still looking.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/account

[umbral aurora]

I currently am.

[smoky adder]

Cantrips are described here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/spellcasting#Cantrips

[lyric fjord]

Thank you

[smoky adder]

And you can find the list of available cantrips here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells?filter-level=0

[lyric fjord]

Also how do I load my character sheet to avrae

[crude musk]

That's more of a #ddb-avrae-help question

[lyric fjord]

Okay thanks

[umbral aurora]

Alright. Character sheet is all done. Now i just need someone to play with.

[crude musk]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[lyric fjord]

Can you join and watch other people's campaign/adventures?

[echo kelp]

It’s easier to watch D&D livestreams or YouTube videos of groups playing D&D. Most small groups generally don’t like random strangers dropping in to watch their games without prior invitation.

That said sometimes groups play games here on this public server in the VC or game channels and there’s nothing stopping you from watching games being played there.

[tacit topaz]

Does healing magic causes wounds to undead?

[echo kelp]

Spells only do what they say they do - and no, in D&D 5e generally healing spells don't cause damage.

[empty ocean]

hey guys any DND campaigns today that a new person can join in im looking to learn and have a bit of fun

[smoky adder]

We’ve got a few channels to help you find game. 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[tacit topaz]

Thanks. I think once upon a time healing undead causes damage/ bring them closer to rests. 😉

[echo kelp]

Yeah I think that was a thing in earlier D&D editions.

[high brook]

I want a online dm

And I want them to use the D&D beyond app

[topaz garnet]

that was a thing during the days of using positive and negative energy, which was basically heal/damage depending on if you were in life or undeath.
While the specifics rules are better functioning, it'd be a neat thing to put on an old crypt where the undead heal off necrotic but take damage from "restores hit points" things

[bitter tusk]

hey this is a dope game im new. only time iv played when i was out on deployments

[prisma relic]

where is it shown how much exp i need to gain a level

on dnd beyond character sheet

[crude musk]

If you have XP set as the progression method, there will be a bar in the top left below your character name, to the left if your characters avatar

[prisma relic]

do i need to buy anything to play i saw that there were a lot of book there but i have no idea if they are necessary to play

[crude musk]

So you don't need to buy anything to start playing, the basic rules are free: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

Now, this won't give you all the options, those are what you need to buy (extra races, magic items, monsters, subclasses etc)

However, a lot of DMs share their content with players

[high sable]

Am I required to do everything on the character sheet?

[echo kelp]

Can you clarify what you mean? DnDBeyond streamlines the process of creating a D&D 5e character sheet a lot.
But the choices of race, class, and stats are determined by the player playing the character so at some level you as a player do need to make choices.

[misty cloak]

Still looking for a DM and group to play with.

[fresh fable]

It’s not a quick thing setting up a dnd game or finding a group can take a while

https://locator.wizards.com/

Have a look here as well see if there are any places near you to find a game

[warm pike]

Feel free to check out #looking-for-players for any games to hop into or start fresh 😁

[brazen plank]

hi im new and looking for a campaign to join

[fallen surge]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[slender owl]

Hi! I'm new and just started playing d&d. Can anyone give me helpful pointers?

[echo kelp]

Check the pinned message on the channel - some great resources to help get you started!

Then if you have any specific questions (e.g. you read the free basic rules and are wondering how a specific thing works) feel free to ask here or in an appropriate channel.

[slender owl]

Ok! Thank you so much!!!

[bitter tusk]

I wana join a campaign or some ppl join mine

[smoky adder]

Head on over to our game channels! 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[versed pike]

It's midnight where I'm at rn and I'm kinda shy and will be honest it will be my first game online tho I don't have much experience offline either anyway I'm new regardless and I just want a campaign where I can be a drunken dwarf that makes brews no sane person would make to the point his own brews would be a strength and a weapon when used with a crossbow

Also what are the requirements or stuff that I need to start a game because one I don't really wanna show my face if I have to

[smoky adder]

Different groups will have different requirements. You can take a look through the channels listed above to see what's available. ☝🏻

It's definitely possible to play without video, though.

There's even text-only games out there, too. They're a little less common and typically make slower progress, but with the right group, they can be a lot of fun.

[red gust]

just joined the server to look for a group since it's been a while since i've played. what type of format or site should i create a character on? or is it different depending on the DM and their preferred site/bot/server?

not played online since like, 2019-2020. so forgot how it all works when it comes to playing online or on discord

[echo kelp]

Well if you're here - DnDBeyond has a great digital character sheet that can be used both digitally or printed and can be used with Avrae, a Discord bot DnDBeyond owns, which can help play D&D via Discord.

[smoky adder]

☝🏻 https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/builder

[echo kelp]

That said when creating a character, it's best work with your DM and party to create something that will work well for the kind of D&D game you're playing.

[red gust]

does the dnd beyond character builder allow you to use materials from books you don't own on the site, or does it require you to purchase the book before you can use a certain race?

[echo kelp]

You can use the homebrew tools to add in anything you own (just don't publish it - it's still usable when it isn't published).
Or you can buy just the specific races/classes/spells/items a la carte as needed without buying the whole book on DnDBeyond.
But generally, to access anything beyond the SRD materials in the character builder, you will need to buy the book (or the parts you need) on DnDBeyond.

Also you could potentially your group you join has a DnDBeyond campaign with content sharing enabled and have the content shared with you.

[red gust]

alright, thanks man

[warped escarp]

Alright so: I’m attempting to make a custom weapon. It’s a spear with the head of a Maul attached to the butt end of the spear. However, i’m having a lot of trouble making this in homebrew and i need some help

[smoky adder]

The folks in #homebrew can help with that!

[unique ibex]

What is the purpose of the weapon? Also, you're probably building it backwards. It's a maul with a spearpoint on the butt end.

[warped escarp]

The main purpose was as a weapon for a PC to find & potentially use.

[dapper pebble]

hello

I'm extremely new to dnd and I'd like a little help also if there's anyone who wants to run a game I'm down

[crude musk]

This channel is more for asking questions on the fundamentals of D&D

If you wanna find a game, we have several appropriate channels

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[fallow ledge]

Exuse me can some explain like how to play dnd and stuff I wanna learn how to play a bit and I'm not completely new or blind since my step brothers play dnd

But I'm still quite unfamiliar

Hello?

[echo kelp]

Please check the pinned message in the channel - it has lots of good links to help you get started.
The most important thing is to give the free basic rules a read.

[fallow ledge]

Ok then

Thanks

[echo kelp]

If you have any specific questions feel free to ask here or in an appropriate channel.

[lusty shell]

Basic rules are quite helpful yea

[echo kelp]

Night Tank - the basic rules are here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[fallow ledge]

Oh ok sorry

Oops also just call me night

[echo kelp]

Okay well your Discord nickname is showing as "Night Tank".
If you're new to Discord I'd also suggest learning about channel pinned messgaes

[fallow ledge]

I'm not new to discord just dnd

What do I do about a character sheet?

Also there fixed my name

[echo kelp]

DnDBeyond makes it easy to create character sheets that pull in information/rules from the actual books. But you can use the free paper/print sheets that you can find on the D&D website to download, or other tools as well.

[fallow ledge]

Ok thanks

[smoky adder]

You can create a character here, for free:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/builder

[fallow ledge]

I'm assuming I start with 0 experience points?

[smoky adder]

That’s a good question for your DM.

[fallow ledge]

I don't have one yet

[smoky adder]

Some groups do start at higher levels.

Some don’t use XP at all.

[fallow ledge]

Interesting

How doing get a dm

Or group

[smoky adder]

We’ve got a few channels to help you look. 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[civic jay]

yo i just opened a new account and i put a name i regret, how do i change it?

[fresh fable]

Your discord name?

[civic jay]

mb

my dnd beyond name

the one under profile

[halcyon forge]

That's a better question for #ddb-support but you can go to https://www.dndbeyond.com/forums/d-d-beyond-general/bugs-support/65846-display-name-change-request-thread-v2

[grand oar]

hey I have a question. I really want to play d&d. but I haven't played since Advanced Dungeons and Dragons, and it looks like if i'm going to convince anyone I'm going to need to DM.

1. are there any resources for the new DM you would rec?
2. do I need more books than the big three?
3. am I mad for wanting to do it with a homebrew world?

[echo kelp]

1. You can play D&D 5e with just the free basic rules.
2. That said, the 3 big books - Players Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guidebook, and Monster Manual - really help to flesh things out.
3. No but as a first time DM in 5e, I do suggest starting with a prewritten adventure as it can help with all the story work while you can learn and focus on the game mechanics.

Other books like Xanathars and Tashas are good to add additional rule options - and after you have the PHB, MM, and DMG, Xanathars and Tasha's are good books if you're looking for more options.

[grand oar]

Xanatar's and Tasha's were the two extra books I was looking at, haha!

[echo kelp]

Xanathar's has more for DMs, Tahsa's is a mix for both players and DMs.

[grand oar]

maybe I will just....put those in my cart

[halcyon forge]

_> <_< Wait until Monday.

[echo kelp]

Yeah - big sale on Monday!

[grand oar]

oh i'm waiting until Monday. I got the email when i subscribed to the mailing list yesterday

[harsh bay]

is this sale only for the digital books?

[echo kelp]

DnDbeyond only sells digital currently so yes

[harsh bay]

Does Mordenkainen Presents: Monsters of the Multiverse contain information from MM?

[crude musk]

Nope, it contains revised and updated content from Volo's Guide to Monsters and Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes

Two important things to note

• it doesn't contain all the content from those books; a few tables, items, bits of lore, and one or two monsters were omitted
• it's not an errata for the content found in the original books, instead presenting newer, updated versions

[harsh bay]

Tysm for the clarifications 😄

[charred torrent]

Hello everyone. I'm new to this server 👋

[spice lake]

Hey y'all. I'm young, dumb, and completely new to D&D. If any of you have tips or tricks please let me know. I've already created my character using D&D Beyond.

[fast bolt]

Watch most of the handbooker helper series, nice easy way to slowly understand everything

[fresh fable]

Here’s you homework for the week we will test you next week

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQMqiULo_05P90SzHdyyVIcz4TGZApQ5L

Dungeon dudes lay everything out in nice easy videos

[spice lake]

Thanks to both of you lol

[spice lake]

will do

[dusk yew]

Hi

[fast bolt]

Hello, is this a good way to put when to use dex or strengths on weapons?

If you normal hit with it and you hit its str
If you normally hit and you throw its str
If you normally throw and it's thrown its dex
If it's normally thrown and you hit its str
Finesse says f u and doesn't care

[tardy trellis]

What's the rules on changing bard colleges mid-game? Like level 6 or so.

[smoky adder]

Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything has some rules for it, but basically it’s something you’d need to work out with your DM.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/tcoe/character-options#ChangingYourSubclass

[surreal sable]

Hey brand new player here. Would love to find a time and game, I'm pretty much open anytime, pst. Please @ me or smth. Thanks! Lmk if u need my character or smth idk

[smoky adder]

Welcome! We’ve got a few channels here to help you find a game. 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[livid beacon]

Normally you don't, but if you feel like you've done the wrong choice, go talk with your DM and see if you can agree on a solution

[harsh bay]

Considering this new One D&D version will come out next year, does this mean that I will need to buy a new 'revised' version of a basic book such as PH or will I get the main changes on the item I already bought digitally?

The reason why I am asking this is because I don't seem to find any info around this topic as of now

[crude musk]

One D&D isn't scheduled until 2024 and all information on it can be found in the FAQ
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1310-faq-one-d-d-rules-d-d-digital-and-physical-digital

[obtuse vapor]

Ah thank god

I'm gonna stick to 5e, thank you very much.

[harsh bay]

"It means that fifth edition adventures and supplements will work in One D&D." It seems to me that they will be useable

[crude musk]

One D&D is a continuation of D&D 5th edition
We have #1026901431132885064 if anyone wants to discuss it further

[fringe kraken]

hi! i want to start playing D&D but i have no clue how or where to begin. can someone help?

[echo kelp]

Well usually when you want to play a game, you check the rules...
See the pinned message here on this channel and read the free basic rules: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[fringe kraken]

well it's not just that

it's creating a character, how everything works etc

like i dont know anything

[echo kelp]

Again, read the rules - it actually goes through the process of creating a character and explains the game mechanics

Then if you have a specific question, feel free to ask.

[fringe kraken]

i'm truely sorry but due to me being autistic, i better understand when someone explains it to me instead of having to read a whole list

[echo kelp]

Trying to teach you how to play the game here via text chat is not really what this channel is about. If text reading is not your thing, consider watching some videos of groups playing D&D - look up "D&D livestream" for example.

[simple goblet]

There are some excellent videos on YouTube that explain the basic rules. I believe the Critical Role team did a set called Handbooker Helper

[fringe kraken]

thank you so much

i'm so sorry for asking!

[echo kelp]

No - it's not a problem! Just that we can't teach everyone via text here in the channel, one by one.

[simple goblet]

Don't be. Everyone learns information differently and some people can't do it by reading

[fringe kraken]

oh no i completely understand!

is there maybe a possibility for me to dm anyone with questions i may have or should i keep that here?

[late swift]

DM me any time

[echo kelp]

I suggest asking in channel that way the answer can be seen by others as well - your learning helping others

[late swift]

Happy to go through some things. Can jump on voice if you would find it easier

[fringe kraken]

thank you guys!! i'll look at some videos first and if i have any questions i'll make sure to come back!

i have a question!

so i'm currently watching the handbooker helper series and they tell you to roll 4 d6's for your abilities, and then drop the lowest number and do that 6 times total/ is the number you add up from those 3 d6's gonna be the number you add for your ability?

[glass summit]

Yeah, exactly. Just keep in mind that certain DMs might have different attribute array generation methods

[echo kelp]

For each attribute, you roll 4 d6s and drop the lowest.

[fringe kraken]

attribute array generation methods? like diffirent methods to determine your attributes?

[glass summit]

yeah sorry lingo

[fringe kraken]

ohhh

so your attributes don't always stay the same?

[echo kelp]

So strength, dexterity, constitution, intelligence, wisdom, and charisma are your chaarcter's attributes

They can go up as you level up or as magical effects occur.

[fringe kraken]

right okay! but that is something the DM decides right?

[echo kelp]

The DM decides if you level up

[fringe kraken]

okay so the DM will tell me when i've leveled up?

[glass summit]

when your class says you get an ASI (ability score increase) you can increase 1 attribute by 2, or 2 attributes by 1 each

[glass summit]

yeah

[smoky adder]

See also: Determining Ability Scores, here in the Basic Rules:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#3DetermineAbilityScores

[fringe kraken]

ooohhh where does it say that? do i look under the diffrent kinds of classes?

[glass summit]

It should be listed in each of the classes at levels 4

[fringe kraken]

oh okay!! so how do you level up your class?

[smoky adder]

In the Fighter Table, for example:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes/fighter#TheFighterTable

[fringe kraken]

what does proficiency bonus mean?

[echo kelp]

Proficiency is a mechanic to suggest how much of an expert (above normal) you are.

It also increases over time as your character levels up.

[fringe kraken]

ohh okay

[topaz garnet]

So at the start, being proficient might mean only a +2 bonus on top of whatever other bonus you might have
but it scales all the way to +6 at the very highest reaches of power

[fringe kraken]

but your attributes cant be over 20 right?

[topaz garnet]

not without magic items, basically

or being a level 20 (max level) barbarian

[fringe kraken]

do you add that proficiency bonus to your attributes?

[topaz garnet]

no

[fringe kraken]

OHHH

[topaz garnet]

Your proficiency bonus is used to add onto rolls, like when you attack with a longsword (using strength because it's a melee weapon), and you're proficient with longswords, that means you add your proficiency bonus to the attack roll. (attack rolls are to determine whether you hit or miss)

[fringe kraken]

ohh

but how do you know if you're proficient with longswords for example?

does that depend on your class?

[echo kelp]

Yep

[fringe kraken]

oooohh

[echo kelp]

Or if you gain certain feats (special abilities)

[topaz garnet]

If you're proficient in something, you add your proficiency bonus.
For example, Dexterity (Stealth) checks.
Ability checks can either be just outright an ability, like a generic Strength check for example, or they can be an Ability (Skill) check, which means you use the ability modifier, and then if you're proficient in that skill, add proficiency bonus.

[smoky adder]

Basically, proficiency means you’re more likely to succeed at the things you’re good at.

[fringe kraken]

so does that mean every fighter is proficient with longswords and therefore when attacking can add those points to the roll?

oooohhh

[smoky adder]

Yep! Fighters are pretty much proficient in all weapons.

[topaz garnet]

An example is a Rogue picking proficiency with the Stealth skill.

When they make an ability check that uses the Stealth skill, such as the common Dexterity (Stealth) ability check, they add their proficiency to it.

[smoky adder]

So they’re more likely to hit when they use those weapons.

Because they add their proficiency bonus.

[topaz garnet]

Remember, this is just attack rolls. For damage, you only add your ability modifier, so Strength modifier for a longsword dealing damage when you hit with it.
(of course, not considering other rules to change things)

[fringe kraken]

ooooh

[topaz garnet]

DNDBeyond will automatically calculate things for the most part

[fringe kraken]

so how do you determine your ability modifyer? can i do that on the website too?

[echo kelp]

The DnDBeyond character builder tool really streamlines building characters

[topaz garnet]

The default methods include
standard array which is a fixed set of 6 numbers, allocating them to whichever you want
point buy, which essentially equates to standard array but you can adjust a little
and Rolling, which you can do in DNDBeyond as well.

[fringe kraken]

oohhh

so do you guys think it's a good idea for me to make a character?

[magic socket]

It's never a bad idea to make a character. Make 4 of then you have extra for when one dies

[inner thistle]

Making Characters can be very addicting but also a good way to get a grasp on what certain things do. Reading and understanding a classes abilities can help to understand the game too and what a character is capable off

[fringe kraken]

okay!

[magic socket]

Make them on paper, then remake them on dndb and compare them to see if you got it all right

Helps learn how to make them without all the extra tools

[smoky adder]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#AbilityScoresandModifiers

[amber viper]

Okay, I just finished my character sheet and I need to ask; what is a good hitpoint range for a Ranger Wood Elf? I have 10 and was wondering if that was good or not. (LVL 1)

[fringe kraken]

doesn't it say that already?

[amber viper]

?

[glass summit]

10 hit points is a very reasonable amount of hit points for a level 1 ranger, not many things will take you down in a single hit ideally

[amber viper]

Alright cool! Thanks!

[amber viper]

I have another question. Say I'm trying to sneak into a house. DM asks for stealth check. When I roll stealth, I add my modifiers to my initial roll, and that's the total I use against the DC?

[glass summit]

Yeah thats right, d20 + PB (if proficient) + DEX

[amber viper]

Thanks!

[tribal bloom]

i’m extremely new. i have a character sheet. i really want to learn to play- are there any dm’s willing to make a beginner campaign i could join?

[zenith galleon]

I am trying to make my first character sheet on paper but I have no clue how it works.

[smoky adder]

There’s always plenty of beginner-friendly games out there. Take a look. 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[smoky adder]

Where exactly are you stuck?

[hardy storm]

How on earth do modifiers work I've been watching videos for hours and no one like explains it in a way that makes sense to me ;-;

[mortal garden]

Hmm… I can try to explain it in my own words, but maybe if you’re able to narrow in on maybe a situation where they don’t make sense, I can talk directly to that?

Anyhoo, your modifier is basically a smaller number used to represent your ability score to help simplify the math. So let’s say your Strength is 10. The modifier for that is +0 (which you can look up in a table - or if you’re using D&DB or other tool, it might be automatically filled in for you). Most checks / rolls you make that rely on strength will ask you to add your strength modifier (zero in this case) rather than use the ability score (ten in this case) purely so that any math you do is easier.

[hardy storm]

Okay-
So a modifier is like added to certain roles for certain stuff that makes sense
If I'm making a brand new character tho like-
And I'm doing that in D&DB
How would I go about like assigning those modifiers if I need to do that at all???

[little briar]

the beyond sheet will automatically fill that in for you.

[hardy storm]

Okay-
So I don't need to add /anything/ to that stuff rn right??
It can just be left as is??

Cause there's like the other modifier thing which is confusing me sm

[simple goblet]

Proficiency bonus(+2 modifier) ?

[hardy storm]

What is that?? ;^;
Like it sounds kind of self explanatory but I'm also slow as heck sometimes so x.x

[simple goblet]

Is that the other modifier that is confusing you right now?
Proficiency bonus is applied to skills (like Stealth or Animal Handling) to show that your character is good at those things. It starts out as +2 and increases as you level. The DDB character sheet takes care of increasing it, so you just need to choose which skills it applies to as you build your character 🙂

[hardy storm]

😮 OH!!!
Okay yeah that makes sense that was like one of the biggest thing my brain couldnt wrap around--
Like how what your characters good at goes into modifiers & what the start number was supposed to be-

[topaz garnet]

Basically:
Ability scores are measured from 1 to 30.
10 is the average joe (commoners) with a net 0 alteration to relevant rolls (such as 10 str, +0 str mod, so don't alter Strength checks, saving throws, and so on)
Then you can get up to 20 (+5 modifier, so +5 to relevant things, such as a super strong barbarian having +5 for a strength check to break a door)
(Then some extra info if you want: ) ||Monsters can go higher, and it caps out at 30, for absolutely legendary things, like the avatars of gods, having +10.||
||"Every even up" is a rule of thumb for positive modifiers. 12, 14, 16, is where a modifier breaks through to +1, +2, +3, and so on.||
||Then negative modifiers which are not so common for players, can be easily recalled to derive from "every odd down", being 9, 7, 5, 3, 1.||
Proficiency Bonus is sort of an arbitrary thing that's just "you're high level have a bigger number" and "scary tough lethal monster has higher number".
If you're doing something (attack, save, check) and you're proficient in it, you can add your proficiency bonus to what it applies to. Such as Attack rolls with weapons you are proficient with, or with ability checks that use a Skill you're proficient in.
It makes your spells more difficult to save oneself from, it makes you better at your trained skills, it makes you a more accurately hitting and thus damaging attacker. It's a bigger number to make your specialization that little bit more likely to succeed.

[hardy storm]

Thank you so much!! Okay that makes a lot lot sense

[topaz garnet]

And of course, each ability score is its own thing with its own modifier, each of them are separate, and proficiency only applies when called for. It's your RPG statistics and training bonuses.

[ornate idol]

wait so if my AC is 13, I will never receive any damages if the incoming attack is less or equal to 13 damages ?

[crude musk]

No, that's not how AC works

[ornate idol]

I don't understand

[crude musk]

If the attack roll is less than your AC, it misses

[echo kelp]

No - if your AC is 13, a creature has to roll a 13 or higher (including any modifiers and bonuses) to hit you

Higher AC = harder to hit

[crude musk]

If the attack roll is equal to or greater than your AC, the attack hits
You then take damage equal to the damage roll

[ornate idol]

So it doesn't have any effect on the damages I receive ?

[crude musk]

It does, it means the difference between taking no damage and some damage

[echo kelp]

Natural 20 rolls on a to hit automatically hit regardless of AC though.

[ornate idol]

Okay thanks

[topaz garnet]

Attack rolls are to see if an incoming attack hits or misses you
Such as a Rogue ducking under an incoming arrow, or a sword just clanging off of a Fighter's armor.

[ornate idol]

Also I have a question concerning "Multi-attack" actions. I see that on many monsters sheet. Does it mean the monster can attack 2-3x as the same action or is it simply there to say the monster has more than 1 attack ?

[crude musk]

It's a specific action that the monster can take on their turn that lets them perform multiple attacks or other actions as detailed in the action

So a monster that has "Multiattack The guard makes two attacks with it's longsword or heavy crossbow", that means it can make two attacks only from those options, even if it has a shield bash ability

However, if a monster has "Multiattack The drake makes three attacks", it can make any three attacks from whatever it has

It's explained here in the basic rules
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/monsters#Multiattack

[ornate idol]

Thanks

But then, is there a point making a single melee attack if I have multi-attack including this melee attack ?

[crude musk]

You may not want to use the option listed in multiattack (say cast a spell or use a breath weapon)

[ornate idol]

but a multi-attack counts as 1 action, right ?

[crude musk]

Yeah

It's a single action that lets you attack multiple times

[forest grove]

If I have magic initiate and I get a spell scroll can I cast the spell?

[smoky adder]

Nope

If the spell is on your class’s spell list, you can read the scroll and cast its spell without providing any material components. Otherwise, the scroll is unintelligible.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/magic-items/5418-spell-scroll

The spells from Magic Initiate aren't on your class's spell list.

[torpid pivot]

oh so those are the rules for spell scrolls

[smoky adder]

(Unless you chose your actual class for Magic Initiate, in which case you could have cast the scroll regardless.)

[forest grove]

Well I’m a rouge with magic initiate that chose wizard for my 3 spells

No I didn’t multi class

Would that still be a no

[smoky adder]

To cast wizard spells from a spell scroll, you have to actually be a wizard.

Unless you're an Arcane Trickster rogue?

[forest grove]

I see thank you

And no I’m an assassin rouge

[torn cliff]

Anyone want to teach me and take me maybe on the first adventure?

[echo kelp]

Unfortunately I just don't have time to teach people one on one and run adventures for random internet folks. But do take a look at the pinned message on the channel for some useful links to help get you started.

[smoky adder]

There’s tons of beginner-friendly games out there! 👇🏻

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[magic socket]

How do clerics learn new spells? Is it different from wizards? Do they still have to pay money to learn them?

[echo kelp]

Their deities (or powers or causes or whatever is giving them their magical power) give them access to it.

[magic socket]

For free? So you just ask your dm to unlock new spells and do what they tell you to get them?

[inner thistle]

Clerics always have access to all spells on their spell list when they pick their spells they want to prepare for the day. When you go up in spell slot levels you always get access to all spells of that level as well

[young bear]

unlike a wizard, you can change up your spell list. And as you go up in lvl you gain access to stronger spells

[magic socket]

So is wizard the only class that has to pay money to unlock spells and put them in their spellbook?

[smoky adder]

Well, they get two per level for free (six at level one). You never have to pay money.

But wizards also get the biggest spell list in the game.

[magic socket]

It only costs money if you want, say 3 third level spells? Two for free, then 100gp for the third?

[smoky adder]

DDB has 6 pages of cleric spells, and 18 pages of wizard spells.

[smoky adder]

No. Character level, not spell level.

You get two free spells every time you level up.

You pick those from any spell level you have the slots for.

But they get a total of 44 spells for free.

And then you can spend gold for even more.

[echo kelp]

yeah the gold expense comes when they want to copy new spells to their spell book above and beyond the ones they normally learn

[cobalt sable]

hi

I am new to dnd and I have played one time but it was super fun

and I am a rouge halfling

sorry I meant and not but

[torpid pivot]

oh that’s pretty cool!!

[slow jasper]

There is no actual listed cost of new spells. If you're a wizard, you just have to hope that the DM throws some scrolls your way, or another wizard who's spellbook you can access somehow.

If you want to get more spells than the ones you get for levelling

[topaz garnet]

We only have the suggested price ranging of buying magic items, halved for consumables (spell scrolls) and the subsequent cost of inscribing them to your wizard spellbook.
Your DM decides how expensive it is to access a new scroll - whether it's something you just find and can then inscribe, or something to buy at exorbitant prices.

[charred torrent]

Hello there. Are the #looking-for-players / #750812887697588356 channels exclusively for online play? If that's the case, where can I ask other people about playing in person? Thanks in advance!

[crude musk]

They're not exclusively for online play, but you're unlikely to have much luck inquiring about in person play given that this is an international server with over 100k members. Your best bet for in person play would be to check out your local gaming store, community centers, libraries, or places of worship to see if those have D&D running. If not, you could always advertise yourself

[charred torrent]

Thanks for the quick response! I'm actually a veteran player (started playing AD&D in the mid 90's), but haven't played much lately (only had a couple of short campaigns in the last 15 years), but I miss it and would like to find some people to play with. I'm aware One D&D is a big thing now, but I have little interest in online play. Fortunately I live in a big city (Berlin) so perhaps my chances wouldn't be so low. Anyways, wish me luck! 😅

[crude musk]

One D&D isn't the same as online play, that's a codename for the playtest of the next evolution of D&D 5th edition.

And your chances at finding an in person game here are still going to be so low that you're best off looking locally in person

[fresh fable]

https://locator.wizards.com/ here with my link to FLGS cause support your local nerd shop too (dnd products are available from dndbeyond) 😁

[charred torrent]

Oh, that's really helpful 🙂

[hexed badge]

Hey folks, I have a question that hopefully doesn't get buried. I'm a somewhat new DM, and I'm wondering.. If I, as the DM, know that a semi-dangerous situation is coming up, should I call for the party to make a perception check or should that be up to the players to be aware enough to say "Is there anything dangerous lurking ahead that I can see?"

[crude musk]

That's more of a #dm-discussion question. This channel is more about the basics of the game

[hexed badge]

I don't see that thread in the available options? is that another discord server?

[crude musk]

you'll need to go to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role (dungeon master)

[hexed badge]

Thanks!

[forest grove]

Is their any common rarity items that give darkvision?

[smoky adder]

Doesn’t seem to be.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/magic-items?filter-effect-type=8&filter-effect-subtype=171

[forest grove]

Sad

[simple agate]

I’m trying to get into DnD and I want to start with a monk - I know it may be difficult to start with something confusing like ki points but I want to try to make the most optimized one possible - does anyone have any suggestions about where to go or what to do like a website or specific parts of dnd books and guides that might help

Dnd Shorts made a video on creating the best possible monk but that is all I have to go on

[echo kelp]

If you'd like help optimizing the #character-discussion channel may be more approrpiate

[smoky adder]

(You’ll need to swing by #880965682462875679 to get the Player or DM role before you’ll see it.)

[simple agate]

Thanks

[primal sapphire]

New to DND. Pretty obsessed with it

[gleaming horizon]

same got a bunch of friends wanting to try it aswell now just need to find the right DM for my group and then my lovely beginner group can start with our journey

[primal sapphire]

I tried to spread the word out. People seem interested. Just gotta find that welcoming Dm for newcomers

[gleaming horizon]

i personaly would love to give being a DM a go but im to afraid and don't know where to start and feel like it might be a shit first exsperience for my group

[primal sapphire]

Same feeling. Lots of pressure to DM. I did it for my young ones no prob but for adults that’s another story

[versed delta]

new to DND beyond.. If I want to make a gloom stalker Ranger via teh interface. do I need to buy XANATHAR'S GUIDE TO EVERYTHING or at least the piecemeal items in that source??

[echo kelp]

You can buy classes/spells/items a la carte. Go to the book in question in the marketplace and scroll down towards the bottom where you can find specific things that are sold individually.

So yes - you need to own the item or the book (or have the content shared with you via a DDB campaign) to access it in the character builder

[versed delta]

thanks... bummer.. I was under the impression I saw less because of the free account..

[echo kelp]

If you own the physical books you can use the homebrew tools to create the things you need - just don't publish it (make it available to the public).

[versed delta]

ok thanks....

[echo kelp]

Although I think you will find it easier to just buy the thing you need.

[smoky adder]

Subclasses are probably the most complex homebrew type. (But we can help in #homebrew or #ddb-support if you have any questions.)

If you do buy the subclass, though, whatever you spend gets credited toward the cost of the book itself, too.

[magic socket]

A torch 😆

[crude musk]

This channel is for providing help to people who are new to the game. Joke answers aren't really appropriate (and certainly aren't helpful)

[magic socket]

But it is a real answer. The only difference between a torch and dark vision is that a torch has to be held and only provides dim light to 40ft compared to dv's usual 60.

[crude musk]

A torch doesn't provide darkvision, it illuminates an area

They function in mechanically different (non-trivial) ways

[wicked apex]

Hey so I’m trying to get accepted into my first campaign and I’m struggling to pick what’s character I will share for the S0

I have a Dragonborn rouge a Aarakocra ranger and a half orc Druid

Lol I’m not the best at using multiple characters so I might just stick to one

Ah alright 👌

[lyric fjord]

I'm new here and was just wondering if anyone has any open campaigns I could please join ^-^

[crude musk]

We have dedicated channels for game finding that you can check out

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[lyric fjord]

ty ty

[tulip cloak]

While in active combat , would pass with out a trace allow a party to just run away ?

[frigid helm]

It would give them a boost to not being tracked, but doesnt make the party unseen.

[fallen surge]

Pass Without Trace gives you a bonus to stealth checks, which in combat is done through the Hide action. You cannot take the Hide action in combat, unless you are heavily obscured, or behind cover. So yes, Pass Without Trace could potentially help you escape a dangerous situation, but only if you can find a way to get away from the enemies direct line of site first. It is not invisibility

[wooden hemlock]

I hope this is the right channel. I’m playing my first campaign later this month and I’ve been doing some mild research, and I was kinda thinking that it seemed a tad unfun for the dm when you weren’t really fighting or Rollin dy, and Ofcourse I want everyone to have fun so Is this really the case? Also is there anyways I can make sure the DM also has fun? (Very new so if this a rather dumb question I apologize.)(also have no idea how being a DM works)

[sharp basin]

A lot of the 'fun' of being a DM is watching your players interact with your world. It's kind of like being a chef. Just because you don't get to eat the food you make, you still enjoy making it and have a sense of appreciation knowing people are enjoying your work

[glass summit]

The best thing you can do to ensure your DM is having an enjoyable experience is interacting with their world in creative ways, taking notes and not summoning 36 flying snakes for them to control

[wooden hemlock]

Ahh, I see. In that light it indeed does make a lot of sense. Thank you!

[lyric fjord]

Hello

[ornate idol]

can a spell requiring 1 bonus action as casting time fit in 1 action ?

[crisp musk]

no

you cant trade action types for other actions

[vestal pawn]

this is worth asking your dm though, i’ve met a lot that do this as a homebrew rule, but yeah, rules as written, tal maru is right

[ornate idol]

I ask because I was writing the Dryad sheet directly from dndwiki and she has a spell that requires a bonus action as casting time but the dryad in itself doesn't have one

[vestal pawn]

Oh, all creatures do have the typically Action/Movement/Bonus Action/Reaction

[proud peak]

Can anyone help me with d&d and how prepare spells with Druid works (Dm me please)

[crude musk]

@proud peak druids don't learn spells, they prepare them

[proud peak]

K

[crude musk]

This means that you can pick a whole new selection of spells each time you finish a long rest

[proud peak]

Oh

What about when you start at level one

And what is stopping you from getting the best spells at the beginning

[magic socket]

You only start with so many low level spell slots

Every time you cast a spell, you cannot use that slot until you rest

Cantrips (0th level) spells don't run out

[echo kelp]

See https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes/druid#TheDruidTable for how Druids progress level wise (also shows amount of spells they have at any given level)

[deft sigil]

the best spells are somewhat a subjective topic - but some of the most powerful spells you don't get access to until your character level goes up. More powerful magics require a higher level character.

[proud peak]

Thank you so much

[magic socket]

You also cannot cast a 2nd level spell from a 1st level slot

And cantrips cannot be upcast

[deft sigil]

Some articles for making your first druid are here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/241-druid-101-a-beginners-guide-to-channeling-natures
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/635-druid-101-wild-shape-guide

and we can help with questions you have 🙂

[magic socket]

But you also start with the best spell anyway, heat metal. Cook and book.

[proud peak]

I just realized that druid is not good for beginners and this is my frist time playing

[smoky adder]

Anything can be good for beginners.

Druids might be a little more complex than, say, a fighter.

[echo kelp]

Play whats interesting for you - you'll engage with a class that's interesting to you and learn it even if it's a wizard. Or druid.

[magic socket]

Fighter is probably the easiest, but you can start with wizard if you don't mind reading more about how everything works to start

[smoky adder]

But yeah, if druid is what seems interesting to you, you should absolutely be a druid.

[proud peak]

I just wanna be a bird

[oak bridge]

I feel like you will naturally attune a class that you enjoy

[magic socket]

I'd rather not be very good playing a class I find fun than having to say that I rage every 5 minutes because I got locked into a class I already knew

[echo kelp]

Druid could potentially wildshape into a bird (might need a few levels to unlock that functionality of wildshape)

[fresh fable]

Emu wild shape at level 1 flightless bird

[oak bridge]

Then play druid or you could play transmutation wizard

[magic socket]

Emus are ratites, not real birds

[clear estuary]

No birds are real

[magic socket]

Says the owl

[oak bridge]

They are all government owned drones

[deft sigil]

it is also totally okay to pick spells that sound interesting to you and not swapping them out every time your character takes a long rest. This can give you time to get used to how those spells work and how druid casting works. then, when you feel more comfortable you can swap them in and out.

being a bird that can actually fly as a druid will take some levelling.. but creatures such as Aarakocra can fly so picking that as the species of druid you are is doable

[magic socket]

DM could also just make an exception for a small bird or something to help you learn better

Depends on the table

[proud peak]

So just to double check when you just start at level 1 do you know any spell level 1 spells or not

[echo kelp]

Did you read the table I linked to?

[proud peak]

Yes

[fresh fable]

Yes as a Druid you will know at least 2 1st level spells

[echo kelp]

And what's the number listed under cantrips and 1st level?

[proud peak]

2

Thnks

[echo kelp]

2 and 2 - so at level 1, you can cast 2 level 1 spells and know 2 cantrips (can cast without using a spell slot)

[fresh fable]

Sorry you can prepare at least 2 spells at first level

[proud peak]

So 2 cantrips and 2 spells

[fresh fable]

What’s your wisdom score

[proud peak]

15 +2

[echo kelp]

Good for a 1st level

[proud peak]

I did random and I got 15 on strength dexterity and wisdom, got 10 on charisma and 13 on the rest

[smoky adder]

You prepare the list of druid spells that are available for you to cast, choosing from the druid spell list. When you do so, choose a number of druid spells equal to your Wisdom modifier + your druid level (minimum of one spell). The spells must be of a level for which you have spell slots.

So you can prepare three 1st-level spells, to start.

[ornate idol]

do you work with milestones or rather with exp in your campaigns?

[echo kelp]

This would be a great question for #dm-discussion.
I personally use milestone as my games are more story-driven where it makes sense for the characters to level up at certain points in the story.

[proud peak]

Good question

[proud peak]

What are druid features and traits

[deft sigil]

you can see the features here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes/druid#ClassFeatures

once your druid gets to level 2 you can choose a circle that gives more class features. You may only see one circle depending on what content (if any) you own on D&D Beyond. The Basic rules are all free and that includes one subclass for each class in the Basic Rules. 🙂

[proud peak]

Is that for the features and traits that go on a character sheet

[ornate idol]

can druids only take beasts form ?

[rich remnant]

So as for one who played D&D like 6 or so years ago and never used D&D beyond how easy is it to make a new character if I was looking to maybe find a group start or join a campaign with?

hmmm so I assume it just makes it easier to have a character listed and such right?

ahhh ok ok

well I guess I should get onto the search then for a group

oh im able to do that 🙂 I have like 3 base characters ideas that id like to make but i just gotta find a place to look for groups (Do you know of any place that has like "looking for players for a campaign" or anything like that?)

ok got it thanks

[ornate idol]

or can they ake others forms like aberrations, fey, plants,... ?

[ornate kiln]

only beasts via wildshape

[brisk mica]

D&D 5e is pretty simple, not sure if anyone is up to teach a new player, but you can always join a beginner friendly campaign in #looking-for-players

You should strive to learn though, you could watch others play in series like Critical Role, you could watch rules videos, you could read the Player's Handbook or Basic Rules, or you can just take out a character sheet and fill it out, googling everything out along the way, that's the way I learnt.

[echo kelp]

Check the pinned message here on this channel - lots of useful links to help get you started (including a link to the free basic rules)

[lethal hazel]

Hello, I’m trying to create a character, but I don’t know if it all makes sense because I’m trying a new race and class and I don’t know if the backstory makes sense with the race I have chosen, so can someone go over it with me to make sure everything makes sense. Feel free to dm me. I’m open to doing a vc as well. And I’m also open to any ideas for the character that would make him more interesting.

[echo kelp]

Generally don't worry about backstory until you know what kind of game/campaign you'll be in. Then work with your DM and group to make a backstory that fits the game and tone the group is going for.

[lethal hazel]

Oh okay!

[fresh fable]

Are you in a game?

[lethal hazel]

Yes we are having our first session tomorrow

[fresh fable]

Session 0 or an actual game

[smoky adder]

You’re welcome to share your backstory in #character-discussion if you want feedback on the story itself.

[lethal hazel]

Session 0

[fresh fable]

Have you been in #character-discussion tonight it’s maths central for the last 2 hours lol

[lethal hazel]

That’s a good idea

[echo kelp]

Yeah currently #character-discussion is being used by the optimizer crowd

[lethal hazel]

Oh

[fresh fable]

You can talk to your DM tomorrow to fine tune your backstory to fit the campaign

[lethal hazel]

Okay that’s what I will do!

[echo kelp]

I mean do go ahead and use #character-discussion , just be aware that it may get lost right now amid the current chatter

[smoky adder]

As a bit of general advice, I like a backstory that’s basically swiss cheese.

Two or three paragraphs and full of holes.

[lethal hazel]

Hm okay that’s helpful

[smoky adder]

As an example, I’ve got one player who said they were the last surviving member of their tribe.

As a DM, that’s something I can easily build off of.

Why did the rest of the tribe die? Where and how?

The player gets what they wanted — to be the last one — and I get to work with them to explore that in the game, or even surprise them with it.

[lyric fjord]

how do you find a campaign with the tone/style you're looking for

[frigid helm]

Patience & cast your net far and wide

[lethal hazel]

Thanks everyone for their advice

[frigid helm]

If you have a specific tone/style in mind, it will take longer than just accepting the first game that comes along.

[digital geode]

Hello! I'm new here and i just recently heard about D&D a few days ago and im quite interested in the game c:

[smoky adder]

Welcome!

[simple goblet]

Welcome. There are some helpful links to get you started pinned in this channel 🙂

[digital geode]

ah okayy!

[lyric fjord]

yeah, I should probably give up now but like twice a year I try to get something going. Its a weird compulsion

[fresh fable]

Have you though about being the DM?

[digital geode]

what do yall think of my first character? :oo

https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/89149044

[ornate idol]

What class would fit best to a simple guy that becomes a hero like in shonen animes ?

Also, i dont fully understand the subclasses, are they at different levels according to the main classes ?

[polar nacelle]

fighter

[ornate idol]

Like, Colleges are the subclasses of the Bard main class, right ?

But i dont understand for other classes

[ornate idol]

Could ranger be a basic class ? My player wants to have a bow

[polar nacelle]

fighters can use bow

arguably better than rangers

but if they also want to use magical abilities and a bow then ranger

[fresh fable]

Or bard

[lime nexus]

or fighter and pick the arcane archer subclass

[smoky adder]

Looks good! Just remember to equip your armor / weapons.

[digital geode]

okiee

[lyric fjord]

what class should I play

[echo kelp]

any which seems fun and interesting to you

mechanically, fighters might be easiest to start with but no reason to not play a wizard if that's what appeals to you

[humble willow]

Any ideas on how to avoid combat with an ancient white dragon? As a cleric (knowledge domain) with very low CHA, I have no idea what to do. In our search for an ally gone missing, we stumbled into the dragon’s lair and I happen to be the one who “bumped” into the creature. Our session is tonight and I’m freaking out a bit

[magic socket]

I'd just prepare by bringing a back up character sheet

[vestal pawn]

Be respectful, be polite, DO NOT try to lie, and don't feel so attached to any material wealth you happen to have on you. If the dragon asks for your help, "well gosh golly mr. or mrs. dragon i was just looking for a magnificent being older than time to help out, what a coincidence"

[lyric fjord]

I don't really know, I don't know how to decide

[foggy saffron]

especially since you're a new player, it shouldn't be frowned upon to say "i'm a little stuck as to what to do right now."

a good group of fellow players will all help you and work together to think of a general theme of actions and ideas that will help you develop a preferred playstyle

[brave umbra]

Hi, I’m brand new to D&D and I’d love for someone to look over my character and help me understand D&D better if anyone has time

https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/26425039

[lyric fjord]

I've tried d&d stuff before but I'd like to try starting fresh

[naive goblet]

youre in for a world of fun!

[lyric fjord]

if that's true it'll be the first time i've had fun with d&d

[gleaming kestrel]

as with anything, millage may vary per person, and also the table dynamics will impact the games

[lyric fjord]

table dynamics?

[slow jasper]

The interpersonal dynamics of the particular game table you're playing at

Once upon a time, D&D was played around a physical table

Which is why it's a "table top role playing game" and why programs like Roll20, etc. are called "virtual table tops"

[lyric fjord]

yeah maybe "starting fresh" isn't possible for me

[cobalt frigate]

Why not?

Bad previous experience with other players/DMs?

[gleaming kestrel]

not necessary, if the group of people seems to be the issue, you could search for other tables, either physical or virtual

[cobalt frigate]

Finding a good group in D&D is like dating. You have to keep looking until you find "the one."

[tropic pivot]

I've played dnd since the 80s and in all varieties of set up. Many groups have just fallen apart and often players get changed. But I have a group now that's lasted years virtually and occasional meet up. Keep trying you can fins the right fit. It's worth the effort

[tropic pivot]

Hey, always happy to help, building players is fun.
Audrey seems to have low stats, how did you do it? Point buy?
Also Druids spell stat is Wisdom sp it should be highest, higher than 13, ideally 16 at least.
Also can't see spells?

[lyric fjord]

Just because I can't unlearn all the stuff I know and see it with new eyes

[brisk mica]

That's a pretty negative outlook on things, in any hobby you're going to stumble upon some bad people, doesn't mean that the hobby itself is bad

Imagine if everyone decided to stop learning because they had one bad teacher, or if everyone stopped living because of one bad experience

[crude musk]

This channel is for discussing the basics of D&D when it comes to getting started with the hobby. More general conversations on D&D should be had in #dnd-discussion

[lyric fjord]

i've been trying to get started for a very long time

[lyric fjord]

I feel like I don't have the correct expectations for the game, or something

[crude musk]

Maybe head over #dnd-discussion and talk with people about your game expectations and ask what theirs are? Get some context for what is typical

[ornate idol]

I don't understand what are global magic attack modifier, Magic caster level and Spell save DC mod in Roll20, are they indicated on the sheet ?

[crude musk]

Global magic attack modifier isn't a thing, not is magic caster level

[ornate idol]

I guess Magic Caster level is the "Mob is a Xth level caster"

[crude musk]

Spell save DC is the number a target of your spell has to save against when subjected to a spell that calls for a saving throw (such as fireball). It's 8 + your proficiency bonus + your spellcasting ability modifier

The game doesn't use the term 'magic caster'

[ornate idol]

But if I have a mob that has a Spell Save DC 25 (+ 17 to hit), should I put 42 ?

[crude musk]

No, those are two different things

Spell save DC is what the target of a spell has to beat when rolling a save against a spell
The to hit bonus is what the caster of the spell adds to a d20 when making a spell attack

[ornate idol]

oh then one is for the target and one is for the spellcaster ?

So I'll just put 25 in the Spell Save DC mod, right ?

[crude musk]

Yes, the target will roll the saving throw (and try and beat the DC)
The spellcaster will roll the spell attack and try and beat the targets AC

[ornate idol]

If my mob has INT as his spellcasting ability, should I apply it to all his spells ?

[ornate kiln]

ususally, yes a creature would cast all their spells with the same mental stat

its possible to have multiple spellcasting stats but thats really rare and would be apparent in the statblock

[crude musk]

Stat blocks will state the spellcasting ability and that's what you should use if and when a spell calls for it

[ornate idol]

What about Chill Touch ?

In attack/save, it has Ranged

does it mean there is no attack/save ?

[crude musk]

Read the spells description, that's where it'll tell you

Attack/save: Ranged tells you that it makes a ranged spell attack

The description of the spell gives you the specifics

You create a ghostly, skeletal hand in the space of a creature within range. Make a ranged spell attack against the creature to assail it with the chill of the grave. On a hit, the target takes 1d8 necrotic damage, and it can't regain hit points until the start of your next turn. Until then, the hand clings to the target.

If you hit an undead target, it also has disadvantage on attack rolls against you until the end of your next turn.

This spell's damage increases by 1d8 when you reach 5th level (2d8), 11th level (3d8), and 17th level (4d8).

[frigid helm]

You make a ranged spell attack for that particular spell = roll a d20 and add Your Proficiency bonus + spellcasting modifier in your case INT.

[bold sphinx]

unsure whether i should post here or in the dm discussion channel, but hi! i’ve played a few dnd games with my family that my older brother was dm for. he asked me to try to dm a game for christmas because he has a character he really wanted to play. i agreed but im totally lost as to where to start! i don’t want to talk too much with my brother in case he ends up knowing the campaign. advice on how to start dm-ing pls?

[simple goblet]

I would pick one of the starter kit adventures as they walk you through how to DM them? Lost Mines of Phandelver is free on D&DBeyond, but Dragons of Stormwreck Isle and Dragon of Icespire peak are available to buy, if your brother hasn't played those

[restive willow]

Hey! Not sure if this is the most appropriate place for this, but I would appreciate tips. In my very limited experience, I tend to pick classes that are really not built for close combat. What stats should I prioritize and spells are recommended for combat for ranged fighters at lower levels?

[smoky adder]

You’ll want Dex for ranged weapon attacks, or your spellcasting ability (Int, Wis, or Cha depending on your class) for spell attacks.

For cantrips, Fire Bolt or Eldritch Blast have the longest range.

Sacred Flame is great when the enemies take cover.

Ray of Frost can lower an enemy’s speed to help keep them away.

[restive willow]

Thanks!

[tropic pivot]

Defo Ray of frost to keep range, dex for armour and ranged attack and/or what ever your spell casting stat is

[brave umbra]

Point buy yes, and I wasn’t sure which spells would be best for me..

[slow jasper]

It's possible, this is fairly common

[deep thorn]

which class can manipulate (any kind of) blood as a healing item?

[slow jasper]

None

Blood magic isn't a thing in D&D

[lyric fjord]

The Tal’Dorei sourcebook has some blood magic classes, but it is not official material.

[torpid pivot]

also blood hunter uses blood magic technically but again, it's not official content (i am still mad that it wasn't released officially in egtw)

[crude musk]

Let's keep things focused on the basics, per channel guidelines

[split hill]

Not sure if this is the right channel for this as it's my first time using the DnD discord, but can anyone point me in the right direction as to where to find a channel or particular place on here where I can try to find a group to play with?

[fresh fable]

#750812887697588356

https://locator.wizards.com/ for irl

[bold sphinx]

thank you!!

[glossy warren]

hello there i am a newcomer in dnd and i'm in my first campaign as a half-orc barbarian with a very high potential in stealth any tips on how to play a rogue like barbarians

[fresh fable]

Go watch Conan the barbarian the perfect rogue barbarian

The original not the Jason mamoa one

[crude musk]

We also have #character-discussion for getting into specific builds and build ideas

[glad basin]

Hello

How does someone new to dnd find a group to play in?

[crude musk]

We have several game finding channels

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[placid ledge]

should i be a teifling or an elf? i litteraly cannot choose and i need help

[echo kelp]

Which one speaks to you?
Or if you're still undecided, flip a coin. Or roll a dice.

[placid ledge]

ty!

and one more question, for my character sheet do i choose the stats and add onto it based on my race or..? how does that work?

[echo kelp]

Have you taken a look at the free basic rules yet? The first chapter is about how to create a character.

Free basic rules: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

But basically you can create your stats with 3 different ways (check with your DM and group you're playing with for which way is preferred for their game):

1. Roll 4d6 and drop the lowest roll, and add it all up. Do this for each primary stat (Strength, Dexterity, etc.)
2. Standard Array - a preset of 6 numbers that you allocate to your stats
3. Point Buy - you have a pool of points you use to "buy" the stats.

[echo kelp]

Don't share your age on the server - for safety and privacy reasons.

[placid ledge]

sorry!

[echo kelp]

No worries! Just want to make sure you understand the server rules and have a good, safe time here.

[hollow flume]

I went with a tiefling sorcerer myself.

[echo kelp]

Fun!

[hollow flume]

Yeah! Can't wait to hit level 14 so I can grow and retract my wings.

[placid ledge]

do you create a character and thats your character for all campaigns or do you create a character every time you join a new one?

[glass summit]

You can do either. The vast majority will make a new character every campaign

[tawny pilot]

i love making characters and I also love driving myself insane so I have roughly a million of them

[placid ledge]

also, what exactly is homebrew?

[tawny pilot]

I do enjoy bringing old characters back though. It's like a treat!

[glass summit]

If it isn't in a book published by Wizards of the Coast, its considered homebrew, because it was brewed for someone's home campaign

[placid ledge]

ohh okay

[tawny pilot]

I'm in homebrew campaign rn and its super fun

[placid ledge]

i cant find any that allow my age range 😭

it sucks but if i cant find any at all ill probably just try my best to make my own

[tawny pilot]

they could end up being hard to navigate if you're brand new to the game, but if you have a cool DM it could be a blast!

[glass summit]

gl with that, can't say I've ever had to navigate that issue. Only advice I have is probably things youve considered; school clubs, libraries etc.

[rich remnant]

hello peoples

do people usually allow dragon borns in their campaigns?

[simple goblet]

I have no problems with them. Ultimately it is something each DM will decide, but they should be able to tell you why they forbid them

[rich remnant]

got it! Im thinking of making a dragon born for a first character then maybe a half orc

[little briar]

considering that Dragonborn are in the PHB, there's very little reason not to allow them

[rich remnant]

so question are there any classes out there that let you counter attacks towards you?

I was thinking of something where I want my character to get attacked but counter with abilities or spells

[unique ibex]

considering that Dragonborn are in the PHB

Let's give this some context.

Not every intelligent race of the multiverse is appropriate for a player-controlled adventurer. Dwarves, elves, halflings, and humans are the most common races to produce the sort of adventurers who make up typical parties. Dragonborn, gnomes, half-elves, half-orcs, and tieflings are less common as adventurers. Drow, a subrace of elves, are also uncommon.

Even PHB says "Ask your DM". They might not fit the campaign.

[rich remnant]

ahhh ok gotcha

[unique ibex]

Battlemaster. But the enemy has to miss or you have spend an extra resource trying to make them miss.

[rich remnant]

I see so im going through D&D beyond to make a character right now and I dont see anything relating to battlemaster is that like a ability or something?

(sorry im very new to using D&D beyond to make a character

[topaz garnet]

battle master is a fighter subclass in the PHB (player's handbook)

[rich remnant]

ohhhh I see in fighter there is the martial archetype which has battlemaster in it

[unique ibex]

You have to purchase access to the battlemaster subclass of fighter to use it on DDB. Or manualy imput the info from your PHB as homebrew.

[rich remnant]

ahhh thats odd why do you need to purchase that lmao

[unique ibex]

Because it's not part of the SRD, the open-source version of the rules.

Only one subclass per class is part of this.

[rich remnant]

I see I see

so question would subclass be considered like the fighting style option?

[topaz garnet]

but for retaliating against attacks
There's Ravenite dragonborn race variant from EGTW
There's the Hellish Rebuke spell
There's the Tempest Domain for the Cleric with their 1st level feature Wrath of the Storm

[slow jasper]

No, all fighters get a fighting style. Subclass is like a separate tree of abilities you go down once you reach 3rd lvl

But kinda

"Fighting style" is just also something specific in the game

[rich remnant]

ohhhh ok ok

[topaz garnet]

Your subclass is more just "Which set of features will I pick to then unlock as I progress"
It's like "Hey, at 3rd level, pick a subclass to fill in the gaps in the class."

[rich remnant]

gotchaaaa

[topaz garnet]

Since every class has a few levels that give subclass features, so you pick which set you want. Like the Battle Master in fighter, or the Thief in rogue, or the Evocation tradition in wizard

[rich remnant]

man idk what to pick now XD I think like dueling would be best for battlemaster

[topaz garnet]

and for like the 99 percentile part, the subclass is just bonus addon stuff to your base class, then there's cleric with a slightly customizable starting equipment based on subclass and that's it.

[rich remnant]

im assuming most people want you to do the standard array for ability scores right?

[unique ibex]

Unless you are rolling with the DM present, yeah.

Rolling is the default method, but there are plenty of rabid enthusiasts of changing that to the customizing ability score variant.

[rich remnant]

hmmm will i be able to change the ability scores and all that after I finish my character?

just in case I get into a campaign soon

[simple goblet]

You can edit the character as much as you want, but once you put it in a campaign, it would be good practice to your DM before making changes

[rich remnant]

gotcha (im gonna have to start searching around soon lmao)

[simple goblet]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels to help you find your next game:

• #looking-for-players — Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
• #750812887697588356 — Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
• #looking-for-community — Communities looking for members.
• #paid-looking-for-game — Professional DMs advertising services.

If you can’t see any of these channels, you will need to head to #880965682462875679 and select the appropriate role depending on exactly what you're looking for.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[rich remnant]

ahh thanks

[eternal edge]

this is more a question about dndbeyond, it says that we can create 6 characters for free, does that mean a total of 6 characters or 6 characters at max?

like would you get a character slot back if you delete a character?

[crude musk]

6 active characters at any given time

[eternal edge]

so i can scrap old characters to open spaces for new ones?

i see, thanks for the fast reply

[cobalt frigate]

You can always save them by printing them out as PDFs.

[eternal edge]

yea i guess

[ornate idol]

is a proficiency bonus just a +1 in a skill ?

I have a class here that says "You gain a proficiency in Strenght (Athletics) checks"

[ornate kiln]

profciency bonus starts at +2

and scales to to +6 later

[ornate idol]

does that means if I'm rolling a STR check, I calculate : base roll + Strenght modifier + proficiency bonus (+1 if it's in athletics) ?

[ornate kiln]

a normal strength check doesn't add your PB.
if you are proficient in athletics and are asked to make an Strenght (Athletics) checks, then you add your PB

[ornate idol]

so it only works for saving throws ?

if it doesn't add up for normal checks

[ornate kiln]

saving throws are a completely different topic.

[ornate idol]

But then

if it says "you gain a proficiency in athletics", when and how much do i add ?

[ornate kiln]

okay so lets start at the beginning. Ability checks are not made with proficiency by default.
if you are using a skill or tool, and are profcient, then the ability check can be made with the PB added

[ornate idol]

okay

I got this part

[ornate kiln]

you also add your PB when you attack with a weapon you are profcient in or when you make a saving throw you are proficient in

[ornate idol]

okay

[smoky adder]

So for a Strength (Athletics) check, you'd roll a d20 and add your Strength modifier. If you're proficient in Athletics, then you also add your proficiency bonus.

[ornate idol]

But if you get a proficiency in Athletics, doesn't it mean you're already proficient in it ?

[ornate kiln]

yeah if you add your PB to a roll, it means you are proficient

thats why you get a bonus, to represent that proficiency

[smoky adder]

In short: you're more likely to succeed at the things you're good at.

[ornate idol]

but let's imagine I have a character that isn't proficient in athletics yet the class I chose lets me gain a proficiency in athletics

[smoky adder]

Then you're proficient in Athletics.

[ornate idol]

In this case, I don't add my proficiency, right ?

What

[smoky adder]

If your character has a rule that says you're proficient in something, you are.

[ornate kiln]

if you gain a proficiency from your class, you are proficient

[smoky adder]

It's either on or off. You have it or you don't.

It could come from you class, your race, your background, a magic item, a feat, a spell...

[ornate idol]

oh so I just need to gain a proficiency in something for my character to become proficient in it ?

[ornate kiln]

yeah

[ornate idol]

Okay

I understand

Thank you guys 👍🏻

but

[smoky adder]

Perhaps you're a fighter, so you've trained in Athletics.

[ornate idol]

how much do i add

[smoky adder]

Or perhaps you're a Goliath, so you have a natural proficiency because of your size.

Or maybe you have the Soldier background, so you got it from military drills.

[smoky adder]

The actual amount is based entirely on your overall character level. It starts at a +2.

[ornate idol]

So for an ability check where I have to run, if I'm level 1 and I have 16 in STR with a proficiency

[smoky adder]

The chart here shows the amount at each level:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#CharacterAdvancement

[smoky adder]

Then you'd roll a d20, add +3 for your STR, and another +2 for proficiency.

[ornate idol]

Ooooh

so the amount of the proficiency is based on your level

[smoky adder]

So a +5 total.

[ornate kiln]

yes

[ornate idol]

so if I do the same at level 20, it would be +6 instead of +2 then

[ornate kiln]

a level 1 fighter would get +5 in this case. if the same fighter was level 20 with 20 strenght, they would get +11

or if they still had 16 str, then it would be +9

[ornate idol]

Okay okay

I understand it clearly now

Thanks guys for helping me

[ornate kiln]

no problemo

[rich remnant]

random question. So if I have made a character with somewhat open ended stuff (to help fit into a DM's world story and such) would I be fine to put up a request to find a DM?

[smoky adder]

Yep. You're also welcome to do that whether you've got a complete character or no character at all. There's no requirement there server-wise.

(Certain DMs might have their own preferences, of course, but you won't know until you meet them.)

[rich remnant]

ohhh ok ok thats fine. I just want to play D&D again because ive been bored and gonna finish up finals next week

[primal sapphire]

new to DND online. which VTT do you suggest?

[echo kelp]

Whichever one works best for your group

[smoky adder]

When I DM, we use Owlbear Rodeo.
https://www.owlbear.rodeo/

#third-party-tools-archive probably has a bunch of other suggestions.

[mortal garden]

A few suggestions based on what your group needs:

1. Owlbear Rodeo: A free VTT with some dice rolling capabilities and battlemaps. This is great if you just want something quick to "drag and drop" for the group.

2. Roll20: A free with paid perks VTT that comes with full character sheet/macro integration. The interface is pretty unintuitive and because there's so much functionality, you're likely to need tutorials on setting it up. It's a monthly/annual subscription to unlock pro abilities.

   • This is the VTT I use because it's free and works "good enough". I can do most things with it, though the learning curve was steep.

3. Foundry: An application with an upfront cost. Like Roll20, it'll have almost all of the functionality you need and it has a huge "modding" community so you can get some really fancy stuff - if you're willing to do the research and put in the time! Foundry requires it be run off of a machine, so if you aren't able to host it, you'll need to also pay for hosting service.

[drifting lynx]

Hello I am really new to D&D I'm trying to get started at my local nerd shop

[primal sapphire]

Appreciate it! Looking at roll20 now and seems the easiest to learn. The Foundry seems like a high learning curve. Might look at owlbear too. Thanks!

[drifting lynx]

They gave me a little D&D paper to create my character and I got to learn a little bit but not too much

[primal sapphire]

Just getting started too! We played a couple quests on Essential Box

[drifting lynx]

Nice I'm still building my character I'm trying to be a satyr

Still debating on if I want to do ranger or bard