dnd-newcomers

[jovial mason]

Ill send a pic and show you

[smoky adder]

You won’t be able to upload images directly to this channel.

[jovial mason]

Welp nm I cant

I bout the dnd essentials kit and a dnd pack that had xanathars guide to everything,monsters of the multiverse and tashas cauldron of everything

[smoky adder]

Good choices, though!

[jovial mason]

I am gonna buy some more soon just need to learn a little lol seems fun tho

Also do I need the starter set with all this to

Ok

[honest phoenix]

Yo I'm new

[little briar]

do you have to buy a starter kit to start playing?

[honest phoenix]

I've tried playing it and it seems pretty fun

[smoky adder]

You don’t have to buy anything to start playing.

[jovial mason]

Ok tomorrow ill go back to the store and buy the players handbook

Thanks for the help

[weary garden]

Hey everyone! I just joined a small campaign with a buddy of mine (he’s a DM and a player, he figured it’d be easier for me to understand if it’s just us two.) and it’s my first experience with a D&D campaign. The story is great, and I’m very engaged. However I have a question about characters. If my character dies in a campaign, am I allowed to use that same character in another campaign?

[plain magnet]

You can reuse character in a new game, although you would likely have to remake their stats at a lower level to match the other characters, ditch magic items, etc...

you can think of each campaign as "in canon" only to itself unless your group decides otherwise, so it could be a different take on that character

[little briar]

is there a curtain way you have to make your character? like choice way

[plain magnet]

That depends on what your group and the DM agrees on

[weary garden]

So I created a wood elf paladin on my first campaign with my friend. But sometimes in a specific scene I don’t understand fully what’s going on. Am I allowed to ask for more context on a scenario my character is in?

Or is that just a decision for my DM

[blissful slate]

hey guys, wondering if someone could help me balance my BBEG

[plain magnet]

You can and totally should ask questions about stuff you want more context for

[weary garden]

I always think I’m annoying when asking for more context, or doing/asking very specific things

[blissful slate]

thanks my friend

[plain magnet]

D&D is a game about collaborating on a story you imagine together so it's good to make sure you're imagining what everyone else is imagining

[weary garden]

Fair, thank you

[worthy wadi]

Would anyone be willing to help me create a character and then run me though common scenarios (combat, casting spells, etc) if so pm me I would really appreciate it

[worthy wadi]

Im new I don’t know how to create a character and I’ve never played before I just need help creating one and just a quick 5 minute combat with a goblin or something

[glass summit]

Don't worry about having a perfect grasp on the mechanics before playing, it is infinitely easier to learn them in situ rather than beforehand

DDB is pretty good with walking people through the creation process. If you learn more easily by listening, I'd super recommend checking out the handbooker helper series on youtube

[worthy wadi]

I don’t

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[jovial mason]

Thanks

[fiery cobalt]

Any cool races or subclasses in any of the official dragonlance books?

[thorny pasture]

For 5e?

[raven compass]

hello I'm new and I'm going to make a dnd session and can someone help me

[lyric fjord]

Sure . What do you want to know?

[raven compass]

How to be a dm

[lyric fjord]

There's a lot involved in it. I would buy the essentials kid or the starter set and follow the basic recommendations for DM. There's also a lot of YouTube videos and stuff out there

If your group is all new players those sets will work fine.

[trail vector]

Hi me and my buddy are kind of new to dnd and would like a session for new players just to get the hang of the game and willing to also play with other newcomers if they are interested is there a way to look for players and a dm at the same time?

[shut walrus]

Hello all. I am looking to take up this hobby, but currently only know one other person who enjoys D&D and so we never get to play. I have been told that it should be fairly easy to find some people on here who would be willing to help me out.

A quick smidge about myself, and I will try to avoid writing a short novel, I am a 30 year old australian male who has always had an interest in fantasy/sci-fi, first from reading books, then to trying to write stories, then back to just reading books again. I have struggled to be social with anyone and I am hoping that through this game I might make some friends and learn some communication.

[trail vector]

Hey deartetitan want to team up and look for a dm? 😄

that would make us 4

[lyric fjord]

I think there are #looking-for-players and #750812887697588356

[trail vector]

Im counting me and my buddy and you and your buddy!

[shut walrus]

I'd be keen enough to figure something out, but my buddy only plays in person, which is largely why it has been such a pain in the butt finding a group to play with us. I have basically given up on in person play so I am looking online

[trail vector]

Ow alrighty but im still down to look for a Dm with the 3 of us if our times allow it!

[shut walrus]

I sent you a DM to avoid cluttering up the channel too much

[leaden geode]

Hey there I am new to dnd

[smoky adder]

Welcome!

[leaden geode]

@smoky adder hey man, do you know that where can I learn about dnd

[smoky adder]

We've got a few helpful starter links here:

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[smoky adder]

But if you've got any specific questions, ask away!

[leaden geode]

Well I live in India and there are almost no dnd players. So, how can I make players join my dnd session

[smoky adder]

There's an article here with some good advice:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/711-how-to-find-a-dungeons-dragons-group-to-play-with

Were you looking to play online, or to try and set something up in person?

[leaden geode]

Thanks buddy

[sharp shadow]

wich class fits best for healers?

or medics

[smoky adder]

Life Cleric is probably the ultimate healer.

But there’s lots of others that can fill that role, too.

[timber tinsel]

depends on what your looking for out of "healing" as said above life clerics are just powerhouse healers to keep your HP up, but grave clerics can make it REALLY hard to actually die.

[sharp shadow]

im looking for someone who can use modern never before seen technology to make the most powerful healing machines

[timber tinsel]

I mean....artillerist artificers? kinda? if you do the temp hp pulse

[sharp shadow]

so cleric?

or druid?

[timber tinsel]

haven't played with it but you could potentially do a Artificer/Cleric multiclass

[sharp shadow]

idk how to make multiclass

[timber tinsel]

but just raw healing life cleric are hands down the best.

theyre a bit dull though. you are effectively the parties heal bot.

[sharp shadow]

so like

[sharp shadow]

what do i chose for that

[timber tinsel]

what do you mean never before seen technology? theres no mechanic for that, anything like that would be a heavy amount of flavor or homebrew

the closest in RAW would be an artificer

[smoky adder]

Protector cannon is so good. 😍

[sharp shadow]

i cant find that class

[timber tinsel]

its in Tasha's

[sharp shadow]

wut

[smoky adder]

?tcoe

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Tasha's Cauldron of Everything

Tasha's Cauldron of Everything (TCoE) is an official sourcebook containing options for players and DMs. Learn more: https://dndbeyond.link/discordTCOE

[timber tinsel]

I was so torn in my current campaign between doing this or being the tank with Armorer

[sharp shadow]

im just going for druid

[tardy brook]

Ok I have probably not looked into this enough , but i saw something saying about warlocks not having a lot of spell slots but having them at max level so im curious of that also goes to a hybrid class say if a warlock gets a couple of levels in bard does that mean that bard inspiratio is also max?

[smoky adder]

It does not.

Primarily because Bardic Inspiration is not a spell.

[timber tinsel]

pretty sure thats a class feature right?

[smoky adder]

Yeah

[tardy brook]

Oh ok ty

Also do i see so much stuff of warlocks just napping

[timber tinsel]

so I'll warn that arti's are a bit complicated for newer players, life clerics are very good, but a bit dull. Simple for a newer player though. Druids caaaaaan heal? but its not substantial, theyre better in other facets

[sharp shadow]

ok cleric it is

[timber tinsel]

if this is one of your first campaigns itll be fine.

you'll enjoy yourself and your party will love you lol.

[fossil shuttle]

Yo!

[lament blaze]

Hi Crimo :)

[smoky adder]

There's a few Druids with additional healing options: Dreams, Stars, Shepherd, and Wildfire.

[timber tinsel]

haven't actually played with those options as much. Not as familiar with their mechanics. But had just helped set up our parties Cleric who opted for Grave.

Figured, why bother healing you if I can just prevent you from ever dying.

oh your on the ground? FANTASTC. now my heal does max possible healing.

[harsh fjord]

I think one bit of received wisdom about 5e is no need to bother with healing if you just kill your enemies faster!

[timber tinsel]

True, but some enemies have A LOT of health.

especially when homebrew gets invovled.

Grave clerics nullifying crits is also super helpful.

I'm AC tanking so crits are kinda painful. so him being able to say "no" makes it a lot better.

[spring fox]

Extremely new to dnd and would love to experience it. Is there anyone that's willing to teach me and help me on this extraordinary journey?

[harsh fjord]

?new Check out these resources to get you started.

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[spring fox]

I'm looking for a person to walk me through it. I find that it's the best way of learning

[obtuse heart]

Question.

If a party is about to walk into a trap and the person in the lead has less 'passive perception' than required, do I as a DM have to prompt him to give me a perception check even if he doesn't ask me if there is a trap ahead?

I know if he triggers the trap, I can ask them to do a dexterity check to determine whether he takes damage or not. But what about finding a trap, like how does that work?

Help guys. Thanks you

[smoky adder]

That’s entirely up to you. 😅

[dim galleon]

How would someone role play as in act as a tank during dialogues

[smoky adder]

When to use passive scores is entirely up to the DM’s discretion.

[dim galleon]

Like spicific traits that fit a tank

[obtuse heart]

I let them fall in the trap then haha. I like that.

[obtuse heart]

I mean the guy in front doesnt have enough passive. But if he asks me is there a trap ahead. Would I still roll for a perception check?

[obtuse heart]

I mean, Tanks have to be the buff guys or sturdy to say the very least

[smoky adder]

I'd have them roll, yeah.

[obtuse heart]

okay gotcha

[smoky adder]

If they don't ask, you could still have them roll, or you could let them walk in unaware.

[obtuse heart]

buff person, good armor, aggro taunts

[obtuse heart]

yeah that was what i was looking for.
I think I let them walk in cause they still can avoid it

avoid the damage

[obtuse heart]

thats my MMO experience speaking

[smoky adder]

It's really up to you and your group. It might be worth have a conversation with them about it.

Some groups might genuinely enjoy the surprise.

Others might get overly paranoid and start checking for traps around every corner, which could bog down the game.

[obtuse heart]

yes true

[smoky adder]

Or you could take the middle path. Surprise them a couple times, then transition to asking for rolls to represent their characters having learned a painful lesson.

[timber tinsel]

always sounds like theyre speaking through a soda can, can't be understood unless they lift their face visor. Gets frustrated because no one listens to him.

[obtuse heart]

ah, yeah

thank you orange sage!

I will rely on your wisdom again

[dim galleon]

Oooo good answer thank u sir

[timber tinsel]

Think kenny from southpark, except instead of a hoodie its plate

though. hopefully for the sake of the party, a lot less dying.

[dim galleon]

Ok ok so muffled voice and i have to play a hardskined personality who's also supportive and overprotective around his friends

[timber tinsel]

joking asside? It really depends on your character. I'm personally playing an Goblin Armorer Artificer as the party's tank right now. And hes just a straight greedy jerk on the surface.

its early in the campaign so he hasn't really had time to develop a lot of personal connections with the party yet, but protects them because it benefits him to do so. Lot less effort to keep with the current people than try and find someone new, have to get used to their antics etc. Given time, he'll care about them because they protect him too, and they're the few people in a world that usually greets Goblins by sticking a spear in the face that he can actually trust.

the muffled voice bit can be the gag during RP moments which WILL be funny as hell, but shouldn't be the basis of the personality. I guess, the best way to answer it is, for what purpose do they exist in the world. They would tend to probably bit a bit more gruff and brawny, but that doesnt need to define their character traits. Maybe he likes picking flowers in his free time? he just happens to be really good at protecting people.

[dim galleon]

Im just planning to do alot of support subclasses like im starting off in the dongeon as a 20 the levele tiefling-orc hexblade and the armor of hexes is useful as a tank ability also hexblade has alot of crowd control abilities then we got abjurer wizard or ancestreal guardian barb or collage of valor etc

Just like max out levels and stuff until i become the ultimate tank

[woeful mist]

is there an enemy that "swims" through sand? and how its called?

[steady siren]

Technically Purple Worms could do that, but the "swimming through sand" thing would more than likely use the burrow movement if they have it, and the aspect of them looking like they are swimming would be up to the DM to describe.

[woeful mist]

yea burrow moovment thats the word

[vocal ledge]

So I’m new here and i want to know what this game is about

[loud barn]

Sure 🙂

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[loud barn]

the links above will give you some good basic info. Lots of us are around to answer questions as well 🙂

[silent pawn]

Any question you have?

[vocal ledge]

Can you make anything? i heard you can use your own imagination

[silent pawn]

When it comes to what exactly? Your character?

[silent pawn]

Dungeons and Dragons is a game, all games have rules. Dungeons and Dragons have some rules but try not to interfere in your imagination

[silent pawn]

There are rules for resting, hunger, health, sickness, economy etc

[loud barn]

yep. There are rules to follow that prevent the game from becoming the type of 'let's pretend' game that goes "I hit you!" "No you don't, I dodge!" "You can't, I'm undodgeable!" etc.

[vocal ledge]

like enemies biomes character’s bosses etc

[loud barn]

But within the rules? You can make anything that you want and you can even create your own content IF the person running the game allows it

[silent pawn]

Yep, make anything.

[vocal ledge]

Oh?

[silent pawn]

Balancing is important of course

DnD has a ton of enemies to choose from but you can make your own (homebrew)

If it fits your campaign better

Not fun to fight someone and get one-shot

[vocal ledge]

so you can make anything random? like Creepy weird scary etc?

[loud barn]

Yep, balance is an issue. The game is always best when it's fair so that everyone has a good time

[silent pawn]

Sure

[loud barn]

Yep, absolutely. I've seen some made-up horror adventures, and some weird ones

[silent pawn]

Most important is that the monsters are fair to the players

[vocal ledge]

i haven’t known this game in years and just avoided it because i thought board games are dead

[loud barn]

I literally just finished running a Christmas-themed adventure where players fought 'Elves', an animated figgy pudding, a snowman, etc.

D&D isn't a board game exactly...but board games are very much alive 🙂

[vocal ledge]

can you explain?

[fiery cobalt]

Is there no official script for Infernal or Celestial?
Apologies for interrupting the correct discussion.

[vocal ledge]

and i thought game boards are just the past? since video games are a thing

[silent pawn]

There is for infernal

[fiery cobalt]

Where?

[loud barn]

sure.

D&D is what's termed a tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG). The most basic definition is that it's a game of make-believe with rules. You CAN use maps and such to illustrate positions so that people playing can more easily visualize what's going on, but it isn't required

[vocal ledge]

you mean online? or what? I’m confused

[loud barn]

it can be run either online or in person.

[vocal ledge]

alright i will take a look

[silent pawn]

I think its in baldurs gate, descnet into avernus

[fiery cobalt]

Is that a 5e book?

If they mention it in the PHB, and show the other scripts, why did they not include the other two?

[sudden otter]

Cuz they didn't want players summoning demons, man!

[silent pawn]

Basically the DM is the narrator of a book, and you the players are the characters in the book. the players make choices as a team in which the DM describes what happens

Its like a gamebook 2.0

[loud barn]

I'm heading down to my board game cafe to play Middara tonight

My Thursday night board gaming group has been meeting for the last few years now. We played Clank: Legacy, Betrayal at the House on the Hill Legacy, Aeon's End, Legacy, Solomon Kane, and now Middara 🙂 we're having a blast with it

[vocal ledge]

So how does online work? because the board game seems complex

[silent pawn]

There are websites such as roll20 which do it

[loud barn]

online isn't really any less complex honestly. But the rules are actually fairly simple once you get used to them.

Online people usually use voice chat and either use apps to simulate a map or simply go off their imagination

[crisp kettle]

Hi, is there any race in dnd that is similar to a Skaven?

I have never played before but when I do, I'd like to be a sort of rat person

Oh, that's a big shame

[fresh fable]

I use old kobold for skaven/ratfolk

[pastel magnet]

hello so im new to this whole dnd deal and i have 0% experience and know nothing at all so i would really appreicate if someone fills me in

[fresh fable]

Check out the pinned message

[pastel magnet]

thx

do you have any idea about how long it would take to learn how to play?

[vestal nimbus]

hi, im making a hexblade warlock and im a tad confused regarding something

so i know hexblades are basically sentient weapons and you get to become a hexblade at level 1

do you get to choose what your sentient weapon is from level 1?

[timber tinsel]

yup. as long as your character is proficient with it

basically your turn a weapon INTO your hexblade.

I'd pull up more details buuuuut apparently ddb is down again.

[vestal nimbus]

ok so does it have to be from my starting equipment or is it separate?

[timber tinsel]

thats the part I'm not sure on. I sort of forget.

[silver marsh]

oh so that's why I was getting them errors

[timber tinsel]

Pretty sure you select a weapon to be your hexblade.

[vestal nimbus]

im asking this cuz you cant get a martial weapon from the starting equipment and i wanted to start with a longsword

[timber tinsel]

ok I got in, hold up a sec and lemme look.

[vestal nimbus]

kk

[timber tinsel]

"The influence of your patron also allows you to mystically channel your will through a particular weapon. Whenever you finish a long rest, you can touch one weapon that you are proficient with and that lacks the two-handed property. "

so like I thought, you select your hexblade, and can change it. If you want to start with a longsword, you would need to speak to your DM.

[vestal nimbus]

oh alright i thought so

thanks

[timber tinsel]

ye

[plain magnet]

okay so: hexblades get proficiency with martial weapons but that doesn't change your starting equipment. you can select your pact weapon at level 1 but you'd need to choose gold over starting equipment and buy it or otherwise work out with your DM a way to start with a longsword.

you also get Pact of the Blade at level 3 which allows you to simply manifest a longsword in your hand

[timber tinsel]

^ there ya go. Forgot about the pact.

I have a hexblade built and ready to go but forgot all the details 😂

[vestal nimbus]

ok thank you

[timber tinsel]

and yeh most campaigns start at lvl 3 so you might not need to even wheel and deal with your DM. One pact is enough, don't need to sell your soul to your DM for a longsword XD

[plain magnet]

admittedly it's a little confusing, people mix up "pact weapon" from hexblade, the "channeled weapon" from pact of the blade, and in a literal interpretation of the rules your patron is neither of those and you don't actually get to wield it by default

[timber tinsel]

yeh I mean you don't HAVE to go pact of the blade with hexblade, but not doing so is kinda foolish

[plain magnet]

on paper you could be a hexblade and not bother with the blade pact and just have a normal cursed sword and an imp familiar, but it does feel wrong lol

[timber tinsel]

pretty sure you lose out on some of the critical invocations if you don't though.

[plain magnet]

that's true

[timber tinsel]

yeh you don't get Improved Pact Weapon, or Thirsting blade, or life drinker

hexblade without those is kinda poop.

[simple iris]

Is it possible to be a light domain cleric that's NE..?

[plain magnet]

yes, there are no domain restrictions by alignment

your character might serve an evil god of light you invent, or have faith in a cause or concept related to light

[simple iris]

Oh sweet thanks, also is there a difference between the light and life domain?

[ornate kiln]

I mean, hexblade is a perfectly fine eldritch blaster but it certainly doesnt help the flavor of the subclass if you arent using weapons

[ornate kiln]

life is very support and healing oriented. Light domain gets big damage spells like fireball and is generally a bit more offensive oriented

[timber tinsel]

I mean fair. but MAN that'd be a waste of a hexblade. Big cinematic reveal of this REALLY cool demonic sword. Launches purple goo at you.

[simple iris]

Ty! That was very helpful

[plain magnet]

Hexblade patrons don't have to be swords. Consider: eldritch gun

[timber tinsel]

I actually was working on a build for that.

I wanted to do a hellslinger type character. Ran into an issue that DND rules do not handle guns well at all.

it works best if you reflavor crossbows as revolvers

unfortunately they don't have a equivalent to "crossbow expert" for firearms

close but not quite. The bonus attack action is what makes it good.

also Pact weapons can't be guns, RAW

[plain magnet]

I was thinking, focus on eldritch blasts, flavor them as being shots from a cursed gun

[timber tinsel]

though thats real easy for your DM to just allow.

[timber tinsel]

yeh that was the direction I ended up going. except that the "crossbow" was actually a gun. The build lets me fire 3 times a round. 2 Attacks thanks to Thirsting blade, and then a third from Crossbow expert.

dm ok'd it.

Hex warrior yes, but pact of the blade.

again you can do a hexblade without pact of the blade, but then your just a eldricht blast blaster with a fancy gun.

yup

well right, it wouldnt work in all settings. same as Artificer

for that matter you can just do the same build with crossbows.

and then it works RAW

[simple iris]

Got a question, i read somewhere that a cleric has to either take the suggested domains for their god or go with the life domain

But are there any gods where you cant choose the life domain?

[glass summit]

There are plenty of gods that would have difficulty fitting into the life domain. I'm not entirely sure where you would have read that

[cobalt frigate]

This is something you would have to talk to your DM about which gods are in their campaign setting and which portfolios those gods hold. Obviously a god of death would have no sway over the Life domain.

[timber tinsel]

well. hopefully he doesnt anwyay XD

[lyric fjord]

Hi!

How do I even start this!!!

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[lyric fjord]

Covid destroyed my life and I am hoping to learn this game and make friends

I have nothing

It’s a nightmare

[harsh fjord]

Sorry to hear that. Hopefully you can make friends. At the very least, D&D is an excellent distraction from real-life hardships.

[cobalt frigate]

Well, lots of people started playing D&D during the pandemic.

[lyric fjord]

I did not, I lost my dream job and have been in an endless nightmare for three years

[cobalt frigate]

Again, sorry to hear that but we're delving into #non-dnd-topics territory.

[glass summit]

Honestly, one of the best things with D&D is how little you need to get started. The basic rules are free and there are lots of dice rollers/character sheet templates online, also for free

[cobalt frigate]

This server isn't for therapy. There are better means.

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[cobalt frigate]

Read the free Basic Rules (at least the first four chapters on character creation).

I highly recommend you check out Critical Role's "Handbook Helper" video tutorial series.

[plain magnet]

Take a second and relax, bud. You didn't hurt anyone. It's just that this channel is meant for helping new people learn to play D&D and that's all, so anything else is for a different channel.

[echo kelp]

Okay folks - please don't spam the chat and randomly ping folks who are right here in the conversation. Please return to normal on-topic discussion - thanks!

[lyric fjord]

Dyno said I had a warning, I am sorry

[echo kelp]

Just follow the server rules and stay on topic please.

[lyric fjord]

I will keep my thoughts and feelings to myself, I am sorry I said how scared I am, it will not happen again

[echo kelp]

Again that is off-topic - please discuss D&D here. This channel is focussed on helping new-to-the-game folks get started.

[lyric fjord]

Dnd is a game, I intend to learn it

[echo kelp]

Nice! It's can be a fun game, great for playing with friends (or even a great way to make friends) and I hope you enjoy it!

Check out the pinned message here in the channel - it has lots of great resource to help get you started.

[lyric fjord]

Dnd is a game, it is made by has to and wizards of the coast

It is now on its 5th edition

[echo kelp]

Correct

[lyric fjord]

Hasbro *

[echo kelp]

?new @lyric fjord

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[lyric fjord]

Thank you, I will review these links

Give the link for 180 page rule book

[echo kelp]

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

[lyric fjord]

The pdf please

[echo kelp]

https://dnd.wizards.com/what-is-dnd/basic-rules
It has everything you need to start playing but if you want more player character options, additional and optional rules, and adventures - those are paid books.

[lyric fjord]

Also do you support roll20 or dice cloud

My paid dm used dice cloud

[echo kelp]

I personally use Discord, Avrae Bot, and DnDBeyond.
Other groups use other tools like Roll20, Foundry VTT, Fantasy Grounds, Owlbear.Rodeo, or other tools.

But technically all you need is the basic rules, a character sheet, dice, and a way to communicate/play with a group.

[crisp kettle]

Just for excrement and giggles, do you think that it could be possible to play without a character sheet if you tried really hard?

[plain magnet]

You could but it would be kinda bland to play without any stats or character info written down

[crisp kettle]

I have been thinking about playing dnd for a couple of months now. My gf wants to play, too. The issue is that none of us has played before. Is it possible to play just the two of us or what I should I do?

How hard is it to learn to dm

[digital helm]

You can definitely play by yourselves. DMing is a lot easier than it seems like it should be.

Check out Matt Colville's "Running the Game" series on youtube for a good start to the idea.

[crisp kettle]

Thanks for the channel suggestion. I'll look it up

[digital helm]

running a 1 on 1 game is more challenging, but not by much

[cobalt frigate]

You can also use sidekicks to fill out roles.

[digital helm]

also that

[crisp kettle]

What do you mean by 1 on 1? as in me DMing for her, or can I DM and play at the same time?

[cobalt frigate]

One DM, one player.

A typical D&D session would have one DM and 3 to 5 players (that's the golden number with a varied assortment of classes to fill the various roles of a party).

[digital helm]

Like if you DM for her playing by herself. I wouldn't recommend trying to play a full character in a game you're also running. It'll be less fun for both of you. A sidekick or two for your girlfriend to interact with could work out, but they're not quite the same thing.

[crisp kettle]

I'd love to play in a group. Do people do one shots spontaneously or is it most of the time just scheduled sessions?

[sand olive]

lets say hypothetically all 5 players are the same class. How would the game turn out

[digital helm]

DMing is fun though. It's still a kind of playing, it's just a different kind of thing.

[cobalt frigate]

I don't know about spontaneously, there's always some prep work for a DM, even with a prewritten adventure.

[digital helm]

google "all barbarian party reddit" and read the first hit.

[crisp kettle]

I'm thinking how fun it would be to DM for her while being a pocket rat sidekick

[cobalt frigate]

Depends on the class.

[sand olive]

cleric

[digital helm]

probably would be

[cobalt frigate]

Probably the best as clerics' sub-classes can cover the various roles (tank, damager, healer).

[digital helm]

clerics can cover basically any role. should be fine. Not nearly as funny as the all barbarian party.

[north zenith]

What does a cleric do I’m very new to this

[sand olive]

everything

[north zenith]

Like today new

[cobalt frigate]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[cobalt frigate]

Read the free Basic Rules (at least the first four chapters on character creation).

I highly recommend you check out Critical Role's "Handbook Helper" video tutorial series.

[north zenith]

I know how to play but what does. A cleric do tho

[digital helm]

they cast spells while wearing armor and carrying weapons. They're still primarily spellcasters though. Their spells tend to be focused on supporting other characters, but they have a few that step outside of that

[cobalt frigate]

You said you know how to play... you would know what a cleric does then.

[north zenith]

@digital helm thanks

[cobalt frigate]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/classes#Cleric

[plain magnet]

Clerics are spellcasters who draw magic from a list of divine spells that can do lots of different things like healing, blasting destructive lasers, creating light...

You also get to choose a specialization which can make you better at some unique role: fighting with weapons, or at blasting, or at controlling nature, or at book smarts, etc

[north zenith]

Oh wow

[plain magnet]

Yeah, you have great options to customize your cleric, moreso than most classes

[north zenith]

I’m starting as a variant human monk

[digital helm]

the divine part is mostly flavor. gods need not actually be involved, but typically will be at least in the form of the cleric being a priest of a god as their day job

[cobalt frigate]

They're conduits for their gods' will (hence their chosen domain).

[plain magnet]

Monks are cool too. You get to run around smacking people over and over.

[north zenith]

Yea I know

[digital helm]

there's room for being a cleric of an ideal or a cause instead of a specific god, as well, but yeah, usually the idea is they pray to a god and the god gives them access to holy spells.

[north zenith]

I have a high stealth

Of 14

I’m stupid

I miss read

It says 4

Ok that makes more sense

[void mauve]

does 2d6 mean what you roll times 2 or roll twice and add together?

[echo kelp]

Roll a d6 dice 2 times (or roll 2 d6 dice)

[plain magnet]

roll twice and add together

[lyric fjord]

I would like some information on dice cloud

My paid dnd group uses dice cloud

I have not used it before, I have watched YouTube of it and it seems different then roll20 in many ways

Has anyone here been used dice cloud?

Hi so here is the thing I'm new to dnd and I've just told my friend about dnd and he wants to join too, he and I already made our characters and we're just finishing up the backstories, the problem is that I don't know where to look for a campaign and it just can't be any campaign it has to be one with critical role content since my friend wants to play bloodhunter, and idk where to find the campaign online that do critical role content, please I need help I really just want me and my friend to just have fun

Okay thank you so much for the help

[jovial mason]

Does dnd have like boards or like player pieces you can buy or is it just "in your head type thing"?

[plain magnet]

D&D can be played in your head or with a battle map. It's designed to use a one-inch square grid with pieces to represent characters.

Online people use "virtual tabletop" (VTT) programs like Roll20 that let you set up a grid digitally

[plain magnet]

and yes, different companies sell miniatures of heroes, monsters, etc. in #dnd-minis you can watch people paint them

[jovial mason]

Ok thanks alot

[plain magnet]

No prob

[deft parcel]

is this the right channel to ask new player questions?

alright awesome, I got a bit of a niche one I cant find the answer to online, let me just type it up

I have a pretty good understanding of combat mechanics and how all the numbers interact with one another, but im unsure about certain RP moments, regarding spell casters. For example, im just going to reference 2 scenes from vox machina season 2 as moments that surprised me, in the episode a druid Splits a river entirely in half, wide enough for the whole party to walk to an underwater temple, is this entirely a "its a show" moment or does something like this translate to table top? secondly a warlock helped assist her, which also confused me, since I was confident warlocks dont control water much. Lastly the same warlock at a few points would lift herself and her partner on a floating platform to fly around, is that a spell or is that also just RP things? TLDR: During non combat, how are these casters doing magical feats like splitting water or lifting themselfs up? Is that literal spells they have and chose, or is that sorta immersive spell casting?

forgot to add, also how would I apply any of the above to my first session as a warlock, (Albiet level 2 starting off so probs a lot less interesting than the above)

[harsh fjord]

To simplify, the show takes some major liberties since TV and tabletop are vastly different media.

[deft parcel]

Ive never heard of help actions, could you explain that to me?

yeah I absolutely figured the show was a lot flashier in terms of those things but I was curious and wanted to confirm

so the take away im gathering is, basically it was actual spells and it was just over the top bc tv show?

[plain magnet]

without knowing the specific moments, there are actual spells that control water and allow people to levitate, although the idea of a druid using one of those spells beyond its usual capacity with another caster's help was probably invented for that moment

[slow jasper]

Help Action:
You can lend your aid to another creature in the completion of a task. When you take the Help Action, the creature you aid gains advantage on the next ability check it makes to perform the task you are helping with, provided that it makes the check before the start of your next turn.

Alternatively, you can aid a friendly creature in Attacking a creature within 5 feet of you. You feint, distract the target, or in some other way team up to make your ally’s Attack more effective. If your ally ATTACKS the target before your next turn, the first Attack roll is made with advantage.

[deft parcel]

2 questions, I assume in combat this means that I use up my regular action to help?

and lastly can this be used anytime someone performs a task, spell, or check outside of combat?

[slow jasper]

Yes, you're using your action to take the help action.

[slow jasper]

Yes, unless your DM says you can't

The Help Action is one option for the use of one's Action.

[deft parcel]

Gotcha alright that makes sense

also thanks for answering that for me!

[delicate axle]

I have just one question: is it complicated?

[loud barn]

For someone new? Yes, probably.

However if you have someone willing to teach or some time to read the rules and some people (like here) to answer questions...you can pick it up fast

My Wednesday group that I just started is all new people, they've all gotten things pretty easily so far and we just had our second session yesterday

[delicate axle]

That's cool. I'll be back in a few hours to ask some questioms then, do you have any video or resource that explains some of it? If not it's fine, I can do the research if need be

[loud barn]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[loud barn]

yep, there's a bunch of stuff here. I'm off to bed in a few but I will be around in the morning if you have questions 🙂

[delicate axle]

Oooooooooooo

Thanks, and are you from Europe?

[loud barn]

North America, though I can't give anything too specific, it's against server rules

[delicate axle]

I was more asking for timezone sake, thanks

Good night then

[loud barn]

no worries 🙂 I'm on PST

have a good one

[delicate axle]

👋

[leaden geode]

Hey any body here

What time is it there night or morning

[cobalt frigate]

11:17pm

[leaden geode]

Which country

[cobalt frigate]

Canada

[simple goblet]

7.24am in the UK

[fossil shuttle]

Hey all! Just wondering how do I create a post where I am looking for a group to join as a player?

I’m new ish I played like 2-3 short campaigns with new people

A couple years ago

[fresh fable]

#find-a-game

[fossil shuttle]

Thank you!

[pastel magnet]

how long would it take to learn how to play dnd?

[silk tartan]

Hey everyone, I have played a couple campaigns online, but for my friends bday he asked if I would DM a one shot for him and a couple other people that are all first time players. I have the Candlekeep mysteries, so I was just going to pick a one shot from that, however, he asked if I could focus on combat encounters and less RP cuz that's qhat helps interested in, should I do that or should I just set up a fight pit style one shot that let's them just continuously fight waves? Also what levels/items should I give them, I don't want to start them out too high leveled and overwhelm them with the options, but I want to have enough spells and different things they have a good time and it's just a drug out punch fest through the fights

[raven compass]

can someone help me to use dnd beyond

[delicate axle]

is the organizations allies and enemies part of character creation important?

[echo kelp]

Only if it's important to the campaign you're playing in.
So basically ask your DM and group.

[delicate axle]

how about faith?

[dapper gulch]

It’s more important in Theros, less in other settings.

[echo kelp]

Same thing - usually it's pretty optional.

[delicate axle]

more things are optional than i imagined, thanks

[quartz junco]

Hi, I have only every played one campaign of dnd with a couple of my old friends and other than that haven’t played much, I would really appreciate it is there was someone who could help me with joining a campaign and helping me start, I have a couple questions I would like to ask about the game, honestly I didn’t get much explanation when I played, but if anyone could help I would be so greatful :))

To add on, all I really got told was how to create a character but that was on dnd beyond, parts of it im not to sure of 😅

[fresh fable]

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQMqiULo_05P90SzHdyyVIcz4TGZApQ5L first 6 videos on making a character. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQMqiULo_05OiKZgfz7hi_Gvw9hftY0LD good playlist of the rules

[quartz junco]

Thank you!

[coarse zealot]

Hey, me and my BF are trying to get into D&D, I've just ordered the starter kit but I was wondering are there any like pre built journeys out there that we could just play?

[loud barn]

There are lots of modules out there, more than you can count really

There are official modules and thousands created by fans, but most do require someone to run them

[timber tinsel]

Dndbeyond just put out a free one yesterday

[smoky adder]

If you're referring to Prisoner 13, that came out like two weeks ago.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1438-claim-your-copy-of-prisoner-13-and-infiltrate

There's also Lost Mine of Phandelver:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/lmop

[sudden otter]

Depends on what you mean by "just play". They all require a DM and varying levels of preparation to play. The starter set adventures require the least amount of preparation, but are also the least free-form.

[deft parcel]

Is the mammoth the only cr6 form a moon Druid can turn into? Or is there other beasts

For example, is a Trex too high of a CR? I can’t find its cr online

[crude musk]

It's CR is listed on D&D Beyond

You need to own content not found in the SRD in order to view it

[slow sorrel]

I have a question: how do spell slots work?

[ornate kiln]

you get a certain amount of spell slots, as indicated in your class table. if you cast a spell of first level or higher, you expend a spell slot of the appropriate level

you wanna cast a level 1 spell? you expend a level 1 spell slot. same for a level 2 spell and a level 2 slot etc

you can also cast lower level spells in high level slots, for example a level 1 spell can be cast with a level 2 slot

sometimes, spells get more powerful if cast with high level slots (see the spell description for such cases)

[timber tinsel]

I am yup. I didnt see that. Only got the notification yesterday. Weird.

[loud barn]

you know that's against the rules, right?

[void mauve]

not roleplaying

[echo kelp]

Do not post personally identifying information- thank you!

[void mauve]

wait wait wait hold on its from a show

[echo kelp]

So you’re trolling?

[void mauve]

not trolling

[echo kelp]

Then please stay on topic

[low cliff]

Hi!

[loud barn]

waves

[low cliff]

Blushes

[silk marlin]

Hello there

[loud barn]

Hello!

[silk marlin]

Im new to the community of dnd

i know somethings about dnd but never play it with anybody

[echo kelp]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[silk marlin]

thanks mate

[silk marlin]

Is there arcane altillery class or something smilar to it?

[cobalt frigate]

Artillerist artificier

[silk marlin]

thanks

[lyric fjord]

I'm a little intimidated writing up a monk. Where do I put her to points?

[jolly crest]

What rule did the message break?

Idk what hapoened

[lyric fjord]

Ki*

[loud barn]

giving out personal information.

Only it turned out he was actually quoting something but it sounded like he was giving name and address in chat

[jolly crest]

Ah k.

What's the best class in dnd overall@loud barn ?

(Cough cough)

(Your username)

[loud barn]

Pretty sure there is no best class
Ask just about anyone
Likely they'll just tell you that
After all there are so many options
Don't worry, you'll find one that works for you
Indeed, just give it time
No worries

whistles

nod that is correct

Seriously though, while I like paladins there really is no best class in my book 🙂

[jolly crest]

Well there should be and that said best class should be paladin cough cough

I'm so subtle it's frightening

[delicate axle]

Hey paladin, how you doing

[loud barn]

meh, not bad. You?

[delicate axle]

I'm alright, still trying to figure out the game and find a group

Although I am seeing how complicated it could get with all the things in it

[loud barn]

I'll be about off and on if you have questions I can answer 🙂 I'm afraid I can't really help with finding a group as all mine are full at the moment

[delicate axle]

It's alright, I'll find one eventually

[loud barn]

It can be a bit intimidating, yeah. But the good thing about being a player is that you really (mostly) only have to focus on learning your own character

and maybe the combat rules while you're at it

the rest is easy enough to pick up in play

[delicate axle]

I was about to type it's a bit intimidating, you reading my mind or what????

[loud barn]

Ah, curses, you've found me out. I'm actually an illithid (brain eating squid folk known for psychic abilities) here looking for tasty brains to devour.

Foiled again.

[delicate axle]

Too bad mines a bit small, it's eaten itself because of my lack of sleep

Look elsewhere, wretched creature

[loud barn]

Coises!

Shuffles off into the darkness

[sharp tulip]

hello

[loud barn]

hello

[delicate axle]

You ever see the half life alyx ending?

[loud barn]

I have not, no...but I think I have that on VR.

[delicate axle]

Ok

It doesn't really have anything to do with what you just said, it just popped up in my head randomly

[loud barn]

no worries 🙂 just remember video game discussion should generally go in #non-dnd-topics or the mods might delete it

[sharp tulip]

so umm,how do you guys play dnd exactly?

[delicate axle]

Ah right sorry

[loud barn]

I run 4 weekly groups on discord using voice chat.

[loud barn]

no worries 🙂

[delicate axle]

You run 4 weekly groups?! Isn't that kind of a lot?

[loud barn]

Yes.

Plus I have two board game groups

[cobalt frigate]

Do you have a paying job on top of that?

[delicate axle]

Rest, please. You deserve it.

[loud barn]

A part-time one. I'm in a bit of an odd situation

[cobalt frigate]

Once a week is a lot for me because I do prep work a couple months in advance.

[delicate axle]

Months? Is that the standard?

[loud barn]

I usually don't do prep work that far ahead because so much can change

[sharp tulip]

how long is even a full campaign?

a hour or two?

[loud barn]

Especially in my Monday game which is very sandboxy. I tend to prep just for the next couple of weeks ahead

[cobalt frigate]

Nope, it's a 5E conversion of a 3.5E Dungeon Magazine adventure path that has 12 chapters. Because of the need to convert stuff I have to do as much prep before hand.

[dapper gulch]

Anywhere from an hour to 12, generally. I’ve heard of some people going a straight 24 hours but that’s bonkers.

[loud barn]

you mean a session, yes? A full campaign (a series of linked adventures) can take months or years.

A single session can go anywhere from 2-4 hours

And yes, sometimes longer

[dapper gulch]

6 hour sessions are my sweet spot.

[sharp tulip]

oh cool, any session searching for players?

[loud barn]

The longest I ever gamed at a stretch was that we twice did the thirty-hour famine as a LARP

[sharp tulip]

i am new and want to try it once

[dapper gulch]

Plenty of time for breaks while still getting things moving along.

[cobalt frigate]

Ours is three hours long (7pm to 10pm).

The problem is that my players tend to talk about non-game related stuff.

[loud barn]

You can go to #750812887697588356 and post that you're looking or check in #looking-for-players and check the DMs advertising for games

[sharp tulip]

ok thx

[loud barn]

It can take time and patience...take the time to learn the game a bit so you have an idea of how things work

There are links here you can use

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[delicate axle]

What's the e?

[cobalt frigate]

Edition.

[delicate axle]

Ah ok got it

[sullen compass]

Firts game tmmrw and I'm so excited

I've been wanting to do this for 4 years now

[smoky adder]

Nice!

What’s your character?

[delicate axle]

Wow

[sharp tulip]

i want to play too, uff

[cobalt frigate]

Finding a good D&D group is like dating — you may have a bad relationship, get stood up/ghosted, kicked out, etc but eventually you'll find "the one."

[delicate axle]

If I can't do dating right how am I going to do DND right

These are the real problems

[thorny pasture]

Won't lie, got a D&D group and I have not even dated once XD

[sharp tulip]

i mean, that is something

[delicate axle]

That's better than something

[loud barn]

"Dating is overrated" - Me

[delicate axle]

Dating is temporary, DND is life

[cobalt frigate]

I'm a married forever DM...

My wife once asked me why I'm doing all the prep work and not get paid...

[loud barn]

stares in amazement no, seriously I'm joking...it isn't that rare really. I've just personally always been uninterested in romance and relationships like that.

[delicate axle]

Divorce her for disrespecting your lively-hood

[sharp tulip]

now i have no gf and no dnd game

[cobalt frigate]

No, divorcing is too expensive.

[delicate axle]

Hmmmmmmmm.....

Fake your own death, it's free. And you'll have more time for dnd

[sharp tulip]

kill her

hide the body

[cobalt frigate]

Dude...

[sharp tulip]

and fake it as an accident

[slow jasper]

Most people don't get paid for their hobbies, that's part of what makes it a hobby

[cobalt frigate]

Don't make me report you.

[sharp tulip]

sorry, my bad

took it too far

[cobalt frigate]

Let's stop this trash talking my wife.

[sharp tulip]

oh you are rally married?

really*

[loud barn]

I hope I wasn't...I really didn't mean to and if I did I apologize

[sharp tulip]

sorry

[cobalt frigate]

Yes, our 10th anniversary is coming up.

[sharp tulip]

hope you get happily old together

[cobalt frigate]

Anyway, back to D&D...

[latent belfry]

Hello, I'm new to the server. I haven't played in forever and a coworker suggested I start by looking here for others to play with.

[cobalt frigate]

You've played 5E before or an older edition?

[loud barn]

welcome 🙂

[sharp tulip]

same

[latent belfry]

5e, but I was super drunk and don't remember much about what we played. I know it was a one-shot my cousin created.

[slow jasper]

Drunkins and Dragons

[latent belfry]

I was handed a character sheet they prepared for me and said act the part and roll the dice

[slow jasper]

that's basically how it works, yeah

[latent belfry]

Yup, I ended up playing again during summer of 2019 and haven't found a lot of time. Now that I have time again I have been itching to play

[nimble raptor]

Hi, I've never played dnd ever, watched some stuff and it sounded interesting so here I am

[loud barn]

Welcome 🙂

[sharp tulip]

gl

[alpine widget]

I’ve never played a game of dnd but have been dying to play for ages. I like the sound of being a DM and I already have a story with a world and just wanted to know if it’s better playing online with people from this discord or buying a bunch of stuff and playing in person (my friends don’t like dnd so I would have to try find people if I did it in person)

[echo kelp]

You can play D&D many ways - each has it's own kind of vibe

[alpine widget]

I’m also only young teen so I don’t know how much I’d fit in with people from this server

[echo kelp]

So we don't typically play D&D games here on this server but feel free to try and find a group to join and play with in our #looking-for channels. Read #find-a-game for info on how those channels work.

I will forewarn you that your age bracket may make it harder to find a game - just the nature of a lot of folks worried about the legal implications of playing with minors

[alpine widget]

Yeah that’s why I have somewhat been putting it off for a while but thanks for the info

[echo kelp]

That said maybe check out your local game/comic/book stores - they may have groups playing D&D there.

[alpine widget]

Yeah I saw a video earlier by a guy on YouTube and he talked about a bunch of different ways to find people to play with

[jovial mason]

So during a turn how many actions does a player have?

[still zephyr]

1 action and 1 bonus action

[echo kelp]

You have movement, action, sometimes bonus action, and sometimes reaction (reactions may happen on another creature's turn).

[still zephyr]

plus certain abilities and spells may affect that

[jovial mason]

So you move how ever many feet available, do 1 action then perform a bonus action if available

[still zephyr]

exactly

in any order

[jovial mason]

And do spells cost a action

[still zephyr]

spells can be an action, bonus action or reaction it will say in the spell block

[jovial mason]

Ok thanks

[cobalt frigate]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/spellcasting#CastingTime

Most spells require a single action to cast, but some spells require a bonus action, a reaction, or much more time to cast.
Bonus Action

A spell cast with a bonus action is especially swift. You must use a bonus action on your turn to cast the spell, provided that you haven't already taken a bonus action this turn. You can't cast another spell during the same turn, except for a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action.
Reactions

Some spells can be cast as reactions. These spells take a fraction of a second to bring about and are cast in response to some event. If a spell can be cast as a reaction, the spell description tells you exactly when you can do so.
Longer Casting Times

Certain spells (including spells cast as rituals) require more time to cast: minutes or even hours. When you cast a spell with a casting time longer than a single action or reaction, you must spend your action each turn casting the spell, and you must maintain your concentration while you do so. If your concentration is broken, the spell fails, but you don't expend a spell slot. If you want to try casting the spell again, you must start over.

[shrewd parcel]

Hello

I’m new to D&D. Haven’t played a campaign, but am about to. I know the basics more or less, though

[harsh fjord]

This is a good place to get questions answered if you have them; in some instances, you'll get pointed to the proper channel. Hope you have a good time here!

[exotic remnant]

D&D Beyond

Ready to play some Dungeons & Dragons?

We have four channels and four commands to help you find your next game. You can click a command below or type it into the #1075498333705089084 channel.

• Dungeon Masters/groups looking for players.
To post in #looking-for-players, use the </looking-for players:1074431147045568613> command.
• Players or groups looking for Dungeon Masters.
To post in #750812887697588356, use the </looking-for dm:1074431147045568613> command.
• Communities looking for members.
To post in #looking-for-community, use the </looking-for community:1074431147045568613> command.
• Professional DMs advertising services.
To post in #paid-looking-for-game, use the </looking-for paid:1074431147045568613> command.

Be respectful, and have fun!

[shrewd parcel]

Thanks!

Where should I go to talk about the character I made?

[echo kelp]

#1045166392174972938 is a good place for that

[shrewd parcel]

Ok

Thanks

[night pendant]

ok fellas, im very very new to d&d ive never even played a game of it, but i would like to ask, during a game how long does one last and when does it end? when the campaign is over, can you leave and pick it up on another day?

[harsh fjord]

How long does a session run do you mean?

[night pendant]

yup

[harsh fjord]

Personally, I think two hours is the minimum, and I know folks have played for the better part of a day (with breaks woven in). You can do an adventure that only takes one session, or it could go weeks, months, years.

[upper fjord]

h e l p m e l e a r n p l e a s

[harsh fjord]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[upper fjord]

thank u so much

[wild moon]

Hi all, I'm new and have a question

[plain magnet]

Hi! Feel free to ask.

[wild moon]

It's about spells and if I could (as a DM) just like give a player a spell because of story reasons or whatever

[plain magnet]

Yeah, you totally can. When you DM, you get to hand things out to characters as you like, even things you make up yourself.

[wild moon]

I like that answer thanks

[plain magnet]

No problem! Go ahead and get creative, as long as you and your group are having fun

[wild moon]

I try to keep that in mind. Just wanted to make sure I'm consistent with rules or things that I establish.

[lyric fjord]

hey all. I'm new. Very new. Never played a single game of dnd due to pure intimidation as well as not knowing anyone who could teach me. Now at the age of 30 my wife and myself are trying to learn together and teach our son once we have a good grasp on it. I've just discovered one dnd and although its just in beta atm, I believe this is out ticket in!! Its incredibly exciting and I was wondering if anyone has a play test group for brand new players to join and learn.

[fossil shuttle]

What is roll 20 and one shots?

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[fossil shuttle]

Ok thank you!

[lyric fjord]

Hello I've played a few amateur one shots I've been dm and a player I'm looking for people who will help me learn and learn with me

[night pendant]

what if you join a session but have to leave before everyone else? can you just like lave and pick up where you where another day?

[hoary cliff]

The session keeps going unless the dm calls the session over when you leave.

[hoary cliff]

What'd you need help learning?

[dim galleon]

Is there a dnd game mechanic for becoming a warlock patron

[lyric fjord]

We'll when I played as a dm It was kinda like improvising everything it felt like I was doing it wrong because I don't know all the creatures

[dim galleon]

Sed

[hoary cliff]

That'd be sick if there was tho!

[hoary cliff]

Nah. You're doing it right haha

[lyric fjord]

no but I'm hoping to get one

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[hoary cliff]

^^^

[lyric fjord]

One session I dmed it was a zombie apocalypse but the boys decided they didn't want to be with the girls so they left them for dead and at chocolate cake

Are they on dnd beyond?

[hoary cliff]

Oh well, you gotta work with what your players do haha

[lyric fjord]

Thank you

[lyric fjord]

It felt like I wasn't doing a good job , the people I was playing with also were new so it was kinda chaotic

[dim galleon]

That would make for a pretty appealing campaign

[hoary cliff]

I had a campaign where my ambitions would've drove them towards godhood haha

[dim galleon]

Did he manage

Go on

[lyric fjord]

dunl how do you keep up with your players inventory

[hoary cliff]

nah we didnt get that far tho haha

[hoary cliff]

i think its just the max level of 20 doesnt get that near god lvl powers

[dim galleon]

So like a level 20 warlock with whatever epic boons fit the patron they wannabe

[hoary cliff]

yeh that would be sick af. by lvl 20 id make an argument for that with your dm yeh

[dire tree]

So how does one go about creating a character?

[crisp musk]

First thing you wanna do is give the basic rules a read https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[dire tree]

Yea I was looking at that but like do I get to decide all of it?

Also what’s the difference between wizard, warlock and sorcerer

[crisp musk]

You get to make a lot of decisions while building a character

warlocks wizards and sorcerers all cast spells in a different way

and each have abilities or spells unique to their class

[dire tree]

Cause I’ve always had a love for like magic stuff so I was thinking if having something like that

Of*

[crisp musk]

Wizards cast using intelligence and store their spells in a book
Sorcerers cast using charisma and cast through innate talent
Warlocks cast using charisma and can use magic because they have a pact with some sort of magical being

[dire tree]

What are ability scores?

[crisp musk]

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

[dim galleon]

Oh ik

I just need to find one first

[hoary cliff]

ability scores will be determined by the dm

[rotund dew]

Ability scores add to your rolls

If you have 14 str you add 2 to all str rolls
10 is 0
Every 2 above 10 adds +1
Every 2 below 10 gives -1

[visual iron]

New to dnd but want to start any suggestions on what’s first

[dapper gulch]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[dapper gulch]

Start with the information posted up above! There’s a few YouTube videos as well as the Basic Rules.

[rotund dew]

Any questions?

[opaque comet]

you won't really get anywhere without at least the Players Handbook (PHB) and the Monster Manual (MM). Im a fan of hardcover books, but DnDBeyond has digital versions as well. you can start with DnDBeyond abbreviated intro versions, build some basic characters, learn the combat rules in the PHB.

ALTERNATIVELY, you can start with one of the box sets. it has everything to get started right away. you will eventually need to move up to the full, official 5e books, but this could be a good starting point and is pretty affordable.

...

the end goal is to start playing. either ask around at your local game store or join an online group at #looking-for-players.

[visual iron]

I have the PHB MM Tashas and xanathars

Just looking at building a monk atm

[opaque comet]

DND Beyond has an automated process to do that. I suggest doing that, but also following every step along teh way in the PHB, as if you're doing it manually by hand, so that you really understand the mechanics behind it.

[drifting dagger]

Question. I took the Ancestral Protectors role as a dwarf barbarian. It says that when I'm in rage, the first creatures I hit on my turn are disadvantaged in their attacks against the rest of my party, and my party has resistance against them. Does that mean my party members have advantage against those creatures automatically while I'm in rage?

And if that's the case, does our rogue automatically have sneak attack advantage against these creatures while I'm in rage?

[harsh fjord]

This server is strictly for D&D. Other games might be discussed in #non-dnd-topics, but advertising tables is limited to D&D.

[harsh fjord]

No and no. There’s nothing in the ability about giving advantage to allies.

[plucky shoal]

wheres the channel to find a group which is looking for players?

[harsh fjord]

See #find-a-game for all those channels.

[plucky shoal]

thx

[livid oyster]

I'm new and I'm confused about something

E5 is the rule book, right? And it's not for free. So I can't play without buying it?

[fresh fable]

?new

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[fresh fable]

☝️You can get the basic rules for free

[livid oyster]

So, why do I need e5?

[fresh fable]

The 5e (5th edition)players hand book will have more character options

[ornate kiln]

yeah the basic rules have enough to play but not many options.

[livid oyster]

Do I need to make a character before or after I join a campaign

[smoky adder]

Either way!

I’d suggest coming up with a few loose character ideas ahead of time. Then once you’ve joined, you can work with the DM to find the best match and finalize everything.

[ornate kiln]

usually, you make a character after talking about some rules and expectations with your DM. however, its not a bad idea to make a character or two for practise and maybe you can even adapt them to a game once you join

[smoky adder]

Personally, I like to build a character that will easily fit with the themes of the campaign, so mine usually come after.

[livid oyster]

Ah ok , thanks

[little briar]

i need help understanding with the ability part on making a character, i looked some stuff up but i still dont understand it

[ornate kiln]

I assume you have read this part of the basic rules? https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#3DetermineAbilityScores

this is about ability scores, right? or is it about skills?

[little briar]

ability scores

[cobalt frigate]

What do you have trouble with?

[little briar]

I can't send a photo but it's the dice roll groups and ability score increase

[little briar]

and i did read this like 2 times but my dum mind doesnt understand it ☹️

[cobalt frigate]

Are you referring to the ability score generation methods like rolling or Point Buy?

[little briar]

the manual/rolled ability score roll

[ornate kiln]

okay so you got 6 stats. you can either take a standard set of numbers, roll dice or do point buy.

rolled stats work like this

roll 4 six sided dice, remove the lowest one and add the other 3 together

repeat 6 times, then assign the numbers to the 6 stats

[cobalt frigate]

Okay, you would typically roll four d6 (aka 4d6) and discard the lowest die.

For example, I roll a 3, 5, 4, and 6. I would discard the 3 and the total would be 15 (5 + 4+ 6).

[little briar]

ohh that makes sense

[cobalt frigate]

That said, most DMs would want to witness you rolling because it's too easy to cheat claim you had rolled 18, 18, 18, 18, 18, and 18.

[little briar]

could i show them a photo?

if i did it online

[ornate kiln]

there are online dice rollers

[cobalt frigate]

DMs would prefer to witness it. Photos are easily doctor (just move the die to the number you and then take a picture...)

This is why DMs such as myself have their players use the Point Buy system. It's fairer for everyone — some people are really lucky while others are unlucky.

[little briar]

point buy system?

[ornate kiln]

for example, you play over discord. you invite a dice bot to your server and roll your stats there.

another way would be if you play over a virtual tabletop like roll20, then you roll the dice in your game so the DM can check

[little briar]

now i remember what point buy system is

[ornate kiln]

point buy is this part https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters#VariantCustomizingAbilityScores

you have 27 points to spend. stats start at 8 and can go to 15. 14 and 15 costs 2 points, everything else costs 1

[little briar]

it makes it more fair

[ornate kiln]

I prefer point buy to all other methods of stat generation

its fair and flexible

[little briar]

do you have to still do that in the DM's presence?

[ornate kiln]

not really, the numbers are known

no luck involved

[little briar]

im probably gonna use that then

[loud barn]

nod it means that one person doesn't roll utter garbage and feel that they have to play weaker than everyone and that one person doesn't roll a character with ridiculously high stats and suddenly think they're the main character

[snow light]

Rules as written, Barbarian says it needs 13 str to class in or out. Does that mean I cannot do a dex-based barbarian unless I put at least 13 points in strength?

[loud barn]

Yes.

Or wait...no. I think it's MULTICLASS in or out of

So you can be a barbarian with a strength lower than 13 but you can't multiclass.

Let me double-check that

[plain magnet]

That only applies to multiclassing, iirc, yeah

[snow light]

Ahh oh. Conceptually that makes little sense... Too weak to NOT be a barbarian... but I can appreciate that multiclassing needs some limits to not be busted

[loud barn]

I would define it more that you're so busy struggling with the class you have that you don't have the chance to move to something better. But yeah, mechanically it's to stop people from level dipping once into most classes

[snow light]

Putting that way does make it more sensible. Thanks for helping me understand!

[little briar]

what is the strength recommend for a fighter?

[loud barn]

depends on the kind of fighter you want to be. My Tuesday group has an archer fighter who has low strength but high dex

but for playing a traditional fighter you probably want at least a 14 to start and higher is better

[plain magnet]

Strength is your main stat as a fighter if you're using melee weapons that aren't finesse, so you want it to be 14 or higher, yeah. Ranged weapons like bows use Dexterity and and weapons that say they're "finesse" can use either.

[little briar]

i chose the great weapon fighting

[loud barn]

So yes, you want high strength. At least 14

[lyric fjord]

Heyo

Could anyone help guide me in making a character sheet?

[outer grotto]

I'm trying to get into dnd but I don't understand it that much

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[next hedge]

There are lots of resources to look at, and tons of youtube channels and actual plays to watch if you want to get an idea of the how the game works

[outer grotto]

That's a lot of reading

[next hedge]

Start with the basic rules and branch out from there. Watching a few games being play may help with the idea of how the game goes, but the mechanics of the game is going to take some reading and getting to know the base rules

[cobalt frigate]

At least read the first four chapters on character creation.

I highly recommend you check out Critical Role's "Handbook Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube (it's linked above).

[outer grotto]

I made character on the d&d beyond

[lyric fjord]

Congratulations

[pine lance]

What is the most fun part about joining a campaign as a new player?

[cobalt frigate]

Meeting new people.

[ornate kiln]

getting to actually play the game and not just reading or watching videos about it?

[tranquil musk]

Goblin Fighter Cavalier - good idea or not?

[tranquil musk]

wait are you THE Omegon?

[steel stag]

Looking to get into dnd want to play a necromancer any tips

[smoky sun]

Are adventure leagues recommended to start off with for newcomers to the game

[loud barn]

They can be a good way to find a table. The problem is...pickup games can often be awkward

[smoky sun]

What's a pickup game? Is it like picking up from an older campaign?

[loud barn]

No, like...a game with a bunch of random people rather than a regular group

That's the thing about Adventurer's League. You never know who's going to show up or how well you'll get along with them

Like the time I showed up to a group and there was this Lawful Good paladin who wanted to describe how he horribly tortured a goblin prisoner

So it CAN be good...or it can be really bad. But it can also be a good way to try out the hobby

[smoky sun]

Gotcha. So there will be different types of people playing characters with different styles while jumping in.

[loud barn]

nod and you never know who you're going to get or if you'll get along with them

[smoky sun]

Do you recommend forming a D&D group with people you already know that are in your friend group?

[patent stream]

Dino nuggies are rlly good

[loud barn]

That can generally be the best way to do it. After all, your friends know you best.

That said I've also recruited random people online and had it work well. It's just that it was for a consistent weekly group with the same people so if I knew I didn't like someone and they didn't fit I could ask them to leave

[loud barn]

might be better to discuss favorite foods in #non-dnd-topics

[patent stream]

I didn't know what to say tbh

[loud barn]

'Hello' always works 🙂

[patent stream]

I'm a weird ok

[loud barn]

Fair.

[smoky sun]

Definitely. Have you done one shot campaigns?

[patent stream]

I ain't never played dnd so I'm here

[hot wigeon]

I'm new to DND but my friends chose me as the DM, Im trying to make a story but it ends up with literally almost 0 fights, and my friends are blood hungry maniacs, and campaign settings ideas that require you to fight a lot? or atleast more than three times tbh.

[patent stream]

The backrooms

[loud barn]

Now by that do you mean an entire campaign composed of one-shot adventures? Or do you mean have I ever run like a single one-shot adventure for a group I don't plan to play with again?

[smoky sun]

A single one shot

[west bison]

I started out by getting an existing campaign, you can look up easy ones for beginners that have a lot of fights

[hot wigeon]

thanks, can't believe I forgot existing campaigns exist. 😭

[west bison]

All good, I have been doing the wild beyond witchlight but that one is a more roleplay heavy one

[loud barn]

Not very often but I have done it now and then.

Usually I prefer to run campaigns that develop over time

Wild Beyond the Witchlight looks epic. A friend of mine did a livestream with his group (Dork Tales). I really should watch it at some point

[west bison]

It is pretty fun so far, I am prepping for my players to start the second chapter

[loud barn]

Awesome 🙂 Glad you're having fun

[patent stream]

Hi again

[loud barn]

Welcome back 🙂 what's up?

[patent stream]

Nothing

I made a random character for fun

[loud barn]

Very nice, what sort of character?

[patent stream]

A half orc that's a fighter

Also I've never played dnd so

[loud barn]

Good start. Hard for anyone to argue with that

[patent stream]

I just liked the idea

[loud barn]

They can be a lot of fun

[patent stream]

I'm looking for a campaign to join for my first time playing

[loud barn]

You can check the posts in #looking-for-players or post something in #750812887697588356

[patent stream]

Ok thx

[loud barn]

Anytime, good luck

[amber hill]

Does anyone have advice on how to get started for a complete beginner? I've only played one session, and the rules were never really explained to me. I was just kind of told what to do and when to do it. That was also 3 years ago, so I don't really remember anything anyway ;;

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[amber hill]

thank you!

[supple wadi]

I have questions

[thorny pasture]

Fire away

[dim galleon]

So disarming strike says the target has to succeed the dc or throw his weapon and the battle master gets to pick it up and use it right ?

[rotund dew]

And we have answers

[supple wadi]

What’s a good way to create a d&d character

Should I use a app or something

[rotund dew]

Dnd beyond

[loud barn]

D&D Beyond is free to use to create basic characters. It can be good practice.

[thorny pasture]

Honestly, which ever is the most convenient for you. D&D Beyond is convenient, but it has most of the features behind a paywall. Pen and paper requires more time, but it allows you to use whatever resources you have on hand

[supple wadi]

Ok

I’ll be back soon

[loud barn]

Just so you know, when you do join a game, a DM might have particular rules for how their campaign works

So you may have to make changes to any character you make

[jolly thistle]

Should a new player experiment by creating new classes and or races to figure out a balance in the game

[supple wadi]

DND beyond is downloading

[rotund dew]

No

[thorny pasture]

Its more of to find what character you vibe with. Try whatever you think is cool and go from there

[jolly thistle]

Ok thank you for the help

[loud barn]

wait, do you mean like making your own classes and races or do you mean creating characters with different classes or races?

[rotund dew]

You shouldn't make homebrew until you know the game

[jolly thistle]

Completely making a new race/class from scratch

[rotund dew]

that's homebrew

[thorny pasture]

Oh, then no

[loud barn]

not recommended for people just starting

[slow jasper]

You're probably not going to learn balance by making homebrew, you're going to learn balance by reading what already exists and seeing the patterns therein

[loud barn]

But don't let me stop you if it's what you really want. Just keep in mind that the best homebrew comes with community input and experience playing the game. It generally isn't recommended for people just starting

[amber hill]

How do people usually make their characters? - by that, I mean; do they make a character before joining any games, and then use their character/one of their premade characters for it? Or do most people wait until joining a campaign to make their character?

[jolly thistle]

Ok, because I have a bunch of friends that have been playing for years and I have been talking with them as they know more than me and they can teach me quickly

[thorny pasture]

I personally wait

[loud barn]

I generally recommend waiting until you have a game first. DMs and individual campaigns will often have specific requirements.

[amber hill]

ah, okay! c:

[loud barn]

But if you want to make some stuff for practice just to get to know how it works...go ahead

[thorny pasture]

I had those friends as well. But honestly, unless they are dedicated to help you playtest and constantly refine your ideas, its going to be quite hard to get a sense of balance

[jolly thistle]

Ok, thank you for answering my questions

[supple wadi]

What would be the best choice for me to be a necromancy r

[loud barn]

No worries 🙂 we'll be around if you want help or advice.

[plain magnet]

Typically people make their characters for the game, but a lot of people make characters beforehand because they can do that on their own time. Since DMs generally have certain preferences about how characters are made for a game to fit the world, it helps to think of characters you make on your own as practice, or as concept work you can use for when you do get into a game and make a character for it

[slow jasper]

Many DMs have particularities to their games, so brining in a character you just made up might have conflicts with the tone or themes of a given campaign (but might not).
It's a great idea to make characters on your own, this both primes the creative pump and is good practice for making characters as well as helping you learn the game.
All that said, there's nothing wrong with coming up with various ideas of characters you might want to play and presenting them to your DM once you're in a game.

[supple wadi]

What would be the best thing for me to be a necromancer?

[plain magnet]

Necromancy subclass of wizard, or spores subclass of druid

[thorny pasture]

Wizard to be honest.

[loud barn]

there's really only one good choice for that and that's Wizard with the necromancy specialization

Though Cleric can also get some necromancy stuff

Death domain

[plain magnet]

Spore druids do get zombie servants although they're very fragile

[slow jasper]

Do keep in mind that death domain isn't always an option as it's not intended as a PC class.

[loud barn]

good point, I forgot that

[supple wadi]

Idk no what any of this is

I trying to creat a character

[slow jasper]

Wizard is a class. Necromancer is one of the subclasses/specializations of the wizard class.

[thorny pasture]

I would highly suggest watching youtube tutorials on the topic. Its incredibly helpful

[supple wadi]

Ok I chose wizard and I at the next step

Ok your#tube got

[loud barn]

Anyway welcome all 🙂 We're often around to answer questions and help. Except me right now as I have to go for dinner

[slow jasper]

step carefully

[loud barn]

later

[supple wadi]

Ok YouTube I’ll try that

[slow jasper]

check out the "handbooker helper" series on YT

[jolly thistle]

What more is there to D and D than talking to people and fighting enemies because in most campaigns I have been in that's all that has happened

[slow jasper]

exploration, downtime activities, etc.

[thorny pasture]

That is primarily the premise. The fun comes from the imagination and the collaborative story telling aspect of the game. It feels like you are playing a video game where there are no restrictions. It allows you to play as someone else, and fully immerse yourself into another world

[jolly thistle]

Ok thank you for letting me know because I always felt like there was more to D and D but I wasn't sure

[slow jasper]

Generally speaking, D&D is a game about heroic adventure. You're going to be doing fantasy stuff - fulfilling quests, defeating the bad guys, and all the stuff that goes with that

What did the Fellowship of the Ring do besides talk to people and fight bad guys?

Run a lot?

[plain magnet]

There can be more. For example, the adventure Waterdeep: Dragon Heist has a subplot where you renovate an old mansion into a headquarters and can run it as a bar, cafe, whatever you choose

[slow jasper]

What did Conan the Barbarian do besides talk to people and fight bad guys?

What has anyone in the Star Wars movies done besides talk to people and fight?

Drink blue milk?

[plain magnet]

Downtime and exploration :p

[slow jasper]

#dnd-newcomers message

[plain magnet]

Yes that was a deliberate callback lol

[slow jasper]

🔁

[opaque comet]

you should make a couple characters so you can show the DM you're serious about playing bc often there are more people wanting to join than spaces available.

maybe you use the char as designed, maybe you tweak it a little, or maybe you shelve it and make a brand new one. in any case the practice is good

[amber hill]

oh! alright c:

[opaque comet]

DnD beyond makes it really easy to adjust a given character

[slow jasper]

When I was learnign 5e, I made a bunch of characters, that helped me understand the game

I never used any of them

[amber hill]

I'm sure it was still fun tho? and it helped :D I'll probably do that

[opaque comet]

yes

[jolly thistle]

Is there anybody here that can host within the next hour or two that would be able to explain to me some of the basics in D and D

[opaque comet]

making a boatload of chars IS fun. IMO

[slow jasper]

If you're new to this hobby, a lot of ttrpgs are written in such a way that the first thing you do is make a character, the process of doing so helps you learn the mechanics of the game

[exotic remnant]

New to D&D?

Here's a few excellent resources to get you started!

About the Game

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For a quick overview, check out How to Play D&D or this Todd Talks video.
• For more info on specific topics, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series on YouTube.

For Players

• You can create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Get advice on making your first character, then check out the rest of the New Player's Guide articles.

For DMs

• Start with these great adventures for beginners.
• Get advice on starting strong for your first game, then browse the rest of the Dungeon Master Tips series for more.

Finding a Game

• Check out #find-a-game or this article for instructions on finding a group.
• Get advice for playing online with this article or video.

[jolly thistle]

Ok thank you, I have played 2 campaigns and that is it

[amber hill]

ohh I see

I looked up the one by Critical Role and will watch it ^^

is the handbook expensive? I've also heard that there's like,, a lot of them >>;

[supple wadi]

I need more help

Is there someone who can do a screen share and help give me suggestions maybe?

Idk what I’m doing

[opaque comet]

this is perhaps one of the best beginner tutorials on DnD that also includes the Roll20 VTT (virtual tabletop) that many people here use:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_pBct-aS2o

[pine lance]

Hey kaiden happy to help feel free to message me

[supple wadi]

Ok seal

Not much

[opaque comet]

The Players Handbook is really all you need to play. it covers everything a player needs. (and its essential for DMs also)

you just have to buy it. either hardcover or digital.

[opaque comet]

nothing personal but you cant bypass the basic rulebook and expect to be taught the game via a personal lecture. not to mention thats a huge ask.

[supple wadi]

I looking at the rules still

[opaque comet]

the Starter box set is $18. the starter book is $14. the PHB is $25. you're going to have to get the PHB at some point, might as well get it now.

ok good point.

i keep forgetting the basic rules are free

[balmy igloo]

How do I build a divine soul sorcerer?

I’m told they’ve some of the most powerful healing spells and can use support spells which I’m all about support

[opaque comet]

right, of course. brainfart on my part.

[echo kelp]

Pick a race, add class and subclass and build to taste?

I’m not sure what else to say?

[balmy igloo]

Wait divine soul sorcerer is a whole different class?

[smoky adder]

Pick sorcerer for the class, and divine soul for the subclass.

[balmy igloo]

Thought just a subclass

Ah

[opaque comet]

https://rpgbot.net/dnd5/characters/classes/sorcerer/subclasses/divine-soul/

[balmy igloo]

I’m unsure of what race to use I’m partly leaning to goblin

[rotund dew]

You do you there

[balmy igloo]

Any draw backs to goblins?

[iron charm]

If you're leaning towards Goblin, you might want to look at Verdan

[balmy igloo]

Verdan?

[rotund dew]

flaws no charisma bonus

[balmy igloo]

What’s verdan?

[echo kelp]

It really doesn’t matter what race really (if you’re using the new Tashas rules)

[smoky adder]

Well, not for the first version of goblin, and not without Tasha’s customization rules.

[balmy igloo]

So they’re a type of goblin?

[smoky adder]

The latest goblin lets you pick whatever abilities by default.

[balmy igloo]

Didn’t know races had sub races

[rotund dew]

It didn't matter before that

[opaque comet]

yeah it did

[balmy igloo]

So it just allows most powerful builds what you want to pick?

[echo kelp]

Right but the racial traits encouraged folks to pick specific races for certain classes.

[iron charm]

Verdan are kind of goblins, they were goblins but were mutated by chaos and now are a more social race in Faerun

[rotund dew]

you guys are getting a little complicated for the newbs

[echo kelp]

Anyway focus on fun and working with your group to achieve that fun and you won’t go wrong.

[balmy igloo]

Mutated?

Kinda interesting

[opaque comet]

teh new Tasha's rules allow you to pick and choose where you put your ability bonuses, making goblins just as viable as most other races however Half Elves beat goblins b/c they get more ability bonuses

[rotund dew]

They evolve into hobgoblin sizes

[opaque comet]

and make natural sorcerers bc of teh +2 CHA which you want anyhow.

[balmy igloo]

Nice

[iron charm]

They're my favorite race 😄 they start off level 1 as a small race, but at level 5 they grow to medium over night.

[balmy igloo]

I like to stay small

[amber hill]

I'm asking this out of curiosity, and a character idea I have - can your character be a child? Or do they all need to be adults?

[balmy igloo]

I can hide and take shiny things

[balmy igloo]

Technically I’ve a child

[tiny jewel]

I’m fairly new to dnd, and I wanted to know how you could run an evil pc(lawful, neutral , or chaotic) without constant cinflict in a party?

[amber hill]

pardon?

[opaque comet]

goblins are awesome rogues, except for the fact that their goblin racial skill of Hide/Dash is wasted over the Cunning Action. I home brew that goblins get an extra 5' of movement with Dash.

[balmy igloo]

Half dragon

So 21 in dragon years and 14 in human

[tiny jewel]

In our current campaign we have a lawful evil pc and it constantly lead to a bucnh of conflict with him underhanding everyone and getting another pc killed

[amber hill]

ohh, I meant more around 10 or under, like a small child

[rotund dew]

Focus more on law than evil for that one

[balmy igloo]

Most dms won’t for sus reasons

[iron charm]

If you like small, you can go with Halfling. They make flavor characters like that

[amber hill]

Ohh, makes sense

[amber hill]

sus?

[balmy igloo]

Anyone wants to play a child is normally kicked out of parties

[iron charm]

Suspicious

[tiny jewel]

This is unrelated

[opaque comet]

I would not. ever. too much squicky. unless youre in a family friendly campaign and youre the DM or at least have control over content.

[tiny jewel]

Its another person, who was just playing an evil character, and when I say conflcit I mean in universe

[supple wadi]

What’s a ideal

[tiny jewel]

No one was fighting out of game, but it made the actual playing really chaotic

[balmy igloo]

They’ve control but we’re running with 21 for dragon year age since she’s half dragon her mother was a dragon

[amber hill]

oh, I think I get it. I just thought it was a funny idea to have a kid with unique abilities (unique as in, normal children probably wouldn't be as strong as this player character) in an adventuring gang. Like on the chaotic side of things - ex, I think this kind of character would relatively fit in Fools Gold

[balmy igloo]

Just run a changeling I think they’re called or half

They can make themselves seem like a child I think?

[opaque comet]

then thats not LE. Lawful should adhere to contracts and rules.

[amber hill]

eh, doesn't really work if they act like a child, then that just feels a bit weird ^^; it was just an idea I had that I thought was funny lol

[tiny jewel]

They did, its just we had a chaotic good character constantly breaking rules and the lawful evil guy got them executed withon the framework of the world

[iron charm]

I had plans for a child vampire in a different game entirely. Little kid that could throw motorcycles at people seemed like a fun idea at the time.

[balmy igloo]

They could be acting like one so no one knows for background reasons

[amber hill]

yeah! my idea was a bit like that

[tiny jewel]

I guess what I’m really asking are ways to make an evil character cooperate

[opaque comet]

well, then, that's kind of on the DM and/or other players. if you dont want evil PCs it should be discussed in Session Zero. i try to discourage evil in the group unless its an evil party in general. but then it just turns into murder hobos, and thats idk just kind of eh.

[tiny jewel]

Not on a meta out of game leevl but ideas to add cohesion in the game

[tiny jewel]

I see

[supple wadi]

I’m creating a character and idk what ideal is

[tiny jewel]

So the best way to avoid it is to just not let them exist to begin with?

[iron charm]

I believe D&D 3.5 had rules for "underaged characters" in it. Generally it gave you penalties for strength and wisdom and there is always that stigma of being an adventuring 14 year old

[opaque comet]

a dm shouldnt be making a char do anything. if youve allowed (or at least not disallowed) something, then you as a DM have to be flexible and deal with it.

[tiny jewel]

Ok well in the future

[opaque comet]

you can try incentives maybe? you can suggest to characters that they can resolve it.

[supple wadi]

What’s a ideal

[tiny jewel]

Ok, so I guess in the future we just need more rules about character creation

[amber hill]

I guess I would look at the rules of what game things my group is playing, check with my group, etc. but thank you guys for the feedback - I don't think I'd play this kind of character my first game, but it was an interesting thought to me c:

[opaque comet]

subtly suggest to the other chars that they can gang up on teh LE and kill him for the greater good.

[tiny jewel]

I know by the way I’m talking about it might seem the campaign just wasn’t fun, but it genuinely was i’m just trying to improve it in the future

[quick thicket]

hey yall! as a new player knee-deep in character creation, what should I focus on for a first-time build?
(also I know far too much about dnd to have never actually played)

[next hedge]

An ideal is a drive or a principle the character follows in their life

[iron charm]

Yeah, the "exotic characters" aren't great for new players. You really need to be comfortable with roleplaying. Definitely a discussion for session zero as well 😄