#dnd-newcomers

1 messages · Page 74 of 1

bleak pollen
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Alright thanks! As for real life (outside online games), do you know any softwares capable of automatically dm a game?

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Of if something similar exists?

cobalt frigate
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AI sucks.
Seriously it doesn't replace a real person DMing.

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AI cannot react to what a person says, especially nuance of their speech.

A real person DMing has to improv, expecting the unexpected from their players.

AI cannot understand when a player is joking or being serious when telling what their character does.

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I'm saying this as both a player/DM of D&D for 40+ years and a game developer of 25+ years.

vocal jasper
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what are the most fun but beginner friendly class and race?

languid warren
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the most beginner combo is probably human fighter, but honestly most of the base races are pretty easy to understand.
for classes i would maybe take up a martial class at first as spellcasting can be really complicated as a first time player (but its also very worth it to understand certain spell combos)

slow hawk
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Be a fighter, race dont really matter

Understand movement and actions in combat, skill checks and role play out of combat

When you feel comfortable you can explore other stuff, although fighter subclasses will give you alot more to do

hollow pewter
ornate kiln
vocal jasper
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oh then i will probably try fighter

sterile bone
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A lot simpler than others

winter torrent
sterile bone
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On thé scale of most beginner friendly to least I’d say this
1:fighter
2:barbarian
3:rogue
4:ranger
5:paladin
6:sorcerer
7:cleric
8:wizard
9:warlock
10:bard
11:Druid

fleet field
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Yeah I agree there mostly

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I would move warlock up above cleric tho

wicked girder
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I'd argue that paladin is easier than ranger

sterile bone
fresh fable
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Start at lvl 1 and most classes are quite easy to play, even spell casters only get 2 spell slots so will just be fire bolting most of the time

sterile bone
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Purely in combat paladin is easier, but it’s easy to make an annoying stickler paladin who drags down rp

fleet field
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Why? Paladin has smite, lay on hands, channel divinities, and rp

sterile bone
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That’s why I think of it as less beginner friendly

fleet field
sterile bone
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Full casters are always harder to play, excluding bards

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In my experience at least

fleet field
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Bards have bardic inspiration

fresh fable
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And yet you put bard at 10

sterile bone
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I Saïd hard for beginners, not veterans

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Bard is a brilliant class

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But it’s hard for beginners

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Very good in rp but figuring out your place in combat as a newbie…? Hard.

fresh fable
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In your opinion, bard has 2 spell slots and some inspiration die. A good DM should be able to guide most people through lvl 1 characters and help them out

sterile bone
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They can help sure, but they’ll still need to help more with a difficult class

languid warren
sterile bone
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Ended up killing him off and switching to fighter

languid warren
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i played him in phandelver so i didnt have to suffer too long

sterile bone
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(Idk what that is and I’m too lazy to google)

languid warren
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it is a pre written beginner campaign

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level 1 to 5

sterile bone
candid thorn
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Whats the spell called where you create an illusion of you while you go invisible?

languid warren
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mislead i think

candid thorn
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Yes thank you

fresh fable
raven gull
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hey im new me and a couple of my friends would like to do a campaign but i dont know any dms can anyone give advice

compact solar
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hello i am new here and i just wanna play dnd

fresh fable
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?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
fleet field
sterile bone
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Idk why u looking for an argument bro

hardy totem
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I'm new and want to experience dnd too, however I'm from gmt+8, any suggestions? I've basically scrolled all the posts under that section but most of those time slots just don't fit

fresh fable
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Keep looking it can take a while to find a game

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Spread your net wide not just this server

hardy totem
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thanks a lot!

sacred holly
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what are y'alls opinion on solo campaigns?

lyric fjord
vocal jasper
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oh ok

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but i must start at level 3 tho

sacred holly
lyric fjord
# vocal jasper oh ok

No no I was only joking around lol I'm not even sure that's actually playable lmao

If it is it's ridiculously complicated

I'd go with Fighter with the Champion subclass.

But if you want let me know what kind of character you're interested in and I'll try to help you out more

vocal jasper
lyric fjord
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No problem 👍✌️

odd gorge
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Hi

toxic cipher
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So, my face-to-face d&d group thing might have fallen through. I'm wondering, how fun would it be to just read the Player's Handbook, and try to find a game through Discord? How fun are online games?

crude musk
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Those are three very different questions and only one of them has an answer

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To find games through discord, at least this discord, head to #find-a-game and follow the instructions there

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As for how fun it is to read the Player's Handbook, no one can answer that

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Some might find it borring, others fun. The only way you'll know is to give it a read and find out

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And the same goes for online games, we can't tell you what you'll find fun

toxic cipher
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oh no, I'm not asking how fun would the book be

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I'm just wondering if I could, after reading the book, get into a game and not stick out as a new player to others, making their game les sfun

weak geyser
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Online games depend on so much. Do you like doing stuff over voice chat/video chat? How good is the group? How good is the DM? etc.

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If you're just worried about being a new player, people who don't like bringing in new players are jerks

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I have two new players at my table and I specifically picked them

crude musk
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it's as much attitude as it is anything else

weak geyser
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^^ Attitude and eagerness go a long way

toxic cipher
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hmm I see

weak geyser
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(again, why I picked these new players)

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Everyone's new at some point

toxic cipher
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Also, what is your preferred frequency to play? Weekly, bi-weekly and such

weak geyser
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I prefer weekly

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But this is as a DM

crude musk
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Most people play weekly

weak geyser
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Gives me enough time to plan and not get overwhelmed but keep the story continuity/hype high. Like getting a new favorite TV show episode once a week

toxic cipher
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hmm I see

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thank you very much

weak geyser
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It's one of those things you just gotta kinda... do it.

toxic cipher
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I couldn't convince my friend, unfortunately

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I want the thrill of rolling some beautiful blue die in my veins, but alas

wheat flax
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if i am a druid and multiclassed to war cleric does that mean i can wear heavy armor now?

fresh fable
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Yes, but speak to your DM about wearing metal armour (stupid Druid none rule) or have plate armour made from beetle chitin

winged cloud
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Hello can someone invite me to thier campaign? I just started playing D&D

fresh fable
sacred swan
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As a new player is there stuff my character can do in between adventures like something I can potentially do whilst waiting for the next adventure to resume? Just think if it's possible it might bring more of a character development to my group

weak geyser
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Work with your DM! My players message me all the time with little ideas for their backstories as we're playing

edgy onyx
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Xanathar's guide offers some downtime activities that can potentially help your character, or introduce stuff for plot, if the DM uses them or allows it

weak geyser
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my best advice for players is to give the DM something to work with as an outlet for a character arc, some kind of NPC connection they have or an interest in a portion of the worldbuilding/lore, etc.

odd gorge
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Good advice

lyric fjord
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We're all still new and we haven't even started session 1 but , how do I subtley hint to my DM I want a magical cat companion

crude musk
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You don't, you direcrtly ask

lyric fjord
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Is it fine to have one at level 1?

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or is that absurd , I wouldn't know lol

crude musk
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That would depend entirely on what a "magical cat companion" entails

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You should work with your DM to hash out the details

fresh fable
lyric fjord
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Bard

mossy walrus
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Aye, you'd need to work with your DM then. Ask if they will let you take the Find Familiar spell from the Wizard spell list which will (as the name implies) summon a familiar (cats are an option for this). It has a stat block and everything so fairly doable.

Now, if you are asking for something more than what a cat familiar from Find Familiar provides or can do, you'll need to explain that to your DM and see what they say.

lyric fjord
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I can take find familiar at level 4 I guess

vocal jasper
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what items should i bring?

mossy walrus
vocal jasper
leaden rapids
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Hi! I'm new to the server! I'm hoping to find a game to play because the only DnD game I've had the chance to join unfortunately is going pretty poorly after only 2 sessions

edgy onyx
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Aw sorry to hear, hope you find a group for you!
There's #find-a-game that you can check out, it has instructions for looking for games/players here 👌

leaden rapids
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Thank you!

edgy onyx
heady locust
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Question, how good is the DnD essentials kit? For a beginner, how much dice packs should I buy?

viral pelican
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You totally can get started with the Essentials Kit, but I would more recommend it for people who are coming from another similar game and wanting to port to DnD5e, rather than just getting started with TTRPGs. The packaged adventure doesn't really have a story: it's more of a sandbox of disconnected environments that you can grind through until you are a high enough level to face the end boss: more like a classic MMO structure, really. Either version of the Starter Kit has a full story adventure packaged in it.

heady locust
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Ahh, okay, thank you.

viral pelican
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As for how many dice you need - none! You can use virtual dice if you haven't got enough. But most tables would usually have at least one set per player and DM, and then probably buy more dice to suit common abilities of each character - like if you are a Rogue, you'll probably have a few D6s for your sneak attack.

heady locust
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That’s cool! Thank you for the info ❤️

wintry plume
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About to try fill out my first character sheet 😂 wish me luck (im going to get soo confused, this could go horribly wrong)

solemn ingot
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I just made my first one on beyond ;-;

mossy walrus
solemn ingot
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Honestly just go for it, I just hoped for the best 😂

wintry plume
fresh fable
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There is beginner help txt option on dndbeyond

wintry plume
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Where abouts on beyond?

solemn ingot
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I think it was on the first page of character creation?

wintry plume
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Can someone send a link pleasee

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Can't find it

smoky adder
fresh fable
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If using app

wintry plume
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Would a half elf/bard work well as a character?

mossy walrus
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No reason why it would not work. If you're interested in playing a Half Elf Bard, go for it dndCheers

crude junco
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I have never played dnd before and im really interested in trying it out but im afraid to ask anyone- how should i start?- i hope what i ask makes sence-

fresh fable
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?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
fresh fable
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👆links to free rules and stuff

crude junco
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Thank you!

fresh fable
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Have a read watch some videos any questions and the nerd collective mind will descend to aid you in any way they can

crude junco
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Alright will do

novel maple
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Alert or elven accuracy for ranger

viral pelican
novel maple
viral pelican
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Be a gloomstalker, and stick to the shadows!

novel maple
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for beast master? (Tashas cauldron of everything)

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@viral pelican

fresh fable
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Get your beast to restrain your target

viral pelican
# novel maple for beast master? (Tashas cauldron of everything)

If your table uses Flanking Rules, using the beast to flank would be a major one. Otherwise, you are replying on the special attacks of your Beast. You'll want to use Beast of the Land, charge the enemy to knock them prone, and then you will get advantage with melee attacks on them.

novel maple
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Does being hidden normally also allow advantage rolls?

viral pelican
viral pelican
novel maple
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Oh it just buffs hiding

smoky adder
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That said, there probably isn't a common way for your beast to restrain them anyway.

fresh fable
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Spam got there first

viral pelican
smoky adder
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Work with your party. A spell like Faerie Fire, Entangle, or Web would open a bunch of opportunities.

smoky adder
novel maple
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Oh that’s a good idea

viral pelican
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Yeah tbh it's mostly built to work with your spells like Entangle which will impose the restrained suggestion

viral pelican
smoky adder
novel maple
viral pelican
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Elven Accuracy works for melee dexterity attacks too.

novel maple
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Oh so I could finesse it so I can use dexterity

viral pelican
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Precisely 🙂

novel maple
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Ohh thanks for all the options and help

viral pelican
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While many builds are viable, not all builds are as good as others - if you were imagining using a beast to harry the enemy while getting Elven-Accuracy-aided bow shots, it's not really rules-supported, even if it is a rational idea.

novel maple
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Oh alright

viral pelican
# smoky adder Hence... ☝️

Well you were responding to my reply where I was trying to get at the point that restrained isn't relevant because the beast grapples, so that's why I was confused why you were posting a condition that the attacks don't impose. But I didn't say it explicitly, so I see why you linked it.

smoky adder
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But the one you replied to was about restrained, not grappled. 😅

viral pelican
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I think we both understand where the confusion arose.

smoky adder
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If your beast restrains a target, attacks by anyone against that target have advantage.

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But your beast probably won't have a way to restrain them anyway.

viral pelican
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Yes, that's the point I was making. Why are we still talking about it if the newcomer is no longer confused on the point?

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"If your beast restrains a target" is not a relevant phrase, because it cannot do that.

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I think implying it can do that is more potentially confusing than being clear about what the capabilities of those features actually are.

fresh fable
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Got my conditions mixed up

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🤷

viral pelican
fresh fable
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No just my table rules double grapple to get restrained but we are way off topic

pastel plover
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Hi I’m new to d&d

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I just want to learn more about the game

smoky adder
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Welcome! There’s some handy links here to get you started:

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?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
smoky adder
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But if you’ve got any specific questions, feel free to ask!

wintry plume
pine nimbus
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heyo o/ nice to meet you all!

gilded plank
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is a bonus action one that can be used on top of an existing action to modify it

harsh fjord
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No.

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Not usually, anyway. There may be exceptions.

gilded plank
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ah then what is it, may i ask?

timid locust
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Certain things cost bonus actions. For example, a Rogue can use their Cunning Action as a bonus action to dash.

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Unless something says that it uses your bonus action, it doesn't.

harsh fjord
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They typically don't interact with Actions in the ways you're thinking of; they're just smaller actions unto themselves.

gilded plank
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ah i see, so unless something specifies "using your bonus action" then you just dont have one?

timid locust
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You always have the bonus action, you just don't have anything to use with it

gilded plank
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alright then, i understand now

timid locust
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So a level 1 human fighter wielding a greataxe will always have their bonus action free, but probably won't be able to use it on their turns since they don't have any features that run off of that bonus action

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Whereas a level 1 monk has a feature that lets them make an unarmed attack with the bonus action every turn. They'll always have something to do with that bonus action if they're within range to kick or punch!

gilded plank
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so for instance, if i have a fire blast and that takes up an action, i can use a bonus action to convert it into a flamethrower if it says thats something it can do with said bonus action?

timid locust
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I don't know if a fire blast or a flamethrower are things in the rulebook, so I couldn't say for sure, but if an item or spell can do something with your bonus action, it'll say so in the text

gilded plank
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oh that was a homebrew example

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since im in the process of copying all of these geralt homebrew things so they appear in my collection

timid locust
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Hard to give concrete answers to things I can't see the rules text for 😅

gilded plank
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fair fair

slow hawk
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If you’re new and trying to leaen the rules, maybe homebrew isnt the best idea to begin with

lyric fjord
smoky adder
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You can take a bonus action only when a special ability, spell, or other feature of the game states that you can do something as a bonus action. You otherwise don't have a bonus action to take.

You can take only one bonus action on your turn, so you must choose which bonus action to use when you have more than one available.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/combat#BonusActions

lyric fjord
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it works perfectly because I wanted to play half elf anyway and wanted a spell caster and bards use the Charisma you get from half elves

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and the personality just fits what I wanted to play for my first character

gilded plank
wintry plume
slow hawk
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You can copy whatever you want but again, at your first actual game i would stick to official material

Homebrew is not legal at every table
We have no idea if the homebrew is balanced or even functional

gilded plank
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oh yeah im doing my first campaign with a non homebrew character, dwarf fighter

lyric fjord
gilded plank
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when im done ill post the homebrew character in optimization, likely

lyric fjord
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Quart

slow hawk
gilded plank
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alright then, will do

wintry plume
gilded plank
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ohh bonus actions clicked inside my head now, you have your normal actions (attacking, spellcasting, etc) and then your bonus action (another spell)

echo folio
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i have no clue where to start with d&d

wintry plume
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
echo folio
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oh sick

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ty

pastel plover
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Hello

wintry plume
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Start here! It really really helped me

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Welcome btw 😂 wheres my manners

pastel plover
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I don’t know much about d&d but I would like to get into it

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Thx

slow hawk
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
slow hawk
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Start there

wintry plume
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Any questions, just ask away 😂 I had many questions at the start

pastel plover
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Ok

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Is there like a kit I need to buy?

echo folio
wintry plume
timid locust
pastel plover
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Ok

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Man d&d is so fascinating

wintry plume
pastel plover
#

K

timid locust
wintry plume
# pastel plover K

I would say in the mean time, instead of buying anything, start by going on dnd beyond and create a character for total free (sorry I took soo long to reply)

pastel plover
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Ok

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Thx

lyric fjord
pastel plover
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Wdym

echo folio
pastel plover
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Do you like stranger Things?

wintry plume
wintry plume
pastel plover
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I’m sorry

wintry plume
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😂

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ST 4 wasn't the best

pastel plover
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Yet when ight

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It*

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It was ight

timid locust
smoky adder
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If you’re just building from the official options, everything should be relatively balanced already.

fair kayak
eternal jay
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Hello. I’m looking to aide my 11yr old son with finding a virtual game to try. He is newly interested in D&D, but hasn’t found a local connection to learn/play with. Any direction on where to lead him?

cobalt frigate
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I'm going to be honest and you may have some difficulty finding an online group to play because 1) there are more players than DMs and 2) not all groups are willing to play with minors.

eternal jay
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Thank you for the honesty. We have found similar issues IRL as well. He’s an incredibly bright kid, but sort of fell into this world (of these card type games) on his own and I feel bad that I can’t help him connect with others! We were just at our local comic shop to see if he could attend their MTG events, but was also told no minors. Kind of a bummer here! I’m happy to shadow him (and certainly would on anything virtual for safety reasons), but finding something might be tricky 🙃 I’ll keep scrolling through the find a game and see if something pops!

fair kayak
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Adventurers league is in person though

cobalt frigate
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I'm glad you're an understanding parent. My parents didn't care about D&D and almost fell for the "Satanic Panic" scare in the mid-80s.

eternal jay
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Thanks for that! We were just at our local comic book store today (and he purchased his first set of dice which he’s very excited for!). Unfortunately, they said their events are not open to minors, except for Pokémon.

fair kayak
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You sound like a great parent trying to support your kid in their interest and I thank you for that

cobalt frigate
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Perhaps volunteer to become a DM for him and his friends?

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There are more kid friendly adventures that you can find on dmsguild.com

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There's the Stranger Things Starter Set as well.

fair kayak
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Or if you are interested in some modules then Lost mine of Phandelver, Dragon of Icespire Peak are some good adventures

cobalt frigate
fair kayak
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Personally I like Phandelver more than Icespire peak. However Icespire has more of a reputation

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And if your son likes Dragons, Icespire peak let’s you fight one

eternal jay
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Absolutely! He is a super smart kid and has struggled to find his niche in the friend department.. I feel like this could connect him with others like himself!

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Thank you for the info! I don’t know anything about Icespire or Phandelver.. looks like I’ll have to research some of this as well!

cobalt frigate
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Dragon of Icespire Peak is the adventure that comes with the Essentials Kit (another starter set for new players).

eternal jay
#

I should also note, this summer we’ve began watching the Big Bang theory with our kids and my oldest has said “finally! My kind of people!!” 😂 We are going to an event this evening at a local library… perhaps they may have some leads on more local or virtual play for minors as well. Again, thanks for the help. I’ll do some reading on the two adventures mentioned and keep an eye on the find players link and see where we get!

cobalt frigate
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Nice! Growing up as a nerd/geek in the 80s and 90s was much more socially harder than it is today where geek is chic.

sacred holly
#

what are the healing options in dnd?

crude musk
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There are lots. Too many to reasonably list

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Spells, potions, magic items, class abilities

sacred holly
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how about the good ol' bandage?

ashen yarrow
#

what about eating 50 wheels of cheese

sacred holly
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or any non magical healing items

ashen yarrow
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yknow, like skyrim

sacred holly
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does cheese have healing properties?

crude musk
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There's a healers kit that can be used to stabilise a dying creature

cobalt frigate
#

You get hp back during a short and long rest.

sacred holly
crude musk
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Nope

cobalt frigate
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No

sacred holly
#

aw

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welp, another thing added to my homebrew pack

ashen yarrow
#

whats a homebrew pack

sacred holly
#

a bundle of homebrew, with alot of different homebrew stuff, from armors and weapons, to whole new mechanics

crude musk
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And it's certainly beyond the scope of this channel

sacred holly
crude musk
sacred holly
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i see

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well thx for letting me know

weak geyser
#

I used to teach a bunch of classes on there and I had a friend who did D&D sessions, it's vetted teachers

eternal jay
# weak geyser Outschool!

Has D&D?! I had no idea! We’ve utilized Outschool for some other things before and he’s enjoyed it a ton! Thanks for this! Definitely will go check it out! He did a genetics class using ACNH flower breeding 🙃

weak geyser
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yup! I taught MTG classes on there for a long time

eternal jay
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Oh no way! He’s big into that one, too! I’ve tried playing with him… but 🤯

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He’s now given up on me as a playing buddy and is teaching his 10y old brother lol.

viral pelican
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@next estuary Like I said, best to continue that conversation here, #dnd-rules is more for deep cut errata and minutaea 😄

next estuary
viral pelican
#

To use your example of the sorcerer, the total means that if they take a short rest, that sorcerer has a single d6 they can roll to recoup some HP. When they long rest, they regenerate that die.

By level 3, they will have 3 d6's to do the same with. And every time they take a long rest, they will regenerate 2 of those d6's.

next estuary
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I think I have figured out how hit dice work - But I don't know what to type in the two boxes. Maybe it's because I type it wrong

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I would type 1d6 in "Hit dice"
But don't know what to type right above where it says "Total:_____" in character sheet

viral pelican
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are you filling out a sheet manually, or on dnd beyond?

next estuary
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Manually

timid locust
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Total would be 1. As in a single hit die because they're level 1

next estuary
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So total: 1
Hit dice: 6?

timid locust
#

For example, if your player was level 4, they could use their hit dice to heal during a short rest. If they did, they could choose to use 2 of their 4 total.

timid locust
next estuary
#

so my 1d6 was just a combined way of writing it I suppose.

timid locust
#

A total of 1 die, and that die is a d6

next estuary
#

thanks!

teal dirge
#

So I am just dipping my toes into DnD learning the rules and mechanics and stuff, I wanted to do a druid but some people online say to try to avoid using spellcasting characters when you're a beginner? Should I use something different without spells?

weak geyser
#

Play what you want but druid is a fairly "complicated" class

#

but not something that can't be picked up quickly

viral pelican
# teal dirge So I am just dipping my toes into DnD learning the rules and mechanics and stuff...

The reason people recommend not playing a spellcaster is that to get the most out of it, you would have to read all of the available spells, pick the ones you want, and hope that they work. That's more work than being a rogue and sneak attacking - but if you are up for it, then it's totally doable! And the books recommend a good starting set of spells to pick.

The reason why the druid in particular is considered a bit complicated is that you can go several different ways with it: more spellcaster, more summoner, more wildshape-focussed. Your subclass will pick one of those, and then the other features will start to feel more and more vestigial. That's a bit weird, having so many features that don't seem to be going anywhere: compared to a class where you do one thing and just get better at that one thing.

You totally can still be a druid: it's just there's some pecularities to be aware of!

shell adder
#

Hi All! Played AD&D back in the day and just got back into 5e a few weeks ago!

timid locust
#

Jale's got the right of it. For level 1 it's nice and straightforward, but it expects you to think about specialization fairly quickly.

weak geyser
#

Whole level earlier than pretty much all the other classes, in fact

lunar river
#

hii, im looking into a nature cleric as my first class. I wonder is there a way to get shillalegh on a martial weapon? i can pick it as my druid cantrip but dont know how to make the most effect with it

timid locust
#

Unfortunately it only works with clubs and quarterstaffs

lunar river
#

so if i would be able to get martial prof somehow it would kinda be redundant?

#

or still better because of all the bonusses

#

then a martial

timid locust
#

It's honestly tough to say. Let's assume you're using a Longsword, which is a pretty advantage damage martial weapon. It deals 1d8 or 1d10 damage depending on if you're holding it in one or two hands.

Compare that to a quarterstaff, which deals 1d6 or 1d8 damage with the same stipulation. That's only a 1-2 damage difference on an average damage roll!

The real use of Shillelagh is that it makes your attacks run off of wisdom instead of strength, which can be really helpful depending on your stats!

lunar river
#

ahh so technically i could either do flail and shield, and swap to double handed quarterstaff with shillelegh when i need a little more dmg

timid locust
#

Sounds a little cumbersome to do, but it'll work!

lunar river
#

yeah maybe the staff is best at all times but i feel like my character atleast needs 1 murder weapon so smash heads in

#

quarterstaff doesnt do it for me on that front

lyric fjord
#

I’m SUPER new to dnd I’ve been wanting to play for a while but never put in the effort to learn until now, I think I get the basics but I’d like if someone could like take me under their wing or something cause I don’t have a group or know anyone with experience willing to help me

teal dirge
slow hawk
slow hawk
viral pelican
slow hawk
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
viral pelican
lyric fjord
#

OHHH I’m sorry

lunar river
lyric fjord
#

I am!!!!

timid locust
turbid ridge
exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
gilded basin
#

some help on how to join a game ?

fresh fable
hardy stag
#

Hi there, i am relatively new to DND and wanted to play a campaign in hopes to learn the skills needed to build my own campaign. Would love to talk and get advice.

echo kelp
#

If you want DM advice, check out #dm-discussion and ask questions there

lunar river
#

as a heavy armor cleric dex is my dump stat right?

mossy walrus
#

One of them, yes

#

If you have access to heavy armor, your dump stats will be Dexterity, Intelligence, and Charisma

lunar river
#

yeah but 2 of those will be 10 and one 8

#

wondering what people most often do

pastel plover
#

Hello

lunar river
#

in point buy atleast

teal dirge
#

I bought a Player's handbook, mostly for character creation stuff but also for rules and stuff in the future if I start playing with more and more rules, but I feel right back in highschool with this big ass book flippin through pages kekw

cobalt frigate
#

Remember you don't need to memorize everything but familiarize yourself with them, referencing the book when you need to.

teal dirge
toxic cipher
#

I'm kind of confused with the lore part of things. I want to learn the towns, cities, mountains and all the geographical and manmade structures, but I don't have the time to add more books to my reading routine. Are there good explanations, maybe wikis and interactive maps, so I can understand some things better?

cobalt frigate
#

There is no "one" D&D lore since there are many official campaign settings (plus homebrew settings)

toxic cipher
#

so, how do I know what the DM is talking about without prior reading?

cobalt frigate
#

It depends on you the DM are you making your own campaign setting or a premade one.

#

If you want to know a (premade) campaign setting, such as the Forgotten Realms, Greyhawk or Eberron, then you'll have to read about the lore (aka history) of it.

ornate kiln
#

what lore are you looking for? D&D isnt like other games which are often designed around a setting. Its always meant to be setting agnostic to some degree.

that being said, the forgotten realms have gotten the most focus out of all official settings in 5e.

#

a lot of DMs do run their own worlds though

cobalt frigate
#

If you have specific questions about a specific official campaign setting lore then head on over to #dnd-lore

toxic cipher
#

I see, thank you very much

west snow
#

If I’m just a player and don’t plan on being a DM which books should I buy?

cobalt frigate
#

The Player's Handbook

gritty valve
#

Tashas and Xanathars are good ones to get too, but not needed. PHB is the only one you ever need as a player

old stone
#

Hey everyone! Just curious, does anyone in here collect old school D&D modules/books, and dice? If so, what’s your favorite? 🩷

echo kelp
#

We have #dnd-elder-editions if you want to discuss previous editions. This channel is for new to D&D folks

slow hawk
drowsy hearth
fair kayak
west snow
#

@fair kayak thank you

fair kayak
#

Np

#

I recommend PHB (players hand book) first, then Tasha’s then Xanathars

#

And maybe Spelljammer or Multiverse

lunar river
#

when making a new character, can i sell and buy weapons on my character sheet without having a dm to play the trader? can i just sell my mace for a quarterstaff and count +5 gold pieces

lunar river
#

doesnt have lore

cobalt frigate
#

Playable races in 5E Spelljammer is campaign specific so you'll need DM's permission.

fair kayak
#

Yea but I mean it gets a lot of races

fair kayak
nimble marlin
#

Can we look up regional games?

cobalt frigate
fleet field
west snow
#

What 2 proficiency should I pick for a duerdar Barbarian path of the storm herald

harsh fjord
obsidian fulcrum
#

Howdy

#

I am Reaper ear me roar as I am a fan of barbarian

candid thorn
#

What do you call the type of dice that have something in them like a creature or some object inside

slow hawk
#

I dont think theres a name for it, there’s just an infinite variety of specialty dice

solar ginkgo
#

Heyo
I recently became interested in dnd and I’m creating some characters. A friend of mine helped me roll for my starting stats but I don’t know what to do after that. Advice would be appreciated. (Sorry if I butchered some terminology)

smoky adder
#

Have you picked a race, class, and background?

slow hawk
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
solar ginkgo
solar ginkgo
#

I’ve read a bit on D&D Beyond but I don’t know how to actually start playing.

echo kelp
#

So you have a basic feel for the rules and game mechanics - next up try your hand at making a character. Maybe watch some folks playing D&D (YouTube or Twitch streams). Just remember many of these are entertainment focussed rather than "teaching". Then find a group to play D&D with.

#

Check #find-a-game for info on how to use our Looking For Games channels.

royal path
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
candid thorn
#

Whats a module? Just a campaign?

cobalt frigate
#

A module is an adventure.

It's a term going back to the earlier editions where you drop in basically "random" adventures that aren't directly linked to each other in your campaign, thus "modular."

slow hawk
#

A module is one part of a premade campaign for one session

cobalt frigate
#

One-shot is an one session adventure.

#

TV analogy for D&D
One-shot = made for tv movie
Adventure = a tv miniseries
Campaign = a multi-season tv series

slow hawk
#

Pre-made campaigns are (usually) meant to be played over several sessions

Each session has an adventure module with stuff for that day

cobalt frigate
#

That's not the definition of a module.

jade yoke
#

i just made my first character but im Not sure what to do

cobalt frigate
#

Look for a game to join but the DM will most likely ask you to create a new character (you can still base it on the one you created).

candid thorn
#

Is there a spell that makes people forget

#

Like maybe the past couple of days they just have no memory of

fleet field
#

I think there’s a spell called alter memories

#

Modify memory

languid warren
#

also in a smaller version: gift of gab i think

#

it can make someone forget a more immediate moment

fleet field
#

Yep

slow hawk
#

Gift of gab is very short window, modify memory can be upcast

lyric fjord
#

Hey, how do I join a group?

languid warren
candid thorn
#

How do I find out a players challenge rating

fresh fable
#

Players don’t have CR they just have character level

novel maple
#

Gloomstalker or tashas beast master?

lucid slate
#

I participated in my first one shot on the weekend, also my first time playing and I realised it gets under your skin quickly. I can’t wait to play again

pliant panther
#

hi

fleet field
sullen tendon
#

Are rogues really that annoying?

novel maple
#

I think beast master seems cooler but with gloomstalker I could rob ally deal more damage

fleet field
fleet field
novel maple
#

Oh sry

fleet field
sullen tendon
#

I just heard they're a pain, with no elaboration whatsoever.

fleet field
#

I mean roleplay wise there’s the edgy rogue stereotype but that’s just a stereotype

#

Combat wise they don’t do anything game breaking

sullen tendon
#

Well, that's good at least. I wanted to try an assassin rogue because it sounded cool, and I didn't want to give my very first DM a headache lol

abstract rain
#

I’m new I came up with a character that’s all I know nothing else would love to learn

candid thorn
#

For Warlock can you replace mystic arcanum like if you can have level a level 8 spell, can you replace it with a level 6 spell or the other way around? Or does mystic arcanum always have to be those specific levels there’s no replacing them

fleet field
fleet field
candid thorn
#

But you can’t ever have 2 level 8 spells?

#

Even if you replace a different one

fleet field
#

Nope

vocal jasper
#

which stat should be which number? 17, 14, 10, 12, 16, 15 (im a human fighter/champion, i use longsword and shield, dueling fightstyle, level 3)

echo kelp
#

Fighters want to prioritize strength, dexterity, and constitution

#

well typically at least

vocal jasper
crude musk
#

You've said you're using a longsword, which is a weapon that uses strength, so you should put the 17 into strength

#

That way your longsword attacks are more likely to hit and will do more damage

echo kelp
#

The quickbuild suggestions are good here:

You can make a fighter quickly by following these suggestions. First, make Strength or Dexterity your highest ability score, depending on whether you want to focus on melee weapons or on archery (or finesse weapons). Your next-highest score should be Constitution, or Intelligence if you plan to adopt the Eldritch Knight martial archetype.

crude musk
#

You can then put your 16 into Constitution for more health, and then 15 into dexterity in case you use lighter armor or ranged weapons

vocal jasper
#

wat about 14, 10 and 12?

echo kelp
#

wherever you want really

crude musk
#

That's entirely down to how you want your stats to reflect your character

vocal jasper
#

i dont think im going for eldritch knight

#

cuz i wanna keep it simple

echo kelp
#

Maybe 14 for wisdom, 10 for intelligence, and 12 for charisma. Or 14 for charisma and 12 for wisdom.
But again, totally up to you and how you want to play your character.

vocal jasper
#

what does wisdom do for a fighter?

crude musk
#

Nothing directly on the whole

echo kelp
#

Wisdom helps with perception but usually fighters are more about "handle the big bad creatures with physical combat" then "can I spot the enemies before they spot us?"

vocal jasper
#

oh thats why my friend told me to make wisdom 15

#

but idk why he told me to make dex 12

echo kelp
#

Again I'd suggest prioritizing strength (longsword), dexterity (armor class and ranged weapons), and constitution (hit points).

vocal jasper
#

oh ok

echo kelp
#

I don't know why your friend is recommending higher wisdom either unless no one else in the party is decent at it.

vocal jasper
#

o h ok

#

also what should i get for a common magic item?

dark pasture
#

hi

vocal jasper
#

and for feat

echo kelp
#

And same for feat

#

I'd also recommend maybe chacking with the folks in #character-discussion for further discussion and suggestions

vocal jasper
#

oh ok

lime violet
#

How many times can life domain lvl 3 cleric use channel divinity per lomg rest?

candid thorn
#

Can you take feats twice?

edgy onyx
#

A feat specifies if it can be taken twice, otherwise not

candid thorn
#

Do you know any specific ones tht say that?

edgy onyx
#

Huh, now Im doubting what I said, not being able find one ahah

#

Ah, elemental adept is one that specifies it can be taken multiple times!

rancid timber
#

I'm completely new to DnD and was wondering what the best way to get started would be?

lime violet
#

Ig the command doesnt work here

#

Critical role has some videos over at their channel in this regard

fresh fable
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
viral pelican
#

Oops someone else already said that one!

candid thorn
#

Wouldve been nice to have eldritch adept more than once

viral pelican
#

I think elemental Adept is unique. I can't find another.

timid locust
#

You're correct! It's kind of funny that it's the only one you can take multiple times.

edgy onyx
#

Huh, weird 😮

tacit elk
#

Bro can anyone help me with how to play the game

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 on Youtube.

Both are linked above.

tacit elk
#

Ok

sudden otter
cobalt frigate
#

No, I have a Sticky Note. New people tend to ask the same questions a lot here.

tacit elk
#

Btw is the map in the essentials kit part of the game or is it just a poster

sudden otter
#

Yup, that's a common thread - new people asking same questions

sacred holly
#

why do alot of people hate the vanilla crit rules?

cobalt frigate
sudden otter
tacit elk
sacred holly
sudden otter
#

What part of what I said would you like me to clarify?

harsh fjord
#

If you roll a crit and do less damage than a normal attack, which is possible, it feels bad.

sacred holly
sudden otter
#

What they said

sacred holly
#

doesnt the crit just make the 2x damage?

sudden otter
#

Normal roll: 1d10... Wow I got a 10! Crit roll: 2d10... Wow I rolled two 1's.

sacred holly
#

ahhh, so it doubles the dice, not the actual roll

sudden otter
#

Correct sir

#

Or ma'am or kobold

cobalt frigate
#

That's why I homebrew my crit roll

sacred holly
sudden otter
sacred holly
sudden otter
#

I do 1 max damage die + 1 rolled

#

Normal damage is 1d10? Well crit damage is 1d10+10

sacred holly
sudden otter
#

I let my players describe killing blows

#

Always funny when the socially shy player comes out of their shell to describe decimating a troll in vivid, horrific detail.

sacred holly
#

i think everyone gets to coolify their actions if they get a max on what ever they are rolling, from a crit to a normal d20

tacit elk
#

If I join a game will they help me with how to play or will they kick me out?

sacred holly
sacred holly
fresh fable
tacit elk
fresh fable
tacit elk
#

And what?

cobalt frigate
tacit elk
#

Ok

smoky adder
sudden otter
tacit elk
#

I'm sorry if I'm asking too much. It's just that I watched a lot of DND tutorials and yet I'm still confused

harsh fjord
#

It's why the channel exists. Don't sweat it.

timid locust
#

No one starts their first game knowing everything. Heck, even experienced players can learn something new every session! Just give it the ol college try, understand the basics of your character, rolling, and combat, and your DM will make sure that you don't get too off in the weeds

sudden otter
#

Learning more rules just makes me feel guiltier about doing things I know bend or break rules. It's slightly restrictive in that sense. Don't be afraid to just use your imagination.

#

If the idea fits the bill "it would be really freaking cool if I could..." Then it's worth a try.

fresh fable
tacit elk
#

Huh?

fresh fable
#

What bit of the rules are you struggling with

tacit elk
#

How to play?

#

If that's too much to ask then nvm

harsh fjord
timid locust
#

It's a bit of a broad question! What's got you hung up on particular? Character creation? Rolling rules?

harsh fjord
#

If you have more specific trouble, then more specific questions would help people help you.

cobalt frigate
#

If you still don't understand the rules and don't know how to player then perhaps don't be in a rush to find a game.

Take your time to learn the game because it will likely be a while you find a table to play at (there are more players than there are DMs).

tacit elk
#

Sorry it's just that I bought the DND essentials kit and I don't want to put it to waste

cobalt frigate
#

It's not going to disappear on you if you don't use it immediately. Again, take your times to learn the rules.

#

If you have trouble understanding a specific thing then ask here.

lyric fjord
#

Learning stuff in dnd is the fun part

tacit elk
#

Ok I'll take my time then

obsidian narwhal
#

I just joined serever

#

Server

harsh fjord
#

Welcome. Are you familiar with D&D?

obsidian narwhal
#

No I’m new

harsh fjord
#

?new - here are some resources to get you acquainted.

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
tacit elk
#

Is it also helpful to watch DND plays?

obsidian narwhal
#

Oh well I meant that I looked up dnd before so I know a little bit

cobalt frigate
viral pelican
# tacit elk Is it also helpful to watch DND plays?

I would say: not really. Particularly not Critical Roll and Dimension 20 - the most popular ones. They can be entertaining, but aren't educational.

Best to read the rules, and then watch the official WotC playthrough of Lost Mine of Phandelver, which is totally just actual real play, with no attempt to entertain.

obsidian narwhal
#

How do I get into game

tacit elk
#

Oh

harsh fjord
#

I personally think seeing it in action can help solidify the concepts, make them more concrete than abstract rules. But yes, they're professionally produced, so don't expect your games to look the same.

viral pelican
exotic remnantBOT
#
Ready to play Dungeons & Dragons?

Visit #find-a-game for everything you need to start your search, including:

  • Instructions for finding a game here on the server (including how to post in our #looking-for channels).
  • Suggestions for finding a game outside of this server.
  • Basic advice to help you in your hunt.
obsidian narwhal
#

Does anyone have a campaign I can join

harsh fjord
obsidian narwhal
#

I’m here I’m a player

cobalt frigate
# obsidian narwhal Does anyone have a campaign I can join

If you're new to D&D I recommend you read the Basic Rules first before trying to find a game. It's hard enough to find a table to play at but it'll be harder to find a table where the DM will guide a new player who hasn't bothered reading and understanding the rules at all.

obsidian narwhal
#

Ok

#

Thx

harsh fjord
obsidian narwhal
#

Ok I read some of the rules I think I’m ready

cobalt frigate
#

Did you read how to create a character?

#

Create a character as practice.

obsidian narwhal
#

Yes I created a character named rutrick

cobalt frigate
#

Race and class?

obsidian narwhal
#

Human Druid 1

#

Is that it?

cobalt frigate
tacit elk
#

This might be too much to ask but

Are there any teachers here?

viral pelican
tacit elk
#

Teachers for dnd

cobalt frigate
#

Tutor?

#

Did you not watch the "Handbooker Helper" tutorial videos?

tacit elk
obsidian narwhal
#

Are there any DM

heady locust
#

I lowkey wanna try being a DM, but want to ask is it okay to use your own world? My players are all new, too. Any tips so I can help my players get to know DnD as well?

cobalt frigate
#

Those videos are geared towards new players and very easy to digest compared to reading the walls of text in the Basic Rules.

obsidian narwhal
#

How do I make a world

cobalt frigate
harsh fjord
cobalt frigate
harsh fjord
heady locust
#

Hm. Then what world do you suggest for a first time DM?

viral pelican
#

It's anticipated that players should be able to get up to speed with the resources available in the bot post, and then through playing, learn more.

The idea of a D&D Tutor is kind of redundant, because that pathway is sufficient. If it's not going to be sufficient, then it might be that D&D is not the right game for the person who needs "tutoring". Bear in mind the expectation for new players is not high relative to learning absolutely everything.. You'll be level 1, so you will have a very small number of abilities that you need to understand, and you will have new features introduced quite slowly.

cobalt frigate
harsh fjord
cobalt frigate
#

Don't worry much about the world when the PCs are level 1. They're more than likely be starting in a generic village or small town.

heady locust
#

Are there any online?? Or in DnD beyond? Or is it in the paid kits that you can buy in offline stores

harsh fjord
#

D&D Beyond has all the official modules for purchase, yes.

viral pelican
#

And one for free 😄

harsh fjord
#

And there are tons of third-party ones for free and for money.

heady locust
#

Thank you ☺️

viral pelican
#

there's also some free one-shots like Prisoner 13, which they release for promotional reasons. But the one I linked is the perfect one to start with: it's for new players and new dms/

heady locust
#

Gotcha, thanks, I’ll give this a read through

fathom cradle
#

Hey, i kinda wanna join a campaign but im kinda new so im not sure what or how i should join anyone?

harsh fjord
#

Do you know how the game works in general?

fathom cradle
#

I know the bare minimum tbh, I haven’t played any real campaigns before only small ones with our own kinda way

tacit elk
#

I am slowly turning insane

harsh fjord
#

?new - these resources may help you become more knowledgeable about the game.

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
hoary lynx
#

Hey guys, I need help. I have a dungeon master who goes out of his way to make NPCs try to have sex with the player. It’s super annoying and overbearing, what should I say?

harsh fjord
#

Once you've digested that, head to #find-a-game for instructions.

hoary lynx
#

My dungeon master is Larian Studios btw

cobalt frigate
hoary lynx
gray marlin
#

i'm trying to make my first character i wanna be a druid but what race should i go ?

harsh fjord
#

Pick whatever sounds interesting/cool to you.

viral pelican
timid locust
gray marlin
#

alright i'll see what i like thxz

heady locust
#

Once again I’m back, I’m suddenly thinking of starting homebrew instead of a premade one. I feel itching to build my world but is there anything I should know about homebrews before I try to develop one?

viral pelican
viral pelican
timid locust
cobalt frigate
viral pelican
#

No problem.

harsh fjord
cobalt frigate
#

Well, that person is blocked.

tacit elk
#

I think I'm starting to gain knowledge about DND

So the DM is controlling mostly everything

The player is controlling their character

viral pelican
timid locust
#

Yup! Put into the simplest terms, DnD is a collaborative storytelling experience. The DM describes a scene, the players say what their characters do in that scene, and the DM describes what happens when they do it. Rinse repeat!

tacit elk
#

Btw what are str, dex .etc checks

#

I know what they mean I just want to know

#

I mean the dex .etc

Not the checks

cobalt frigate
timid locust
#

Those are your characters stats, put simply. Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma. Whenever you want to do something, your DM can ask you to make a check if they think there's a chance of failure.

Say your character wants to lift up the gate to a castle with their bare hands! The DM might ask you to make a strength check of some sort. That means you'd roll a 20 sided dice and add some relevant numbers based on your character's stats. Depending on the final result, you may or may not succeed.

Check the link above for more specifics!

tacit elk
#

Ok

cobalt frigate
tacit elk
#

Let's go I'm slowly learning the basics

#

I feel proud of myself

tacit elk
#

So when you roll the d20 for an ability check

What do the numbers mean

(Can you simplify it please)

heady locust
#

While that, can i ask what/which dice is used for what exactly?

harsh fjord
#

Say the DM calls for a Dexterity check to keep your balance as you're navigating a rickety bridge. They mentally set the Difficulty Class as 10. You roll a d20 and add your Dex bonus (which could be anything between -5 to +5). If the total of your roll along with the bonuses meets or exceeds that 10, you are successful.

The dice introduce randomness to your efforts when there's a chance of failure, and the bonuses are expressions of how good you are at something.

timid locust
harsh fjord
#

Non-d20 dice also are involved in healing.

timid locust
tacit elk
harsh fjord
#

When you make a character, your stats determine if you have a positive or negative bonus.

timid locust
#

A character with a really low strength score has a lower chance to succeed on a check than a character with a really high strength score. But it's not impossible to still succeed if the dice roll high! (Or fail if the dice roll low!)

tacit elk
#

So if my char's stats are dex 12 is it a - or a +

tacit elk
harsh fjord
#

A 12 in a stat is a +1.

timid locust
#

I know it can be a pain to read through rules in a rulebook, but this is a game built on rules. You've gotta put some in to get some out!

tacit elk
#

Ok I'm a bit confused but I'm getting the hang of it

heady locust
#

Wait I just remembered something, wizards can change their… uh, learned spells???

lyric fjord
#

Hi! Can someone just explain to me like pretty much everything, as ive been trying to read rulebooks and watch videos but its all just so overwhelming lol

harsh fjord
#

I think there's an optional rule you can replace one learned spell on level up. Otherwise, maybe you're referring to their prepared spells?

timid locust
heady locust
#

The switching their learned spells. Say a 3rd level wizard, they can learn up to 8 spells and 3 cantrips

timid locust
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
heady locust
#

Can they change their spells after a game?

#

Or fight, or long rest, or smth

lyric fjord
#

ah right thanks ill give it a go

harsh fjord
#

They can change their prepared spells but not their learned ones, outside of that optional rule I mentioned.

#

They can add new ones to their spellbook, which is another feature, but not replace.

timid locust
#

Remember that wizards have Known spells in their spellbook and Prepared spells from that list

heady locust
#

Oh, got it, I keep messing up the meaning of the two, thanks

astral rune
#

how does one super new player find the right group?

harsh fjord
#

Have you played at all?

timid locust
#

Unfortunately it can be hard to tell sometimes! When reaching out to a DM, ask a lot of questions about how they do things. Better to know more before joining than end up in the 'wrong' group

astral rune
#

currently im playing a play by post ose

harsh fjord
#

I'd echo Dosh's advice: know what you like and don't, ask questions to ensure your playstyles and preferences don't clash. Other than that, spread your net wide and be patient. It can take time to find a good group.

Also, I'd re-frame: don't try to find the one group. Just find one that would be mutually fun for you and for them.

fathom cradle
#

Alright, now im just gonna wait to join like a campaign. Ill just be like lurking around i suppose loll

astral rune
#

sweet thanks 🙂

teal dirge
#

Just wondering can you do DnD with just two or three people? Including the dm?

cosmic ravine
#

technicly yes any more that the dm would need he canjust introduce as nps should the need arise

cobalt frigate
#

The optimal number of players (other than the DM) is around 3 to 5.

teal dirge
cobalt frigate
#

There are NPC sidekicks that you can use to fill in them missing roles in a party.

cosmic ravine
#

yes that is also an option if you can manage the load of multiple characters

halcyon forge
harsh fjord
#

Official adventures are designed around 4-7 players. My minimum as a DM is 3, and my max is 6. People vary in their own preferences.

cobalt frigate
teal dirge
dull hemlock
#

I'm new to all of it. I'm excited but not sure where to begin.

harsh fjord
#

?new - check these resources out!

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
zealous ginkgo
severe furnace
#

Same

harsh fjord
#

?looking

exotic remnantBOT
#
Ready to play Dungeons & Dragons?

Visit #find-a-game for everything you need to start your search, including:

  • Instructions for finding a game here on the server (including how to post in our #looking-for channels).
  • Suggestions for finding a game outside of this server.
  • Basic advice to help you in your hunt.
severe furnace
#

Hey if anyone needs one more player let me know
I'm also new to all of this. I'm excited but not sure where to begin.

echo kelp
odd pendant
#

yeah its pretty impossible to find a dm who will actually respond

peak zenith
#

So there are guides available for looking for games and general understanding of DnD, is there a guide available for tips about making backstories?

slow hawk
#

Supergeekmike on youtube

#

Check out his channel, hes doing stuff on backstories now i believe

peak zenith
#

Thanks!

timid locust
vivid axle
#

Are there RAW limitations to flying or is it up to the DM?

cobalt frigate
#

As in term of speed or ability to fly? For monsters or for PCs?

slow hawk
#

It can be race, item, spell, etc

harsh fjord
peak zenith
#

Thanks! I was just watching a video from Dungeon Coach so I guess I'm on the right track haha

lyric fjord
#

Hi everyone, how do we get started with finding a group to play with for newcomers?

harsh fjord
# peak zenith Thanks! I was just watching a video from Dungeon Coach so I guess I'm on the rig...

My own suggestions, all of which you can take or ignore as you see fit:

  • Don't make it too long. Be respectful of your DM's time. A page should be enough. The reason for this is because...
  • Your greatest adventures are ahead of you, not behind you. If you're level 1, you haven't done much of note; bear this in mind when creating your backstory.
  • Leave mysteries/gaps for your DM to fill in, opportunities to be surprised (if you're up for that). Don't try to explain everything.
  • Give your character a goal, something they're pursuing as an adventurer. That makes you an active member of the party, and those make the game go.
harsh fjord
lyric fjord
#

How do you find your discord community link?

raven zephyr
#

Just trying to learn how to play what I need to read up on and so on but never found the time any advice or guidance is appreciated

lyric fjord
#

Search process got me lost

harsh fjord
#

?new @raven zephyr - check out these resources to get you started.

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
quaint warren
#

so ranged weapons like bows have to roll to see if can beat the armor stat right?

fresh fable
#

Meet or beat AC

quaint warren
#

is that the same with magic?

fresh fable
#

For ones that need a magic attack roll

quaint warren
#

ok i guess for spells that say they are like melees or ranged attacks?

slow hawk
fresh fable
quaint warren
#

ok thank both yall

slow hawk
quaint warren
#

ok i gotcha

bronze galleon
#

Question, for the finding a dm option in find a game will they direct message you if they accept it?

echo kelp
#

You can also go the other way and look in #looking-for-players (that's where DM's post that they are looking for players) and direct message folks posting there or post in their thread to indicate interest in their game.

bronze galleon
raven zephyr
#

So how do artificer’s work? I just picked the class because it sounded cool. Do I make artifacts or something?

shrewd hornet
raven zephyr
#

What kind of things can I make is there any limit other than recourses

echo kelp
#

The class explains what you can do - anything more than that would be up to the DM to allow/balance for their table.

cobalt frigate
#

A DM may not allow the artificer class in their campaign setting. So ask them if it's allowed.

shrewd hornet
# raven zephyr What kind of things can I make is there any limit other than recourses

Pretty much you can make alot of things, like replicate magical items ( like bag of holding) , crating wonderous items, even a homunculus. But as few have mentioned above, Your dm may have limits of wat you can and cant make or even does not allow artificer as a class. But if they allow it, go for it. I would recommend to check The artificer class on dnd beyond, there is everything about them you need to know and shows list of items you can make as an example.

raven zephyr
#

Can’t spell sorry

cobalt frigate
#

A mini golem.

raven zephyr
#

Oh ok I’ve never played before

#

And I don’t know where I’d go either

echo kelp
#

?looking

exotic remnantBOT
#
Ready to play Dungeons & Dragons?

Visit #find-a-game for everything you need to start your search, including:

  • Instructions for finding a game here on the server (including how to post in our #looking-for channels).
  • Suggestions for finding a game outside of this server.
  • Basic advice to help you in your hunt.
shrewd hornet
raven zephyr
#

Ok thanks

#

I don’t have money to spend yet this took me to a page advertising a bunch of books how do I know witch one to get?

echo kelp
#

For artificer? You can buy one of the Artificer subclasses from Tasha's and that unlocks the artificer class.

cobalt frigate
#

You don't need to buy any books to start. The Basic Rules is free.

echo kelp
#

They want to play an artificer though and that's not free

drowsy knoll
#

Hi :)

echo kelp
#

Welcome!

raven zephyr
echo kelp
#

Then I'd suggest playing a class from the free basic rules for now

#

But if you do want to buy just the Artificer subclass (and thus also have the Artificer class) DnDBeyond alows you to buy things a la carte (e.g. just buy a class/race/item/spell as an individual item). Much cheaper than the whole book.

#

?tcoe

exotic remnantBOT
echo kelp
#

^ You can go to the marketplace there and scroll down the page to find the a la carte purchasing options.

drowsy knoll
#

My DM is starting a one shot and since this will be my second time playing D&D, I'm looking for some advice on how to deal damage effectively as a level 3 Paladin

echo kelp
#

smites are your bread-and-butter damage dealing tool

#

so keep some slots handy to deal out damage

raven zephyr
#

Slots?

drowsy knoll
#

Smite city 101, yeah I know that but is there anything else since that uses a spell?

echo kelp
# raven zephyr Slots?

spell slots - paladins can use their spell slots to add extra damage via a feature called divine smite

echo kelp
#

So work with your team to get flanking or whatever to get advantage is good.

raven zephyr
#

Sorry I’ve never played I’m only learning because my gf likes this stuff but never has manny people to play with I wanted to surprise her and learn all this stuff

echo kelp
drowsy knoll
#

Never heard of flanking in D&D, I'll do my research

#

Does that do more damage?

raven zephyr
drowsy knoll
#

How does flanking occur?

raven zephyr
#

I might be wrong I never played before

echo kelp
#

It's an optional rule I believe so the DM needs to decide if they're using it or not but it gives advantage - you need two allies one either side of the target.

#

But I'd check with your DM about what they allow for gaining advantage in combat - they may have house rules they use.

#

house rules being stuff that's not official but used at their table

raven zephyr
#

Ever tried throwing dirt in its eyes or something

#

Idk if that’s allowed

cobalt frigate
#

Not a normal attack rule. It's an "Ask your DM" question.

echo kelp
#

Many groups like creative thinking so it never hurts to ask! But once the DM decides, make sure to abide the decision and focus on fun.

raven zephyr
#

I didint think the dirt thing is that creative it’s just basic stuff to gain the upper hand with little to no recourses or skill

#

What’s a one shot?

echo kelp
#

a one-shot is a self contained D&D adventure, usually designed to be finished in one game session

#

at any rate, they are not designed for a long-term D&D campaign (many sessions spread out over time)

cobalt frigate
#

TV analogy for D&D
One-shot = made for tv movie
Adventure = a tv miniseries
Campaign = a multi-season tv series

hollow pewter
#

if you are entirely in the dark on how D&D works there are plenty of videos on youtube that break it all down

echo kelp
#

This is the newcomers channel and we're fine helping folks break it down here too

#

But yes, there are many resources available to help folks learn about D&D and how it works.

hollow pewter
#

of course, but it helps to know what questions to ask

#

speaking of which, i'm also sort of in the dark

#

as a new player, is it too ambitious to go right into dm'ing?

slow hawk
sudden otter
#

It's ambitious. I don't know you though so I can't say if it's overly ambitious. Adventures like Lost Mine if Phandelver walk the DM through it just as much as the players.

cobalt frigate
#

As a player you can learn more about D&D, its rules, and how to DM from the DM.

#

DMing has more responsiblities and work than players (who are essentially just limited to knowing just their own character).

hollow pewter
#

thanks, i'll keep looking for a game while learning what i can. i'll check those adventures out too

past bough
#

Im looking to join a campaign on d&d beyond im new

candid thorn
#

Does armor of agathys make mage armor go away?

echo kelp
echo kelp
candid thorn
#

Cuz mage armor says it only works if you arent wearing any armor

#

Idk if armor of agathys counts

echo kelp
#

armor of agathyst doesn't count as armor and in fact doesn't actually change your armor class - it just gives you temporary hitpoints

#

and does damage back to those who hit you

worthy grove
#

Hi! (Not sure if I'm using the right chat for this..) I'm Ayx!
I've tried to get into DnD before but the time wasn't right so I never really managed to enjoy the experience.
I'm all that good socially speaking, but I'd love it if someone was able to guide me through making a character and such!

heady locust
#

Question, what is backtracking?

echo kelp
candid thorn
#

For summon undead grave bolt and other spells like it what do they mean by “_ + the spells level”

heady locust
#

And what is the difference between Sorcerer and Wizard, I feel the two are almost the same…

echo kelp
candid thorn
echo kelp
heady locust
#

So it’s a collective decision from both the players and DM?

echo kelp
#

In many groups yes. Sometimes the DM will decide to undo things just on their own decision - particularly if the bad choices really mess up things for everyone.

zealous linden
#

Are there any benefits to owning physical dnd media like the players handbook and whatnot rather than owning them on dnd beyond or simular

heady locust
#

Benefits: being able to play offline

candid thorn
echo kelp
# zealous linden Are there any benefits to owning physical dnd media like the players handbook an...

Totally up to you - physical books can't disappear if the servers have a bad day but also physical is more weight you have to lug around and books can get damaged, also searching/bookmarking may not be as easy. Digital means you can easily access it whenever/wherever you have internet access (assuming servers didn't have bad day), and you can quickly search for things and bookmark them for easy access. Also digital can be kept up to date with any erratta updates.

echo kelp
fleet field
#

sorcerers also get metamagics

fleet field
heady locust
fleet field
#

well wizards dont learn spells like sorcerers

#

they have a spellbook with a bunch of spells

#

they get 2 more every level but can also add spells they find while adventuring to the spellbook

#

every long rest they prepare a number of spells from the book

echo kelp
#

Wizards learn magic by study and practice.
Sorcerers know magic innately (it's just a natural part of them).
Each have unique mechanical features in the game and thus fit different niches/roles.

candid thorn
#

Is there a feat that raises your armor class

echo kelp
#

Usually it's easier to find better/magical armor but there are some feats like Medium Armor Master which can allow you to boost your AC based on your dex mod when wearing medium armor. It's not much honestly. Again easier to get better/magical armor.

slow hawk
candid thorn
#

It says ranged spell attack

vivid axle
#

does the kenkus expert duplication apply to forgery?

#

or is it less of handwriting but an EXACT copy?

cobalt frigate
#

you have advantage on any ability checks you make to produce an exact duplicate.

#

There's no forgery skill in 5E.

vivid axle
#

no, i mean if the dm allowed to me to check to forge a ltter ins oemones handwriting, would i get advantage?

cobalt frigate
#

The DM will tell you which ability to roll for with advantage.

vivid axle
#

ok ty

candid thorn
#

Shroud of shadow invocation says you can cast invisibility without a slot does that mean I can’t make anyone else invisible?

fleet field
fleet field
#

it just means you can cast invisibilty for free

candid thorn
#

Because invisibility only lets you target additional people for each spell slot above 2nd but ur not using a spell slot for shroud of shadow

fleet field
#

you can target one person by default

#

read it more carefully

slow hawk
fleet field
#

upcasting it lets you target additional people

#

and by default it targets one person of your choice

#

that could be you but it also could be someone else

vivid axle
#

but if it isnt using a spell slot its stuck at default, correct?

fleet field
#

yes

#

it's being cast at the lowest level

vivid axle
#

ok cool

slow hawk
#

When an invocation or other ability lets you cast a spell, it is alway at base level:

What level is a spell if you cast it without a spell slot?

Such a spell is cast at its lowest possible level, which is the level that appears near the top of its description. Unless you have a special ability that says otherwise, the only way to increase the level of a spell is to expend a higher-level spell slot when you cast it.

lyric fjord
#

Hi I'm new

smoky adder
#

Welcome!

plain dawn
#

I have no questions as of right now, but I was looking into getting into DnD and I look forward to hopefully learning useful information from you all in the future.

vivid axle
#

can i attempt to forge a note without a forgery kit? like simply using a pen and paper?

lyric fjord
#

I want to play a game

tacit elk
#

what are initiatives

candid thorn
#

Can you change mystic arcanums after leveling up?

cobalt frigate
cobalt frigate
smoky adder
smoky adder
#

If you could, it would typically say so in the feature itself.

candid thorn
#

If it doesn’t say so could the dm decide or if it doesn’t say so then no you can’t change it

cobalt frigate
#

A DM can always override RAW (Rules As Written).

slow hawk
vivid axle
#

ok ty

vivid axle
candid thorn
vivid axle
#

tashas cauldron of everything

civic owl
#

Whats an acceptable amount of gold to start with?

fleet field
#

The basic rules state how much gold you start with

#

Depends on if you’re starting with equipment or gold

civic owl
#

ill check it out ty mb

fleet field
#

Most people go equipment

#

In which case your background tells you how much gold (usually 10 or 15)

civic owl
#

Perfect thank you

candid thorn
#

Are there healing spells for Warlock besides Vampiric Touch and Enervation?

slow hawk
#

Spells, no, but the Celestial warlock subclass has a bonus action healing feature

#

It also gets cure wounds

sleek needle
#

Hey can anyone help me with my character sheet?

delicate girder
#

A dm invited me to a campaign using the GURPS 4e system any clue what this is? Never heard of it before

sleek needle
#

Can you help me?

slow hawk
#

?new

exotic remnantBOT
#
What is D&D?
How does it work?
  • The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
  • For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.
Where do I start?
slow hawk
#

Read the materials linked

#

If you have a specific question, ask it

simple goblet
#

I would prefer if you ask your questions in this channel so other people can assist

fleet field
delicate girder
#

I heard it had an interesting history behind it but was abandoned and dnds system was said to be better

#

But yeah seems overly complicated and weird

viral pelican
# delicate girder I heard it had an interesting history behind it but was abandoned and dnds syste...

GURPS is a system that is designed to be setting-agnostic. So you can take your favourite book, regardless of genre, and make a gurps game around it. The U stands for Universal.

DnD is less concerned with being setting agnostic. You can make a high tech no-magic sci Fi DnD game, but it's probably not going to be as good. DnD is designed for fantasy role playing with magic for your party and the enemies: that's still a broad range, but not universal.

#

E.g. you could have a dnd campaign where outside of the party and the villains, magic is super duper rare. It would work great. Whereas in the main official setting of the forgotten realms, magic is basically commonplace and everyday.

delicate girder
#

Is it worth a try?

vivid axle
#

can a character gain proficiency in a tool by practicing?

fleet field
#

I think there’s an optional rule for that

#

It’s really up to your dm

crude musk
delicate girder
#

Oh sorry didn’t know thought it was an old Dnd version at first

candid thorn
#

Whats a knowledge check or is that in an older edition

crude musk
#

That sounds like an older edition

#

There's no 'knowledge check' in D&D 5th edition

slow hawk
humble abyss
#

Hi guys, I'm 100% new to this and I don't want to join a campaign and ruin it for the other players. Is there any beginner DMs or does it not work like that?

fleet field
#

Have you read the basic rules?

humble abyss
#

I have yeah. Made my first character too. I'm hoping to learn on my feet but I'm super green.

fleet field
#

If you’ve done that then you should be good to go

#

There’s really nothing else you can learn without joining a game

#

Most DMs will be open to new players, have a look at our #find-a-game channels

humble abyss
#

Awesome, will do. Thanks!

fair hedge
#

So, I'm a completely new player looking to take the plunge into DnD. Most of my knowledge comes from playing Pathfinder games and the extent of my 5e knowledge comes from Baldur's Gate 3.
I've been watching Critical Role a lot to get a somewhat better idea of how DnD works, (I know to not expect a dm to be like Matt Mercer, or the players to act like professional VA's) and I decided I wanted to try it. Even bought a dice set because hey why not.
What's the best way to find a group willing to allow a complete noob for a game/campaign?

fresh fable
fair hedge
#

Cool, thank you!

hazy girder
echo kelp
#

Yes - that channel is for posting an ad that you are looking for a D&D game or group to join.

#

Additionally you can read through #looking-for-players and find DM's who are looking for players for their games.

vocal jasper
#

great weapon master or sentinel?

crude musk
echo kelp
vocal jasper
#

my bad

zealous linden
#

How does Natural Armor work, will I no longer need regular armor? I rolled a natural 20 which I'm planning on giving to dexterity, and from my understanding that means my dexterity modifier is +5, meaning at level 1 my lizardfolks natural armor would be 18 (13+5) AC unless I did my math wrong

fresh fable
#

Stats don’t come from a d20 max is 18 for rolled

zealous linden
#

Ohhh so I did the math wrong kk

echo kelp
#

Stats are rolled as 4 d6 dice rolled, drop the lowest

zealous linden
#

Was my understanding of natural armor correct

echo kelp
#

Normally yes - but features say what they can do so double check it.

#

And having just read over it , yes you are correct.

#

13 + dex modifier

zealous linden
#

So assuming I somehow rolled a 18 as my dexterity, it would be 13+4=17...

Would natural armor be better than wearing armor until I get to the point where armor with an AC of 18 is available. And does AC cap out at 20 naturally?

echo kelp
#

AC normally caps out at 20 - but then you might get magical armor and spells that boost AC and you can quite reasonably end up with an AC 24

#

Well 18 and then a shield

#

so that's 20

zealous linden
#

How do I deal with half numbers for bonuses btw? Do I just round down

fresh fable
#

Yes say you have a 15 in an ability the bonus is +2

echo kelp
#

The answer to your munched question is yes, you should be using official licensed sources.

zealous linden
#

Ok ty for the info, it was the first result in Google so that's what I clicked, I'll use dnd beyond from now on.

sacred holly
#

whats Bracers of Archery?

echo kelp
#

A magical item that helps folks with bows

sacred holly
#

help as in?

crude musk
#

It grants benefits to using bows

echo kelp
#

It's in the free basic rules

sacred holly
echo kelp
#

It makes you so you're proficient (skilled) with longbow/shortbow and gives you a little bit of bonus damage when using those weapons.