dnd-newcomers

[urban sun]

oh ironicaly

im playing a tiefling

[pure dagger]

AHa.

Class?

[urban sun]

warlock and fiend patron

👍

its actually balzebub

i think

[vivid axle]

a weapons dormant state is when it hasnt been attuned to, correct?

[fleet field]

Which item? Can you provide a link?

[vivid axle]

its called the ruinblade i think

it says it has a dormant, awakened, and exalted state

[fleet field]

Those are essentially different versions of the item

Over time it will upgrade

Has nothing to do with whether it’s attuned or not

[vivid axle]

ok ty

[slow hawk]

Those are the different levels of magic items called Vestiges of Divergence from Critical Role

Or rather different forms of items

And it is not based on attunement

If you want to know about them you need to purchase that content and read the rules about how they work

[vivid axle]

ok ty

[opal lintel]

Hello everyone I have a question. What type of game maps you guys tend to use? I’m starting out as a dm and I tried doing it on paper but it seemed inaccurate and on a different game I am also in my dm uses white boards

[fleet field]

For in person I would use a whiteboard with a 1” x 1” grid drawn on it

[opal lintel]

Would a squared notebook work too? Just for me and my siblings

[fleet field]

That’s fine

[opal lintel]

Alright thanks!

[cobalt frigate]

You can find graph paper at stationary and dollar stores.

[opal lintel]

I plan on getting a notebook since I feel I can be more organized like that

[alpine wadi]

Got the Core Rules Gift set as a gift as it was on sale for like half off... Will this still be usable even with the new books coming in 2024? Or should I just keep them sealed as a collectors item?

[cobalt frigate]

They're only "obsolete" if you make them. Plenty of people will continue playing the 2014 5E rules.

Just like many people still play the previous editions still.

[alpine wadi]

True. I do wonder what they meant by saying that they're making the 2024 rules easier to understand and use. That could mean many things.

[cobalt frigate]

If you want to ask about the 2024 5E Unearthed Arcana playtest then head on over to https://discord.com/channels/516367331358801950/1063492306927374426

[south bone]

hii

[restive gull]

hii

[south bone]

Hello!!

[solemn light]

It was a good D&D movie! We don't have many of those, although the older ones are kinda funny-bad to watch.
We have a Spoilers thread to discuss the movie https://discord.com/channels/516367331358801950/1084851929903026196
And a non-spoilers thread: https://discord.com/channels/516367331358801950/999985185481302076
But now both are a little unused as it's been a while.

There's also this bundle on DnDbeyond if you have an account to get movie related things to use for your games, digital or physical.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/claim/bundle/dungeons-and-dragons-honor-among-thieves

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[solemn light]

If wanting to get into D&D some of the above links can help you out. Don't worry about reading all the rules, you're not expected to. But it can be a good idea to have a go at making a practice character and getting an idea of how combat basically works to help speed things up when you find a game.

[south bone]

Yesss

[errant iron]

hiiii i have a few questions

how do components work (in spellcasting) and how do spellcasting focuses work? im a little confused

dnd beyond says you can use a spellcasting focus in place of a component so thats why im confused

[crude musk]

So a spell will have any combination of three components:

• Verbal: Magical words, sounds, or sylables. These are always audible and perceivable as arcane utterances. Basically they always sound magic
• Somatic: Arcane gestures and movements made with your hands. They are also very obviously magical
• Material: Special objects or ingredients that are used in the spell. Using them for a spell is very obvious that you're using them magically

A spell always has at least one by default and it's by using components that you know someone is casting a spell. This is how you know to use Counterspell on someone for example; you perceive their use of components and go "Oh, a spell, NO U!"

Material components have two additionally sub rules;

• some components have a cost specified (such as "500gp of crushed ruby" or "A diamond worth at least 1,000gp). This doesn't mean you have to buy the component, but it does mean the DM needs to confirm that the materials you have meet that value. This isn't even how much you could buy or sell the component for, it's more a measure of quality. Think of it like "A diamond worth 500gp" translates to "A diamond with 500 quality points where each quality point translates to, on average, about 1gp of value".
• some components are consumed, which means casting the spell uses up the component. These often overlap with components that have a cost, but not always. For example Summon Great Demon requires a vial of blood from a humanoid killed within the past 24 hours that it consumes if you want to create the magic circle to contain the demon.

How do foci come into this? Foci let you replace a material component that doesn't have a cost and isn't consumed with a wave of the focus instead. Rather than providing bat guano for your fireball, you can instead wave your wand or tilt your staff.

If the spell also has a somatic component, you don't need a free hand to perform that component and instead the wave of your wand or wiggle of your orb can be the somatic gesture. However if the spell has a somatic component but no material component, you still need a free hand. It's a weird quirk of the rules; foci only come online when there's a material component and are otherwise taking up space

I hope that helps?

[errant iron]

ok yeah that actually helps a lot

thanks!

[crude musk]

at it's simplest level, foci replace material components that don't have a cost and/or aren't consumed by the spell

[errant iron]

i have an amulet as a holy symbol, i think those are spellcasting focuses

[crude musk]

For paladins and clerics, yeah

Holy symbols have some weird special rules; you can put the symbols on things and if you're holding that thing you count as holding the symbol

So if you put it on your shield, you could as holding the foci while holding your shield

[errant iron]

but wouldn't i need a free hand as well

[crude musk]

Not in that particular case

Holy Symbol. A holy symbol is a representation of a god or pantheon. It might be an amulet depicting a symbol representing a deity, the same symbol carefully engraved or inlaid as an emblem on a shield, or a tiny box holding a fragment of a sacred relic. A cleric or paladin can use a holy symbol as a spellcasting focus. To use the symbol in this way, the caster must hold it in hand, wear it visibly, or bear it on a shield.

so a holy symbol embroidened on your cloak, or embossed on your breastplate wouldn't require a free hand

[errant iron]

oooooh ok that is so helpful

thank you so much

[robust kiln]

If I'm using a custom class, and the custom class has listed feats, do I start with those feats or are those additional feats I can choose when I level up?

[turbid ridge]

Choose when leveling

[smoky adder]

That depends entirely on what the class says.

Without knowing anything about the class, it’s impossible to answer.

[modern horizon]

Heyy, im new to dnd and ive got a question about the role monk. What is classified as a simple weapon?

[restive gull]

is it normal that in beforethestorm they called me rat? but i'm a dragonborn

[wild onyx]

Maybe they just don't like you.

[round beacon]

There’s a section that lists it out for you that you can easily look up. But it’s basically “crappy weapons you don’t want to use if you don’t have to”

Daggers, clubs, that sort of thing.

@modern horizon

[modern horizon]

Alright, thank you😊 @round beacon

[smoky adder]

Anything in the Simple Melee Weapons or Simple Ranged Weapons tables:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/equipment#SimpleMeleeWeapons

[modern horizon]

I see, thank you! @smoky adder

[errant iron]

as a cleric i know bless and cure wounds, right?

do those count towards the total number of prepared spells?

it says they're always prepared

[dapper gulch]

As a life cleric, yes. Those spells are a part of your domain spell list, so they’re always prepared and they do not count against the number.

[gray field]

if i multiclass, do i gain the saving throw/skill proficiencies of the new class?

[dapper gulch]

Nope.

[gray field]

figured as much

that'd be very op

[dapper gulch]

The multiclass chart tells you what you get from the class you take.

[fresh fable]

multiclass rules

[lyric fjord]

why are some games pay to play? are they better?

[dapper gulch]

Maybe. There are many, many players and relatively few DMs. Some players are willing to pay if it guarantees them a spot at a table with a consistent DM.

[smoky adder]

Such games might also have a more professional DM experience, or might get more consistent participation.

[hidden flare]

hello all!

[fallen surge]

Hello. Welcome

[hidden flare]

I've been a part of this server for a while now, but I'm just now getting around to playing again

I'm about to dm for this first time. Still fairly new to all of this, but I've never been dm before.

[fallen surge]

There are a lot of free D&D tools out there, but there are also a lot of tools that cost money. If a DM is willing to invest in their game to use some of those premium tools, to try to make the game experience more professional and immersive, they might charge money for their game if they want the players to help cover the cost of these premium features.

[south pawn]

What's dnd about

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[hidden flare]

I had a question... Has anyone in here ever implemented a sort of "save point" feature in their campaigns? Obviously, it couldn't be something the players could abuse. Maybe like one "quicksave" per chapter, or 1 per player per chapter. Know what I mean?

[harsh fjord]

It’s a game of imagination where folks around a table create a story of adventure.

[fallen surge]

This might be a better question to ask in #dm-discussion, so you can get advice from fellow DMs. This channel is more just about the basic mechanics and rules of the game

[hidden flare]

noted

thank you

[ocean juniper]

So, is there an age limit to this game? Like in game, can I have my age be way above or below my actual age

[little ferry]

if you mean your character age then no, there is no restriction, you can be 15 but play a 240 year old elf or something of the sort

[ocean juniper]

Ok, thanks

[little ferry]

i am sorry i am asking here but i am looking for a dm. i saw the channel #750812887697588356 and it's full of requests but nothing more. do i just type there my information and wait for some kind of reply or do i do something else.

[crude musk]

@little ferry follow the instructions in #find-a-game

[ancient grail]

Hi

[covert charm]

hello im trying to create a character but im a bit confused about the level stat

what should put on there

arent levels something you gain during a campaign?

[smoky adder]

Characters generally start at level 1.

So unless your DM has told you otherwise, put a 1.

[lyric fjord]

ive never played before, where can i go to play my first game?

i dont want to ruin other peoples games or anything

[rancid vessel]

how does play by post work

[covert charm]

Thanks

[smoky adder]

#find-a-game has instructions on how to find a game, but there’s a bunch of other helpful links here you can use to get started:

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[smoky adder]

At its core, play-by-post is just people sending messages back and forth, like we’re doing right now.

People usually just check in a couple times a day, and keep adding to the story.

They’re usually slower games, but they’re good if you’ve got a busy schedule or you’re camera-shy.

[rancid vessel]

thanks!

[slow hawk]

First, i would check out the basic rules to learn how to play and crrate a character

Then check out the find a game channel

Materials for new players

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[slow hawk]

In person games can be found at your local game store, university, library, or listed on warhorn, meetip, facebokk, etc

[turbid ridge]

@mild magnet hello

[wild echo]

uhh so im trying to get into dnd and ive never played before,, in other words i need help (insert skull emoji)

[harsh fjord]

See the bot message just above (or in the pinned info).

[vale heron]

Whats a straight forward class to play to start off

[harsh fjord]

Fighter, rogue, or barbarian have the fewest mechanics.

[vale heron]

I chose paladin cuz i had to pick one

[harsh fjord]

Paladin has spellcasting, which is doable but represents more reading of the rules because it interacts with more game mechanics.

[misty saffron]

hello?

[harsh fjord]

Heya. Do you have a question about starting D&D?

[hexed island]

I'm new to d&d so what are the basics to a newcomer in d&d

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[frosty moth]

Hey all. I just got into mapmaking. Is there a good thread to post to for feedback on here? Or suggestions for another channel that might be better suited for map discussions?

[echo kelp]

#dnd-maps is the place to share/discuss D&D related maps and tools.

[frosty moth]

thank you. for some reason that one's not showing up on my side bar

[harsh fjord]

You might visit id:browse and see what you have selected.

[frosty moth]

thanks 👍

[drifting storm]

Hello (*´∇`)ﾉ

[turbid ridge]

Hi

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[idle palm]

hi i'm new to dnd and i was just wondering if you're supposed to make a character then find a group or find a group first then make the character

[vocal sparrow]

Think it’s a group then character.

[edgy onyx]

Usually it's better to make the specific character after you have a group, since lot of DMs might have some rules for characters, or may not allow everything

Until then though, making some characters for practise, or having looser ideas at the ready is the way to go!

[idle palm]

alright! thank you guys for the advice!!

[misty saffron]

hey guys what is the best upgrade from a rogue

[edgy onyx]

Upgrade?

[misty saffron]

yah like a gambler or...

you know

[echo kelp]

I'm not sure exactly what you're asking?

Like a subclass for the rogue class?

[misty saffron]

yes

[crude musk]

@misty saffron have you read the rules for the game?

[misty saffron]

yah i frogot what it was called

[rancid root]

Hello! I have a question, Is there any way to play DnD solo?

[misty saffron]

no

[edgy onyx]

Well how do you mean best? Best at what?

[vocal sparrow]

Don’t think so..

Unless it’s baldurs gate.

[misty saffron]

best subclass

[edgy onyx]

Yeah but best in what way?

[echo kelp]

Best is whatever is fun for you and works well for the group and D&D game you're playing

[misty saffron]

idk

[edgy onyx]

And if you're looking for optimization there's #optimization

[rancid root]

Thanks guys!

[smoky adder]

It’s really not designed to be played solo, but there are a few user-made rules out there for it.

It’s a fundamentally different experience, though.

[rancid root]

Can you please tell me where I can find the rules.

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[smoky adder]

Again, there are no official rules for it.

And it’s not something I’ve tried myself.

But this is one option I’ve heard of:
https://www.dmsguild.com/m/product/284060

Or there’s always Baldur’s Gate 3.

[native mantle]

dms open if any new players need 1 on 1 help with creating character or learning more about the game before they play.

[south pawn]

Can I play DND on mobile

[echo kelp]

D&D is a game played among people - the tools used to do that vary. DnDBeyond has a mobile app that can help you with digital character sheets and digital book access (assuming you bought the book on DnDBeyond).

So can you use a mobile device to help you play D&D? Yes.

But D&D is not a mobile app game

[south pawn]

But can I have the full experience on mobile? I don't have a PC or laptop so that's why I am asking

[echo kelp]

That depends on how your group plays D&D.

Some virtual tabletops (VTTs) that groups use are not mobile friendly.

[smoky adder]

Other groups don’t use VTTs at all.

[south pawn]

Damn alright

Thanks btw

[smoky adder]

Which tools a group uses is up to the group.

But yes, it’s possible to play in general with only your phone.

[fleet field]

It’s possible to play with no device

[smoky adder]

At minimum, you need:

• a way to communicate with your group
• a way to roll dice
• a way to track your character

A phone can be all three of those.

[rough ore]

Hi 👋, I am new at dnd, I dont know much, I just joined a group that has been playing for a while so they know how to play. So why would they ask me to Dm their next campaign? I'm so lost. They told me to come up with something and they will play. I sort of have something but, i am still perplexed as to why my first time playing would be with me being "in charge". So right what are some subjects i shouldn't brings up 😅 like is there anything taboo? Big no no's?

[frigid helm]

If you dont feel comfortable DMing, just tell them you would rather get more experience before DMing.

Chances are they are just passing the buck, and none of them wish to DM.

However in terms of your question, have a session zero to outline what subjects people are comfortable having in the game MCDM produced free safety tools for this exact reason.

[robust geyser]

Hey im new here and i played dnd for 30 minuets 5 years ago and thats my experience what do i do to find people to play with. the server thing didnt explain much

[willow blade]

Hi, I’ve never played before but it sounds fun, so I want to try at some point

[faint crane]

Hi guys! I’m new to dnd as well haha. I’m excited to play

[robust geyser]

there seems that there is 3 of us

[robust geyser]

you

[robust geyser]

and you

[plucky ridge]

Good starting point is to check out the pinned messages in this channel 🙂

[willow blade]

I’m interested could I watched Jaiden animations video and it was funny

*cause

[dire canopy]

okay- does anyone want to hop in a vc with me and help me write a small campaign

[robust geyser]

same

[dire canopy]

i need help I have no idea what I’m doing lol

[plucky ridge]

If you're looking for a game, you can check out #750812887697588356 #looking-for-players or #looking-for-community. You can also check the DnD Beyond or Roll20 forums to look for games.

[plucky ridge]

Check out the pinned messages. Lots of good stuff there.

[dire canopy]

Yeah Ik, I was more looking for fun people to help guide me/keep me company/ brainstorm idea with me

[robust geyser]

im right there with you

[cobalt frigate]

That's what this channel is for. If you're confused with something ask here.

[robust geyser]

where do i submit a looking for dm

[cobalt frigate]

The instructions are in #find-a-game

[willow blade]

First I’m gonna struggle my way through making a character

[fallen surge]

if you are looking for help writings a campaign, #dm-discussion would be the best place to ask, because you can get advice from fellow DMs. This server does not have any voice channels, and we do not recommend hopping into private chats with members, for safety reasons, and so you can get advice from multiple people

[faint crane]

Hi sorry I was wondering how looking for a campaign works

[faint crane]

I recommend using dnd beyond!

[fleet field]

You can use our #find-a-game channels

[cobalt frigate]

Um, only D&D Beyond, Roll20, and FantasyGrounds has access to all the 5E digital books.

[fallen surge]

In the abstract, you just need to find 4-5 people that agree to play the game together, and then find a time to do it. This server has several channels to help you do that, such as #750812887697588356 or #looking-for-players. In those channels, people make posts about what they are interested in, and when they are available, and you can use the threads under each post to contact them and put something together. If you want to make your own post in one of these channels, you can use the bot in #find-a-game to fill out a form, and a post will be automatically generated for you

[cobalt frigate]

This is probably not legal... but that's for the mods to decide...

Probably better not advertise about such apps on this server. Just sayin'

[inland vapor]

Couldn’t you make it manually without an app for free?

Like on paper

[cobalt frigate]

That's what we used to do before the Internet...

[plucky ridge]

You can use the free rules on DnD Beyond as well

[inland vapor]

There are still a good amount of options on DnD Beyond as well especially for a first character

[fleet field]

It is illegal in a law sense. The materials are copyrighted, so by accessing them for free with that app, you are stealing them

It has the materials within the books it sounds like

[plucky ridge]

I think we're moving a bit away from the purpose of this channel

[robust geyser]

what is the point of looking for dm i dont see anyone respond to any of them

[plucky ridge]

People do respond but it can depend on your post and the time of day

[fleet field]

Looking for dm is less active. Maybe try replying to posts in #looking-for-players

[edgy onyx]

Some may use private messages instead of responding in the threads too

But there are a lot more players than there are DMs, so it's gonna be harder to get noticed

[frigid helm]

Yeah any adverts in Looking for players gets bombarded, so its not really necessary for DM's to go looking for players.

[fleet field]

Check your DMs btw

[willow blade]

Mk thx

[proud vine]

I'm really new to dnd what can I do to get started

I know a lot about character creation

It's just that idk what I need to do for the game specifically

[willow blade]

What sources do I use for dnd beyond

[inland vapor]

Sources?

[fleet field]

Have a look in the #find-a-game channels

?looking

[exotic remnant]

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.

[safe badge]

Charecter Creation is still where im struggling right now

[cobalt frigate]

Which parts are you having trouble with?

[proud vine]

i'd really appreciate general guidance

like steps to do

[fleet field]

As I said above, have a look for a group in our #find-a-game channels

That’s the next step if you understand the basics of the rules

[safe badge]

So I started a campaign with friends last week, I have my basic stats and now I have a month to figure out the rest. Im a High elf wizard, but really everything after stats im lost. I still have personality and triats and all of that to fill out currently

[fleet field]

Are you using the dnd beyond character creator?

[safe badge]

note paper. I wanted to learn pencil and paper using the book first to truly understand the game first. I have DND players guid PDF downloaded

[fleet field]

If you’re dead set on paper and pencil, then just keep following the step by step guide in the start of the basic rules

[cobalt frigate]

Did you follow through the first four chapters of the Basic Rules? As part of your class/race selection you have your skills, languages, and spells.

[fleet field]

Which step are you up to?

[proud vine]

tysm

[safe badge]

one sec im pulling up my PDF real quick

[safe badge]

I think you are right, im going to go back and read more of the first chapters and try to follow step by step right now

[potent radish]

Im new

[fallen surge]

Welcome

[potent radish]

Can someone help me rind people i can play woth

[exotic remnant]

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.

[crisp cosmos]

Hello, I’m new and have no clue how to play or how the game works, advice?

[subtle apex]

Check out some of this info to read up on the rules and fundamentals.

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[severe pilot]

Not quite sure how to join a game as a newcomer. Any help pls?

[subtle apex]

Did you take a look at the LFG channels?

?Looking

[exotic remnant]

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.

[echo kelp]

Please read #find-a-game (carefully) to learn how to use our LFG channels to find a group/game.

[severe pilot]

Okay cool. Thanks. Any recommendations for building a character online? Should I just be using roll20 for my character?

[echo kelp]

Use whatever your group playing D&D prefers/uses.

I like DnDBeyond but using Roll20 could work as well.

[severe pilot]

Thanks appreciate the help

[cold widget]

How do you join a dnd group

[cobalt frigate]

Check out #find-a-game

Also, check iamrazorwing's guide to finding games online:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fqCm4tA5Y_WxlqgryUM_iaz3l7B3zZ0m/view

[cold widget]

Thank you

[opal lintel]

Hello again does anyone map examples that have grids on them? I want to see how large or small I can scale my maps to

[smoky adder]

You can take a look through #dnd-maps.

[acoustic compass]

Hey all, I’m sure you get this alot but I’m new to dungeons an dragons, I wanna give it a try, where do I start an who’s willing to hold my hand through this?

[round beacon]

If you got any questions about character building I can help and general gameplay questions

[slow hawk]

Start with the basic rules and other materials here

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[covert charm]

hey im making a character in d&d beyond but i dont know what this skills thing mean

it says choose a monk skill

and there are acrobatics, athletics, history, insight, religion and stealth

stealth and acrobatics are self explanatory but i dont understand the other ones

[round beacon]

History is just knowledge of the past and cultures. Athletics is muscle stuff like pushing and lifting things.

[vague ridge]

For questions about dndbeyond and one dnd, where is the right place to post them?

[proud fossil]

You can find descriptions of the various skills in the Basic Rules, Chp. 7 under the drop-down menu "Using each Ability".

[covert charm]

tysm

[smoky adder]

#ddb-support and #1026901431132885064, respectively.

[vague ridge]

That’s what I thought, thanks a lot!

[wild echo]

i do not understand any of this

[smoky adder]

Let’s take it step by step, then. What’s one specific thing you don’t understand?

[wild echo]

I dont understand the rules, in the sense that i understand what it says but like i cant wrap my head around them
im not sure how to explain it

[cobalt frigate]

I highly recommend you check out Critical Role's "Handbook Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD-LWHhiseE&list=PL1tiwbzkOjQyr6-gqJ8r29j_rJkR49uDN&index=1

[wild echo]

thank you so much !!

[dire mountain]

I am DMing and want to give the players a nonchalant funny magical weapon gave them a rod that switches anything they want with a chicken turned out to be to overpowered I need some ideas

[cobalt frigate]

Perhaps ask in #dm-discussion?

[naive belfry]

Simple, heavily limit the rod with saving throws, checks and/or level limits

[dire mountain]

Thanks

[marble trail]

hello

[deep nacelle]

Good evening, everyone. I have a question, like most, about a monsters CR and adjusting it for the PC's level. Is there a good way of doing this? I am running my first campaign and want to add a few monsters to the campaign, but I don't want to make them too difficult and I don't want them to give out too much XP. Thanks for your time.

[cobalt frigate]

Check out encounter calculators like the ones found on D&D Beyond and koboldplus.club

If you have more questions about DMing then head on over to #dm-discussion

[keen widget]

Hey

I am new and have legit never played before

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[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.

[keen widget]

Ok thank you!

Personally from what I already know I feel like I would be a good DM

But then again idk the limitations etc

I am a writer and super creative so I feel like I could be good at it haha

[lean sparrow]

What's the deal with this?

Never played before, just jumping in

[lyric fjord]

my friends andi would like to play dnd, there are 3 of us but we've never played before, how do we find a DM?

[hallow bobcat]

🙂

[lyric fjord]

idk

can i join yall doe?

sure

4 of us now, jsut need a dm

well one of u guys could prolly be a dm

[hallow bobcat]

we never played before

[lyric fjord]

or u could go to looking for dm or sm

[fleet field]

Have you had a look at the basic rules?

[lean sparrow]

No, do I just Google them?

[fleet field]

They’re linked in the pinned messages

[lyric fjord]

im a charisma/strength bard build with charm person and a few other skills

and it has a longsword

[fleet field]

Cool

[vagrant lantern]

Hey I've never played dnd and I wanna play with some people for the first time anyone interested?

[fleet field]

Have you read the basic rules?

[vagrant lantern]

No but what I understand you make a story using duce to progress you make a character ect

[fleet field]

You should probably read the basic rules first. They’re linked in the pinned messages

[vagrant lantern]

Ok one sec

[worthy seal]

Hi

I have never played either

[vagrant lantern]

Nice I'm just trying to find the pinned rules

Wanna play when I have this stuff figured out

Or try

Idk

[fleet field]

Go to the pinned messages, and read through them

You’ll find the link

[fresh fable]

Basic rules

[vagrant lantern]

Ok i read the article and I understand

Ok I'm struggling to figure out to find players for a game I'm trying to read the stuff but getting confused can anyone please help

I just want a small group to start off my first champaign

[worthy seal]

I read the rules

[vagrant lantern]

Same

But I'm still getting confused

[worthy seal]

I’ve never played

[topaz garnet]

Well, feel free to ask clarifying questions

[vagrant lantern]

Ok so I wannna start a campaign with a small group of people and identify know how to find people

[worthy seal]

I’ll play

[vagrant lantern]

Nice

[topaz garnet]

simply, use #find-a-game

or some other LFG in another discord, or a local game shop, or on roll20, whatever

[vagrant lantern]

Ok

[topaz garnet]

But as for anything about the basics of D&D and not external meta structuring, happy to answer

[vagrant lantern]

Ok so where do I ask for more players

[worthy seal]

There might be a server in here for that

[vagrant lantern]

Hmmm

[topaz garnet]

#find-a-game

[vagrant lantern]

You can't chat in that channel

[nocturne lake]

is the DM guidebook worth it?

[worthy seal]

I made a chat

No it’s free online

[nocturne lake]

i prefer physical books

[worthy seal]

Ok

[nocturne lake]

so if it's actually worth it i might buy it

[worthy seal]

Idk I have never played I just read it in a website

[vagrant lantern]

Same

And I need 3 more members for my first campaign

[topaz garnet]

you make a post following the rules

[topaz garnet]

no, it's not - it's either purchased, or piracy

[vagrant lantern]

K

[frigid tundra]

#750812887697588356 and party members so that I won't be lonely

[frigid tundra]

I wouldn't mind joining

[lyric fjord]

Hi ive really been interested in playing dnd but have never gotten the chance if there is someone who wouldn't mind explaining it to me i would really appreciate it

[frigid tundra]

Make a character and do stuff. Imagination is key

[round beacon]

If you’re wanting more details then feel free to just ask too

[lyric fjord]

I did make a character but im not entirely sure how playing in a campaign work's

[round beacon]

The best and simplest option is to find a dm and just have him guide you through first hand

[frigid tundra]

I'm also kinda New but I know a bit and am just looking for a DM and other Players

[fleet field]

You find a group to join, and play with them

[topaz garnet]

As simply as I can describe it
You have your statistics, you show up at the appropriate time
You have the scene laid before you, you describe your actions, make any necessary rolls, consequences are described

[fleet field]

Combat is much more guided and set out

[topaz garnet]

There's no formal "You are running the game" mechanism like videogames, you've got mostly theater of the mind, you've got your sheet and the rolls

[lyric fjord]

Ok sounds ok where do i find a group thi?

[topaz garnet]

combat is the absolute certainty in DND, rules are 99% very very clear cut

[fleet field]

You can try using our #find-a-game channels

[lyric fjord]

Ok thank you

[fleet field]

I’d say 95% but your point still stands

[topaz garnet]

I don't think it's 5 in every 100 combat rules

[fleet field]

I don’t feel like going through the rules to check, don’t think it’s an important discussion to have

[supple mantle]

Hi, I’m really new to the dnd world but I’m not sure how or where to start. I was introduced to Baldurs Gate by a friend and Im really enjoying it so far which made me even more invested in dnd. How do I start?

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[oak dock]

heyo

[nocturne lake]

im a relatively new DM

i started off by just jumping into a one shot with some of my friends

we had limited knowledge of the rules and our characters weren't fleshed out but it gave experience

then i watched an actual game (id recommend finding a one shot and just watching it) and then read through the most important rules in the D&D beyond website

[topaz garnet]

that'd be piracy

[nocturne lake]

how? you have to pay for it

i never specified it's free

[topaz garnet]

you don't get PDFs of the books

[nocturne lake]

from d&d beyond

[topaz garnet]

Not a PDF

[nocturne lake]

dont pirate it off the internet though that's illegal

yep

if you have some time watching the BG3 cast's recent first D&D session is really fun and will teach you the gist of the game and most of the rules

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeJKnofNBNs&t=5405s

there's the DM guidebook

but I'm a DM and trust me when starting out player's handbook is enough

all the core rules and character building is in there

it's like the fundemental book

i think they're referring to homebrew content and the official D&D world

so theres an official D&D world called the Forgotten Realms

i highly recommend starting out there because there's so much material for it

once you read the guidebooks, jump into a game

way too many people overthink when starting D&D

i just jumped into a game with my friends who knew nothing and it was incredibly fun

[topaz garnet]

it has a bunch of rules in it either way, like how spells work.

[nocturne lake]

so that's planescape, it's a new book coming out soon

[topaz garnet]

Think of homebrew like community mods, but without the need to mess with files to plug it into your game

spells do what they say they do

It's not a videogame, it's not a scripted "pick from 5 dialogue options" videogame where you will always and forever and always fight this boss fight at this point

[nocturne lake]

you can do whatever you want within the rough guidelines of D&D - it sets the parameters for everything

D&D is basically like that extra step from just raw roleplaying that adds structure, rules, and chance to your game

[topaz garnet]

You can have your character say anything to the guard, for example
But when it comes to the rules, spells only do what they say they do. For example, the Color Spray spell doesn't do anything like paint things - it only does what it says it does, which is blinding creatures (dependent on some rolls and math)

[nocturne lake]

i think you're getting too mixed up in this stuff, i highly recommend just getting a few friends together after gaining some understanding of the player's handbook and just jumping into a oneshot

[topaz garnet]

As a wizard, you'd follow the rules for the wizard class determining what being a wizard allows you to do, and you'd follow the rules for spellcasting, how many spells you can cast per day, and follow the rules of each individual spell only doing what it details it does.

For example, the only way to... cast a spell to change into an elf
is 9th level spells. Shapechange, and True Polymorph. Neither of which are as simple as simply replacing your traits as they work in an extremely detailed way, and it's not conductive for sleepy me to explain why - only to say that they do.

[nocturne lake]

go ahead

lore is anything that builds the world
following this, since you're playing in the d&d world, you're taking part in it
therefore, you affect the lore in your game

if you play mario, then anything that adds to the world or characters (bowser stealing princess peach, the kingdoms, etc.) is all lore

by playing in the game you're basically taking part in it

e.g the vampire count Strahd is a part of D&D's lore but you can meet him in game

you can kill him, rip his intestines out, make him laugh, kiss him, whatever

so no, it's not just "stories" - that's the entire point of D&D

everything is an interactive experience guided by the DM that follows the structure of the D&D game

you take part in everything

[echo kelp]

It's a collaborative storytelling RPG experience - DM sets the scene, players interact with it. They tell a story interactively together.

Official D&D lore may or may not be a part of that story.

Don't feel like you have to know D&D lore to play - and don't feel like D&D lore is required in your games.

D&D lore is like a framework of story ideas you can chose to use (or not).

[nocturne lake]

yes!

[echo kelp]

Or a bit of both really.

Take an existing prewritten adventure and infuse it with your own stuff.

[nocturne lake]

but keep in mid building your own world means building characters, monsters, weapons - each with their own unique stats and mechanics

homebrewing is a lengthy and tedious process which you should always playtest before implementing

if you're starting out i recommend just following 5E aka the "already set world"

[faint crane]

Hi, I went to #750812887697588356 but the channel is blocked for me

I can read it but not send anything

[nocturne lake]

#moderator-support

oh

wait dont send anything in mod support

go to

[frigid helm]

You have to reply in the threads or DM direct.

[nocturne lake]

#find-a-game

[echo kelp]

Read #find-a-game - it explains how to use our LFG channels

[faint crane]

Ok thank you very much!

[fresh fable]

You don’t need to build any mechanics monster extra to make a homebrew world just lore

[nocturne lake]

I would assume if you're homebrewing an entire world, you would make your own monsters and consequently their accompanying mechanics and stats

however, you could just recycle 5e

[fresh fable]

Then your making a whole new ttrpg

[nocturne lake]

creating your own monsters is hardly making a new ttrpg

[crude musk]

Getting beyond the scope of this channel (and getting a little gatekeepery to boot)

[warm dome]

So how does DnD work? I just made a character

[crude musk]

It's a colloborative roleplaying game; you play your character in a world your DM runs and use your various abilities and skills to overcome challenges

[warm dome]

ok

[deep talon]

So simply do whatever random stuff you want while the dnd tries to get you to follow a story line

[echo kelp]

No?
D&D is the game mechanics/framework to help you and your group collaboratively explore a story together.

Ideally everyone is working together to have fun.

[crude musk]

No, there's an expectation everyone is contributing to the game progressing forwards. That's what collaborative means

[royal coyote]

yessss collaborative storytelling is the best way to explain it... and just having fun together... yes there are goofy times, but collaborative storytelling is one of the reasons i play.

[nocturne lake]

d&d is a system, not a story

[deep talon]

Yeah, ultimately it’s trying to complete a task, but it does get stupid sometimes

[warm dome]

So how do you actually play DnD?

[nocturne lake]

Read the player's handbook

[royal coyote]

it's a tool to use to help tell a story or complete a story

[crude musk]

you all sit around a table, physical or virtual, and each take turns describing what your character (or in the case of the DM an NPC or monster) does

[nocturne lake]

not all of it, just the beginning to understand fundamentals - and then go on from there. i recommend watching a short game on youtube to understand after u read the basic rules

[echo kelp]

It may help to refer to the free basic rules: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[crude musk]

When there's a situation where there's a chance of success or failure, the DM may call for some kind of roll; usually an attack roll, ability check, or saving throw

Those rolls are used to determine if your character succeeds or fails

[deep talon]

Also inspiration i find from places such as Critical role or other podcasts are good to get a feel for the general jist of dnd

[crude musk]

But keep in mind every game is different and shows such as those (called live plays) do not represent D&D as a whole or what your table experience may be

Also the more well known live plays often feature very high production values as a result of the revenue they bring in, this again is not representative of the average D&D game

[deep talon]

Yes exactly. It’s not every part of dnd, “more like a guideline anyway”

[summer cloud]

Hi, I'm new to DnD as a whole, but want to run a campaign from one of the starter kits for my family. Are there any resources I can use to get a good grip on being a DM, and most importantly, to explain the rules and concepts to my family?

[viral pelican]

I'd recommend getting the Lost Mine of Phandelver before its withdrawn: it's from the original starter set, and personally I think it's a better tutorial for DMs and players alike https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/lmop

as for rules and concepts, the links in the following bot post to the handbooker helper are quite good

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[summer cloud]

Alright, thank you!

[smoky adder]

Already gone, my friend.

But the original Lost Mine is included and expanded upon in Phandelver and Below: The Shattered Obelisk.

[viral pelican]

Oh that's a shame, I thought it was still available for free. Oh well.

[smoky adder]

October 10th was the last day.

[pure escarp]

How soon can I expect to get a DM? I posted in #750812887697588356 already, I just want to know how long it may take to actually get a DM

[crude musk]

Days, weeks, or even months

It all depends on what you specified when you posted and what DMs are looking for

[pure escarp]

oh, okay

I was hoping to get a DM soon because I really wanna get my sister into DM and I think she's not gonna be interested unless I get a DM soon.

[smoky adder]

If you're worried about time, you'll probably have better luck with a more proactive approach.

You could try responding to posts in #looking-for-players instead.

Or the quickest option: #paid-looking-for-game.

[fierce egret]

Hey guys! im new here!

[misty saffron]

yo

[harsh fjord]

This is also a good newbie resource: https://howtogm.guide

[sick ravine]

I’m also new here!! Hi!

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[sick ravine]

I’m a huge dnd nerd, just new to the discord! 😄

[tawny wagon]

Hello
I'm new to d&d

[plush oriole]

Heyy, I'm new also!

[proper patrol]

Same here!

[glossy adder]

Me too !

[mental dust]

Hello all new dm here starting my kids out on lost mine of phandelver

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

What is a Dungeon Master?

• In Dungeons & Dragons, one person serves as the Dungeon Master, the game’s lead storyteller and referee. The DM runs the adventure for the players, who navigate its hazards and decide which paths to explore.

How does it work?

• Learn how to be a Dungeon Master with this YouTube video or D&D Beyond article.
• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.

Where do I start?

• Decide what kind of campaign you want to run. Here’s a few good options for new DMs.
• Get advice from your fellow Dungeon Masters in #dm-discussion and #dm-world-building.

D&D Starter Set: Dragons of Stormwreck Isle

Dungeon Master Tips

The most important part of being a good DM is facilitating the fun of everyone at the table. Keep these tips in mind to help things go smoothly:

Embrace the shared story.

D&D is about telling a story as a group, so let the players contribute to the outcome through the words and deeds of their characters. If some players are reluctant to speak up, ask them what their characters are doing.

It’s not a competition.

The DM isn’t competing against the player characters. Your job is to referee the rules, run monsters, and keep the story moving.

Be fair and flexible.

Treat your players in a fair, impartial manner. The rules help you do this, but you can make your own rulings to ensure everyone is having fun.

Modify the adventure to suit your tastes.

Adventures have no prescribed outcome. You can alter any encounter to make it more interesting and fun for your players.

Don’t worry about mistakes.

Dungeon Masters are fallible, just like everyone else, and even experienced DMs make mistakes. If you overlook, forget, or misrepresent something, correct yourself and move on. No one expects you to memorize every part of this adventure and all the rules in the Basic Rules. As long as your players are having fun, everything will be just fine.

[unborn heath]

i was wondering how i could calculate the % chance of one character winning initiative with a +10 initiative modifier and advantage on the initiative roll vs another character who only has a +6 to his initiative roll

im not great at math but i was thinking maybe take the average rolls for the 2 (23.825 vs 16.5) then divide to get like approx 44.4% higher chance of going first but idk if thats like accurate at all

[slow hawk]

Thats more for #optimization

[unborn heath]

ah mb

[slow hawk]

This channel is for new folks

[lyric fjord]

I joined yesterday and immediately fell asleep

[tranquil dawn]

materializes hi :D

[lyric fjord]

Hello!

[tranquil dawn]

Is it weird to say you share my bearded dragon's name? /aff

[lyric fjord]

Lol no

[tranquil dawn]

hehe :3

[lyric fjord]

I considered naming my bearded dragon the same thing a few years back, when she was old enough to be sexed

[tranquil dawn]

no way xD

(I think this discussion is able to slide down to #non-dnd-topics now lol)

[lyric fjord]

Lmao

[lucid fox]

hello everyone

[tranquil dawn]

hii ^^

[lucid fox]

i didnt come at all because of jaiden's dnd video lol

[little yew]

Hello, is anyone up for a game now

[lyric fjord]

I would, but I’m multitasking homework rn

[fresh fable]

Have a look in #looking-for-players or read the guide in #find-a-game you’ll be lucky to find a game straight away

[opal lintel]

What type of graph paper do you guys recommend for inperson maps

[fresh fable]

Anything with an inch square so minis fit on there better

Some wrapping paper has a grid printed on the back of it too

[opal lintel]

I found one online that says 4 squares per inch

[karmic spear]

Hey I’m brand new to actually playing dnd but I’d love to get into some kind of campaign wherever I can just not sure how to do it with the commands lol

[fresh fable]

Are you wanting to post your own ad or respond to one in #looking-for-players

[winged lynx]

Hi I've never actually played DND before but I'm pretty knowledgeable of how the game works and actually hope to be a DM for a campaign and already have a player. But I wanted to know if there is anyone with any experience who'd be willing to help me teach the new player.

[rancid root]

I sent a message in the Find a Game chat, but I didn't get many replies. Is there any other way to find a game?

[fresh fable]

Look through the ads in #looking-for-players and respond in the thread under each ad

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fqCm4tA5Y_WxlqgryUM_iaz3l7B3zZ0m/view good guide to finding games online (credit iamrazorwing)

[rancid root]

Thank you very much!

[arctic crown]

Hi I am brand new to D&D I was woundering if I have to have a DM to make a character?

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[arctic crown]

So when i make a character does the red on the sliders mean yes or do them mean no?

[crude musk]

Right means on

The colour will vary based on character sheet settings

[flint mortar]

What is DnD? like is it a board game or like a video game??

[vestal crest]

Board game

[flint mortar]

well why is there a website and a discord server about it then??

[vestal crest]

That is what this group is for at least

Traditionally it was a board game like on stranger things. Yes there are video games based on it

[flint mortar]

how to learn about how to play it?? like any videos??

[vestal crest]

Thus discord is for the book and board game

There's lots of videos on YouTube

All you need to do is read the rule book

[flint mortar]

book?

[ornate kiln]

well "board" game. it often doesnt involve an actual board

[flint mortar]

what-

[ornate kiln]

to play D&D, you only need dice and a character sheet. basically.

[vestal crest]

See the link a few messages up

I was using the words he was using to make it easier to understand

[flint mortar]

whats a charactersheet?

[vestal crest]

It holds the information about your character

[harsh fjord]

These are character sheets: https://dnd.wizards.com/resources/character-sheets

[ornate kiln]

one player, the Dungeon Master, controls the fictional world, while everyone else has characters that act inside the world.

conflicts and challenges are resolved with dice rolls. What you character can do and how good they are at things is determined by the stats and abilities on their sheets

[harsh fjord]

Trying the demo, reading the rules, and/or watching some games on YouTube or Twitch would be a good start. See the pinned info in this channel.

[flint mortar]

so like the dungeon master does like absolutely anything?

[vestal crest]

They tell the story

[harsh fjord]

The DM is the narrator/referee. They control everything but the players' characters.

[flint mortar]

Ok I see-

[ornate kiln]

its like a back and forth. The DM sets the scene, describes a scenario and acts as the non player characters. The narrative is driven by the actions of the other players

[harsh fjord]

• The DM describes the situation.
• The players describe what they want to do.
• If needed, dice are rolled (to determine success/failure).
• The DM describes the results.

Lather, rinse, repeat, and you got yourself a story. It’s make-believe with rules so that everyone is working within established boundaries.

[forest leaf]

How in the world do I make a character, it's so confusing

And how do I find a group to even play with

[vestal crest]

Did you try using the dndbeyond character creator?

[forest leaf]

What's that

[vestal crest]

A webpage on dndbeyond that helps make a character

[forest leaf]

I'll check it out

[vestal crest]

There's #750812887697588356 for a game or find a place locally

[turbid ridge]

He tells the story

[forest leaf]

I used to play a similar game like DND but less complicated and now I'm just trying to get into the actual thing

I think it was called like pathfinder or something

[turbid ridge]

@forest leaf
?new

[ornate kiln]

I dont think I ever have heard someone call pathfinder less complicated than D&D, lol

[forest leaf]

It's was less complicated for me

[ornate kiln]

thats fair I guess

[harsh fjord]

Pathfinder grew out of an earlier edition of D&D.

The first few chapters of the Basic Rules (https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules) explain how to make a character. D&D Beyond can also help with this process, but it doesn't help you understand how to do it yourself. There are a bunch of explainer videos on character creation; I like WASD20's, personally.

[fresh fable]

how to use dndbeyond dndbeyond actually did some videos on how to make a character on YouTube

Need to get their finger out and make the other classes

[fringe moss]

Hi All! My name is Tillandsias, but you can call me Till if you prefer short names. I had the pleasure and the honor to play the first release of the game. Yes… I’m a ‘wise’ player (for sure wise is better than old…).
Really happy I found this group 😇

[fresh fable]

Welcome

[humble marsh]

Sup. I'm F1Enjoyer but you can just call me enjoyer. I always wanted to play d&d so here i am. I am a complete noob and never played. I made a character in dndbeyond to see what is that all about and that is it. Hope to find someone to play with

[echo kelp]

Welcome! If you're trying to find a group to play with we have Looking For Game channels - please read #find-a-game (carefully) to learn how to use them.

[dire mountain]

How would I take my character and use it in another campaign

[echo kelp]

Ask the DM (and group) of the other campaign if it's okay to bring over.

Each group plays differently and you may need to adjust the character to fit that group/game.

[dire mountain]

Would I keep my stuff and level or will he have to be restarted for the campaign

[humble marsh]

Do you know any noob-friendly communities?

[echo kelp]

Again check with the DM and group - they may be starting at a different level, they may only allow certain character races (for story reasons), they may not use certain rules, etc.

[dire mountain]

@echo kelp thanks

[echo kelp]

Most groups are fine taking on a new-to-D&D player if that players shows they're trying to read and understand the rules, but even more importantly that player fits in well with the rest of the group.

[humble marsh]

Thank you @echo kelp

[plush oriole]

It’s really intimidating asking to join campaigns as a new player. :(

I feel like I’ll mess the campaign up because I don’t know what I’m doing.

[echo kelp]

It's like any new social endeavor - a bit of uncertainty and anxiety as you ask strangers if you can join them to play a game.
but remember they may be just as uncertain and anxious as you.

Some folks describe trying to find a group to play with a bit like dating

[humble marsh]

Oh and one more thing and i will stop bothering you. I saw at looking for community ashirma the land of prosperity and i wanted to ask if they accept a certified noob in the community

[lyric fjord]

hello

[humble marsh]

Yello

[lyric fjord]

curious about DND

[echo kelp]

I'd just direct message the poster and see if they're okay with new players. Again most folks don't have problems taking on new-to-D&D folks as long as they fit the vibe of the community/group.

[lyric fjord]

as an social anxious person

[humble marsh]

Ty again. Imma try and see.

[plush oriole]

Does sound intimidating! But you say it really well, thanks. :’)

[plush oriole]

Same.😭😭

[echo kelp]

Yeah it takes a bit of courage but the worst thing someone can tell you is "no".
And that's okay. Just move on and keep asking and one day you'll find the right group.

[lyric fjord]

have you played it before?

[tranquil bluff]

Hi folks - looking for a book recommendation. I saw a video recently, can't remember which one, i've seen so many - discussed a book by an author who is like the most influential fantasy writer and has huge influence on D&D. I can't remember who or what the book is. He has written many and it's not Tolkein. Anyone have a suggestions? The book is not D&D specific, it is simply a fantasy novel. Thanks for the help

[harsh fjord]

That's more #non-dnd-topics.

[echo kelp]

Yeah or even #dnd-lore

makes note to discuss with the other mods creating a D&D media channel

[plush oriole]

Never.

[harsh fjord]

Briefly detouring off-topic, I think that'd be a good idea. Maybe it could be structured the way #1029833015423143957 is with sub-channels for video games, books, board games, and miscellaneous. (There may be other good categories; this is just off-hand thinking.)

[tranquil bluff]

I do think there is merit, for D&D newcomers even more-so, to discuss where they can learn about the influences of D&D, and some fantasy novels could be a genuine source. This ties into the roleplay aspect of the game, having been exposed to the types of adventures D&D characters often face in such novels. That's why I had put that question in here. I reposted it in the other forum. I'm relatively new and always looking to expand my intelect on how to better enjoy the game

[red thunder]

Hi

Um, I've played before but due to not having many friends in my town to play it with I decided to join this discord server. 🙂

[harsh fjord]

Welcome. If you're looking to find other folks, you should check out #find-a-game. Otherwise, enjoy your time here!

[fringe moss]

D&D is not a game.
It’s a mindset, a philosophy, no matter if you are an experienced player or a newcomer.
For a real D&D player it is regardless who you are but ONLY who you want to be.
Experience? If you don’t have it, it’s elder responsibility to teach you how to play and, mostly, how to have fun.

[red thunder]

Thank you very much. 🙂

[frigid helm]

D&D is very much a game.

And dont trust anyone that tells you what a "real" D&D player is Lol

[echo kelp]

Well D&D is a game. It has rules. How much of those rules you follow is up to you and the group you play with. But it provides a shared framework of understanding so you and your friends can tell a collaborative story through an RPG game. One person takes the role of Dungeon Master (DM). The others play characters. The DM sets the stage of the story and asks the players what their characters would do in that situation. The DM decides what rules are in effect and what dice rolls are needed (if any). Players describe what their characters do, roll whatever dice is needed, the DM interprets the results, and helps move the story forward. Everyone works together to have fun.

[fringe moss]

Hmmm…. So following your words…
Star Trek is just a TV series?
Star Wars is just a movie?
The lords of the rings is just a book?

[echo kelp]

People find meaning in lots of things but that's not the reason for this channel

[frigid helm]

Yes, yes & yes.

[echo kelp]

Here we help new to D&D folks understand the core rules and mechanics

[hot sky]

Hi my name is Barry, and I don’t know how to play d&d, or just looked fun so I wanted to try it

😋

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[harsh fjord]

Those links should get you started. If you have specific questions, this is a good place for them!

[lyric fjord]

how much do you need to act/roleplay in DND?

[true shard]

No specific guidelines for that it depends table to table

[viral pelican]

It's going to depend on the table. No decent table will force you, but each table will have a layer of roleplay and acting that everyone is comfortable with.

The game is inherently roleplaying in the sense that you are expected to make decisions that your character would make, which might not mean they are ones you would make in the same situation - heck, I doubt you would run into a cave full of goblins!

As for acting, it's much more variable. At my table, I do act the main NPCs quite a lot for my players, but nobody else is putting on voices and mannerisms.

[turbid ridge]

As much as you like

[deep talon]

as much as you feel comfortable with. Roleplaying does make the game more fun though

[fallen surge]

Check out the bot post below this to get some tips on how to get more comfortable with roleplay.

[exotic remnant]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1463-how-to-get-better-at-roleplaying-in-d-d

[forest leaf]

Do I NEED to print out a character sheet to make a character?

[fallen surge]

Online character sheets are perfectly fine too. As long as your DM allows them.

[forest leaf]

I don't have a dm😭

I'm lonely

[fallen surge]

A character sheet is really just a fancy collection of notes about your character. All the important things to remember. You can use any tool you want to keep track of those things. A character sheet (online or physical) is just the collectively agreed upon easiest way to do that.

[forest leaf]

Oh alr

[arctic acorn]

Online DMs won't have need for a physical copy of your character sheet but an irl one might.

[ionic anchor]

Hi Hi
(I am incredibly new to dnd, like.. freshly new character with no clue how the things work and I asked my friend how to get stats and they said use a 20 sided dice so I did that and they helped me create a character and now I have a elf sorcerer with stats i don’t know how or where to put them-)
(The numbers i got off an online dice roller thing were these: 12 16 19 20 5 8)

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[slow hawk]

These are starting materials for free

A d20 is not normally how you roll for stats. More details are found in the basic rules

[ionic anchor]

Oh

Ty ^^

[granite wharf]

I’m new to this sever

[vital sail]

Welcome

[granite wharf]

It’s good to be here

[fresh spruce]

hello

[smoky adder]

The Quick Build rules suggest this for a Sorcerer, though:

First, Charisma should be your highest ability score, followed by Constitution.

I’d make DEX third.

The rest you could pick however you like.

A lot of people would probably set STR lowest.

[vital sail]

I presume he did that stat rolls wrong considering he got both a 20 and a 5

[ionic anchor]

Just used a 20 dice roller thing i found online

[echo kelp]

For stat generation use 6 rolls of 4 d6 dice and keep only the 3 highest rolls.

Or use standard array - a preset of numbers.

[vital sail]

Alternatively you can use a 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8 and assign

[zealous linden]

Have not opened my dragons of storm wreck isle yet... but does anyone know if it comes with printed out maps or are there places where I can purchase a ton of maps for it if not?

[harsh fjord]

I couldn't find anything in the physical product info about included maps, but you can find community-made maps fairly easily to print out.

[echo kelp]

Physical or DnDBeyond? DnDBeyond maps are there and can be used/printed off for personal use.

[zealous linden]

Physical but I do also plan on getting the dnd beyond version

[echo kelp]

D&D does allow you to print off maps for personal use.

[zealous linden]

Are the maps tiled?

[dapper gulch]

Tiled and scaled generally.

[zealous linden]

Are there any missing maps / areas that don't have a map and use theater of the mind instead

[echo kelp]

There are likely many areas of the adventure where a map isn't provided or needed.

This is true of most adventures

[dapper gulch]

No clue, but I’m sure there is some occasion/situation that will require you to describe rather than show an illustration.

[cobalt frigate]

As a DM you would normally draw out to your players the areas of the dungeon maps as they explore it rather than present them entire map.

[granite wharf]

I would say draw it out when they discover the areas

[zealous linden]

I'm planning on cutting the map then wearing it down to make it look more like a actual map prop and piece it together when players find new areas :3

[echo kelp]

Sounds good.

[cobalt frigate]

That's what I said...

[granite wharf]

Sorry I read it wrong

[hollow hornet]

i wanna do this, because it’d be easier. but i also wanna give my players a complete map semi-early on. it’s a struggle

[granite wharf]

Yea, I had that problem before when I was new to DMing

[vital sail]

Trust me they will enjoy the mystery of exploration

[ionic anchor]

Ty ^^

[craggy hare]

The major plot areas come with maps, but the possible wilderness encounters do not.

[zealous linden]

So I should buy/find some generic wilderness maps then

[craggy hare]

If you plan on including those encounters and want maps for them, yes.

Plenty of free resources online though.

[vast sundial]

Question about D&D Beyond (the app): Why can I not choose the Arcane Trickster archetype? It only shows the thief one

[harsh fjord]

Do you own the subclass or book it's from?

Digitally, I mean.

[vast sundial]

I mean it's from the main one right? 5e? Thought it was free on the app

[harsh fjord]

One subclass is free with the Basic Rules. Arcane Trickster you would need to purchase on DDB, either individually or with the book it's included in.

[vast sundial]

Ohhh, that's fair, thx!

[smoky adder]

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

[slow hawk]

Wrapping paper is usually cheap and has 1x1 grid

Just draw the terrain on it or use construction paper

[woven plaza]

Hi, I just joined the server, and I'm hoping to join a game (and not accidentally mess up something by discussing stuff in the wrong channel, I do that more than I want to admit when first joining servers). But I'm pretty new to DND overall, I've been a part of 1 campaign (unless you count ones that went unfinished, then it'd be 4, across 3.5e and 5e), so I'm not sure what I'm doing a lot of the time. I'm not sure if the 'go with the flow, people are likely homebrewing and improvising a lot' mentality's the best?

Any advice for someone trying to get into DND but is still kinda inexperienced?

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[fallen surge]

In the bot post above, you'll find great tips for learning the basics. There is a link to both the full rules, as well as a Youtube series explaining things in simpler terms

[exotic remnant]

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.

[fallen surge]

when you are ready to join a campaign, the #find-a-game channel will give you instructions on how to do so

[woven plaza]

I'll do my best

[pine quarry]

hello?

[smoky adder]

Hi there!

[hexed gazelle]

Hello!

[viscid holly]

Hey everyone

[floral lake]

Hello

[viscid holly]

Any dms that play on tabletop simulator?

[fleet field]

I don’t think there’s many, as there’s a number of free, dnd specific equivalents

[floral lake]

How do I find a dm

[fleet field]

You can have a look in our #find-a-game channels

[floral lake]

I’m pretty new to dnd so I’m still learning everything

[jade nova]

Welcome!

[floral lake]

[opal lintel]

How much hit points does Pool of healing have? Or What does Lay on Hands do?

[sharp crest]

hey! im sorry to bother but im like 110% now to dnd (i have only watched a couple of game thru yt) and idk anything so i have a couple of basic questions if it isnt a big problem

[fallen surge]

That's what we're here for

[sharp crest]

1. is there like an age requierment to play?
2. any tips for for joining a game?

[fallen surge]

A paladin's Lay on Hands ability has a pool of HP they can use. Its 5 times their Paladin level. They can split up that HP however they see fit. They can use it all in one heal, or do 1 HP at a time, or anything in between

[opal lintel]

So the pool has their level times 5?

Some stuff is unclear to me that’s why

[fallen surge]

1. There is no age requirement inherent to the game, but the people you are playing with might have one. Some people don't feel comfortable playing with minors, or something like that. Its just each individual person's own preference.
2. To join a campaign, you just need to find 4-5 people that agree to play the game together, and then find a time to do it. This server has several channels to help you do that, such as #750812887697588356 or #looking-for-players . In those channels, people make posts about what they are interested in, and when they are available, and you can use the threads under each post to contact them and put something together. If you want to make your own post in one of these channels, you can use the bot in #find-a-game to fill out a form, and a post will be automatically generated for you

[sharp crest]

omg thank you so much and sorry if i bother you! have a good night

[topaz garnet]

Yep. At 2nd level paladin, you have 10 total points. You can restore 1 hit point 10 times, 10 hit points once, 5 hit points twice, 2 hit points 5 times... Any arrangement of 10 points. And can spend 5 points to neutralize diseases or poisons.

[smoky adder]

Yes. A level 1 paladin has 5, level 2 has 10, 3 has 15, and so on.

[fallen surge]

Of course not. I enjoy helping people. If it was a bother, I wouldn't have answered 🤣

[sharp crest]

hehe thanks again!!

[opal lintel]

Thank you

[opal lintel]

How do you guys level up characters players?

[smoky adder]

?tag new levelup

[exotic remnant]

Gaining a Level

Typically, a character starts at 1st level and advances in level by adventuring. Gaining a level improves your attributes, can unlock new class features or new spells, and generally increases your might as an adventurer.

There are two common ways to determine when you gain a level, and your DM will let you know which is used in your campaign.

• Experience Points. In these campaigns, experience points (XP) fuel level advancement and are most often the reward for completing combat encounters. When your total XP reaches certain thresholds, you gain a level.
• Milestone. These campaigns let the story drive advancement, awarding levels when adventurers accomplish significant goals in the campaign. Many official adventures use this method.

A character can grow to a maximum of 20th level. Your DM might have you begin at a higher level, or might end the campaign at a lower one. Some games continue past 20th level with the use Epic Boons.

[smoky adder]

There’s basically two main ways of doing it, described above.

If you’re the DM, you can use whichever you like.

Milestone is the easier of the two, if you want less to manage.

[opal lintel]

Oo sounds good thank you also I’m a starting dm for just with my brothers

[opal lintel]

How does travel work in dnd like time wise do I skip it like a cutscene or how?

[cobalt frigate]

Are you asking as a DM or as a player?

[opal lintel]

Dm

[cobalt frigate]

If it's travel over long distances where it would take days/weeks you would handewave it, probably have the occasional random encounter.

[opal lintel]

Okay but if it’s short no?

[jade nova]

you can handwave any travel you don't want to make special

[cobalt frigate]

How long is "short"?

[opal lintel]

5 miles

Well right now since it’s a new session I started with my siblings

We are learning and playing

[jade nova]

If you want something to happen-fight, npc encounter, foreshadowing, then no, otherwise go for it

for 5 miles you don't need to use exhaustion/heat/whatever rules

(not that you ever "need" to use said rules)

[opal lintel]

Okay thanks

Btw people who are DMs how you do guys take notes when a session ends or during session

[cobalt frigate]

Perhaps ask in #dm-discussion

[opal lintel]

When a character wants to slide under a creature to attack them from under should that use athletics or something else?

[slow hawk]

There are rules about occupying another creatures space

As DM you have discretion to make call for any check you want

[opal lintel]

Alright

[slow hawk]

Refer to the basic rules section on movement for details

[lyric fjord]

I'm a newcommer

[viral pelican]

Welcome!

[lyric fjord]

Thanks

[burnt leaf]

Hello. I posted this in #dnd-lore but I am very experienced within rpgs/fantasy but very new to Dungeons and Dragons. Are there any novels that one would recommend that is canon rich in lore instead of reading guides/manuals? I am in love so far with what I have been learning and am going ham in Baldur's Gate 3.

[crude musk]

So you mention Baldur's Gate 3, so I assume you're looking for lore on the Forgotten Realms? That's be your best starting point, searching for "Forgotten Realms novels"

[burnt leaf]

Have any of the novels that you read in Forgotten Realms give off a Lord of the Rings vibe to it?

[viral pelican]

D&D Literature is kind of hit and miss. While prepping my Waterdeep campaign, I tried two books that were relevant to the characters and era I was interested in. One was great...the other unreadable!

The issue will be that any novel will take a point of view and a period, so there's no one source novel that gives you a great overview of everything and every time. You rather have to pick a place and a time, and then find the books that link to it.

[burnt leaf]

Sounds like a journey. Thank you Jale!

[fresh fable]

SCAG has lore in it iirc

[burnt leaf]

I am trying to get more lore on the dragon deities and dragonborn but they seem to be slim.

[viral pelican]

The first three Drizzt books are usually quite well received. I haven't read them myself, but a friend was a huge fan. Very well-executed straightforward fantasy fare.

[fleet field]

maybe ask in #dnd-lore

[viral pelican]

The Author is particularly well noted for well-written fight scenes.

[crude musk]

They said they've already posted there, but are asking for help as a newcomer

[fresh fable]

Fizbans is the latest book with dragon stuff and the new treasury of dragons too

[burnt leaf]

I have read the first Drizzt book! Very impressed with the story, character, setting, religion, and writing! Feels like a classic book that a teacher would have you read in high school or something.

[viral pelican]

Yeah it's a legit newcomer problem. How to really get into the lore without just trawling wikis.

[crude musk]

It's a tough one because the lore is unique to each setting and has multiple 'on roads'

[burnt leaf]

Thank you all. I will start with the Forgotten Realms and the Sword Coast.

[fierce summit]

How do o play this

I have 1 person and 1 dungeon master

My mum is the person and I’m the DM

I have the lost mine of phandelver beginner’s kit

And zero knowledge of dnd other than some shorts of tales from the stinky dragon

We’ve had this game for a while and we haven’t played it yet

It would be a pleasure if y’all help us

[viral pelican]

In order to play Lost Mine of Phandelver with a solo player, you would need to rewrite the challenges so that a single player can address them...there's detailed advice in this site here: https://dndduet.com/

Alternatively, you can have your player also have some companions /sidekicks to help them. She can be the leader, but the companions would support her in combat.

Consider perhaps having 2 warriors and a healer: have your mother tell them who to attack, but then you as DM can do the dice rolls. If mroe people want to join the game, they can replace one of these characters.

[fierce summit]

Which one is my mum?

The warriors or healer?

[fleet field]

neither

the warriors and healer are sidekicks, npcs to help out

your mum is whatever class she chooses to be

[fierce summit]

Is a wizard good?

[fleet field]

very, but also the hardest to learn and play for a new player

[fierce summit]

a wizard high elf acolyte chaotic good

Damn

I have 2 fighters, a rouge, and a cleric

Which one should my mum be?

[fleet field]

fighter is the easiest to learn

rogue is the next easiest

cleric is hard like wizard

[fierce summit]

Lawful good or lawful neutral

Hiya!

Aight

My brain is getting confused about all this

If I can’t figure out dumb player thingies how Will my mum understand

[fleet field]

up to you, alignment doesnt change much mechanically

have you read the basic rules yet?

[fierce summit]

I told my mum tagt she should be a fighter class and she was like “I don’t wanna be a fighter, I’m a lover, not a fighter”

Unfortunately I don’t think lover is a dnd class

[fleet field]

cleric is the closest, but without a party to support itll be doing more fighting than healing

you should probably do that, theyre linked in the pinned messages

[fierce summit]

And clerics hard, isn’t it?

[fleet field]

yeah harder

[fierce summit]

I also have the starter set rulevook is that good?

[fleet field]

yeah thats the same as the basic rules

[fierce summit]

Oh

It looks a bit hard

Does my mum have to read all of that?

[fleet field]

not all of it, but most of the stuff about how character building and combat work

[fierce summit]

Can’t my mum use a pre made character?

I have the character sheets

[fleet field]

yeah thats doable as well

its just the character building rules will help understand the character sheet better

[fierce summit]

Maybe I’ll do this tomorrow

This all seems too hard

[viral pelican]

You might want to look for either a dnd campaign specifically made for one on one play, or a ttrpg built for the same. It's already quite a lot of work to start out dming - it's a lot harder if you are also having to rework a lot. I didn't attempt that until I was halfway through my first campaign (also LMoP!)

[lyric fjord]

I made a Bard and I am wanting to join as a new player in a new campaign.

[crude musk]

?looking

[exotic remnant]

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.

[flat sun]

So I have a question

If there's a cantrip that is a bonus action can I use a spell that says 1 action and this cantrip too?

I got so confused with it T-T

[crude musk]

Bonus Action

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.

[crude musk]

Oh, you've picked one of the rules that causes the most confusion

So, when casting a spell with a casting time of 1 bonus action, you can only cast another spell that turn if it's a cantrip with a casting time of 1 action

[flat sun]

Ohhh ok

What about

Can I cast Bardic Inspiration and that bonus action cantrip?

[crude musk]

Bardic inspiration isn't a spell, so you don't cast it

[flat sun]

So can I do bardic inspiration and a bonus action

[crude musk]

No, because bardic inspiration is a bonus action

And you only get one bonus action per your turn

[flat sun]

so I can't do 2 bonus actions

[crude musk]

Nope

[flat sun]

Like doesn't 2 bonus actions make 1 action

T-T

Ig no

[crude musk]

No, there's no such conversion

You get, by default, 1 action and 1 bonus action on your turn, and 1 reaction per round

While some features can give you additional actions and even additional reactions, nothing gives you an extra bonus action

[flat sun]

Ohhh ok I get it

So I can do 1 action

And bardic inspiration

[crude musk]

Yep

[flat sun]

Ok I got it

Is sneak attack also a bonus action?

[crude musk]

You're best off reading the Actions in Combat section of the rules

[crude musk]

No, it doesn't use an action

You can just choose to do it whenever you meet the criteria

[flat sun]

It's not an actionnn?

So you can do like sneak attack and 1 action and a bonus action?

[crude musk]

Yes, some things in the game don't cost an action

You use sneak attack as part of another action or bonus action

You don't use it on its own

[lime jasper]

Isn't it technically an action, but it takes place before initiative, so it's like a free action. It's basically not an action, but technically Isn't itm

[crude musk]

No, none of that is accurate

[lime jasper]

Ok, sorry, I was asking

[crude musk]

1. Sneak attack does not use an action
2. It does not take place before inititative
3. There's no such thing as a free action

[flat sun]

Is this server the official dnd server?

[echo kelp]

Yes it is.

[crude musk]

Sneak attack can be applied to any attack, including attacks made as actions, bonus actions, or even reactions

[flat sun]

Wowww so are the mods here famous?

[lime jasper]

No, basically meant, it's an action but before initiative, that wasn't meant to be a real term, sorry

[crude musk]

No, sneak attack is not an action and it doesn't happen before initiative

[echo kelp]

Not really but I'm sure there are some folk who consider us infamous. Anyhow, let's get back on topic.

[lime jasper]

Ok, thank you

[late notch]

Dropping an item doesn’t use an action as long as it’s not a shield or weapon right?

[crude musk]

Sneak attack is performed when you hit with an attack (plus some additional criteria)

[crude musk]

Getting into #dnd-rules but dropping something you are holding doesn't require an action. You cannot drop shields as they take an action to doff. You can drop a weapon

[late notch]

K thanks

[flat sun]

Wait when can rogues use sneak attack?

[viral pelican]

I think this comes from the misconception that a Sneak Attack is an attack where you sneak up and get the first hit in. That's not exclusively how it works in D&D. Sneak Attack, in concept, is more like getting a really good hit in when your opponent is looking elsewhere, but it's more often during the flow of ongoing combat. It only ever happens within Initiative.

[flat sun]

Google says once per turn

[crude musk]

You're best off reading the feature itself

Sneak Attack

[vestal furnace]

I’m new to dnd and have never played before/made a character. Can someone help me out?

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

• Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo.

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?

• Create a character digitally on D&D Beyond or print a character sheet to fill out by hand.
• Check out #find-a-game to find a group to join.

[viral pelican]

check the links 😄 @vestal furnace

you might want to try the videos before you delve into the Basic Rules

[vestal furnace]

Ty @viral pelican

[lime jasper]

Oh, so when an enemy is up on someone else, and you get behind them, within the normal bounds of combat?

[viral pelican]

It boils down to two situations for most rogues:

1. If you have advantage for any reason - for example, you have Hidden.
2. If there is another conscious opponent of the target standing right next to them, and you don't have disadvantage

[crude musk]

Sneak attack doesn't factor positioning

[viral pelican]

Situation 2 covers that scenario - D&D doesn't keep track of which way you are facing, so you can never be 'behind' them.

[flat sun]

What is this website called?

[lime jasper]

So hidden or getting behind them

[flat sun]

Ive read it but I wanna know how to get back to it when I need it again

[viral pelican]

No, because you can't actually get behind someone.

[crude musk]

Have you read the description of how Sneak Attack works?

[flat sun]

Yes

[crude musk]

Sorry, I was asking Nunya

[flat sun]

Oh

[viral pelican]

Some subclasses get another way to trigger sneak attack - Swashbucklers get it in a one-on-one dueling scenario.

[crude musk]

Sorry, are you asking what the name of the website I linked you to is? The website you're looking at right now?

[flat sun]

Yes

With the classes descriptions and everything

[lime jasper]

Ok, behind them maybe the wrong description, they're looking at someone else

[crude musk]

It's D&D Beyond, but I'm perplexed as to why you need to ask.

[crude musk]

Again, read the description of sneak attack

[flat sun]

Because I searched dnd beyond

And it says I needed to sign up

[crude musk]

Sneak Attack

Beginning at 1st level, you know how to strike subtly and exploit a foe’s distraction. Once per turn, you can deal an extra 1d6 damage to one creature you hit with an attack if you have advantage on the attack roll. The attack must use a finesse or a ranged weapon.

You don’t need advantage on the attack roll if another enemy of the target is within 5 feet of it, that enemy isn’t incapacitated, and you don’t have disadvantage on the attack roll.

The amount of the extra damage increases as you gain levels in this class, as shown in the Sneak Attack column of the Rogue table.

[viral pelican]

There's a difference between what the rules do, and what you say you do, which is called 'flavour'.

Rules-wise, the scenario might be that the Orc is fighting the barbarian, so they are within 5 feet of one another. The rogue walks up, and attacks the orc. Because the orc is within 5 feet of the barbarian, the rogue uses a finesse weapon, and there's no reason for disadvantage, the rogue will get a sneak attack bonus.

Flavour-wise you could say "while Grag the Barbarian locks blades with the snarling orc, Vic the rogue dashes in and stabs the orc in the back". But the idea of them being "behind" or hitting them "in the back" is purely imagination - not rules.

[vestal furnace]

I don’t have any dnd dice is it still possible to make a sheet or not really?

[viral pelican]

Sure, you can roll dice using a computer quite easily.

[vestal furnace]

Ohhh cool

[viral pelican]

For example: https://rolladie.net/

[late notch]

If you use standard array you don’t even need dice to make a character

[crude musk]

You still need dice to play

[vestal furnace]

What’s standard array?

[flat sun]

I am going to do session 0 with my friends (that are also newbies) I am like the professional newbie so theyll listen to everything I say T-T

[viral pelican]

Yes, for your first character, standard array (pre-set numbers, you put them where you like) or point buy (paying for increases from a pot) are better ways to go.

[late notch]

Numbers given to you by the game (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8) for you to assign one to each stat

[viral pelican]

Good idea. A session 0 is very useful. Wizards have said that they will be putting more advice about session 0s in the new Dungeon Master Guide.

[vestal furnace]

So no dice no play? @crude musk

I have online dice tho hehe

[viral pelican]

You'll need some means of generating random numbers. You can use a computer though, you don't need to buy physical dice.

Though math rocks are fun.

[lime jasper]

That's a fantastic description of what I meant, thank you, I was trying to make a reasoning for it, sorry if that wasn't clear

[late notch]

You can find them pretty cheap at GameStop. I found a couple sets for 6 dollars Canadian when I bought some the other day

[vestal furnace]

I’d love to be able to play dnd physically irl but I have no friends so this is where I have found myself 😂

[lime jasper]

I'd join you, but I think it would be tough to find magical creatures to fight

[vestal furnace]

@lime jasper how so?

[echo kelp]

Well fortunately D&D can be played in a variety of ways - including by play by post (PBP) on online forums or over email.
Or even playing over Discord or on a Virtual Tabletop (VTT) like Roll20.

[flat sun]

Is dming for 6 people a lot?

• I only got into dnd a month ago help

[lime jasper]

Umm, I feel like this is a trap..

[vestal furnace]

@lime jasper no just genuinely curious dude haha

[echo kelp]

It's fine. I DM for 12 players. Most D&D adventures are built for 4-6 players.

[late notch]

Yes, but not unmanageable. Most parties are 4-5 ppl plus dm as recommended by the Dungeon masters guide, I believe

[vestal furnace]

12 players must be hectic

[late notch]

Think about how long rounds are

[echo kelp]

12 players is like creative chaos - and definitely not for most games.

[vestal furnace]

Oooooh yeah

Someone lemme join their group

[flat sun]

Is playing dnd on discord and not irl good?

[vestal furnace]

(Mind you I’m making a character sheet now and have never played before)

[echo kelp]

Check out #looking-for-players - that's DMs needing players for their games

[flat sun]

I am playing irl but I thought joining a discord one if there is

[echo kelp]

They are just different ways to play, both have their pros and cons.

Sorry replied to wrong message.

[viral pelican]

I DM for a group of 6. D&D works best aruond 4-5 people and 6 is fine, but starting to stretch it. You'll want to consider a few tricks to keep things moving, particularly in combat, but it's still very fun at that level. Also, if one person decides to leave, you will still have a good party.

[echo kelp]

See #looking-for-players, #looking-for-community for various D&D games/communities you can join.

Also read #find-a-game to learn how to use our Looking For Game channels.

(and read it carefully - often we have to remove folks posts because they didn't follow the instructions)

[flat sun]

I don't get it all the dms in looking for players are closeddd

[echo kelp]

Click the thread to message the poster about availability

The channel is closed to direct posting (again read #find-a-game carefully to learn how to use those channels)

[vestal furnace]

Yeah they’re pretty much all closed I messaged a couple but nothing yet

Looks like we just have to wait until there’s a spot

[echo kelp]

You can also post that you're looking in the #750812887697588356 (again read #find-a-game to learn how to do that)

[viral pelican]

Online play usually involves a Virtual Table Top (VTT). The most popular is roll20 which has a free tier with better features upon subscription, foundry which is a one-time purchase for one person, and owlbear rodeo which is priced like roll20. D&D are in the process of launching their own competitor throgh Dnd beyond.

You can play without these things using "Theatre of the Mind", but that's also something people do in person. That's a very different style of play to what is kinda considered "regular" 5e play, where you will keep track of who is standing where with a battlemap and tokens or minis.

There's not really a single way to play D&D and every table will do something a little different. The decision to play as Theatre of the Mind vs Battlemaps is a choice that is seperate from in person vs virtual.

[echo kelp]

Fo other ways to find a game, also check out Roll20 (website and Virtual Tabletop), Demiplane website, Facebook, your local libraries and schools (some have D&D clubs), hobby shops, and bookstores.

[late notch]

I feel like theatre of the mind is worse with newer players

[viral pelican]

I agree, and I feel that 5e was built much more around the assumptions of battlemaps.

[crude musk]

It depends on the new players, I've run introductory games for all 100% newcomers using only Theatre of the Mind and it's gone fine

Picturing a scene in your head and where everyone is isn't a D&D unique skill

[late notch]

I agree, however in combat I feel like it goes a lot smoother with battle maps

[lime jasper]

I think I asked a very similar question about 2 weeks ago, but it never panned out, as a totally new player, how do you act as a leader for (also) new people, how do you take the lead?

[viral pelican]

It's ultimately just a matter of interpersonal dynamics. The system won't ordain you the leader: if your plans are more compelling, and you convince your companions to follow them, then they may follow you.

It's a little like asking "how do I become the most popular at my table". Well, by doing the things that would usually make you the most popular among a group of people.

[crude musk]

Having done it both ways for newcomer groups, I find both have their strengths and neither wins out in all circumstances. For example, for newcomers unfamiliar with wargames and the like, the more abstracted nature of miniatures and maps can confuse or even hinder engaging with the game, whereas Theatre of the Mind leaves things fully open
However, Theatre of the Mind does impose more overhead which might be overwhelming
It's about finding what works for your group based on where they're approaching D&D from

[viral pelican]

A loose tip for that - leaders don't need to always come up with the idea, but will probably be the one who gets people behind the idea. If you put yourself in the mindset of moving things along, if you are the person who is trying to draw the planning discussion to a close and build consensus behind the best plan, you'll probably be perceived as a leader.