dnd-newcomers

[cosmic dust]

wow thanks guys!

[true musk]

@glacial pawn I'd recommend checking out the handbooker helper series and checking out the free basic 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.

[glacial pawn]

got it!

[true musk]

check out the intro demo too. It's kinda neat.

[glacial pawn]

the intro demo?

like some sort of video?

[true musk]

More like a mini choose your own adventure book.

It's very short.

[glacial pawn]

im trying to find it

is it in the handbooker helper series, or the basic rules?

[true musk]

its in the bot response above.

[glacial pawn]

ooooh

thank :D

[true musk]

the one that says "Learn the basics and enjoy a short adventure with our quick introductory demo."

[glacial pawn]

opened it :p imma have to take my time with the other basic rules thing too

[trail prawn]

so I went Ancestral Guardian barbarian building dex what should I do after lvl 5 building my character for tank we started at lvl 5

[fleet field]

dex barbarians arent really doable

all the barbarian features require attacking with strength

[trail prawn]

welp the place I saw a start for it said I could go dex

[fleet field]

you can, but it wont work very well

[trail prawn]

if you want to be the ultimate tank with a sword and shield, try something that looks like this. You'll want to push Dexterity and Constitution as your primary attributes to give yourself maximum armor class thanks to Unarmored Defense.

that's what it told me

it's too late for me to turn back now we just had our first session

[fleet field]

it will get you better ac, but you wont be able to attack very effectively at all

what is your str at?

[trail prawn]

I'm not here for attacking I'm here to tank and tank well I want to do

[fleet field]

you cant tank well in dnd 5e

at least not enough for it to be your sole contribution to a fight

[trail prawn]

14

my dex amd con are at 17. anything I can do here to make my self better ??? or am I just out of luck and gonna be terrable

[fleet field]

14 str is salvageable

the mod is only 1 lower than normal for that level

[true musk]

what place recommended a dex based barbarian?

[fleet field]

just focus on str for now

once it's at 18 go +1 in dex and +1 in con

then to 20 str, then to 20 con, then to 20 dex

[trail prawn]

the gamer

[fleet field]

yeah dont trust random gaming blog sites

[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.

[trail prawn]

haven't had problems with there video game news that I see here and there

[true musk]

I'd recommend the hanbooker helper series for new players.

[fleet field]

reporting news is very different to providing good information regarding character building

[trail prawn]

ah

[true musk]

Or the guides and recommendations from the basic rules and dnd beyond character creator.

[trail prawn]

also my main wepon is a rapier was going to go that and shield

[true musk]

if you want a shield and sword combo, better choice is to go figther.

[fleet field]

i mean its fine on a barbarian

just like, dont use dex

so you can actually get the rage damage bonuses and use reckless attack

[true musk]

True, barbarians can use unarmored defense with shields.

[fleet field]

yea

[trail prawn]

rn my ac is 16

[fleet field]

and they dont get any features that specifically boost two handed weapons

[trail prawn]

I'm also a hobgoblin

[fleet field]

without a shield right?

you should have 18 ac with a shield

[trail prawn]

yeah I don't have one yet

[fleet field]

k

[trail prawn]

I know our barb monk can't be hit without it being a crit

[fleet field]

wdym?

[trail prawn]

his ac is just that high

[fleet field]

oh

yeah okay. i read that wrong

thought you meant "whenever he gets hit, he gets critically hit"

[true musk]

High AC is good but not game breaking.

[trail prawn]

idk how he built bit it's that way and all I know is he only going lvl 3 barb for a subclass

[true musk]

NPCS can roll higher than an 20 AC.

[fleet field]

rolled stats?

[trail prawn]

idk hownthey did it I used point buy to do my stats

[true musk]

Plus AC doesn't protect you from spells or attacks that require a saving throw.

[fleet field]

does he have 20 AC?

[true musk]

If they're doing point buy, there is only so much you can get for a high AC.

[fleet field]

yeah

i would think 16 max for that build at level 1

may be missing some things but thats just off the top of my head

[true musk]

If you're doing point buy and pritoritize dex and wisdom with racial bonus, the highest for a level 5 monk is 17 AC without magic items.

[fleet field]

yeah

[true musk]

Level 1 you can end up with 17 Dex and 16 Wisdom.

[trail prawn]

idk if they did that but that is what I did

we are lvl 5 rn

[fleet field]

dual wielder feat could boost that to 18 if they used a feat race

[true musk]

By level 5 you can end up with 18 dex and 16 widom, and you'll just end up with 17 AC.

[trail prawn]

he was using unarmed attack

[true musk]

Though a high AC isn't everything or too difficult to obtained.

A cleric with heavy armor and shield can start with 18 AC.

At level 1.

[trail prawn]

so basicly I'm raging to get the ancestors to help mitigate some damage and just swinging my sword basicly what it looks like I'm gonna end up doing

[true musk]

Yep, rage gives you resistance to bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage.

So if you were hit and would take 10 slashing damage, you instead get dealt 5 slashing instead.

Though be cautious of attacks that deal two types of damage.
For example if an attack hits and deals 6 slashing damage and 4 fire damage, you would take 3 slashing damage and the full 4 fire damange.

[trail prawn]

ok

[true musk]

Though it is fun when you combine rage with other abilities that also give you resistance to other damage types.

For example tieflings are resistant to fire damage.

[topaz garnet]

Also keep in mind resistance doesn't stack
You either resist damage or you don't resist damage

[trail prawn]

so my subclass shows I can make 2 attacks a turn do I half to be raged for that 🤔

[topaz garnet]

Berserker? going into Frenzy when entering Rage so yes.

Unless you mean the basekit class at 5th level giving Extra Attack, which is whenever

[trail prawn]

I'm Ancestral Guardian at lvl 5

[topaz garnet]

you have Extra Attack for being a 5th level barbarian, regardless of subclass

[trail prawn]

ok thanks

[fleet field]

it does not say you need to be in rage

[topaz garnet]

Extra Attack is just for being a barbarian, not associated with subclass or rage

Remember, things only do what they say they do.

[trail prawn]

ok

just wanted to make sureni read that right

[neon fulcrum]

Hey, I'm new to dnd, always wanted to play but never found people to teach me, any advice?

[fresh fable]

Have you looked at the basic rules?

[neon fulcrum]

Somewhat, I'm currently reading them now

Wait did you mean rules of the server or like official game rules?

[fresh fable]

Game rules

[neon fulcrum]

I have not, where can I find them? I'm completely new to this

[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.

[fresh fable]

☝️

[neon fulcrum]

Woah, sweet

I think I got the basics down

I understand the premise,

Dnd is so cool

[neon fulcrum]

Hey, how would I find people to play with? I'm looking at the finding a game but I'm a bit confused

[fresh fable]

Have a look through the #looking-for-players ads any you like the look of comment in the thread under them

[terse orchid]

Helloooo

[trail prawn]

is there anypoint in me multi classing as a Ancestral Guardian bard ?

[fresh fable]

Bard or Barb?

[lyric fjord]

are there Russian speakers?

[fresh fable]

And no multiclassing isn’t recommended for new people as it can get a bit complicated

[torn yoke]

Not really meant to on the server #rules message

[trail prawn]

most my experience is like baulders gate and divinity games and a few irl games I played one start of a game and never got to play again

I prob made 4 diffrent characters to play one session and never got back to

[neon fulcrum]

I'm completely lost in the looking for players thing, I'm not the smartest when it comes to that kinda stuff with the threads

Nvm, figured it out after staring at it with a pretzel for 5 minutes

[dry stratus]

Halo newbies

How we doing

[trail prawn]

wanting to get gud

[dry stratus]

@neon fulcrum you need help?

[neon fulcrum]

Sorta, I want to learn to play, but in hands on learner, I know it can be annoying having to explain something as the campaign goes along, but I wanna find my first table and play, having troubles though

[dry stratus]

I get that

Um I have like a server that has several different campaign going all at once and new ones starting ever so often everyone is allowed to be a dm and a player as long as you are 18 you can join 99% of any campaigns

[fresh fable]

Do you want online or IRL

[wind surge]

Hello everyone! I’m new to DnD

[neon fulcrum]

I prefer online since I can't really walk

[wind surge]

I wanted to play this game for many years but i didn’t know where to start so, i jumped in to this server! Can anyone help me what to do?

[river crater]

@wind surge if you read through this it should help you get started with the basics

[river crater]

#find-a-game or #looking-for-players would probably be your best shot at finding a campaign you can join digitally.

[keen narwhal]

Hey, so I just joined this server and heard alot about DnD while on Vacation. I think it's something I would love to try but don't really have a good footing on where to start. Any suggestions for the basics?

[dry stratus]

just find a campaign

or server and play and see if you like it

[fresh fable]

Have you looked at the dnd basic rules?

[keen narwhal]

Uh, I don't think so. I think I basic idea on the mechanics from afar but not the full gist. Is there any tutorials or guides that are easier to digest?

[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.

[fresh fable]

☝️ ta dah

[keen narwhal]

Ooooh, Thanks

[open bridge]

hi

[late belfry]

Hey

[open bridge]

how do we join a game?

[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.

[late belfry]

I just got here

[echo kelp]

Please read #find-a-game carefully - it has useful info on how to find a D&D game and important instructions on how to use our Looking For Game channels.

And welcome!

[lyric fjord]

Hi, I'm new to the server, where do I create my character?

[fresh fable]

On dndbeyond or on paper or google sheets

Have you read the dnd basic rules?

[lyric fjord]

OK thank you.

[lyric fjord]

No not yet.

[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.

[fresh fable]

👆there you go

[rancid pike]

When using tiled dungeon maps, do you present the whole stuff at once, or you usually cover it so piece by piece Is discovered by the players?

[robust thunder]

Generally, you reveal bit by bit. But there's no hard and fast rule. You just don't want your players using the knowledge they see of rooms they haven't visited.

[crude musk]

This isn't a newcomer question, instead something to ask in #dm-discussion

[rancid pike]

Ah true, thanks for the heads up

[mossy fjord]

Well met all 😀 I'm really noob, but curious if anyone has the patience. I'm familiar with stat checks and play tbg's all the time.

[fresh fable]

Tbgs?

[smoky adder]

Tabletop board games, I’m guessing.

But welcome!

[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.

[true brook]

Where can I find virtual campaigns? I am new to dnd and would like to play but I'm busy so virtual would be best

[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.

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online

[rain pumice]

There are a number of great options. Most D&D related discord servers have a Looking-for-Game (LFG). All the Virtual Table Top (VTT) sites have LFG sections. Foundry, Fantasy Grounds, Roll20, etc. Startplaying.games has listed games constantly going on all the time. D&D Beyond has an LFG section in their forums.

[tranquil quest]

hey im like brand new to dnd and i was wondering if there are any people who are willing to rope me along in a campaign to show me the ropes, im planning to play with some friends but none of us know how to play so i was hoping i could get some background info and guide them using the info i gather. i know very little but im not absent minded in the subject.

[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 "Handbooker Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube.

Both are linked above.
After you read the rules and/or watch the tutorial videos, feel free to ask questions here.

[harsh fjord]

I collected a ton of options in this guide: #third-party message

[blissful grotto]

Hello! I'm Jax, I'm new to dnd in general but my friends wanna do a one shot and I really want to dm, I have, t w e l v e people who begged to join so I have my hands full and then some. I'm on my hands and knees atp I could really use some help about how to do this and how to make it interesting for everyone.

[timid locust]

My first suggestion would be to not run a game with twelve people.

Jokes aside, though, if you're ok with big groups, maybe run two separate campaigns of 6? Or three campaigns of 4? Realistically the game isn't made to support 12 players in any capacity. I can't imagine what combat would feel like as a player when your next turn comes around a full 45 minutes later.

[slate smelt]

Hi everyone I'm new to dnd like everything. Apart from watching some series and stuff

[true musk]

I recommend ruining a pre-written one shot

[slate smelt]

Nice to meet you all

[blissful grotto]

all of them want to play together and it's a one shot this time because you're right and I've bitten off more than I can chew but since we're already here, I would love any suggestions on how to make it less painstaking and more fun, but also how to dm in general because I know next to nothing and I really need help that isnt' :read the book"

[true musk]

Pretty certain dnd beyond has a free one shot you can use.

[timid locust]

I appreciate your moxie in this endeavor. Hop on into this channel to talk more, since it's a bit off topic for here.
#dm-discussion

[tidal creek]

Guys I'm new can someone explain the rules of d&d to me please

[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]

the bot post above has some excellent resources that will get you started

[tidal creek]

Thanks

I've seen this game all over my recommended on YouTube so I decided to try it

[smoky adder]

Welcome, then!

[timid locust]

It's very fun! It takes commitment to learn the rules and find a group to play with, but once you've got it rolling it could be your new favorite hobby!

[tidal creek]

Is there any vc's in this group

[timid locust]

This server doesn't have voice channels, no

[lyric fjord]

hey i really just want to play dnd online wondering if anyone is looking for somone join up??

[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.

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online

[timid locust]

Check out the links above if you're looking for a game!

[fresh canopy]

question, what is sp and gp?

[fallen surge]

silver pieces and gold pieces

(money)

[fresh canopy]

so how do you choose your lifestyle when you start with none?

[fallen surge]

lifestyle is largely just a role play choice. It has little to no mechanical effect

so pick whichever one you think fits your character concept, on just a conceptual level

[cobalt frigate]

Coinage used in D&D.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/equipment#Coinage

[lofty furnace]

do you make an attack roll for any spell if its not specified?

[fallen surge]

Spells will tell you whether they involve an attack roll or a saving throw. If neither is mentioned, then you can assume the effect automatically happens, like with Magic Missile

[smoky adder]

Is there a specific spell you were curious about?

[lofty furnace]

i was asking for area spells since they dont really have a chance to miss but i got it now

[fallen surge]

Yep. If a spell covers a large area of effect, then that will typically be represented by making the enemies inside the area make a saving throw, instead of you making an attack roll

[smoky adder]

If a spell says something like:

Make a ranged spell attack against the target.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells/fire-bolt

Then it involves an attack roll using your spell attack modifier.

[fresh canopy]

when starting, do i need to have a backstory made already?

[smoky adder]

If it says something like:

Each creature in a 20-foot-radius sphere centered on that point must make a Dexterity saving throw.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/spells/fireball

Then it's the target that rolls, and their total gets compared to your spell save DC.

[fallen surge]

Its actually typically best practice to create your backstory after joining a campaign, so that you can tailor it to fit the world of the game you are playing in

You wouldn't want to make a backstory about growing up in Baldur's Gate or Waterdeep only to join a game in Eberron or your DM's own homemade world

[smoky adder]

AKA: worlds where those cities don't exist

[lofty furnace]

what is a treasure hoard and when do you find one

like at what point do you say, there should be a treasure hoard here

[fallen surge]

A dm can award a treasure hoard at the end of a challenge as a way to reward the players. It could be in a monster's lair, or in a dungeon, or whatever else makes sense for the story. A very common example is a dragon's hoard

[lofty furnace]

how to determine the CR for the treasure

[fallen surge]

CR is a term used to describe how strong a monster is

[smoky adder]

You'd find any given monster's CR in its stat block.

A zombie, for example:

[lofty furnace]

i was looking at a treasure generator and it had an option for the CR (1-20) i dont know what to sellect

[fallen surge]

So the CR of a treasure hoard is the CR of the monster the party killed to get that hoard

[lofty furnace]

thanks

[smoky adder]

When determining the contents of a hoard belonging to one monster, use the table that corresponds to that monster’s challenge rating. When rolling to determine a treasure hoard belonging to a large group of monsters, use the challenge rating of the monster that leads the group. If the hoard belongs to no one, use the challenge rating of the monster that presides over the dungeon or lair you are stocking. If the hoard is a gift from a benefactor, use the challenge rating equal to the party’s average level.

[lofty furnace]

if the treasure if protected by 2 equal monsters, do i add their CR or just use one of theirs

[fresh canopy]

is the immovable rod good or no?

[fallen surge]

There's no exact ruling for this. The rules presented here are more so just advice, rather than hard and fast rules anyways. I think the best answer would be to use this method:

"If the hoard is a gift from a benefactor, use the challenge rating equal to the party’s average level."

But if you want other opinions, it might be a good idea to ask questions like this in #dm-discussion since we are moving away from the basics and more towards specific advice

[fresh canopy]

what races are good for rogues?

[lyric fjord]

Hello! I'm a new D&D player trying to find some people to play with. A little about myself, I am a deaf player and I have no experience playing D&D. Hopefully we can play sometime!

[fallen surge]

Immovable rod is an interesting magic item. It can be good, but generally requires a level of creativity to use it well.

[fallen surge]

Any race can work with any class

[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]

Welcome! the bot post above has some great resources to get you started!

[timid locust]

Anything you'd like! Races in DnD 5th edition don't really affect your actual gameplay all that much like they did in previous editions. Just pick what's cool to you!

[lyric fjord]

I have read some of the basic rules and have a few characters made up. Just hoping I can find some people to play with.

[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.

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online

[true musk]

In person or online?

[lyric fjord]

Online.

[echo cobalt]

i new

pls help me

also what is druid it sounds cool

[true musk]

On top of the bot posts above and below, I'd highlight the Looking for Players & Groups forum on dndbeyond.

As a new player I'd recommend starting with one shots, self contained adventures that are played in one sitting.

This can allow you to experiment with different character builds and playstyles. As well as learn what aspects of dnd (roleplay, combat, exploration) you gravitate to the most to.

Along with learning what types of players and DMs you're most compatible with.

[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.

[echo cobalt]

oo thanks moderator man

[fallen surge]

the bot post above will have lots of helpful resources for getting started

[true musk]

Definetely give the intro demo a try.

[echo cobalt]

tank 😄

[fallen surge]

a druid is a nature themed spellcasting class that has the ability to transform into animals

[echo cobalt]

can i summon vines

[fallen surge]

yes, there is a spell that does that

[echo cobalt]

yay

i wanna be druid

[fallen surge]

Here is a direct link to the rules for that class: https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes/druid

[echo cobalt]

thanks knowledge guy

[fallen surge]

my pleasure lol

[lyric fjord]

What do you guys think of a hafl-elf rogue?

[timid locust]

Sounds great!

[sweet solar]

How do i start?

[smoky adder]

There’s some handy links here to get you going:

[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]

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

[lyric fjord]

I'm having trouble trying to find a game that will help out a new person.

[cobalt frigate]

Keep looking and also expand your horizons. Check out other D&D-related Discord servers' LFG channels. A lot of D&D Youtubers have their own Discord servers.

[timid locust]

Finding the right game can take time. Unfortunately it's not like matchmaking in an online game. Sometimes getting into a campaign can take days or weeks, depending on what you're looking for! Stay strong and have patience.

[hexed tulip]

Hello eveyone

I am new here and I am completely new to D&D

[fallen surge]

welcome!

[hexed tulip]

Thank you

[fallen surge]

if you scroll up a few messages, you'll see a message from our server bot, which has lots of helpful links and resources for getting started

[hexed tulip]

Thank you, ill do it right now

[rocky magnet]

Hello everyone! Just joined today. Looking forward to chatting with people

[lyric fjord]

Hello Fiona! Welcome!

[solemn mural]

Hi all I just rejoined the server

[smoky adder]

Welcome, folks!

[dense oar]

welcome

to my lair????

[hexed tulip]

I have built one character on D&D beyond, read and re-read all of the handbook, and planning on doing it again. Though I still feel like i do not know anything

Completely new here

Does anyone else have any advice on what to do? To help me get ... well ... get better

[iron cloud]

Heya, just joined the server. I've wanted to play dnd for a while but i never found the time, any advice for a complete noob ?

[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 "Handbooker Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube.

Both are linked above.
After you read the rules and/or watch the tutorial videos, feel free to ask questions here.

[iron cloud]

Thanks i will 🙂

[hexed tulip]

Thank you again

[fresh canopy]

so is dnd similar to the warhammer 40k tabletop?

i assume not

[cobalt frigate]

No

[crude musk]

Nope

[sonic cargo]

No

[crude musk]

D&D is a roleplaying game rather than a wargame

[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.

[fair nebula]

heyo!!

[inland jasper]

Hej 👋 i just joined the server. My step bro gott me intrested in d&n. So i tried to make my first charecter and just wonderd if sombody could perhaps help me learn

Some time

[hexed tulip]

My favorite Youtuber got me interested in D&D

[inland jasper]

Huh what is his name

[hexed tulip]

Daniel Green

he is book reviewer in general. I recently watched a video where he mentioned that he is leaving to play D&D at the end of the video

[inland jasper]

but i have to go to sleep

23:00

[hexed tulip]

It got me interested, i started reading and re-reading and watching videos on youtube and now im here

Good night

[violet wing]

Is it worth it to get a dnd book set? It had DM GUIDE, a monster manual and a players handbook. For $170. That worth or is all this available online?

[cobalt frigate]

I wouldn't bother with the Dungeon Master's Guide (DMG) and Monster Manual (MM) if you have no plans to be d Dungeon Master (DM)

[violet wing]

Okay gotchu thanks. I’m brand new ain’t about that yet lol.

Is any of this available to read online,v like on the DnD beyond site?

[frigid helm]

I wouldnt bother with 5e, TBH the new books will be out later this year, unless you really want to get into 5e for a few months.

[ornate kiln]

all the offical books are on dnd beyond, but you have to pay for the digital access.

[frigid helm]

You can make do with the free rules for the time being.

[ornate kiln]

the basic rules do have all the stuff you need to play, though your character options are rather limited

[violet wing]

Digital access seems logical these days.

[frigid helm]

it does, but that comes at a cost via DDB, and the books are going to be updated/new edition coming out later this year.

[true brook]

Just joined the server. Completely new to D&D but I am somewhat familiar with the lore and of RPG elements. Interested in joining in somewhere

[oblique jetty]

Hello i'm new here i've played dnd before but it was a long time ago

[elfin nymph]

Have you made 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.

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.

[oblique jetty]

I'm making one right now🥰

[elfin nymph]

What are you making?

[oblique jetty]

A dnd sheet🙂

[echo kelp]

I think folks were interested in what race and class you're using

[elfin nymph]

Lol wait

I think somewhere on here there's a pdf to free sheets

[oblique jetty]

Ah okay im a tiefling sorcerer

[elfin nymph]

What made you choose that?

[fresh fable]

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

[echo kelp]

There's the PDF sheets available here: https://dnd.wizards.com/resources/character-sheets
Or you can use DnDBeyond for a digital character sheet (and that has a PDF export as well): https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/builder

[oblique jetty]

Do tieflings have last name?

[ornate kiln]

depends on the individual's parents

[echo kelp]

There's no mechanical rules saying they don't.

It's more of something to figure out with your Dungeon Master and group if "no last names" is a part of the lore of whetever D&D setting your DM is using or making up.

[oblique jetty]

Okay...

Where can i find a dm, i dont have a dnd campain

[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.

[oblique jetty]

Thank you

[echo kelp]

DMs may be posting available games in #looking-for-players - just respond in a thread to a post (or direct message the poster) if you see one that works well for you.

[calm hound]

I have read all the rules but I’m very very new and I’m not getting it. Can someone help me figure out how to find a game I can join as a beginner player, maybe something to test the waters, I understand creating a character but other than that I’m clueless

[kind compass]

Hey gamer,a spot just opened in our begginners only dnd campaign if you're interested!

[echo kelp]

Make sure to take this game organization to direct messages or use the LFG channels

[calm hound]

I have sent you a direct message

[lyric fjord]

I'd love to join some beginner dnd campaigns if anybody has one.

Granted I can only do text chat over Discord.

[cobalt frigate]

Check #find-a-game

[sonic cargo]

Yes

[true brook]

Looking for a new player campaign. I'm brand new to d&d

[cobalt frigate]

Check #find-a-game

[true brook]

Will do!

All I could see was something like looking-for-game-paid. What does paid mean?

[cobalt frigate]

You pay the DM per session.

[true brook]

That's what I thought

Thanks

[true musk]

You should also be able to see #looking-for-players , #750812887697588356 , and #looking-for-community

[true brook]

Would I do looking for DM or community?

[quasi minnow]

Dm

[simple osprey]

Boutta dm my first game, you guys got any advice?

[oblique jetty]

Re hello im back from making my character

[echo kelp]

Know your character sheet and where to find things, understand various dice rolls (e.g. what's a skill check, what's a saving throw, and how to make an attack roll and roll damage). And then just be a good person that other folks like to play with.

[worthy grove]

Hey guys, I'm insanely new to DnD in general but I think playing through 'Baldurs Gate 3' is a saving grace when it comes to basic parts of DND like classes and stuff.. I would genuinely appreciate anyone with the time (or even effort) to deal with an annoying new player in their DM's and go through stuff with them (me) until they're ready to play

[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 "Handbooker Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube.

Both are linked above.
After you read the rules and/or watch the tutorial videos, feel free to ask questions here.

[glass summit]

@ashen sandal sorry if the help in the Discussion channel was a bit overwhelming, its pretty busy rn

Did you still have that question?

[ashen sandal]

I understand the the discussion channel is busy and I have no problem with that, the question I had was if you’re short resting and you’re low on hp, do you roll hit dice to see how much ho you recover or do you just go back to max hp?

[glass summit]

All goods,
Yeah you roll the hit dice, and add your Constitution modifier to each roll

You can read more about it here if you like

[ashen sandal]

Thanks for this, one more question, when rolling for initiative, do the enemies also roll for initiative?

[glass summit]

Yeah, the DM will roll initiative for each "type" of enemy
For example, if fighting 3 orcs and 2 ogres; the DM will roll initiative for the Orcs, having them all act on the same initiative count, and then same for the Ogres

[fleet field]

Just clarifying, when you roll hit dice you also consume the hit dice you rolled until a long rest

[fleet field]

I’m pretty sure most DMs normally roll initiative individually for each creature

They would roll initiative for each orc and each ogre

That’s also the RAW I believe

[glass summit]

I think that would come down to personal experience, I have heard of that but never seen it done

[fleet field]

I’ve never seen what you described done

[glass summit]

Haha thats so wierd, after a few years of Adventurers League and playing with entirely different groups I've never once seen someone run initaitive RAW...

[solemn light]

But yes- Everyone involved in the combat must roll initiative before combat can ensue, and have a 'turn' that they go on.

[main fulcrum]

Rolling initiative for each individual creature can make larger fights bog down a lot, though online VTTs can make that easier

Most people I play with do creature type groups instead of individuals, just to help keep things moving

I've also seen side initiative once in awhile

[ashen sandal]

Honestly thanks for telling me this, the server has been very helpful

[main fulcrum]

And it looks like creature groups actually is the RAW version:

Initiative determines the order of turns during combat. When combat starts, every participant makes a Dexterity check to determine their place in the initiative order. The DM makes one roll for an entire group of identical creatures, so each member of the group acts at the same time.

Just FYI @fleet field

[fleet field]

Huh

Interesting

[main fulcrum]

Might be one of those things that people often assume is the rule but isn't actually, like Dex modifier breaking ties

[worthy grove]

Would anyone here be free to help explore the fill-in character sheet? I'm rather familiar with the rules after a few reads, just some of the less-explained parts are confusing me + general queries
(I think if I ask here I'll end up flooding the chat with a bunch of random questions)

[smoky adder]

Please do flood it with questions! That’s what it’s here for.

What have you got so far? Where are you stuck?

[worthy grove]

So, i've obivously started working out the Class, Race etc that I want but I'm pretty confused on things like:

• Where do ability modifiers go on the sheet? In the circular section below the stat number?
• So..are ability modifiers a value that gets added/removed from roles?
• Am I being an idiot for working with extremely selective things (that aren't mentioned in the basics) like the Tabaxi race and Artificer Class?
• Oh, and, I got REALLY lucky on my "roll 4 d6 die then add the 3 highest values for an ability score" selection, is that alarming for a LVL1 character?

[harsh fjord]

Your DM probably won't accept rolls they did not witness.

[main fulcrum]

1. Yes
2. Yes, though there's a bit more to it
3. As long as you have access to that information, not really
4. Don't expect to bring pre-rolled stats to a table

[worthy grove]

Oh, so I should leave the stats blank for the moment?

[topaz garnet]

• score/modifier going in the big/small bit is personal preference. IMO put the score in the small bit and the modifier in the big bit - you refer to your Modifiers much more than direct Scores.
• Ability Modifiers are indeed that - they modify any roll based on them, such as a 16 strength, +3 strength modifier, being a +3 bonus to melee weapon attacks, strength athletics checks, and strength saves, for example.
• No, they're game options just fine.
• A DM will probably not accept rolls that are too good, sadly. It either has to be a matter of trust (not seen in internet strangers), seen by them, or bust.

[main fulcrum]

You can fill out the sheet for practice

But most DMs will want you to roll with them and/or might have a different way of doing it

[topaz garnet]

You can at the very least use Point Buy or Standard Array as something you're almost guaranteed to be allowed to use

[harsh fjord]

Knowing how to fill in the sheet and how the numbers interact is the important thing if you don't have a DM yet.

[topaz garnet]

And as Ratatoskr says, some DMs have different methods. For example, I have a slightly buffed version of the standard array and a little point shuffle, giving everyone what they'd want from rolled stats without breaking the game apart or inducing discrepancies between players outside of their own choices.

[worthy grove]

I see, I see
Honestly, I haven't done anything else yet, I was wasting time on the stats so I haven't determined where to put my LVL1 +2 proficiency bonus and such just yet

Is it fine if I fill out anything pre-determined such as Race-related Ability Score modifiers for later reference?

[worthy grove]

I'm more-or-less trying to design the character to be a preset that I can use in any campaign (that allows the class/race)

[harsh fjord]

Since this is practice, there's no wrong way to do it. It's just recognizing that's what you're doing!

[worthy grove]

Do players usually make a new character for every campaign they join, then? 🤔

[harsh fjord]

I'd say that's common, yes, though some people re-use a concept occasionally, maybe because it fits the vibe better or because it didn't resolve satisfyingly or any host of other reasons. But coming up with new characters is fun!

[worthy grove]

I bet it is (after you jump the hurdle of understanding everything LOL)
Thanks for the support, I'll keep going and see if I get confused at any point again!

How come the sheet has a 'SAVING THROWS' section when those are usually on-the-spot and random aside from the addition of ability modifiers??

[harsh fjord]

You record the bonuses you have to each saving throw there.

[worthy grove]

Oh, another "do-it-after-your-stats" thing

[harsh fjord]

Yep.

[echo kelp]

Classes get proficiencies on certain saving throws, thus increasing the liklihood of them passing that kind of saving throw.

[harsh fjord]

Not sure if you're following the steps here, but it might be helpful: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters

[worthy grove]

Yep, I'm reading up on here, though alot of the bouncing between pages is knocking me off-course sometimes LOL

[worthy grove]

Should I mark anything I get an advantage on with the bullet-pointed list thing?

[harsh fjord]

There's not a specific notation for advantage, so record it however it makes sense to you.

[main fulcrum]

The circles by skills and saves are to mark proficiency (if you're used the official paper/PDF sheet)

Advantage can be written wherever is convenient and you'll see it

[worthy grove]

Great, means i'm using that correctly then, atleast LOL

[spark mist]

DND Beyond does

It has a Green A

[worthy grove]

I assume everything to do with Hit Points is also for whenever I get into an actual Campaign

What about Attacks/Spells & Equipment?

[harsh fjord]

For level 1, every class gets their max HP with their hit die. Attacks can be calculated by choosing from the starting equipment, and you can choose spells regardless.

[topaz garnet]

I assume you're level 1.
What's your class and Constitution Modifier?

[worthy grove]

I'm looking to be an Artificer, and I've been told modifiers are decided later according to the stats you get no? Basically, that means I haven't got a constitution modifier yet LOL

[topaz garnet]

What's your constitution score?

[harsh fjord]

You should use the standard array to understand how to fill out the character sheet.

[worthy grove]

Well, then I'll quickly sort things out using standard array then

Okayyyy that was quick

Got all my stats and modifiers now
I've got 14 constitution

[harsh fjord]

So as an artificer you'd have 10 HP. Artificers use a d8, and all classes at level 1 get their max HP. A 14 CON means a +2 bonus, so 8+2=10.

[fleet field]

That means you start with 10 hp

[worthy grove]

Ah, gotcha, and I need to roll a d8 to figure out what my "Hit Dice" is? Any multipliers to consider there?

[topaz garnet]

not yet

At level 1, you get the max roll, for free.

[harsh fjord]

On level up, the options are roll the d8 to determine your HP increase or take the average of your hit die (5 in the case of a 1d8).

[topaz garnet]

Your d8 = 8 at 1st level, then add your +2 con mod, and tada 10hp.

[topaz garnet]

(average rounded up)
(it's statistically better than rolled lol)

[harsh fjord]

Sure, but no sense being technical with a new person.

[fleet field]

No, a d8 is your hit die

You have a number equal to your level in that class, which is your pool of hit dice

[worthy grove]

Oh, got it

[smoky adder]

Your number of hit dice is equal to your level. Your hit die size is determined by your class.

[worldly onyx]

hey im extremly new to dnd and need some help joining a group and learning how to play if someone could help me that would be great

[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.

[worldly onyx]

thanks

[fleet field]

Also arti isn’t always allowed

[fresh canopy]

question, daedric prince from skyrim is just a elf demigod

[echo kelp]

Is there a D&D core game mechanics question there? Or maybe you'd like to use #non-dnd-topics?

[fresh canopy]

is it possible to be an elf demigod

[harsh fjord]

Not according to the rules, and that's not a newcomer question.

[gritty valve]

It is possible to be an elf, and it depends on your definition of demigod, but there's no mechanics for doing such

[fresh canopy]

thanks

[late belfry]

I’m hoping I get accepted for a game soon

[echo kelp]

Try and also be proactive by looking for games posted in #looking-for-players (that's DMs and groups looking for players for their games) and #looking-for-community (other D&D servers that may have D&D games available). There's also Roll20 (Virtual Tabletop service that has game finding functionality), Demiplane (website with game finding tools), and even Facebook and local book/game/hobby shops. Even local libraries may have D&D games!

[worldly onyx]

#find-a-game

[astral haven]

yoyoyo

[echo kelp]

Welcome!

[robust thunder]

Yeah, number one suggestion for newcomers: be proactive in finding a group. You won't get in some, and others will turn out to be a bad fit.

[astral haven]

gtk 👍

this place seems p chill

[echo kelp]

you haven't seen #dnd-rules or #optimization discussions yet

But we are pretty serious about enforcing the server rules on staying civil and on topic so that does help a lot. Anyways, welcome to the server!

[main fulcrum]

What, you mean you don't enjoy arguing about the difference between an attack with a weapon and a weapon attack for 6 hours straight? 😁

[astral haven]

oh whoop

oh lmao

[spark mist]

And get +2 per level?

[stray stirrup]

Hey I'm new but love dnd even though I haven't really played but I wanna learn more

[spark mist]

You get your Con Bonus as HP each level

Kinda why you don't want an 8

That's what I was told anyway

[echo kelp]

Welcome! We got some useful resources linked in the pinned messages here in the channel

[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.

[astral haven]

i'm p new too, just joined a campaign at my school but the club seems a lil flaky and it's my second time playing and my first time in like 5 years lol

the first time wasn't even like 5e tho, it was pathfinders

still fun regardless

[echo kelp]

Ah completely different game system (although heavily based on D&D 3.5 initially).

On this server it's mostly all D&D (as we are the official Wizards of the Coast D&D server) with the exception of #non-dnd-topics

[astral haven]

yeah that tracks

pathfinders is fun but it felt like it was offbrand simplified dnd when i played lol

im looking forward to actually like playing 5e

or whichever versions people are hosting most lol

[stray stirrup]

I don't even know tht I played once but I think it was a hombrew

But I'd love to play

[rancid haven]

I'm pretty new and have a character rolled out. Level 1 monk wood elf. Haven't been in a campaign for a long while. My first one I couldn't finish. Did on previous fighter class human. Is anyone willing to help me to start off in a new campaign to relearn and have fun?

[stray stirrup]

Any online dnd places I should try?

[astral haven]

i created this rlly funky tiefling warlock

i can't wait to actually play as him

im a guitarist/bassist/drummer irl tho so my first character i made was a bard lol

[rancid haven]

I only played homebrew and want to try an actual campaign or level 1 starting homebrew for new people.

[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.

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.

[turbid ridge]

#find-a-game

[glad whale]

hohohhohohyou oh hounfortunatelynobodyaroundwhereiliveplaystheclosestgamestoreimilesawayandtheirisonlyplayermileradiussoonlineismyonlyoption

what the heck, thats not what i typed?

sorry

[cobalt frigate]

Please don't spam the channel.

[glad whale]

sorry

[kindred siren]

What is the average dnd experience. Is it fun? Before I decide on taking my first try of this, I want to understand more about DnD aside from character creation, and such. The last thing I want to do is jump into a campaign and decide mid way or at the very beginning it isn't for me and start to become less committed, as that isn't fair for the other 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.

[fleet field]

I mean that’s very subjective

But as a game, the goal is for it to be fun

[kindred siren]

If the goal for it is to be ultimately fun, then I see no issue

I'll give it a go

[jade nova]

When I play with friends I have fun, pretty much no matter how things go, so yeah

[glad whale]

can i use playing cards instead of dice?

[jade nova]

You can change any rules your think would work better/worse for your game

[cobalt frigate]

That's up to your DM to decide.

[jade nova]

Also that yeah, if you aren’t the dm, you have to ask them

[glad whale]

i am the DM, or at least i would be if i had anyone to play

[cobalt frigate]

Well, then you have to figure how to have cards replace the d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, and d20.

[glad whale]

remove three stacks of 2s 4s 6s 8s and 10, those add up to be the d4 d6 and d10 the the other 40 cards are the d20. draw two cards and add them up, if you draw a joker it's a nat20 making it a crit, 2 jokers in a 40 card deck equal 1 in 20 chance, im still figuring out the math for the d8 and d12, and how to refine the system

[cobalt frigate]

This would be for #homebrew and not really for this channel.

[glad whale]

ahh, thanks for the derections kind sir

[crude tendon]

hi

[glad whale]

hi

[crude tendon]

bro finding a game is hard

[glad whale]

thats why i'm here

[crude tendon]

do you have a max party

[glad whale]

you new to dnd too?

no, i have no party

[crude tendon]

no just new to playing not knowing of it

i'll be your frist

[glad whale]

me too. only youtube can get me so far,

[crude tendon]

ik

welp im your first then

[glad whale]

nice, i don't know how to play online but we can probably figure it out together

[crude tendon]

oh theres a wepsite

[glad whale]

really, i've been looking but can't find one

[crude tendon]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/116385841

that one

[kindred siren]

Finding the right one is what makes it super fun

...from what I've heard

[crude tendon]

i just wanna play with someone

[cobalt frigate]

There are waaaay more players than DMs so you have to keep looking because openings at tables get filled very quickly.

[crude tendon]

https://www.dndbeyond.com

[glad whale]

i don't have dice, my family scornfully makes fun of the game so i don't want them to find out i play it, their old conservative south

[crude tendon]

i have everything ready

like ready ready who i am my voice im not playing around

[glad whale]

like right now! really? it's night and my family is asleep, but maybe i can go to the garage, and i don't know how to play that well

[crude tendon]

its okay

[glad whale]

what about tomorrow

[crude tendon]

whats the time zone

[glad whale]

chicago time

[crude tendon]

est pst?

[glad whale]

what?

im in the south east conference

[crude tendon]

what is your time rn

[glad whale]

11:28

[crude tendon]

so est

oh pst

[edgy onyx]

As a heads up, this isnt really the channel for discussing your personal game times

[crude tendon]

oh im sorry

[glad whale]

move to find a game?

[arctic acorn]

There is a better channel for this. It's #looking-for-players. Filled with the DMs looking for players.

[glad whale]

thanks

[arctic acorn]

Also I feel like the best games are planned in advance rather than done in the heat of the moment.

[crude tendon]

go with the flow

[jade nova]

Premade campaigns and one shots are the closest thing, but even they take preparation

[arctic acorn]

I feel like going with the flow is a great way to get one session done and then lose contact with your DnD pals. But you do you.

[jade nova]

Never go with the flow when it comes to scheduling

[arctic acorn]

Just saying this because this is a game where scheduling is half of the challenge.

[jade nova]

As far as what your players decide to do in the game, sure go with the flow, but don’t trust people to just all conveniently have a time open to run your game

[arctic acorn]

Seriously. I see so many people jump into games in the heat of the moment and that just bewilders me.

[cobalt frigate]

Those people apparently have never DMed before...

[glad whale]

nope, should be fun

what so wrong with jumping head first, it,s definitley not gonna be a good campagn but we can learn from it, and schedule a better game after, but if you have insight please let me know

to why it is a bad idea

[arctic acorn]

You'll either have trouble finding more players or you'll just have one game and never resume it.

[glad whale]

no, but i tell hour long improv stories

No

I know the DM is hard, but... alright I'm not a good planner having any sort plan and following through with it almost never happens, so if i don't do it now i probably never will

forgive my ignorance, but what do you mean it takes alot of planning?

[cobalt frigate]

I'm currently running a level 5 to 20 campaign that has been going on for the past two years and hopefully will continue for another two years. It's a prewritten 3.5E campaign so I have to do the following:

1. Convert the adventure from 3.5E to 5E rules, including monsters and NPCs.
2. Prepare battle map artwork (high enough resolution for my VTT).
3. Design side quests that aren't part of the main campaign.
4. Get everything in the VTT
5. Schedule (getting players to show up every Wednesday is harder than wrangling cats).

I do this stuff weeks or months in advance.

[glad whale]

that makes sense for the long games, but since it would be are first time i think it would be easier for us to get are feet wet with three short 90min sessions of a pre-made adventure i have planned

[cobalt frigate]

Even one shots takes prep time.

[edgy onyx]

Even then DM needs to read the adventure and plan out how to do things

[cobalt frigate]

90 minutes is not very long for a session. A typical session would be two to four hours.

I've had combat that last more than 90 minutes (the longest was 2.5 two-hours sessions)

[glad whale]

90 minutes is basically bare minimum, yes, but I also am new to being DM, but he is new to so I'm hoping he will set the bar low enough where we can figure it out together, and we still have to find other players, preferably new, we are scheduling tomorrow, and we still need players, I'm hoping i have the base story fleshed out by then, i got half the idea for the campaign, and I know a good portion of DMing is improv, description, and keeping track of multible things at once

then what do you suggest?

thanks for the help

but i do want to be DM

probably, but nobody else wants to be DM out of are noob group, and I'm kinda worried that if we get a more experienced player they will be inpatient with us, so I'm nervous about having experienced players

[ornate kiln]

My first game of DnD was as DM. It’s not ideal but it’s doable if there are no alternatives in the group

I did watch a lot of Dimension 20 the year before and ran the essentials kit so I at least had some idea how it could look like and I had everything pre written for me

[glad whale]

yeah, I've watched demension 20 for the past two years, and have the starter kit, I just had nobody to play with

I just finally decied to bite the bullet and play online, since i couldn't find anybody in my area, even tho i wanted to play in person

despite the warnings of Captain OptionZero. They fall on deaf ears, the crew ignorantly disbelives the captain, so in the dead of night in hushed tones. The crew sought a mutiney, to break away from the mold their captain put them in. they shall make the rules now. so while the captain was sleeping, the crew jumped him. binding him up. "what shall we do with him" asked one of the crew. "shall we keelhaul him, and let his flesh be shredded on the barnacles below?" asked another. "perhaps we should put him in the long boat and leave him to the sea?" asked the third. they looked to the leader of the mutiney, quartermaster john hornegold. "No, he was a good captain, and a good man, he just isn't our captain" said john. "we shall drop him off at next birth, but the ship is ours!" the crew erupted in cheer, FIN

[fresh fable]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/1625-peril-in-pinebrook-a-free-introductory-adventure free starter with loads of hints tips

Good for new DMs and players

Nothing wrong with being a DM to start with, many people hve done it that way,

[cobalt frigate]

Yes, it's possible and fine to start playing D&D as a DM. The reason a lot of us suggest to play as a player first is because you get to learn the game on someone else's dime — aka the other person who's DM, who hopefully is more experienced.

[glad whale]

I like telling stories tho, and it sounds like fun to have players throw monkey wrenches in my plans. i just need to memorize the rules, or grab the players handbook and refer it throught the game

[fresh fable]

You can run a game using just the basic rules, it’s how I started with a group at my LGS, start small and work upto bigger and more complicated rules

[glad whale]

yeah, well it's late. Thank you all for your help.

[lyric fjord]

hiya everyone, I am playing my first campaign atm and was wondering how unreasonable it is to "set up side adventures"? our dm is doing it for the first time too.

longer version lol, we are playing descent into avernus and are in the first dungeon atm. our last session ended with us rescuing a noble, ending the session with the party taking a short rest and my character escorting them out since I didn take any damage yet. we left off with us agreeing that the dm and I are going to do some 1 on 1 rp (visible to the other players in discord) with me escorting the noble out and trying to get more info etc. my dm read ahead a little and noted that he never shows up again, so I would feel a little bad if I side tracked the campaign and forced him to make a lot of stuff up.

is that sort of stuff common/acceptable, or should I go with the already agreed on escort rp but not pursue after? later situations would involve the full part I assume.

another thing I am afraid of is looking like I get favoritism, getting a solo rp thing and all, since the dm is my boyfriend. am I overthinking this or does that seem a little unfair for other players?

[crude musk]

What's "common" doesn't matter and what's "acceptable" only matters as far as your table goes

Play D&D how you want

If you're worried about favouritism, talk to your fellow players and check in with them

We can't tell you what they're feeling, only they can

[flat brook]

Never got to play before now I want to get into it even made a character already just don't have any body around me to play

[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.

[pearl thorn]

Hi! Im new to D&D and cant be more thankful if someone could guide me through a first character creation and helps me to get into a game. please help^^

[echo kelp]

The very first chapter in the free basic rules has a step by step instructions on building a character - I suggest starting there and as you run into specific questions go ahead and ask them here.

[pearl thorn]

I created my first character, what are good ways to find into a beginner friendly campaign?

[echo kelp]

Most groups are fine taking on new to D&D folks - so I wouldn't worry specifically about that. Just make sure to have a good idea of your character and where to find information on your character sheet, have a general idea of the different kinds of rolls (attack rolls, saving throws, and skill checks), and just be a good person that others enjoy playing with.

To find a group you can use our Looking For Game channels

See #find-a-game for some useful info and important instructions on how to use those channels.

I'd also recommend being proactive - look through #looking-for-players and find games that sound interesting to you - use the thread or direct message the poster to see if they have a spot available.

Also there's #looking-for-community - these are other D&D servers and they may have available games

[pearl thorn]

Thank you very much! I will study my sheet until i found a group of people to enjoy my first adventure 🙂

[echo kelp]

Hope you find a great group to play with!

[weak nimbus]

is there anywhere i can find out how to play d&d
like actually play it and not just how to make a character and what dice do what

that isnt the handbook cuz thats too expensive for me

[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.

[echo kelp]

Read through the free basic rules linked there (and in the pinned messages)

It's all you need to be able to play D&D

[weak nimbus]

thanks
also do some people play dnd over the internet

[echo kelp]

The other books just add more character options and other rules that can help enhance the game

[exotic remnant]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/750-new-players-guide-how-to-play-d-d-online

[weak nimbus]

they for real got an answer to everythin

thanks

[echo kelp]

Well you're not the first to ask and you won't be the last! Welcome to the server and welcome to D&D!

[orchid narwhal]

Hm, is this general DnD or mostly DnD Beyond server?

[echo kelp]

This is the official Wizards of the Coast owned and opperated official D&D server

It used to be the DnDBeyond server and then Wizards of the Coast/D&D bought DnDBeyond

[orchid narwhal]

So for older stuff to #dnd-elder-editions I go I guess

[crude musk]

Correct, that's the channel for discussing previous editions of D&D

[lyric fjord]

I was wondering if thers any dnd mobile game or pc game because i have friends that i want to play with but there is Country problem

[torn yoke]

Baldurs gate 3, or you can use a vtt and discord

If you want to play with friends

[crude musk]

D&D is a tabletop roleplaying game, there are video games that touch on some parts of the experience, but nothing that is a 1:1 replica

This channel is for getting help with playing the TTRPG though

[robust nexus]

Hey, new player here. Just made my first character. Where do you think i can get some feedback? Possitive, constructive feedback it doesn't matter if there is feedback 😄

[fresh fable]

#character-discussion

[robust nexus]

thanks 😄

[median fjord]

uhmm hello??? Can I get some help

hi

[fallen surge]

Hello

What do you need help with?

[median fjord]

starting off

[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.

[median fjord]

mind helping me create a sheet first???

[fallen surge]

Have you taken a look at the basic rules yet? You can’t make a character before reading them, or at the least the first 4 chapters, which are a step-by-step guide to character creation

[median fjord]

ah okay ill check it out again thx alottt

[fallen surge]

My pleasure. After you’ve taken a glance at the rules, if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask them here

[pearl night]

Can a character have disembodied head

Like the head floats above the neck?

[crude musk]

Yes and no and yes

Yes in the sense that in D&D there is the potential for anything
No in the sense that there is no official game option that works like that
Yes in the sense that you can reflavour stuff so that even though it doesn't mechanically do anything, you can describe it that way

You would have to speak to your DM about it though

[pearl night]

Alright thank you sire🫡

[median fjord]

i do now , whats the difference between ¨tools¨ and ¨adventuring gear¨

[crude musk]

it's the difference between a hammer, file, and saw (tools exmaples) and rope, pitons, and a torch (adventuring gear examples)

[fallen surge]

Tools are specialty items that usually require training to use properly, where adventuring gear is basically anything that you might take with you on an adventure

[median fjord]

so stuff i would use in a forest or a terrain and stuff i would use in sticky situations

[median fjord]

how do i train?? ((i have never read or done anything like dnd sorry for my inexperience

[crude musk]

You might wanna read the rules first

[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.

[median fjord]

ah okay ill finish reading

would be smart -_-

[fallen surge]

"training" is part of character creation. Your race, class, subclass, and background can grant you different proficiencies, which represent the idea that you have been trained in that tool/weapon/armor/language/etc

[median fjord]

got it I'll keep reading and after I finish ill ask about the stuff
dont understand

[fallen surge]

[rancid pike]

I really don't find how spell slots works in a sense.
How many spell slots does sorcerer and ranger get at lv 1?

Prepping a game for wife and BiL tomorrow

[fallen surge]

a sorcerer would have 2 spell slots. A ranger would have 0

[true shard]

ranger 0 sorcerer 2

[fallen surge]

rangers unlock spellcasting at level 2

[rancid pike]

Okay.... So ranger can't use any 1st level spells at lv 1?

[true shard]

correct

[rancid pike]

How many cantrips and lv 1 spells can sorcerer learn at lv1?

[spice mortar]

Ranger, sorcerer ?
Ow man that's overhelming new vocabulary

[fallen surge]

Each class has a table at the start of their description that explains all this

[true shard]

this is all described in the rules

[rancid pike]

Oh yeah, didn't see I could scroll sideways in the table there.

[fallen surge]

https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/classes#QuickBuild10

You can see here in the Sorcerer's table, under the "cantrips known" section that there is 4 at level 1

[rain sentinel]

Don't worry about it! Just make sure to read some of the basic DnD rules and don't worry about getting everything all at once

DnD is very threatening when you first start but the joy of figuring it out is that the more of DnD you learn, the more you learn about the possibilities of what you can pull off. It's a very exciting process, but one you should take at your own pace

Highly recommend looking up youtube guides or some such to start, that worked for me

[spice mortar]

Yeah all of this new world of Dnd appears like a fog to me espesially because of all of the infos & stuff I discover, hard to not freak out already lmao
But I heard lots of positive comments about DnD from friends and eventually this pushed me in the desire to try be part of the communnauty, even to get my own adventure maybe it sounds a lot of fun

I'm checking out the guides channels right now to get the basics and figuring out where to start, hope ya wouldn't mind a rookie of my kind asking questions

[fallen surge]

That's what this channel is for! Please ask away!

[rain sentinel]

Just make sure to read up first and then ask away, as the reading will answer a lot of questions

[lapis vapor]

Best thing to do at the beginning is to be the sponge.

Soak it all up, then ask questions as you go

[rancid pike]

Something I found is that a nerfed down (rule wise) version is fantastic to play to get to know the kids at home better. And I guess the same could be applied to adults too, like, you don't know everything at once and naturally make stuff up on the spot.
Since they are role-playing, their actions aren't strictly tied to real world consequences, so they open up a bit more and it's easier to get to know each other in a sense.

we've been at it for just a few days, but I already got a projector and stuff for quite the immersion on the table. It's insane how this thing hooks me into acessiories wherever possible.

[spice mortar]

Just find out on ytb that dnd is actually some sort of board game, I thought it was total roleplay happening on discord

[rancid pike]

Can be more of one or the other too, depending on everyone's preferences.

Either completely by imagination of the mind, or heavily dependant on spreadsheets and figurines.

[fallen surge]

calling it a "board game" isn't exactly accurate, but many people do use maps and minifigures or digital tools to represent the battlefield during combat

[spice mortar]

Well, personally I'm the type of person who enjoys roleplay in general, getting on a group call to play dnd sounds really er... The organisation of this is kinda stressful ngl

[spice mortar]

Yeah I dont know many terms to use to describe it

[fallen surge]

we use the term "table top role playing game" or TTRPG

[fallen surge]

"Play-by-post" is a method of play that uses text to communicate intsead of voice chats, if that interests you

[lapis vapor]

There can be as much roleplay as you like, if that's the kind of game you and your friends agree to.

[spice mortar]

Sounds like an option that would fit more my preferences yeah

[knotty mauve]

Hellooooo

[spice mortar]

Hey

[knotty mauve]

I'm new!

[fallen surge]

welcome

[rain sentinel]

Eventually, it all becomes second nature. Just take it one step at a time and at a slow pace and you'll get it eventually

Hi!

[knotty mauve]

From Italy, a player and a cursed forever DM

I didn't know there was an official discord channel for D&D

I'm amazed

[spice mortar]

Me neither just found out about that, quite stunning

[knotty mauve]

That's right! Finally I can ask everyone if a kobold lives 10 days or more 😂

[spice mortar]

I'm already heavy overhelmed

[median fjord]

hello me again , if I want a kinda Mean character ((not like a villain but he uses dark magic)) which role should i choose

[ornate kiln]

i assume your character is still willing to work with your party.

Otherwise, being mean isnt really tied to any class.

[fallen surge]

personality and character class/role don't have any baring on each other

[ornate kiln]

dark magic could mean stuff like necromany

[knotty mauve]

yeah, a barbarian can be mean as a bard singing bad things...

[ornate kiln]

but you can pick necromany or enchantment spells on any spellcaster

[knotty mauve]

Necromancer it's a very cool way to add extra force in your party

[median fjord]

Homebrew Content (yes/no)
Magic: The Gathering Content (yes/no)
Eberron Content (yes/no)
Noncore D&D Content (yes/no)
Dragonlance Content (yes/no)
Planescape Content (yes/no)

idk what to do the idk what they mean

[harsh fjord]

Those are options from different official and unofficial sources. If you’re making a character for practice because you don’t have a group yet, it doesn’t matter what you pick. Otherwise, your DM will inform you which they do and don’t use.

[median fjord]

got it thxxxxxxxxx

another question , i can't find the necromancy role in my character builder

[harsh fjord]

The necromancer subclass isn’t part of the free Basic Rules.

[fallen surge]

The school of necromancy is a subclass for the wizard class, and it can only be used if you have purchased that subclass, or the sourcebook that it came from (the player's handbook). It is not one of the free options

[harsh fjord]

Or if you’re in a campaign with someone who owns the content and has sharing enabled.

[median fjord]

is the wizard a free option ? and what is deep speech

[fallen surge]

12 of the 13 classes are free to use, but each only has 1 subclass that's available for free. Wizard's free subclass is the school of evocation

[median fjord]

and what is that???

[fallen surge]

"evocation" is the school of magic related to elemental combat spells like fireball and lightning bolt

[median fjord]

ahhh got it

[fallen surge]

Oh and Deep Speech is a language used by monsters, typically ones that are "elditch horror" themed like Mind Flayers

[median fjord]

can a variant human speak it , oh and kan a fighter use magic?

[fallen surge]

Variant Humans do get 1 free language, which can be any of your choice. If you choose Deep Speech, then yes you can speak it.

Fighters do not normally get access to spells, unless you choose the Eldritch Knight subclass.

[median fjord]

lemme just take a guess that subclass isn't free is it?

[fallen surge]

It is not. The fighter's free subclass is the Champion

[median fjord]

wizard can do hand to hand combat right???

[novel sluice]

don't see why not

though i don't think they're allowed piercing or slashing weapons

might be wrong

[median fjord]

got it, ill take your word for it!!!

[fallen surge]

Well, nothing prevents them from doing so, but they get very few weapon proficiencies, and typically have no reason to raise their dexterity or strength stats, which is what is used for weapon fighting, so wizards are typically very poor at using weapons

Instead, they have access to cantrips, which are simple spells that can be used an infinite number of times. That is what they will typically use instead of weapons

[median fjord]

so nothing TECHNICALLY stops them from being good in hand to hand combat

[fallen surge]

yes and no

[median fjord]

now im just confused 0_o

[crude musk]

Have you tried reading the basic rules?

[ancient heron]

Hello! I'm new, literally just made a character sheet. Is it possible to make a character sheet wrong?

[crude musk]

These are all questions that are covered within the rules in a logical fashion

[fallen surge]

At higher levels, classes that are designed to use weapons will get features that make them better at using weapons. Wizards don't get features like that. So they can use weapons, but they will never be good at it

[echo kelp]

Classes are designed to use specific features for their class. So rogues will get a feature called Sneak Attack which lets them do extra damage under certain conditions whereas a Cleric can get certain "always prepared" spells based on their cleric domain.

This helps each class be different and useful for certain contexts of the game.

[median fjord]

yeh im just gonna be a fighter and when I get better in DND and understand everything I'll change my character sheet , imma just choose a human fighter

[novel sluice]

human fighter

you're so real for that

[rancid pike]

When you combine non metagaming (regarding race and background) with having a very low primary stat for your class, kinda?

Like, there are "mathematically optimal" ways to do it, certainly.
And there may be multiple.

And doing the exact opposite would probably be pretty noticeable in game. Like I don't know, making a wizard and put all your points into strength and charisma or something.
You would probably get kind of bummed from that unless you have an extremely specific plan for it.

[ancient heron]

I just don't want what i did to ruin a future game i play, am I only supposed to have one class?

[rancid pike]

Depends if your table goes with multiclassing or not.

[ancient heron]

My starting class is sorcerer and then I jsut kinda threw rouge in there

[median fjord]

me again , which things would a athletics skil give me as a fighter?

[echo kelp]

If you're just starting out, I'd recommend staying with one class for now

[ancient heron]

Alright, thank you

[rancid pike]

One immediate thing I see might be sneak spell casts at zero blank range, which might be advantageous if your DM is up for it , so it has some potential utility

[crude musk]

Again, this is covered in the basic rules: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/using-ability-scores#UsingEachAbility

[median fjord]

thx

[echo kelp]

?tag new abilities

[exotic remnant]

Abilities

Six abilities provide a quick description of every creature's physical and mental characteristics: Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.

For each ability, your character has an ability score, a number from 1 to 20. There are three ways to determine ability scores, and your DM will let you know which to use. (If you don’t have a DM yet, choose Standard Array or Point Buy.)

• Roll the Dice. Roll 4d6 and record the total of the highest three. Do this six times, and then assign each total to a different ability.
• Standard Array. Assign each of the following numbers to a different ability: 15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8.
• Point Buy. Choose your own ability scores by spending points.

After assigning your ability scores (and adding any bonuses from your race), determine your ability modifiers, a number from -5 to +5, using the Ability Scores and Modifiers table.

[echo kelp]

?tag new skills

[exotic remnant]

Skills

A skill represents a specific aspect of an ability score. Proficiency in a skill lets you add your proficiency bonus to ability checks that involve that skill, making you more likely to succeed.

• Strength. Athletics
• Dexterity. Acrobatics, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
• Constitution. (none)
• Intelligence. Arcana, History, Investigation, Nature, Religion
• Wisdom. Animal Handling, Insight, Medicine, Perception, Survival
• Charisma. Deception, Intimidation, Performance, Persuasion

Write your ability modifier next to each skill for that ability. If you’re proficient with that skill, add your proficiency bonus as well.

[ancient heron]

I'll just get rid of it for now and see what the dm says, I know the very basics of what i want my character to sort of be so it's pretty flexable

[rancid pike]

Yeah I think your safer card early on is to go with a single class early on and metagame on that if that's what you want to do, since multiclassed metagaming may be more niche with sparser online material (not totally sure on that though) and with more ruling up to the DMs discretion.

Because like, assume your DM throws difficulty classed creatures at you that corresponds to your total level, for simplicity.
Math wise, there has to be very specific combinations to not have a disadvantage to the higher level abilities you might get single classed.

And XP-wise, is it really worth it to get the first level of rogue for a relatively substantial amount of XP, when you could get the next level of sorcerer instead?

[ancient heron]

Are most games played with milestone or XP?

Or does it really not matter and change with each game and dm

[crude musk]

It's impossible to say what "most" games use because there isn't data for it

But both are popular options

It does indeed depend on your DM

[ancient heron]

Are most games just fun or do some people take it weirdly seriously?

[main fulcrum]

Also going to depend on the group and what you mean my weirdly seriously

As Davyd said, we don't have data on how most people play

[true shard]

some people might bequite engaged into the game and like immersion and stuff while others like to fool around it really just depends on what table you find and what suits you

[main fulcrum]

Presumably the people playing more serious games find that fun or they wouldn't do it

[ancient heron]

Like weird things like the dm says "you read a scroll" and you just make something up that doesn't make sense or doesnt progress the game, will people get mad if you don't know any better?

[rancid pike]

Personally, I'd say that it's mostly up to the DM what scrolls say unless he has a specific reason that you have to make it up.
Like, if he wants to give you headroom for some spectacular role playing, sure.
But for specific game progression, it might become awkward if you have not proven to be very good at stuff like that.

[true shard]

that is not a situation you would find in the average game and everyone makes mistakes especially as a newcomer

[ancient heron]

alright, also on the character sheet, what does faith mean?

[ancient heron]

Alright

[main fulcrum]

If you worship something, usually a god

[ancient heron]

does that really affect the game?

[main fulcrum]

Depends on the game

It generally matters more for clerics

But it might come up otherwise

[rancid pike]

It could tie in to how you reasonably role play stuff.
Like, let's say you are a Paladin and have a specific deity you believe in and are devoted to, you might want to have some degree of integrity to the character of that deity, unless you are an oath breaker or similar.

[main fulcrum]

My fighter talks about his god a lot

But it rarely has serious effects

It's just part of his personality

[ancient heron]

Can it change something, like you ask your god for help or more strength and it an add something to your roll?

[main fulcrum]

Generally no

But all things like that would depend on your DM

[ancient heron]

Alright, sorry for all the qeustions this is making me nervous for some reason

[main fulcrum]

And clerics can ask their god for help as one of their higher level abilities

[fallen surge]

You don't have to appologize for asking questions. That's what this channel is here for

[smoky adder]

All those personality details are primarily for your own benefit.

They help you flesh out your character so you can better play them at your table.

[ancient heron]

But I don't have to choose a faith?

[smoky adder]

If you don't need that help, you don't need to put anything.

[ancient heron]

Alright

[smoky adder]

If faith isn't part of their character, you don't need to put anything.

You can add as much or as little to that whole section as you like.

[lyric fjord]

I need a group is there like a discord server where they host online champaigns

im very new i just learned the ruels

[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.

[tropic galleon]

Do Paladins need to be Lawfully Good? I have a Paladin character I’m making but his back story is more Neutral Good/Chaotic Good

[echo kelp]

In D&D 5th Edition, alignment is less of a mechanical requirement - it's now used more for a role play prompt.

So no, your paladin does not need to be lawful good.

[cobalt frigate]

There are no alignment restrictions for classes in 5E like older editions did.

[rancid pike]

As long as the players ain't chaotic evil in a way that even extends outside the ingame environment, I'm kinda fine with whatever.

[cobalt frigate]

Concentrate on your character's personality, ideals, bonds, and flaws than your alignment. Remember that alignment doesn't define your character but the other way around.

[rancid pike]

Are long rests the only way to restore spell slots, or are there other common or less common ways too?

[cobalt frigate]

Sorcerers can use their Font of Magic class feature to convert sorcery points to spell slots.
Wizards have Arcane Recovery to regain spell slots on a short rest.
Diviner wizards' Expert Divination can regain a spell slot.

[fickle lake]

im building a character is there a description some where of the proficiencys?

So I can understand what it means choosing:

Survival
Animal Handling
Investigation

[exotic remnant]

No tag skills found.

[echo kelp]

?tag new skills

[exotic remnant]

Skills

A skill represents a specific aspect of an ability score. Proficiency in a skill lets you add your proficiency bonus to ability checks that involve that skill, making you more likely to succeed.

• Strength. Athletics
• Dexterity. Acrobatics, Sleight of Hand, Stealth
• Constitution. (none)
• Intelligence. Arcana, History, Investigation, Nature, Religion
• Wisdom. Animal Handling, Insight, Medicine, Perception, Survival
• Charisma. Deception, Intimidation, Performance, Persuasion

Write your ability modifier next to each skill for that ability. If you’re proficient with that skill, add your proficiency bonus as well.

[keen spruce]

ah there we go

[fickle lake]

thanks

[novel timber]

Is there anywhere here I can ask to join someone's online dnd game? I haven't seen any channels about that except the adventurers league one

[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.

[fickle lake]

im trying to work out my AC using leather armour the rules say "11 + Dex modifier"

Is it the larger number im using for "dex modifier?"

On my sheet ive got

DEX
[3]
(16)

im struggling to under stand which means what with the stat blocks

[echo kelp]

The modifier is the 3

So with a dexterity score of 16, you have a +3 dexterity modifier

So putting that all together with leather armor, your character would have and AC calculated as:
11 + 3 (dex modifier)
This means your AC would be 14

[smoky adder]

It might help on your sheet to write it as "+3" instead, to differentiate the two.

[fickle lake]

So if im asked to make a dex saving throw it would be a d20 + 3 also?

[smoky adder]

Yep!

Then if you're also proficient in dex saving throws, you'd add your proficiency bonus, too.

The same for any dex-based skills, like Acrobatics or Stealth.

[fickle lake]

I have the box ticked with 5 for dexirity in saving so would it be

d20+3+5?

[smoky adder]

What level is your character?

[fickle lake]

building a level 3 ranger

[smoky adder]

So your proficiency bonus would be a +2.

The 5 you've got there currently must be your +3 dex and your +2 proficiency bonus combined.

So when you make a dex save, you'd just add that combined total -- 1d20 + 5.

[fickle lake]

so that box already adds them up so i can just do d20 + 5?

[smoky adder]

Yep!

[simple osprey]

I'm planning to dm my first session, but I'm confused about what it means what an attack says something like "Hit: 5", can someone please explain what it means?

[fallen surge]

that is the average amount of damage that attack will deal

[simple osprey]

Ohh

That makes so much sense

[fallen surge]

For example, the goblin's scimitar attack says:

Hit: 5 (1d6 + 2) slashing damage.

So, you can either roll 1d6+2 to determine the damage dealt, or just take the average, which is 5

[simple osprey]

Thanks :)

[fallen surge]

my pleasure

[smoky adder]

Hit. Any damage dealt or other effects that occur as a result of an attack hitting a target are described after the "Hit" notation. You have the option of taking average damage or rolling the damage; for this reason, both the average damage and the die expression are presented.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/monsters#Actions

[fickle lake]

Hit dice

1d10 per each level(for a lv3 ranger)

on my sheet is that total 30 and just noted my hit dice is d10?

[oak holly]

It’s actually 1d10+constitution modifier so when you you have thirty it may be lower then 30 but your con brought it up

[main fulcrum]

Generally speaking, you either roll the hit die to determine how many hit points you get for each level past 1, or you take the average

[oak holly]

Yeah

[granite glade]

anyone dms in beyond that can help me understand the ui and also a bit of what i have to do LOL gonna buy ice peek and its gonna be my first time playing dnd for me and all my friends
i think ima buy ice peek book for first game but i saw previews in google and i saw quest cards magic items and npc companions can i add all that from beyond?

[fallen surge]

At level 1, to determine your hitpoints, you take the maximum from your hit die (10) and add your con mod

On each level up afterwards, you either roll that hit die, or you take the average rounding up (6) and add your con mod. That will be how many hitpoints you gain for that level up, which is added to your previous total

[fickle lake]

hm

so my rolls/numbers

Hit dice: 5
Hit Points at 1st Level: 12
Hit Points at Higher Levels: roll 1 = 10, roll 2 = 3

"Hit Points

Hit Dice: 1d10 per ranger level

Hit Points at 1st Level: 10 + your Constitution modifier

Hit Points at Higher Levels: 1d10 (or 6) + your Constitution modifier per ranger level after 1st"

[fallen surge]

Hit dice: 5
Hit Points at 1st Level: 12
Hit Points at Higher Levels: roll 1 = 10, roll 2 = 3

I'm not sure what this section means or where you got that from

[smoky adder]

Your number of hit dice is always equal to your level.

[fickle lake]

under class features of ranger on the website

[smoky adder]

You said you're a level 3 ranger? So you'd have 3 hit dice.

If your con mod is +2, you'd add:

• Level 1: 10 + 2
• Level 2: 1d10 + 2
• Level 3: 1d10 + 2

Which is 2d10 + 16

[fallen surge]

If you took the average at each level, that would be 28 HP

[fickle lake]

So using averages lets say (beacuse thats seems easier for me)

I have 28hp (in my max hp box?)

3 hit dice with a total of ?

[smoky adder]

Your hit dice don't have a total.

[fallen surge]

for your hit dice, just write 3d10

[smoky adder]

What's important there is the number of dice (from your level) and the size of the dice (from your class).

[fallen surge]

"Hit Dice" are the dice themselves, not a number that you get from rolling them

you can use these 3 dice to do different things like heal yourself during a short rest

[fickle lake]

so what woudl the "Total" box above it be for?

[fallen surge]

its the number of dice you have

[smoky adder]

You can spend hit dice, which subtracts from your current total.

[fallen surge]

you have a total of 3 hit dice, and the dice type is D10s

[smoky adder]

And when you rest, you can regain hit dice, which adds to your current total.

[fickle lake]

oh so it could just be written like

Total: 3

Dice: d10

[fallen surge]

that is one way to use that box, yes

Do keep in mind that the character sheet is really just a fancy way to keep notes about your character, for your own reference. So as long as you know the important information, there really isn't any "right" or "wrong" way to use the sheet

its just whatever makes the most sense to you

I've also seen people use the "total" section to write "3d10" and the "dice" section to write how many hit dice they currently have

since the larger section is easier to write and erase in

[fickle lake]

i think ill watch some character creation videos tommorrow and cross refrence with pre jen sheets

[fallen surge]

sounds like a good idea

[violet badger]

Ok so I have a question. I had used a different platform to create a character sheet previously. I wanted to “recreate” that character on DnD beyond, but the race isn’t available. I’m pretty sure the race was in Volo’s Guide to Monsters. It’s Tabaxi, but the DnD beyond won’t let me choose it as a race. Could that be because the crew I was with previously the DM allowed it and it’s not a normal thing?

[sudden otter]

On DDB you only have access to content that you own, or that is shared through a campaign. If no one in your new campaign owns a source book with Tabaxi, you won't have that option.

It's in Volo's and now also in Mordenkainens Monsters of the Multiverse

Or can be purchased individually on DDB for a few buckeroos

[violet badger]

If I own a copy of Volo’s hard copy and digital, is there a way that I could upload or provide proof of ownership?

[sudden otter]

Unfortunately not. Digital copy would have had to been purchased through DDB

[violet badger]

Big sad

[sudden otter]

Indeed. I like my physical books, but I like having stuff set up in DDB too.

[smoky adder]

You could use the homebrew tools to recreate that race, using your physical book as a reference.

Or you could buy the updated version of it in Monsters of the Multiverse.

[fallen surge]

You can also purchase the race individually, instead of purchasing the whole book. A single playable race is listed at $1.99 on DDB's marketplace

[hollow moat]

Hi, i’m completely new to dnd. I’ve seen it a couple of times in movies, shows and on youtube and it seems like it’s really fun, can someone tell me about the rules of dnd and the basic things i need to know?

[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]

welcome! the bot post above should provide you some very helpful links for getting started! Appologies for the double-posting of it though

[hollow moat]

No worries and thanks!

[lyric fjord]

For a 1st level high elf wizard, is this a good set of cantrips/spells to start with? or should I swap anything out?

Dancing Lights, Fire Bolt, Prestidigitation, Absorb Elements, Burning Hands, Detect Magic, Hideous Laughter, Magic Missile, Shield, Sleep.

[wild onyx]

Looks like a decent set to me.

[smoky adder]

Fine choices.

Though I'd personally swap Prestidigitation for Shocking Grasp.

Or Message.

[fickle pollen]

Hello

[pseudo sedge]

I’m about to DM my first session tomorrow!!!!

Any tips for what I should have behind my dm screen? I made one with my uncle.

Oh whoops let me post this in the dm chat

[lyric fjord]

Any particular reason as to why?

[smoky adder]

It can get you out of a tight spot if the enemies get too close.

[lyric fjord]

Oooh, okay. I see why that could be more useful

[smoky adder]

Since it stops them from taking a reaction, you can slip away without risking an opportunity attack.

Granted, you can also do that by taking the Disengage action, which is guaranteed to work.

But not without making them pay for it. 😛

[lyric fjord]

Swapped! Thanks

Hii

[smoky adder]

Welcome!

[lyric fjord]

How are you?

[smoky adder]

Not bad. You?

[glass bronze]

Hi

[jaunty delta]

If any experienced dnd plyer had the time to have a call with me and allow me to ask questions it would help me a lot.

[deft sigil]

you might get more answers much more reliably if you just type them out here. Folks are generally pretty helpful

[cobalt frigate]

Why not ask here? This channel exist to help new players out.

[jaunty delta]

i am a slow typer

[cobalt frigate]

Take your time.

[jaunty delta]

and spelling is very bad

i am more comfortable talking

[cobalt frigate]

¯_(ツ)_/¯

[deft sigil]

people won't mind spelling.. replying via text can be done quickly for folks whereas a voice call is just one on one and more distracting.
there are no silly questions.. people will help you out, slow typing and all.

Have you visited any of the resource links we have here?

[jaunty delta]

resource links i have never heard of

[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.

[deft sigil]

the stuff in blue there are links to pages (resources of information) to help get you going

[jaunty delta]

i am comleatly new and i have never done any dnd ever

[deft sigil]

well, what got you interested in D&D in the first place?

[jaunty delta]

back in 2016 in have known about it i love the open nature of the consept but i have never given it a shot because its hard to get into

i have no friends that know wht it is

[jaunty delta]

this/

[cobalt frigate]

Playing online with strangers is not uncommon these days.

[jaunty delta]

That is what i want to do but i have no idea what i need or how to make a character

that is why i asked a seasoned player to guide me

[cobalt frigate]

There are dozens of new players joining this server every day so a 1 on 1 tutorial for everyone is not feasible.

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

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

Both are linked above.
After you read the rules and/or watch the tutorial videos, feel free to ask questions here.

[jaunty delta]

I have read everything i have severe ADHD and i have always found it easier to learn from mouth to mouth this is not an escuse as i have never mentioned my adhd to anyone online ever .

[cobalt frigate]

Watch the tutorial videos at your own pace.

[sudden otter]

The videos are short and digestible. At least give them a try.

[deft sigil]

if something in them confuses you or sparks a question - pause it then come here and ask about that thing.

I know that, ideally, you'd like to speak with someone, but that is a service most just can't provide to everyone who would ask on the server. We are happy to help but we need a question to start off with rather than explain everything

you don't need to know everything is the thing (that could be overwhelming even for the most seasoned of us).. so narrowing us in with questions can help us get you started.

[cobalt frigate]

Also us answering as a group collective ensures that you'll be getting the proper information. An individual helping you privately may feed you the wrong information or house rules.

[jaunty delta]

I appreciate what you are doing and i imagine that what you do help couintless dnders. i have a hard time paying attention so i watch the same video 3 or more times to get everything . and its hard for me to do something without someone willing to explain at a monent notice.

[cobalt frigate]

Again, you are asking a lot from someone to do an one-on-one tutorial when there are dozens of new people joining every day on this server alone.

Watch the tutorial videos at your own pace. You don't need to watch them all in one sitting.

[jaunty delta]

yes that is what i asked nothing wrong with asking

if nobody had the time or energy so be it

[cobalt frigate]

Anyway, feel free to ask questions after you read the rules and/or watched the tutorial videos.

[jaunty delta]

Anyway i will be sure to do that.

[serene sonnet]

is the dnd handbook somewhere online or something?

[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]

There's the link to the free Basic Rules.

[smoky adder]

Let’s keep it civil, folks.

Everyone here is welcome to play, and there’s lots of ways to accommodate different styles of play.

Let’s move on.

[fresh fable]

Do you have a local game store near you, sometimes they run new comer sessions and walk you through the rules

[jaunty delta]

no i do not i live in finland vaasa

[fresh fable]

https://www.rewell.fi/en/shop/pelimies/ does this help looks like they may have board game group so maybe dnd

[unkempt haven]

I am looking for a online session to learn how to play

[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 "Handbooker Helper" video tutorial series on Youtube.

Both are linked above.
After you read the rules and/or watch the tutorial videos, feel free to ask questions here.

[unkempt haven]

I know the basics I like to learn wile playing

[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.

[kind compass]

Just like we said to the other guy,dnd is a game that requires a fair bit of dm,rare and discreet are the dms that are willing to explain to you the rules on the fly,so knowing the bases of combat and character creation is hightly recommended!

[lyric fjord]

If my character died in a story it's not gonna be like dead for good and I can't ever use her again right?

[true musk]

It depends on the campaign

[cobalt frigate]

Usually the dead character remains dead unless the rest of the party finds a magical means of reviving them back to life like Revivify, Raise Dead, or Resurrection spells.

[fresh fable]

Maybe in a different campaign but starting from lvl1 with no knowledge of the other adventure you played in

[ornate kiln]

with another group, people probably dont know you used that character concept before.

so its always possible to reuse characters that way

[lavish tiger]

Calming (I have exactly one character lmao)

[ornate kiln]

if you stick to the same group, it would be rather unusual to play the same character again

[lavish tiger]

obv

[lyric fjord]

Got it

[cobalt frigate]

I'm a forever DM so the rare times I do get to play as a player I use the same character concept (a LG female aasimar paladin of devotion). I've gone up to level 8 only to start again with the "same" character at level 1 in a different adventure.

[lavish tiger]

how do you manage to keep it fresh, using the same character several timesß

[cobalt frigate]

Probably because I don't get to play that often as a player (maybe once every two years).

[serene sonnet]

jeez how long have you been playin dnd?

[true musk]

You can keep it fresh by considering how their dynamic changes with different party members.

Dnd has been out since the 70s.

[serene sonnet]

true, i havent played a single game yet but it seems interesting.

[cobalt frigate]

40+ years.

[true shard]

sheesh

[marsh crest]

Yall, one of my players is a I think redemption paladin, for hold person does the wisdom throw have to be above the DC? Or is that some sort of competition

[fresh fable]

DC is meet or beat

[true shard]

if it passes or equals the dc they are not subjected to the initial casting of the spell

[civic heath]

hello?