dnd-newcomers

[tawdry relic]

but your not fully out of the woods either

[solemn light]

You are unconcious, but no longer need to roll death saves.

[ashen roost]

Oh so it’s similar to brink of death in Darkest Dungeon that’s so cool

[solemn light]

A stable creature doesn't make death saving throws, even though it has 0 hit points, but it does remain unconscious. The creature stops being stable, and must start making death saving throws again, if it takes any damage. A stable creature that isn't healed regains 1 hit point after 1d4 hours.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/combat#StabilizingaCreature

[wet galleon]

You should refer to @solemn light, rather than me. They gave a far more reliable answer. I simply tried to recall what I could understand, so I have mistakes in my own assessment.

[tawdry relic]

Btw is soulknife the route I should go for rogue subclass because ive heard its really good

[fluid olive]

ah

[solemn light]

The best way to save a creature with 0 hit points is to heal it. If healing is unavailable, the creature can at least be stabilized so that it isn't killed by a failed death saving throw.

You can use your action to administer first aid to an unconscious creature and attempt to stabilize it, which requires a successful DC 10 Wisdom (Medicine) check.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/combat#StabilizingaCreature
The basic rules here will answer most of your questions on dying in 5e.

[wet galleon]

Okay, so once a stable creature regains 1 HP, then... Do they regain consciousness and get back up once that 1d4 hour passes?

[tawdry relic]

mixed with dragonborn I think that it could be a nice mix as I can poison them with a breath attack while also getting sneak attack damage and psychological damage in

[ashen roost]

Can someone review my concept character? I’m not done with him but is looking for guidance whether or not I’m on the eight track

www.dndbeyond.com/sheet-pdfs/RhythmTheGoat_121789316.pdf

[solemn light]

Falling Unconscious
If damage reduces you to 0 hit points and fails to kill you, you fall unconscious. This unconsciousness ends if you regain any hit points.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/combat#FallingUnconscious

[wet galleon]

I did not play Darkest Dungeon. I'm sorry that I can't relate to your example.

[tawdry relic]

essentially your knocked out until you get healed

[solemn light]

If you have an idea of the character you want to make and how to make it, #character-discussion can really help out with tips on builds or ideas.
If you really want to get number crunchy there is also #optimization

[tawdry relic]

okay its been a while since ive been on the dnd discord so I forgot those pages existed TY

[fluid olive]

btw the reason im asking about death is because i started making a subclass who's main thing came from being on the verge of death.

[ashen roost]

It’s essentially just whenever a character is about to die they’re instead on “the brink of death” and are on 1 hp instead and must be healed or they will die on the next turn they take damage

[solemn light]

It's up to you and how you want to RP, but Paladins really benefit from Charisma and don't benefit from Intelligence, so swapping those stats might be best. Charisma is a paladin's spellcasting ability and what they use for most of their paladin abilities.

[wet galleon]

Question:

Does a Monk benefit from Intelligence or Intelligence Skills, at all?

[ashen roost]

Ahh I may swap them when I do some other touches on him thanks for the suggestion

[plucky ridge]

Monks are more wisdom than intelligence

[solemn light]

Not really. Alas, not many characters do. Wizards and Artificers are really only the classes that use intelligence

[hoary carbon]

No, they benefit from dexterity and wisdom

[fluid olive]

its more wisdom and dex than int

[solemn light]

D&D characters don't tend to be that book smart it seems.

[hoary carbon]

Unless you are a wizard or artificer, intelligence is gonna be more or less a useless stat 9 times out of 10

[solemn light]

Of course, you can always keep it high for RP. It can also help training times, if your DM uses those rules, and for knowledge checks (arcana, history, religion, nature so on).

[ashen roost]

They be wise though

[hoary carbon]

My Lore bard sometimes knows a thing or two about generic shit. Thank god he has at least a little intelligence

[wet galleon]

Because the first character I initially wanted to create, is highly disciplined, studied lots of books, but is a naïve Halfling who was found and adopted by a Monastery. So he studied a bunch of books, learned about History, but because he is kind-hearted and young when he decides to "find himself and his true home away from his Brothers", he lacks the optimal Wisdom that is associated with being a Monk, and aims to gain said Wisdom through adventuring.

Hence why I ask, Intelligence makes sense if he studied lots of books, and low Wisdom makes sense if he was very sheltered and never got out much or ever interacted outside of his Monastery.

[hoary carbon]

Well the wisdom isnt just meant for being wise when it comes to monks. It affects their armor class

[wet galleon]

Man.

[hoary carbon]

A monks reflexes compensate for not wearing armor

[wet galleon]

That is sincerely disappointing. That breaks the immersion hard, man.

[hoary carbon]

A monks AC is 10+ Dex and Wisdom modifier

Monks need not worry about an attack, they can simply avoid it

[wet galleon]

I understand. Still. I guess I'll just make below-average Wisdom his "Flaw". And find some other way to hopefully compensate for it so he actually has a chance in combat, so he can catch up his Wisdom through leveling.

[ashen roost]

Also I’ve been meaning to ask but does Wisdom affect Paladins a lot y’know for holy abilities

[hoary carbon]

Nah its all charisma

[wet galleon]

That's ... Interesting.

[hoary carbon]

But you do want your wisdom to be at least neutral since having negative isnt very good since wisdom saving throws are quite common

[ashen roost]

Ah ok

[hoary carbon]

You dont wanna have a bad wisom when someones hitting you with a hold person spell.

[ornate kiln]

have you considered making him a fighter? Not everyone raised in a monastery needs to get levels in monk.

[ashen roost]

Tnks now I know what to change in my character sheet

[wet galleon]

Neutral Wisdom is fine. I meant "Below Average" compared to most other Monks that start at Lv.1

[hoary carbon]

Wisdom in DnD represents your senses and intuition

[fluid olive]

how does dnd beyond know if a homebrew subclass is too close to an existing subclass to be shared?

[wet galleon]

I don't really understand. I want him as a Monk.

[hoary carbon]

Theres also different types of monks as well keep in mind

[fluid olive]

cause rn its saying that my barbarian homebrew is too close to circle of spores

[ornate kiln]

we dont know he exact mechanics. probably some sort of percentage of the same words or something

[hoary carbon]

Once you hit level 3, theres different paths you can choose

[wet galleon]

Ik. Open-Hand / Shadow / Elemental.

If I recall correctly, anyway.

[ornate kiln]

do want a monk because of the mechanics of monk, or because of the backstory?

[hoary carbon]

Theres others but those are the ones available for free. Theres ones such as drunken master, ascendant dragon

Kensei and Drunken Master are my personal favorites

[fluid olive]

there's like 10 tho

[wet galleon]

Because I want an Unarmed character. And I do not see a Fighter using Unarmed. If they do, then I pick Fighter. If not, then Monk. No question.

[ornate kiln]

fighters can be unarmed too. there is a fighting style for it.

[fluid olive]

Astral Self Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
Ascendant Dragon Fizban's Treasury of Dragons
Drunken Master Xanathar's Guide to Everything
Four Elements Player's Handbook
Kensei Xanathar's Guide to Everything
Long Death Sword Coast Adventurer's Guide
Mercy Tasha's Cauldron of Everything
Open Hand Player's Handbook
Shadow Player's Handbook
Sun Soul Sword Coast Adventurer's Guide
Xanathar's Guide to Everything

[wet galleon]

Then that changes things considerably.

[hoary carbon]

Monks are not necessarily unarmed fighters as well. They can use things like quarterstaves and other stuff

[fluid olive]

also muskets if you get really funny

[hoary carbon]

They are known as monk weapons and it lets them scale off of their dex instead of strength

[hoary carbon]

Own a musket for self defense just like the gods intended

[fluid olive]

gunk is peak

[wet galleon]

I understand they have a bonus whereby they can still do an extra Unarmed attack after they land a Weapon blow?

[fluid olive]

channel your ki into your bullets

[hoary carbon]

They have an ability called flurry of blows. You basically go full Jojos bizarre adventure and pummel your opponent as a bonus action

It costs 1 key point

[fluid olive]

they get to do an unarmed strike as a bonus action for free
you can also spend 1 ki point to use flurry of blows (which is just 2 unarmed strikes)

[wet galleon]

Alright.

[hoary carbon]

The way of kensei subclass focuses on using weapons

Generally making the monk a dangerous swordsman to boot

[fluid olive]

honestly its way closer to zealot barbarian so im confused as to how it got druid of all things

@wet galleon what lvl is the party starting at?

[hoary carbon]

I used to dismiss monks sometimes until my Bard got his nose broken by a drow kensei monk

[wet galleon]

Okay. Then I guess I should either rethink my "Halfling Monk" character now, since I don't have to be so strict on him anymore, so gotta rethink his character,

And possibly make a brand new Fighter that can use fisticuffs.

Sounds dumb, but if I see I am able to have the freedom to just go with bare-knuckle brawling, just because I can (irrespective of whether it is actually optimal, that isn't a concern right now, I just wanna screw around), then I'd love this game way more and just relax a lot more.

[wet galleon]

I don't have a Party. I never had a game setup yet.

[hoary carbon]

There is also a feat called tavern brawler, which helps when it comes to unarmed fighting

[wet galleon]

That sounds stupid and I like that.

[ornate kiln]

unarmed fighters are often grapplers, and tavern brawler helps with that

[wet galleon]

Eh. Grapplers? Fine, I can work with that. So long as I can play 1 game by punching things, I am very very happy.

[hoary carbon]

It increases unarmed strikes damage to a d4, ups your strength or con by 1 and gives you proficiency with improvised weapons

[fluid olive]

i remember one dm i got rid of the rule that made extra attacks not stack and i made a combo that did like 8 unarmed strikes in a single turn

[wet galleon]

Okay, Improvised Weapons for an unarmed brawler with his back against the wall sounds sick. I like that a lot.

[fluid olive]

unarmed strikes automatically are a d4+dex modifier

and go up as you level in monk

[wet galleon]

Only question. What is a small list of "improvised weapons"?

[hoary carbon]

Thats for monks

[fluid olive]

look around your room and think about what you could beat someone over the head with

[hoary carbon]

Tavern brawler makes it a d4 for everyone but it uses strength

Monks unarmed combat is more about precise strikes rather than brute strength

[fluid olive]

i forgot to read the chat for a second

and realized they got off of monk

[wet galleon]

Does a Perception Check of the room cost a turn, before I am able to ascertain what improvisable weapons I have close-by?

[fluid olive]

ask your dm

it depends on them

[wet galleon]

(Pardon me, I am also just trying to make sense as best I can. I understand "Perception" is for some reason a Wisdom Skill)

[wet galleon]

Makes sense. Guess I can ask "Do I have time to check around the place, or will this drunk dude deck me across the face before I finish checking and reacting to my surroundings?"

[fluid olive]

well think about it this way
sure, you may see the things
but do you know how the things could be used

[wet galleon]

I consider Perception as simply your senses, as is.

Understanding your interpretation of your senses is something else entirely, in my opinion.

[fluid olive]

you see a piece of a broken mirror
someone else sees a makeshift knife

[wet galleon]

Like, say, if you have eyes like a hawk. You can see really far away. Do you require Wisdom to see a guy 10 miles away?

[fluid olive]

ok honestly what stat would you put that under tho?

[hoary carbon]

It would be a perception check

[wet galleon]

Let me think...

There's Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom and Charisma.

[fluid olive]

but it benifits from wisdom from what i remember

[wet galleon]

Hm.

[hoary carbon]

Yes

[wet galleon]

From looking at these 6,

[hoary carbon]

Check that benefit from wisdom are animal handling, insight, medicine, perception and survival

[wet galleon]

Wisdom is the closest thing I can come to, with "Understanding of your surroundings and your presence within your environment."

Wisdom with animals, and insight make logical sense.

Wisdom with Survival makes some sense.

But... Medicine...

[fluid olive]

yeah

[wet galleon]

If it were me, I'd put that under Intelligence, honestly.

[hoary carbon]

Clerics use wisdom, and Clerics are the dedicated healer

[fluid olive]

how else would you know how to stitch a wound or make medicine yourself

[wet galleon]

Isn't that because they use Prayers?

Which are typically defined by Wisdom by every other RPG?

[hoary carbon]

They have their healing spells such as healing word, cure wounds

Though not every cleric is a dedicated healer. Some focus on offensive spells and others focus on smacking their target

[wet galleon]

Hm.

Yeah. I must say. As a newcomer coming in, having played other RPGs similar to DnD,

Some parts do not make much sense if you never played this game before.

Being honest, I have to really try to make this logic make sense to me.

But. Fair. It's a new game. I'll learn and adapt.

[hoary carbon]

Always a good strategy for DnD. I play rather cautiously since I grow attached to my characters and I'd hate to see them die

[wet galleon]

I can only see for myself if I play.

I don't intend to make my first 2 or 3 characters those that I take seriously.

I'm too new. I want my first real attempt to be much more meaningful, when I have a better understanding of the game and its fundamentals.

[fluid olive]

me literally making a subclass who's whole thing is about being on the verge of death:

though honestly same

i do tend to be a little more reserved (mainly because some of my dm's had a "curiosity killed the cat" mentality)

[hoary carbon]

My current character tries to keep the party organized but is still prone to youthful naivety and curiosity

[fluid olive]

how busted is +1 to all saving throws?

[hoary carbon]

Not much as the cloak of protection gives that bonus

[wet galleon]

So how long or short can I expect a beginner game session to be?

I know of sessions which expand into several campaigns which are ongoing stories.

Which can span several weeks if not months or a whole year.

But I am wondering how long a session requires me to be active and available.

[plucky ridge]

It depends on what you're doing. There's not set time for a game but the average is likely 2 - 5 hours.

[wet galleon]

So 2-5 of me having to consistently respond and reply to whatever happens in the game?

[plucky ridge]

Really it depends on the comfort of the DM and the players

It can be that yes

[wet galleon]

Because from what I have heard from DnD stories, having to get up and do something else can be rather ... Upsetting, from what I understand.

[plucky ridge]

Some people play up to 4 hours weekly, other people maybe play for 8 hours monthly

What do you mean upsetting?

[wet galleon]

But for a session, as in, 1 session, until completion.

Upsetting as in, it seems I need to sit down and not be called away, really. Like say I get called to help family out, or go do a chore, or run a quick 15-minute errand, or take a small break to just go make lunch before I continue playing.

[cobalt frigate]

You and your players set a time schedule, agreeing how long the sessions will be.

[wet galleon]

Ah.

And, again, sessions require 100% focus and attention? Or is there some leeway?

[cobalt frigate]

This is why scheduling is the greatest BBEG of D&D.

[plucky ridge]

Good communication would be the key. If you have an understanding table, they won't be upset if you need to leave for a little while. the bigger issue would be if you were on your phone a lot or not paying attention

[cobalt frigate]

That's up to you and your players.

[plucky ridge]

Every table is different, there's no specific way to run the game

[wet galleon]

Well, yeah, but sometimes you get called away due to an emergency. Or you get a phone call suddenly and randomly.

[cobalt frigate]

One of my players is a father so he told us ahead of time that around 9pm he has to step away to put his kids to sleep. That's fine because that's COMMUNICATION.

Then you tell your group that "I have an emergency I have to leave."

[plucky ridge]

Yeah it's all about being honest about what's going on but you also need to understand that the game will possibly continue without you.

[cobalt frigate]

Communicate with your group.

A good group will understand that Real Life > D&D.

[wet galleon]

This puts me more at ease.

[cobalt frigate]

I only play with adults so I expect my players to be and act like adults, which include communicating with the rest of us.

D&D is a social game so you need to talk with each other in and out of the game.

[wet galleon]

Of course. Though, isn't DnD a game where communication is a basic necessity anyway?

[cobalt frigate]

People aren't mind readers.
Texting, email, and messaging are all simple things these days. Use those tools to communicate with your group if something arises.

[wet galleon]

Naturally.

My fear is less that I won't communicate thoroughly (I'm pretty sure I have a problem where I "over-communicate", especially if I am in a team that I respect), but that the team in question will either not understand, or be offended.

Again, these are just from what I've heard from some DnD stories from Reddit and YouTube.

I do know that, like, just playing video games or talking with someone in the background could be considered heavily disrespectful.

[plucky ridge]

People are most likely to post only their negative experiences since that's what gets engagement so while it's good to take some of the stories as cutionary, they're not 100% what will happen at every table

[wet galleon]

Oh...

[cobalt frigate]

Don't assume D&D horror stories are common place.

[wet galleon]

Hm. Okay.

I'll keep at your advice, though. I'll do my best to communicate with my Party.

[plucky ridge]

Don't focus what could be bad or go wrong, forcus ont the good and communicate with your table 🙂

[wet galleon]

Alright. Then I can only do my best.

And hope that is enough.

[smoky adder]

And if you’re that worried about it, discuss it with them before the game even begins.

If everyone’s setting expectations up front so the whole group is on the same page, it makes everything that follows a lot easier.

[opal tundra]

i don’t wanna interupt whatever discussion is happening so ill wait

[echo kelp]

It's fine - state your question/message and folks will engage with it as they have time and energy

[opal tundra]

alright, I’ve recently made a character though have no experience with DND whatsoever and have no group to play with. Just wondering whats my next step tbh

[echo kelp]

If you're ready to try and find a group to play with you can check our Looking For Game channels for a group to join.
#looking-for-players is for groups looking for players
#looking-for-community are other D&D servers that may have different kinds of D&D games you could join
#750812887697588356 is where you can create a post that you're looking for a DM/group (read #find-a-game to learn how to post there)
and #paid-looking-for-game if you're okay paying a DM to run a game for you

[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.

[fluid olive]

what's the difference between once per short rest and once per short or long rest

[plucky ridge]

Once per short rest means you can only use the ability once before you have to complete a short rest to use it again

Short rest or long rest would be the same but it would refresh after either

[cobalt frigate]

Short rests last at least one hour.
Long rests lasts at least eight hours and you can only have one long rest every 24 hours.

[smoky adder]

I don’t think there’s anything in the game that refreshes after a short rest but not a long rest.

But things that reset only on a long rest (and not a short rest) are pretty common.

[inner hawk]

Hey how do I put in a request in find players

[steep river]

An addendum to this is that only 6 of the 8 hours need to be spent sleeping by those who require an 8 hour long rest (not all playable races require 8 hours) as long as the remaining 2 only have light duty activities such as being on watch.

[harsh fjord]

In any channel where you have permission to type, type /looking and select the appropriate choice. Hit enter. You'll be taken to a form to fill out, and the bot will post in the channel you selected.

[inner hawk]

Ok thanks

[narrow garnet]

I’m trying to join a campaign, but everything’s either full or the time or available for me where is a good place that I could look for a campaign that’s available for time

[harsh fjord]

I made a guide with a number of options to check out for finding a game/group. Hopefully you'll be able to find something that aligns with your schedule/preferences.

[ruby plume]

Is there a way to filter by time zones. Almost everything is just est. Any eu options?

[echo kelp]

Just standard Discord search as far as our LFG channels go

[night galleon]

All games are est 😭

[harsh fjord]

I'd recommend focusing more on whether schedules line up rather than which time zone folks are in. If the game happens in the afternoon for you but early evening for someone in another time zone, that could still work for all involved.

[night galleon]

Ik

But what I mean by that is that times don't work

[cobalt frigate]

Then keep looking.

It may take you days to weeks or even months to find a good table.

[night galleon]

Ik 😭

[cobalt frigate]

That's why I'm a forever DM.

[steep tapir]

Hi all

[lyric fjord]

Finding people to play with is so hard when youre brand new

[lofty solar]

Omg fr, im looking at the looking for players and everything is so confusing for me 😭

[lyric fjord]

We found 5 people and set everything up to play but they ghosted us, its just 2 of us

[lofty solar]

Omg that's sad. Sorry that happened. Idk what to do rn, I'm like a little overwhelmed xD

[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.

[strange onyx]

hey so im a artist looking to get started. im designing a plasmoid

[sharp bridge]

Hi I’m completely new to dnd on every aspect can someone help explain how it all works and what I should do to start playing it

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[lyric fjord]

Hi i'm new and looking for any help to set up a character

[hoary carbon]

The above bot post may help you

[lyric fjord]

Ah thanks

[lyric fjord]

How do proficiencjes work?

If I roll 17 deception and have 5 proficiency, I get 23, Ive already exceeded the number 20 so what happens to the remaining 3?

Or is the proficiency just a boost for higher success?

[digital radish]

E

[fleet field]

you can exceed 20

the flat roll cannot because it's a 20 sided die, but there's no limit to how large the value can be with modifiers included

[lyric fjord]

Yeah I get that, but the proficiency is only there to help you reach 20, and exceeding 20 doesnt come with any specific ability/effect

[fresh fable]

Depends on the DC you are trying to get to I.e if it’s 20dc you succeed if 25dc you fail

[fleet field]

the DC you need to meet can be all the way up to 30

[woven verge]

btw how much should i like really read up on before i start? like do yall have any sections in the basic rules i should be focusing on or is it like read everything everything

ive been like mildly interested in dnd for a few months but it feels like if i get smthing wrong I'll be smited 💔

[umbral tide]

Hi

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[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.

[wet galleon]

You're not alone in feeling anxious about starting a new game and being too inexperienced.

But there is only so much you can study, without having practical experience to help cement everything you learn.

Me, I also have yet to play my first ever game, I am hoping to do so at some point today.

[woven verge]

oh also do i create a character before looking at joining a game or find a game and then make a character specifically for the game

[fleet field]

make a character specifically for a game, generally

although making a practice character before joining a game can be good for learning the process

[livid iris]

are there any places to join or maybe make your own free campaign? im really new to dnd never played it but really wanna try it but at the same time im broke

[vital sinew]

@livid iris same here mate, no friends around me play dnd but I'm interested in giving it a go!

[livid iris]

yeah all my friends think the game seems to be too much stress so they wont give it a try

[vital sinew]

Surely get a group of people and start a campaign over zoom sessions or something 🤔

Idk

[livid iris]

dont even know where i would start a campaign XD

[wheat crystal]

You can learn to play and DM with just the free basic rules, linked in this channels pins

As for running campaigns, the basic rules don’t contain a prewritten module but D&DBeyond has a few short adventures available for free. A lot of retailers also carry beginners adventures that can be purchased for relatively cheap.

Of course, making your own adventure is also an option

[livid iris]

ok

[hazy sleet]

how join 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.

[lyric fjord]

If you roll a 1 on 1d20, and have a proficiency bonus of 10, does that still count as a failure?

[timid locust]

Depends on what you're rolling for! For example, an attack roll always fails on a 'natural 1', no matter what. However, an ability check or a saving throw might still succeed if your modifier was high enough!

[lyric fjord]

Can someone explain saving throws to me i dont understand

[timid locust]

A saving throw is something a creature rolls when it comes under the effect of some detrimental spell or ability. You won't need to roll one unless an effect tells you to, and your abilities will say if an enemy needs to roll one.

Things like the Burning Hands spell, for example, force creatures within the wave of fire to make a Dexterity Saving Throw.

[fallen surge]

Which aspect do you not understand? How they are done, or what they are for?

[vague kindle]

Any tips on roleplaying? I think it's something that comes naturally as you play more, but for starters - what makes for a good roleplay?

[fallen surge]

?tag new roleplaying

[exotic remnant]

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

[vague kindle]

theres a resource prepared on anything HAHA

EDIT: looks like it's just like with any other game - have fun with the thing being wacky at times and consider other players with your choices. It just sounded much more intimidating than it is 😅

[carmine shuttle]

DDB has had a long time to put things like that together.

[analog walrus]

can you use owlbear rodeo for free?

as a dm

[fallen surge]

Yes, Owlbear Rodeo is free. If you are looking for more help with it, #third-party is the proper channel to discuss VTTs and such

[jovial vine]

Hi i am new to dnd and trying to find a group anyone got any recommendation on how to find a group for beginners?
been searching in alot of discord servers

[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.

[solemn light]

Also very worth Checking out iamrazorwing's guide to finding games online.
He's another user on here and has put together this very helpful guide with tips as well.

[jovial vine]

thanks i will keep trying

just waiting to see if i get accepted to any of the few groups i tried to join

[graceful helm]

Any got any tips for starting an artificer? The class seems interesting but looking at what they do, what makes them effective in combat?

anyone*

[fallen surge]

Its hard to give generic tips for playing an artificer, because each subclass has a WILDLY different playstyle

[timid locust]

Artificers are fun! Their playstyle varies significantly based on their subclass, so they can be anything from an up-close brawler, to a crossbow expert, to a spell slinger. They usually rely heavily on the special bonus actions most subclasses get at level 3.

[graceful helm]

ok, im a damage kind of guy lol, what kind of subclass should i be looking into?

are they good supports too?

[fallen surge]

Battle Smith is the most damage focused one. Armorer is a good tank-support with battlefield control options. Artillerist can either do damage or be a healing support depending on what eldritch cannon form you choose

[timid locust]

I'll give a very basic rundown of the subclasses:

• Battle Smith: You get a robot companion who helps you fight
• Armorer: you superpower your armor and give it strong, built in weapons
• Artillerist: create a turret for both offense and defense
• Alchemist: Brew potions for pre-battle support

[graceful helm]

Ok nice! Thank you

They seem very interesting, im playing a Swashbuckler rogue atm in my first campaign and its great fun, but I'm already looking into other classes to play and an artificer is looking quite appealing

[fallen surge]

Artificers are fantastic, yeah. They are my personal favorite class

[carmine shuttle]

Friend who played an artillerist with us in an AL game this weekend flavored her weapon as a prototype laser gun and her faerie fire spell as a glitter bomb.

the skald (me, valor bard 4) flavored both thunderwave and Shatter as really loud war cries.

[fallen surge]

Hi there

The message I'm replying to got deleted, but to answer their question, any race can play any class!

Some races tend to favor certain classes because of their ability score increases. Like elves get +2 dexterity, so they make really good monks and rangers and rogues, for example. But if you really wanted to make an elf barbarian, nothing in the rules stops you from doing so

And even that is assuming you are using the Players Handbook and basic rules only. In later books, the newer races let you pick where your ability score increases go, so those races can fit into any class even more fluidly. And in the book Tasha's Cauldron of Everything, they added optional rules to allow you to change the ability score increases of the original races too, so those Elf Barbarian dreams can be even more of a reality

[wind flax]

Yeah, sorry, it seems I can't share my age 😅
Whoa! OK, maybe I didn't read all the new guy's stuff 🤣
Thanks a lot for the info, seems I have much to assimilate before trying a character build 😬

[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 lots of helpful resources for getting you started, including a link to the free basic rules, and youtube explainer videos

[wind flax]

Thanks! Gonna check what I missed.
By the way, if we're not in a group and know beforehand what are we playing in, aren't we supposed to play it safe and create a character based on the basic rules only? So it can fit in any game or campaign we join?

[timid locust]

That's the safe route, sure. It doesn't hurt to practice making character sheets just in case, but just know that theoretically anything could be subject to change once you join.

[wind flax]

I'm using the DnD beyond app. Thought it might be easier to get the hang and that it could limit my selecting stupid values 😅

[timid locust]

The simpler the better for your first character!

[fallen surge]

So long as you keep things within the core rules, its unlikely for anything to be rejected. 90% of groups will allow content from books like Xanathar's Guide or Tasha's Cauldron. Its always best to ask before you assume anything, and sticking with just the basics can make things easier for a beginner. But specific content being outright rejected is uncommon. Not unheard of, but it happens less often than not.

[young pewter]

I’m new and tbh just looking to get into dnd any advice on how to start?

[upbeat quest]

Same! I have no idea how this works.

[young pewter]

Let’s learn together lol

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[slow hawk]

Start by reading the above materials

[young pewter]

Okayyy thank you

[wispy gate]

what is DC and AC ? :)) something with hit aand attack im guessing, but just wanna know what it stands for

[harsh fjord]

Difficulty Class and Armor Class.

[timid locust]

DC is the number the roller has to meet or beat when they make a saving throw. AC is the number the roller has to meet or beat when they make an attack roll.

[kind compass]

@young pewter @upbeat quest If any of you needs any help with a mechanic or rule,don't hesitate to ask!

[kind compass]

AC is your armor.Its determined by your armor type and your dexterity,it represents the chance you have to dodge/tank an attack.If an ennemy rolls bellow your ac,they don't hit you

DC is the DIFFICULTY CHALLENGE,its the number you have to beat,for exempl a DC13 dexterity check,where you have to roll above a 13 to succeed

Those are mainly used for abilities and area of effect spells

[wispy gate]

very useful thank u all

[quasi carbon]

Hello! I'm intrested in playing DND, I've never actually played before, but I was wondering if anyone is starting a campagin soon and are looking for adventures?

[exotic remnant]

Ready to play Dungeons & Dragons?

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

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

[fallen surge]

If you are ready to join a campaign, read through the instructions in #find-a-game to find how how to go about finding one

[quasi carbon]

Okay thank you!

[earnest tangle]

Hi guys, I'm new so can anyone explain how it works the combat with an example?thx guys, im scared.

[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 lots of helpful resources for getting started. You can find the rules for combat in chapter 9 of the Basic Rules linked above. Once you've given it a read through, if you still have any questions, we'd be more than happy to help. Its a lot easier to help you if you ask specific questions though. Its a lot easier to answer something like "how do I make an attack roll?" than it is to answer "how does combat work?"

Though if you want an example, I think the introductory demo linked above will be perfect for that

[whole nexus]

Hello! Me and my friend are interested in playing DND, We've never actually played before, but we were wondering if anyone is starting a campaign soon and are looking for adventures?

[exotic remnant]

Ready to play Dungeons & Dragons?

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

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

[fallen surge]

If you are looking for people to play D&D with or want to find a campaign to join, go to the #find-a-game channel and read through all the messages there for instructions on how

[hushed jetty]

hello

i am looking tostart playing dnd

friends i have that might be interested in playing dnd with me: 0

[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.

[hushed jetty]

was wondering if there's like an online game i can play or something

[echo kelp]

^ Read #find-a-game to learn how to use our Looking For Game channels.

[hushed jetty]

im looking to learn first

[echo kelp]

Also if you're new, check out the pinned messages in our channel here.

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[hushed jetty]

idk how to do anything in taht game

my only mmorgp that i played was warframe so yea

[echo kelp]

I'd recommend giving these a look: #dnd-newcomers message

[hushed jetty]

alright

[echo kelp]

Feel free to ask any specific questions you have here (e.g. "what does AC stand for?" or "What does d8 mean?"

[hushed jetty]

i think d8 is an 8 sided dice no?

[echo kelp]

Yep!

[hushed jetty]

i keep seeing those yt shorts about dnd

more and more keep popping up

i was interested in it already

but now i really just wanna play lol

[echo kelp]

I'd recommend reading through those basic rules (also see those Handbook Helper videos), try your hand at making a character sheet, ask questions as you run into things, and then go find a gorup to join and play some D&D!

And welcome!

[true musk]

Welcome to the hobby .
The game is fairly beginner friendly.
This Quick Beginners Guide by One Shot Questers is 3 minutes long: https://youtu.be/zONEcUAYDfU

[vale shell]

Salutations, anyone here?

[fallen surge]

welcome

[echo kelp]

looks at server member list
... yes? 😉

[fallen surge]

almost 50,000 of us

[vale shell]

So the main reason I am here to learn D&D since friends of mine have me a time period of 1-2 months to get ready

So…

What are the basics? Cause I have 0 idea.

[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]

You can find some excellent resources for getting started in the bot post above, including a link to the free basic rules, as well as some explainer youtube videos

[vale shell]

Well readying all of that for sure will be thrilling. Here I go.

[spark basalt]

Hey?

[echo kelp]

Welcome!

[native berry]

hi

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[fringe cradle]

Hey yall I am new to the d&d realm and community what I should start first like I already created my character on D&D beyond

[echo kelp]

If you have a character sheet and you're ready to try and play, please read (carefully) #find-a-game as it explains how to use our Looking For Game channels to find or organize a game

[nimble bloom]

I have a D&D session coming up, it's gonna be my first and I have little idea on what will happen in the session, i read the handbook so I have a rough understanding of the game. Does anyone have any tips or pointers that I could use in my first sessin of D&D?

[harsh fjord]

Is it a one-shot or the first of an ongoing game? Are these strangers or friends you're playing with?

[nimble bloom]

one-shot and strangers

[smoky adder]

Try and set expectations at the start of the game -- or earlier, if you can.

[supple blade]

is it irl or discord voice chat?

[nimble bloom]

Irl

[supple blade]

k

[harsh fjord]

Ask the DM if you'll be doing a session zero. Those are helpful pre-game conversations to get everyone's expectations calibrated. If there's not a session zero, I'd recommend a few things:

• Try to not hog the spotlight, but don't be passive and expect others to give you an opportunity to speak up.
• Do speak up if something is proving uncomfortable for you. You may need to walk away.
• Read over what your character can do. Know your options, at least in the general sense.
• Listen to everyone, try to be speedy on your turn, and thank the DM.

[smoky adder]

Let everyone know you're new to the game and that you've read through the rules, but may have questions during the game.

[nimble bloom]

Thank you

Ill be sure to remember those tips

[smoky adder]

Having a solid understanding of these core concepts can help the gameplay run smoothly:

• these common terms
• what to do on your turn
• how your character’s own abilities work

[nimble bloom]

alright

[smoky adder]

And this article has a lot of good advice for being a team player.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/posts/728-new-players-guide-the-group-that-games-together

[frigid quarry]

99 times out of a hundred if people see you trying your genuine best with a touch of humility you’ll be fine. It’s a spreadsheet game with figurines. Not brain surgery. Don’t psych yourself out.

[carmine shuttle]

The part about being up front that it's your very first game is key, too. A halfway decent group and GM will try to support you through figuring stuff out and helping make sure that you're making choices that line up with your idea of fun.

[smoky adder]

Yeah, if you let them know you're new, a good group will actively look for ways to get your character involved.

[frigid quarry]

I will say this. Turn economy management can be important, nobody wants a 30 minute turn Andy when they can rack it out in 2. What mitigates that is engagement. Not being on your phone. Etc. Leaning in.

[main fulcrum]

For sure. As long as you're putting in the effort/trying, most groups should take that as its meant and help you along. The only players that are really considered problems locally are the ones who don't even try to work with the group, or make it clear that they haven't read the rules/looked at their sheet at all.

And for combat, it doesn't hurt to have a "when in doubt, do this" option determined in advance to help avoid decision paralysis. For example, if nothing else comes to mind, my barbarian will hit something

[smoky adder]

To build on this, if you're not sure what specifically you want to do, focus on intent. "I want to attack this" or "I want to help this character" or "I want to protect myself" -- "What are my options?"

Once everyone knows where you want to go, they can help you get there.

[frigid quarry]

If you give people the chance to feel like a king for helping you, they will often leap at the chance

[carmine shuttle]

Yup. And as a very brief summary from me, just to illustrate what it can be like: https://www.reddit.com/r/AdventurersLeague/comments/1bt910s/my_wifes_first_time_chucking_polyhedral_dice_eve/

[frigid quarry]

It’s a maybe a little manipulative, or it’s just a genuine feel good inherently for being positively social towards another person

[carmine shuttle]

If I have a support class at a table with a new player, you can guarantee that at least the first use of some support ability is going to them. (In the linked thread, the new player got 2 of my 3 bardic inspiration dice for the session, and that would have been true whether I was married to said new player or not.)

[nimble bloom]

thanks for all of this

[carmine shuttle]

The people who love this game tend to love this game, especially the ones who would hang out here - not just this server, but in the newcomers channel more specifically.

[frigid quarry]

I clicked here by mistake

[carmine shuttle]

"tend to"

[velvet stone]

How can I make my first character in dnd

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[harsh fjord]

Follow the steps in the rules: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/step-by-step-characters

[fallen surge]

The first 4 chapters of the Basic Rules, which are linked above, are a step by step guide to character creation

[smoky adder]

You can start by choosing a race, class, and background.

[velvet stone]

Aight thank you for helping

[carmine shuttle]

Honestly? I'm starting to think that a better order might be background <-> race, then class last.

At least for a very first character, anyway.

[main fulcrum]

I usually go race, class, background personally

[carmine shuttle]

I know that's the way it's laid out in the rules.

[main fulcrum]

But that's partially because I almost always customize my background at least a little and that tells me what profs I already have

Doing background first makes customizing the proficiencies more awkward

[carmine shuttle]

But for a very first character, the idea of knowing "where did they come from" before "what are they doing now" seems to be a logical flow.

[main fulcrum]

Since you have to check what skills your race or class might also give you after

[carmine shuttle]

(Also, as a general rule - if you get a default proficiency in something from more than one source, you can generally swap one of them.)

[main fulcrum]

I can see it. Thinking about it more, I think I actually tend to start with class when coming up with characters. I just use the other order when filling out my sheet

[main fulcrum]

That rule is technically only listed in the background section, so YMMV with DMs 🤷

[wet trench]

Hi, I have a quick question. Does anyone here know how to get the pdf copy of Dungeons & Dragons: Red Dragon’s Tale adventure? I have been looking through the dnd beyond but couldn't find it.

[main fulcrum]

Most DDB adventures don't come with PDF copies in my experience.

[carmine shuttle]

Granted. Which, for a very first character, is also a decent reason to start there. (And I'm suggesting "background first" in the context of a very first character.)

[wet trench]

@wet trench it was promised to be downloadable for dnd beyond users today

[main fulcrum]

Then #ddb-support may know.

Personally, I still think deciding what you want your character to do and then who they are/how they got there is a more logical flow. At least in my head.

But I'm also not much of a backstory person. I'm only really interested in backstory to the extent that it affects how the character acts now.

[smoky adder]

That’s available here:
https://www.dndbeyond.com/claim/dice/lego

[wet trench]

@wet trench Thank you😄

[proven venture]

Hello

[carmine shuttle]

Oh, yeah, it's totally a YMMV situation.

[tropic stream]

Anyone have an online D&D campaign I could join? Not sure how online works though

[smoky adder]

#find-a-game can point you toward the available groups.

[tropic stream]

Thx

[main fulcrum]

Though this conversation has made me realize that I fill out the sheet race-class-background, but I tend to plan characters as class-background/race instead 😁

[wary trout]

Hi guys im new and just wonderìng if there are any text based dnd games available or anywhere you know that deos those?

[main fulcrum]

Text based games are usually called play by post and they do exist, but they're less common than the other types

[wary trout]

Ok thanks very much. Do you know where i might find one?

[cobalt frigate]

Check #find-a-game

[wary trout]

Ok thank you i will try that sometime

[light jungle]

i have a quick question regarding dnd beyond

[cobalt frigate]

Just ask.

[light jungle]

i bought the players hand book from a game store in a pack and wanted to make my character online, it says i need to buy the book again, is there anyway to get the online version without buying the book again?

[edgy onyx]

There is not I'm afraid

[light jungle]

is there anyone you know of that has the digital copy?

i want to see if build would look how i think it will but i can't help but feel like im dong it wrong

[deft sigil]

it's generally against the rules to solicit for the purposes of content sharing. You can use the homebrew tools to make some of the PHB stuff on DDB, but the digital version isn;t typically free

[true musk]

The book already covers it but you can follow along with this Quick Beginners Guide by One Shot Questers is 3 minutes long: https://youtu.be/zONEcUAYDfU

[light jungle]

thanks both of you

[exotic remnant]

Accessing Content on D&D Beyond

There are five ways to access content on D&D Beyond that you may have in your physical books

1. Purchase the full book from the marketplace
2. Purchase individual elements from the marketplace (options can be found within the book description)
3. Purchase a digital/physical bundle from dndstore.wizards.com
4. Join a campaign with someone who already owns the book where content sharing has been enabled
5. Use the homebrew tools to copy the content from your physical book into D&D Beyond. Note: Do not publish any content copied in this way, it is for personal use only

[floral nimbus]

Hi, I’m just wondering is anyone available to help me with dnd? It looks interesting and seems really fun!

[lyric fjord]

What do you need?

[hoary carbon]

Do you require assistance with rules, characters?

[floral nimbus]

Well I think I a grasp on how to play the game and how to make a character, and maybe some recommendations on how to find dice

[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.

[lyric fjord]

So, basically, you need to read the rules. Basic Rules are free and contain all the basic stuff, as the name indicates.

[hoary carbon]

Dice you can find at any local hobby store

If you are trying to play IRL

[lyric fjord]

Or you might play virtually, in which case you won't need actual dice, just choose which Virtual Tabletop (abridged VTT) you prefer

[hoary carbon]

Ive probably purchased at least 10 sets from my LGS

[floral nimbus]

Thanks but how do I find that?

[hoary carbon]

Theres several ways. there is an extension called beyond 20 made for VTT sites that let cause your rolls and actions to show up on the VTT page

[floral nimbus]

Oh that’s nice

Thanks for telling me that

[hoary carbon]

Ask any questions you may have

[bronze vector]

I wanna get started but idk how

[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.

[willow salmon]

Same here. I just finished making my sheet.

[bronze vector]

I've played a few sessions before very vanilla experience made a couple characters before too

[hoary carbon]

I am here to assist

[bronze vector]

Appreciated!

[willow salmon]

I just finished making my sheet. Mainly name, race, class, and stats. In full honesty I don't know what to do from here.

[lyric fjord]

Find a game

[hoary carbon]

Now, you simply gotta find a session to join

[lyric fjord]

Simple as that. Not easy, but simple. You want to head to #find-a-game, see if anyone you know is running a game, check Roll20's LFG... Any of those options work

[hoary carbon]

Gotta respect the fellow pompadour pfp

[willow salmon]

Okay. Ty.

[bronze vector]

What's vtt?

[echo kelp]

Virtual Tabletop

A place to put down virtual maps, tokens, and possibly dice rolling

[floral nimbus]

I have a question so is how much money disrupted by dice like every class or just for the specific classes like cleric, rogue, etc?

[smoky adder]

Sorry, I’m not sure what you’re asking there. 😅

Are you trying to ask how much gold characters start with?

[timid sparrow]

I need help calculating an AC class

[smoky adder]

What type of armor are you using?

What’s your Dexterity modifier?

What’s your class?

[timid sparrow]

well it’s for a non playable monster

The idea is that it’s this goblin piloting a futuristic metal rover

[smoky adder]

You’ll probably want to ask in #homebrew, then.

[gray charm]

Okay why is "eyes of the rune keeper" invocation a thing, isn't comprehend languages way better. In what scenario is that even usable

[smoky adder]

It’s always active and doesn’t require a spell slot.

But if you’d rather have Comprehend Languages, then go for it.

[gray charm]

It doesn't even say that you comprihend the language just read it and apparently some people rule it like that

2 levels of warlock to gain the ability to read nice

[main fulcrum]

If your DM is ruling like that, it may be time to find another table

[smoky adder]

read
verb
/rēd/

1. look at and comprehend the meaning of (written or printed matter) by mentally interpreting the characters or symbols of which it is composed.
   "it's the best novel I've ever read"

[short cobalt]

hey everyone, super new to dnd but excited to start the journey!

[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 musk]

Welcome to the hobby
The bot post above has everything you need to get started.

[sudden ferry]

Yo I’ve been wanting to play dnd for a while and trying to learn about it I know practically nothing but I’ve always been interested. I was just wondering if someone can help :3

[short cobalt]

thanks!

[true musk]

Welcome to the hobby as well
Try out the demo, read the basic rules (at least the first 4 chapters that cover character creation), and check out the Handbooker Helper videos if you're more of a visual learner.

[sudden ferry]

Thanks :3

[hoary carbon]

Always happy to help the new adventurers

[old locust]

Hey guys I’m brand new to D&D my buddy introduced me to it a few days ago and then recommended me to stop by here for help on getting started and the basics, any help at all would definitely help looking forward to participating in my first campaign in the future

[lyric fjord]

Tried DnD awhile ago with friends was fun but we never did more than 2 sessions though, would a online DnD campaign be a good way to get back in

[signal hazel]

Hey guys! Me and my brother want to play D&D, but have no clue how to start, and don’t know the rules…

Any tips?

[mint jolt]

check the pinned messages, they will be helpful

[signal hazel]

Will do, thanks!

[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.

[jovial ocean]

is anyone up that can help me learn i just created a character but i wanna learn more before my first time playing a campain

[cobalt frigate]

Check the links above

[jovial ocean]

i did i learn better when asking questions lol but i can give it another shot

[torpid prism]

Nah fam

@jovial ocean I got you

[unique mesa]

Hai

[torpid prism]

Hello

[jovial ocean]

@torpid prism i sent a dm to u

[brittle sierra]

when my group encounters a monster i've never seen before, is it appropriate to ask the DM if a certain spell type would hurt it? or is it something we should be researching ourselves, like knowing what monsters are immune to psychic? or is it expected/OK to do both?

[vernal dagger]

Howdy , am also newer to dnd . but like dont know what questions to ask lol

[steep river]

It's something to ask if your character would know. Additionally, you can have your character research such in game information.

It is expected you do not use your out of character personal knowledge to influence your characters actions. Doing so is referred to as metagaming.

[brittle sierra]

that's VERY good to know, i'm glad i didn't do it now 😂 and now i have a better way to ask next time it happens. thank you very much!!

[steep river]

No problem

[fresh spear]

I gotta be the oldest noob in this but hello everyone

[quick lotus]

You never told me you were a cleric

[pastel cairn]

Hello

[safe ibex]

Hello! I'm here cuz I have some questions about dnd

[echo kelp]

Welcome!

Check the pinned messgaes for links to useful resources to help you learn D&D

And feel free to ask specific questions you have here or in an aproppriate channel (see #channel-guide to fin the best channel for a particular D&D topic)

[pastel cairn]

So,just made my character,how do I get it here?

Also where do I find a campaign to join?

[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.

[violet abyss]

For DND beyond if I buy any of the books do they get shared in the session to add races and classes or do we all have to buy them individually for ourselves

[carmine shuttle]

If you buy the book, you can use the book. If you have the GM subscription (Master?), you can choose to share stuff you own with your players.

[noble echo]

Hey folks, I recently took interest in DnD but I don't know how to start, anyone willing to help?

[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.

[simple goblet]

Check the links in the post above 😊

[noble echo]

What do I need to do before I play besides reading the rules?

[simple goblet]

Have some high level character concepts in mind, and find a Dungeon Master who is running a game

[noble echo]

Can you elaborate with having high level characters in mind?

[simple goblet]

Such as "Sneaky Thief" or "Heavy Armoured Knight"

[smoky adder]

“High level” meaning “a rough idea”.

Not “a character with a high level”.

Come up with a few loose concepts for characters you’d like to play. Then when you find a DM, you can work together to pick the best fit for that campaign and add any finishing details.

[noble echo]

Should I create characters of each classes?

[main fulcrum]

If you want. It's easy enough to do in AL

[noble echo]

AL?

[main fulcrum]

Since you can swap characters a lot

Whoops, wrong channel

Regardless, it's still good practice

[noble echo]

What's an AL though?

[cobalt frigate]

Adventure's League

[exotic remnant]

No tag AL found in category new.

[noble echo]

It's a different game from DnD?

[crude musk]

No, it's a way of playing D&D

?AL

[exotic remnant]

What is the Adventurers League?

The D&D Adventurers League is an ongoing official campaign for Dungeons & Dragons. It uses the fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons rules, and features the Forgotten Realms setting. You can play D&D Adventurers League games literally anywhere. Players use the fifth edition rules to create a character and bring that character to games anywhere D&D Adventurers League play is happening.
[Find out more](#al-rules-compendium message)

Are you interested in the Adventurers League?
We have several channels to discuss Adventurers League play:

• #al-admin-questions — Ask the AL Admins questions
• #adventurers-league — Chat about AL games, events, how to get started, AL characters, or other general AL chatter.
• #1050206875079155742 — Adventurers League rules discussion and questions. General D&D rules discussion belongs in #dnd-rules
• #al-dm-discussion — [SPOILER WARNING] A place for AL Dungeon Masters of all levels of experience to discuss their games, share tips, or share constructive feedback.
• #al-dungeoncraft — [SPOILER WARNING] A place for fledgling or experienced AL authors to discuss the Dungeoncraft program, ask questions, offer tips, or share constructive feedback.

[cobalt frigate]

No, it's just organized play.

[noble echo]

How does it work?

[crude musk]

Just like playing D&D, except there are some limitations on what options you can pick during character creation, and you have to log your XP, gold, magic items etc on a special sheet

[noble echo]

huh

Any pros compared to the usual way?

[crude musk]

It's drop in/drop out; you just turn up at a table with a suitably made character and you're good to go

[noble echo]

huh

So, how exactly do I play DnD online, do I need to set up something before finding a group to play with?

[harsh fjord]

?tag new online

[exotic remnant]

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

[noble echo]

Appreciate it

[noble echo]

can anyone help me with ability scores for my character creation? I don't know what is too powerful or too weak.

[carmine shuttle]

The standard array is a simple default, and is equivalent to a point buy. It's guaranteed to give you a character who's reasonably balanced.

You assign the following ability scores as you see fit: 15, 13, 12, 11, 10, and 8. After any racial/heritage bonus, you cannot start a score over 17.

[fallen surge]

?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.

[noble echo]

Are 9 - 10 - 16 - 14 - 16 - 8 good enough? (Int - Cha - Str - Wis - Con - Dex)

[carmine shuttle]

That reads to me like you rolled dice rather than point bought? Not awake enough to check the point buy math yet.

[noble echo]

Aight, let me try again

[carmine shuttle]

I'm not saying you did a thing wrong. I'm looking to confirm my interpretation before I say anything else.

[noble echo]

Yes, I did use dice.

[smoky adder]

What class is this for?

[noble echo]

Barbarian.

[smoky adder]

I'd swap WIS and DEX.

A higher DEX will make you harder to hit.

[noble echo]

So, should I use the dice method or point buy?

[smoky adder]

That's a question to ask your DM.

If you don't have a DM yet, I'd recommend using standard array or point buy.

If your future DM does want you to roll, they'll probably want to see those rolls for themself.

[noble echo]

Alright

Appreciate the help Jeff and spam

What does other modifier and override means?

[carmine shuttle]

If you're going point buy, I would not worry about them in absence of guidance from a GM.

[noble echo]

So, I should go for Standard Array?

[smoky adder]

Those are typically used during play for temporary changes to your ability scores. Just leave them blank for now.

[carmine shuttle]

You can recreate the standard array in a point buy.

[smoky adder]

Honestly, don't sweat it too much either way. You can always change it later.

[carmine shuttle]

standard is less overhead; point buy allows more customization (if, like me, you hate penalties to certain stats)

[fallen surge]

Other Modifier adds or subtracts from your ability score, and Override changes your ability score to whatever number you put in that box

[noble echo]

Alright, I got another question, what does Background Feature and Background Characteristics mean and why are there not many choices for backgrounds when there are more when I search them on the website?

[smoky adder]

Each background feature gives you some unique ability based on your background, usually to encourage roleplaying.

Background characteristics are typically suggested personality traits based on that background.

Any background in the Basic Rules is freely available.

Lots of other books provide additional background options. You can buy either those books or the individual backgrounds.

[noble echo]

There's only like 7 on the option but there's more on the list when I searched on google

[carmine shuttle]

The ones on the option would be the ones in the basic rules.

[noble echo]

Ah

[carmine shuttle]

They're free; anybody can use them.

[noble echo]

So, you have to pay for the others?

[carmine shuttle]

(Or, if you've bought the Player's Handbook at DDB, it would be what's in there).

[carmine shuttle]

Yes, either individually or through buying the book it's in.

[smoky adder]

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

[carmine shuttle]

If you end up in a campaign where the GM is sharing their DDB content, you'll get access to anything they're sharing, too. And you can use the homebrew coding for personal use to recreate something from elsewhere; you just can't let other people access it.

[carmine shuttle]

That's good for me to know - I have a couple things from SCAG I'll need to end up buying on my own if my wife & I start doing AL stuff more regularly, but I'm not (so far) in need of more than the background & paladin oath.

[lyric fjord]

when people say we play using 'owlbear' what do they mean?

[fallen surge]

"Owlbear Rodeo" is the name of a website that can be used for digital maps

Its the same thing as Roll20, if you are familiar with that program

[lyric fjord]

I see, does Owl bear support character sheets like DnD beyond?

[timid locust]

It's so that everyone can see the same battle map at the same time while online. That way, everyone knows where all the characters are at all times

[fallen surge]

I don't believe so, JJ. I think Owlbear Rodeo is only for maps and tokens.

[lyric fjord]

I see

Does anyone have a link to a video that teaches DnD combat specifically?

[fallen surge]

There is a lot that goes into D&D combat, so I don't know if there is 1 video that explains all of it. But Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series is a great place to start. You can look through the playlist to find videos on specific topics that you want to learn more about

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1tiwbzkOjQyr6-gqJ8r29j_rJkR49uDN

[carmine shuttle]

Maybe also an Acquisitions Inc. adventure?

(seeing it in action)

[fallen surge]

Watching actual play can be a good way to learn too, yeah.

[modern crown]

Greetings, Adventurers. I have come to learn the secrets of D&D

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[fallen surge]

Welcome! The bot post above has the secrets that you seek, and shall help guide you on your journey

[modern crown]

I am delighted by your helpfulness and will most definitely adjust to the secrets surrounding the mystical world of D&D

[fallen surge]

Once you've given the basic rules a look, let us know if you have any specific questions. We're more than happy to help

[lyric fjord]

Where do I do so?

[solemn light]

You can also try out a mock battle yourself. You don't actually need to make a character either if you want. You could get two goblins, and follow the basic combat rules step by step and see how it plays out. It's enough to help things click. Have the goblins fight each other over toast. Roll initiative, and then roll out their attacks and damage, see who wins.
If you have a character already, try having them fight the goblin for toast, to test out what your character can do. Results may vary depending on class- normally you have buddies to help out. Still, it'll help the very basics click of how combat runs.

[harsh fjord]

YouTube and Twitch would be good for that. Just run a search for D&D or similar keywords.

[lyric fjord]

Nothing popped up on YT

[harsh fjord]

You must have made a mistake in your search. Here's just one such list of results: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=dungeons+and+dragons+actual+play

[blazing tundra]

Hello I'm new to online RP I was wondering if anyone's looking for a extra for a campaign

[cobalt frigate]

Check #find-a-game

[blazing tundra]

thank you

[noble echo]

What's the difference between backstory and background?

[floral nimbus]

Yeah

[timid locust]

A background is something you can pick from a list that gives your character a few items, Skill Proficiencies, and sometimes a simple feature. A backstory is just a flavorful description of who your character is.

[noble echo]

If my background are costum, can I count that as a backstory?

Wait, everyone's background are costum

[cobalt frigate]

Backstory is the life of your character before they became an adventure.

[crude musk]

Your backstory is just how you describe your background

[cobalt frigate]

Background is the gameplay mechanic of the backstory.

[crude musk]

So say your background is "Soldier", your backstory might be how you came to be a soldier, what battles you served in, and how it changed you

[noble echo]

So uh, background aren't for my character's story 😔 ?

or something like that?

[crude musk]

The background is just a mechanical 'package' of options and ideas that you pick based on the backstory

So for example, say you want to make a character that researches dungeons and that's why they're an adventurer. You might pick the Archeologist background as that fits the backstory you've come up with

[cobalt frigate]

My paladin's backstory was that she was raised and educated in a nunnery. Her background was Acolyte.

[noble echo]

So, should I just copy paste my custom background to my backstory?

[crude musk]

No, that's not what I'm saying

[cobalt frigate]

Your background isn't your backstory. It could be the foundation for it.

[crude musk]

Come up with your backstory, and then pick the background that best represents it
or
Pick a background you like and then write a backstory around it

[noble echo]

The problem is, I put a story in it

So, I should just move my current background to my backstory and arrange my background

[crude musk]

Backstory and background are different things, one just informs the other

[cobalt frigate]

Your character should have at least a background because it gives gameplay mechanics like additional ability skills, profiences, and languages.
You may not bother with a backstory though, especially an one-shot.

[noble echo]

So, I just don't do custom background and just pick one of the options?

[noble echo]

one shot?

[cobalt frigate]

A short adventure that lasts one session (they're usually stand alone).

[crude musk]

If none of the options fit your backstory, you can totally make a custom one

[noble echo]

So, I should just describe myself in the background and put my story in the backstory? Something like that?

[noble echo]

Is it odd to use the same character on a different campaign?

[cobalt frigate]

You can use the same character concept in different adventures/campaigns but you'll need to get permission from the DMs if you want to use the same character though -- they may want you to roll up a new character when joining their campaign (they may want you to start at a specific level, restrict certain playable races/classes, and/or have certain gear).

[true musk]

While you can build the same character mechanically. A character’s personality, history, connections should cater to the campaign they’re a part of. For best results, a character and campaign need to be compatible.

[noble echo]

Sounds reasonable

[noble echo]

What about this?

[true musk]

Yes. Character’s personality traits, bonds, ideals, and flaws go in the background section.

While their history can go in the backstory section.

Do keep in mind that the background personality choices are there to give something to start with if you trouble coming up with your own bonds, ideals,and flaws.

[hushed jetty]

Yo guys
Are there any races or classes that give time related abilities?
Like time manipulation

[foggy saffron]

nothing off the top of my head explicitly does that other than a couple high level spells, but some abilities could very easily be flavored towards time manipulation

example, Divination Wizard

[true musk]

Wizard subclass called Chronurgy

[foggy saffron]

oh yeah i always forget that's an official subclass
that's in a supplemental source book, Explorer's Guide to Wildemount

for a non-standard DnD setting

[hushed jetty]

Man too much stuff I don't know about

[foggy saffron]

heh, you're new, don't worry about it too hard

i gave the example of Divination Wizard cause it's right there in the Player's Handbook

[hushed jetty]

Trynna learn but it's pretty hard and time consuming

[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.

[hushed jetty]

What handbook?

I was doing the introductory demo yesterday

Got to character creation the stopped

Are there any DND video games

[foggy saffron]

the Player's Handbook, which holds the core rules and player options
there are more options in other supplementary books but the PHB has the core stuff

[hushed jetty]

Even if I'm playing with npcs

[hushed jetty]

Alright thanks a lot

I'll download it

[foggy saffron]

Baldur's Gate 3 is the most recent one, uses the 5e ruleset

[hushed jetty]

I don't think I can run that game on my laptop

[foggy saffron]

yeah, it's a meaty game

there are previous baldur's gate games that uses dnd, but those use previous editions that you're most likely not gonna play at most tables

[hushed jetty]

I see
Any other games?

[foggy saffron]

and even with BG3, there's tweaks to the system to make it work better as a video game rather than a tabletop experience

other than those, not that i can think of, and certainly nothing officially licensed

[hushed jetty]

Wait so baldur's gate is officially licensed?

Interesting

[simple goblet]

Yes

[exotic remnant]

How to Go from Baldur's Gate 3 to D&D w/ D&D Beyond

Take the leap from Baldur's Gate 3 to Dungeons and Dragons with D&D Beyond! Unlock free rules, adventures, dice sets and more to continue your adventure in the world's greatest roleplaying game!

[simple goblet]

Neverwinter Nights is also an older series of games. Not sure the editions they are based on

[hushed jetty]

I tried download Neverwinter before

But uhm yea

Banned in my country

Or not supported ig

[foggy saffron]

i'd suggest checking out the Handbooker Helper series on youtube if you haven't already. segmented and digestable explanations of the rules and character creation

[hushed jetty]

I see I see

Thanks a lot

[torpid prism]

@quick lotus I've played almost every class lol

I'd say @hushed jetty BG3 is a good "jumping off" point for dnd as it can give you like 90% of the basics but do keep on mind every dm Run's games differently, some stick to the rules like glue and others handwave half the rules

[hushed jetty]

I see
I can't play bg3 tho due to laptop

[torpid prism]

@hushed jetty message me

[lyric fjord]

Is it normal to play bg3 but have never played d&d?

[main gull]

Of course

10/10 game

[lyric fjord]

I want to try d&d but at the same time I don't trust my creativity

[main gull]

It helps to have played DND but you don’t have to

You don’t need that much creativity. Just make something simple that you like.

[lyric fjord]

Okay

[main gull]

depends on the DM too. some campaigns will be heavy into character role-play, and some of them will be more focused on the exploration and combat

[lyric fjord]

That makes sense

[fallen surge]

"you, but fantasy" is a very common first character for many people. There's nothing wrong with that

[lyric fjord]

I have done the research for races and classes but trying to execute it is where my brain gets confused I guess

Like logistics and all that stuff

[naive prism]

hey everyone! I'm kinda new. can anyone teach me the basics?

[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 lots of helpful links and resources to get you started. Once you've glanced through the materials here, if you have any specific questions, we'd be more than happy to help. It a lot easier to answer questions like "what is my proficiency bonus?" than it is to answer "how do I play D&D?"

[naive prism]

oh ok. thanks.

[torpid prism]

Can I just ask....what's wrong with actually talking to people?....

Some people might have issues or just learn better from talking things out with ppl

[fallen surge]

There's nothing wrong with talking to people. I love answering people's questions, and so do most of the users in this channel. But, this server has 200,000 members, and dozen of new people join every single day, so its just not feasible to walk every single person through the basics in a 1-on-1 lesson. So we've put together as many resources as possible to help people take the first step on their own, and then we will help fill in any blanks or answer any questions that might come up as they go through those resources.

[potent crystal]

I recently joined the server the other day. I stop myself from talking because I enjoy talking with others to much. If I joined every convo I’d get nothing done in a day 🤣

[slow hawk]

Yeah there is no need to retread old ground; it is beneficial to take advantage of the resources assemebled for this very purpose

[potent crystal]

Im grateful that my friend owns all the important books for me to read

[edgy cradle]

Hello. Will people let me join their campaign if I'm new and it's my first campaign? Or do people want more experienced players?

[lyric fjord]

Is there a template for setting up the looking for player thing?

[fallen surge]

Most groups are fine with letting beginners join, even if they don't say so on the advertisement or wherever you come across that group. But as with any social situation, its going to be a case-by-case basis. You can always just ask

[lyric fjord]

Sorry I just was looking and saw the small question thing so wasn't sure

[edgy cradle]

Ok. Thank you.

[fallen surge]

if you type the /looking-for-DM or /looking-for-players command in any text channel, the bot will give you a form to fill out, which will automatically generate the post in the appropriate channel

[lyric fjord]

Cool thanks

[fallen surge]

Though I will recommend, if you are going to try to join a campaign that isn't explicitly advertised as being for new players, at the very least you should try to find one that starts at as low of a level as possible. Campaigns for more expirienced players often start at higher levels, which could be really overwhelming if you are just starting out

[edgy cradle]

Ok. That's very helpful actually.

[full sentinel]

Really have no idea what to do here <_<

[cobalt frigate]

Have you read the free Basic Rules yet?

[full sentinel]

somewhat yeah

[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.

[smoky adder]

Typically a character's starting equipment is determined by their class and background, so your starting gold (if any) would be determined by one of those.

You can choose to forego that starting equipment to roll for gold instead. The PHB lists roll values for all 12 classes.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/phb/equipment#StartingWealthbyClass

[full sentinel]

Thank you.

[smoky adder]

(The artificer has its starting gold roll listed in the class itself.)

[floral nimbus]

Oh, but wait, say my character was like a pastor that got a bunch of money from people in the past, will that translate over to an actual game or?

[smoky adder]

Not unless your character has a feature that says you do.

[carmine shuttle]

That can be how you flavor The starting money.

[smoky adder]

Starting money usually isn't much.

[cobalt frigate]

You use what the background provides. You can't just give yourself gold and magic items at your whim.

[carmine shuttle]

But starting quantities are usually pretty nominal

[smoky adder]

Even nobles only start with like 25gp.

[cobalt frigate]

Your background and class starts you off with gear so don't worry about the amount of money you have.

[smoky adder]

So if your character previously had money, you'd have to reconcile that somehow with what's actually on your character sheet.

Maybe this pastor donated it. Maybe they were robbed.

Some DMs do provide additional starting gold beyond what's dictated by the rules, of course. You could talk to them about it.

But I wouldn't count on it.

[full sentinel]

I just noticed that warlock isn't in the basic rules lol

[timid locust]

It sure is!
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/classes#Warlock

[full sentinel]

Not on the one I'm looking at that dyno posted

[digital sable]

Hi

[timid locust]

That's the link I clicked on to find that URL.

[fallen surge]

We’re you looking at the basic rules or the Introductory Demo? The demo has a few classes missing to keep things simpler

[cobalt frigate]

The bot has the link to the free Basic Rules
https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules

[full sentinel]

Ah okay thank you

[hoary crypt]

hey what is the best way to find a group of ppl to play with as a newbie in dnd

[timid locust]

Are you looking for games online or in person?

[hoary crypt]

online

[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.

[timid locust]

Check out the link above to get started!

[frozen umbra]

hey how do i play this game im super interested in d&d

[exotic remnant]

What is D&D?

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

How does it work?

• The Basic Rules are available at no cost and cover everything you need to know to play.
• For bite-sized video explanations, check out Critical Role's Handbooker Helper series.

Where do I start?

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

[timid locust]

The links above should get you rolling on learning the rules!

[frozen umbra]

oh ok i already got a charcter

[frozen umbra]

am i supost to go to the dyno bot orthis one

[timid locust]

If you're looking for groups to play with, the first bot post is the one for you.

If you're looking to learn how to play, the second bot post should help out.

[frozen umbra]

i watched a video about d&d and i heard so many cool storys so i am super hyped

no i'd rather jump right into the comunnity and stuff

ok im going to find-a-game

[cobalt frigate]

Even if you have a character created read up on the rules.

It seems like you want DMing advice rather than know how to play the game? #dm-discussion is the place for DMing advice

[timid locust]

The folks over in #dm-discussion would be the best ones to help you out

[glacial bough]

correct. Should i move it to the other channel? Thought it was more of a newcomer thing

[cobalt frigate]

This channel is to help new players learn the rules of the game.

[glacial bough]

Alrighty, thanks 🙂

[tropic stream]

What should I prioritize buying after I buy the essentials d&d kit?

[timid locust]

Are you a player or a DM?

[tropic stream]

If I found a group that has the same experience as me which is none I'd probably DM

I like world building n shiz

[cobalt frigate]

The Player's Handbook should be the first book to buy. It's for both players and DMs.

[tropic stream]

Okay

I thought that came w the essentials kit

If not I can probably find it online yeah?

[cobalt frigate]

Afterwards I recommend Xanathar's Guide to Everything and Tasha's Cauldron of Everything.
As a DM, the Monster Manual and Dungeon Master's Guide would be next.

The Essentials Kit is just a barebones starter set. It doesn't come with any of the hardcover source books.

[tropic stream]

Dang!

[nimble bloom]

there should be an ebook version of players handbook

[carmine shuttle]

the Essentials Kit (and the Starter Set) have abbreviated versions of info in the Player's Handbook. But they're very abbreviated versions.

[cobalt frigate]

D&D Beyond has the digital versions of these books. They have seasonal sales.

[tropic stream]

Yeah the books are really expensive I'll probably bring my tablet w the books

[nimble bloom]

hope your a good reader tho the books have more than 200 pages

[tropic stream]

Oh okay

[nimble bloom]

its worth the read however

[tropic stream]

As long as the reading isn't dry

[nimble bloom]

If you are eager to learn about it then it wont be

[cobalt frigate]

You don't need to memorize everything. You just need to know where and what to reference.

[tropic stream]

Thank you very much for the help!

Good my memory is awful

[nimble bloom]

same here

[tropic stream]

I wish I just had some nerdy friends

[nimble bloom]

you could bring the players handbook to games if spells need to be looked up

[hoary crypt]

wait whats the best class/subclass to do a doomguy characte

[tropic stream]

Bett

Paladin would be my guess

[nimble bloom]

paladins need to have oaths though

[tropic stream]

But I'm new don't take my word for it

Slay the demons!!

[hoary crypt]

fr

[cobalt frigate]

If you want to play in person then check your local hobby store.
Otherwise check #find-a-game for online games.

[hoary crypt]

im thinking paladin with points in warlock for hexblade

[timid locust]

Considering most DnD settings are high fantasy, creating Doomguy is likely going to be very difficult. If you're looking for a bruiser in big armor, Paladin or Fighter are probably your best bets.

[tropic stream]

Yeah I got a great spot near me I put up a sign so hopefully soon I'll get something soon

[nimble bloom]

Depending on age group you could also look at your local library

[frozen umbra]

what is this channel about

[tropic stream]

True but there's this great spot by my apartment its very unique and welcoming to tabletop gamers

[nimble bloom]

to help people

[nimble bloom]

then it’s perfect

[frozen umbra]

oh ok im kinda confused could i get some help

[timid locust]

This is the channel for newcomers to learn the rules for DnD

[tropic stream]

Just gotta be patient 😔

[nimble bloom]

I wish I had a good place near my home, sadly I dont

[tropic stream]

😦

I didn't even know mine was here

[frozen umbra]

then how do i get into a game?

[tropic stream]

#find-a-game

[frozen umbra]

ok

[nimble bloom]

Online or in person

[frozen umbra]

online'

[nimble bloom]

roll20 or as Ironman said

both are valid

[frozen umbra]

whats roll20?

and whats a ironman said

[nimble bloom]

DnD online website

[frozen umbra]

how do i get into a game in a website

[nimble bloom]

and Ironman is the one who told you about the find a game channel

[frozen umbra]

i just found out on youtube

[nimble bloom]

Don’t answer if you don’t want to but do you have good experience with technology

[frozen umbra]

yeah id say so

[frozen umbra]

what about it

[tropic stream]

Press #find-a-game and choose #looking-for-players and dm the person who posted and you might get a response to game w them

[nimble bloom]

Nothing it just seemed like you were a bit too confused

[frozen umbra]

oh ok

[tropic stream]

Yuh

Could I run a game w the essentials kit or should I get those other books beforehand?

Either way I will but I wanna know if I gotta read those books before

[nimble bloom]

You should get the books if you can buy them physical or digitally

[tropic stream]

Digital is da wey

[nimble bloom]

I highly reccomend the books for people with low experience

It helped me a lot

[tropic stream]

Thank you very much boss

[carmine shuttle]

You can run a game off just the essentials kit.

[nimble bloom]

True but I’m pretty sure they said that they had no experience so it would be recommended to have the books

My first session is tommorow and the books helped me know some of what to expect

the tips also helped of course but the books helped set a base for what to expect

[hushed jetty]

which anime is most similar to a DnD campaign

im thinking mainly isekais

specailly somtehing like overlord or sth

(just asking to increase my creativity a bit)

[timid locust]

DnD is traditionally a fantasy setting, so anything with swords and sorcery would make for great inspiration

Delicious in Dungeon (aka Dungeon Meshi) might be your closest bet with regards to recent series to look for inspiration in

[solemn light]

Lodross Wars was literally based on a D&D game IIRC

Although more so AD&D

[hushed jetty]

not really looking for inspiration

just that i lost a big chunk of the creativity i once had due to school

so i thought watching some anime might be a good idea to get it back

[solemn light]

So motivation rather than inspiration?

[hushed jetty]

i think like a mix of both

just inspirtation to my overall life i guess you could say

because as i said i lost a bigass chunk of the creativity i once had

[solemn light]

Might be worth asking in #non-dnd-topics for anime and/or fantasy media recommendations to help reinspire?

[hushed jetty]

i'll give it a shot

thanks

[full sentinel]

good lord, everything costs alot.

[carmine shuttle]

I recommend your local library. The odds are good that there's a rulebook in the collection.

[cobalt frigate]

You don't need to buy anything to start off playing.

Typically DMs share their (digital/physical) books with their players.

[full sentinel]

oh I know that just, looking at some of the stuff people need for certain campaigns is alot.

[cobalt frigate]

If you use D&D Beyond you can buy individual playable classes and races for $2 each.

[cobalt frigate]

If it's online and they use D&D Beyond they would probably have digital book sharing. I share my D&D Beyond books with my players.

[hoary carbon]

Cool race at a reasonable price? Satisfactory

[solemn light]

@ancient delta
So we can help guide you through character creation if you already have an idea of what you're wanting to try and make, or point you towards resources to help you get started.
As for rolling a new character, I would advise not actually rolling stats yet, as rolled stats must be done where your DM can verify them. You can use standard array for making a practice character before finding a game if you like.

[full sentinel]

so I can create a free account, and then join a game without having to buy like... 10 different books for it to work?

[ancient delta]

what does rolling stats mean?

[hoary carbon]

Yes. If content sharing is enabled, you have access to the content thats being shared

[fallen surge]

?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.

[fallen surge]

See above

[cobalt frigate]

Only if someone in the campaign has the Master Tier subscription then people in that campaign can share their digital books.

[full sentinel]

oh so if they don't have that tier, then they can't share?

[solemn light]

Ah, so I jumped ahead a bit there, because I wasn't sure if that's the rolling you meant.
But the info Collosus just tagged answers that. Rolling is one method of making stats for your character, but because it can make random stats, you need a DM to make sure you actually did roll those numbers and aren't just saying 'Why yes, I was lucky wasn't I, look at all these high numbers >.>'

[finite sphinx]

Hi im somewhat new to dnd but i have fun playing it

[cobalt frigate]

Yes, that's correct. One person in the campaign needs to have the Master Tier subscription in order to have digital book sharing.

[solemn light]

So I guess to start, is have you had a moment to look over the basic rules/ have an idea of where to start? If not we can direct you to some free resources to help out.

[ancient delta]

gotcha, so how do I get access to the template for classes if I don't have the books physicallyor digitally

[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 basic rules and character sheets linked in the bot post above are all free

[full sentinel]

so question, I know like tashas cauldran of everything is one of the main things people use. What would be others I should get?

[solemn light]

The above resources can help you get started! You don't need to read all of the rules before finding a game, but having a look over character creation and combat rules before finding a game can help speed things up. And of course you can ask questions here!

Character Creation is one of the things you can have a go at before finding a game. There are step by step guides, and as a practice PC you don't need to think too hard. Just pick any 'Basic rules' class and race and see if you can make it- once you've made one PC you've basically got the idea for making any PC.

[fallen surge]

Players Handbook, Tasha’s Cauldron of Everything, Xanathar’s Guide to Everything, and Monsters of the Multiverse are the primary books for player facing content.

[ancient delta]

gotcha, thanks. what would be a fun class for a first time player?

one that isnt too complicated

[solemn light]

If you look over this page, at the top they have the free to use classes with brief descriptions: https://www.dndbeyond.com/classes which might help you spot one you think looks fun

[fallen surge]

Any class works just fine for a beginner. It just depends on what type of playstyle you want to have. If you want to pick something as simple as possible, then the classes that do not use magic like Fighter, Barbarian, Monk, and Rogue might be a good choice. But no class is so complicated that you can’t learn it as a beginner

[ancient delta]

thanks, you've both been a great help.

[humble cradle]

the one you want to play as

[full sentinel]

lordy just those 4 are over 100 dollars

[humble cradle]

look for used copies if u can

[raw jewel]

Heloo I'm a new player interested in starting dnd, know any campaigns I can join to learn the game or just try it out

[full sentinel]

looking on dndbeyond, is there like a bundle for all 4 or do I have to buy them seperately

[cobalt frigate]

You may want to wait for the next seasonal sale.

[humble cradle]

i dont use dndbeyond so i unfortunately cant say

[fallen surge]

None of these are necessary. They contain options for character creation, like races, classes, and subclasses. The free basic rules have everything you need to actually play the game. Everything else is just fun extras

[cobalt frigate]

Again, you can buy individual playable races and classes for $2 each (sometimes there's the option for bundles in a book for $10).

[full sentinel]

sorry for being such a bother, I just always worry about making purchases online over a set amount. Idk why it just freaks me out.

[ancient delta]

so I've chosen what I want as my class where can I find a character sheet to fill in.

[cobalt frigate]

The amount you spend on individual purchases is deducted from the book if you choose to buy the full book later.

If you're a player there's frankly no need to buy the entire book IMO.

[carmine shuttle]

One of the frequent bot posts has a link to a character sheet you can print & do by hand. Don't know if there's a form-fillable PDF version or not.

[harsh fjord]

You could download the PDFs and fill them in here (https://dnd.wizards.com/resources/character-sheets) or sign up to use D&D Beyond.

[ancient delta]

thanks

[full sentinel]

Dang, Odyssey of the Dragonlords isn't on dndbeyond.

[smoky adder]

Alas, no

But in the last few months they've started rolling out a bunch of third-party options, so maybe one day!

[full sentinel]

I say cause I saw the druid subclass in it

[smoky adder]

If you've bought the book elsewhere, you can always use D&D Beyond's homebrew tools to add it in.

(For private use only, though; don't publish it to the global community since it's not your own original creation.)

[full sentinel]

also just sidenote question, if I buy the sourcebooks on dndbeyond the website do I get them on the app?

[fallen surge]

As long as you connect your account between the two, yes

[smoky adder]

As long as you're using the same account for both, yes.

[carmine shuttle]

I originally registered with Twitch, which I now almost never use, so I need to get around to figuring out whether verifying with a different thing (AppleID or Google, for instance) will keep my stuff or lose my stuff (and if the latter, how I get my stuff back)

[full sentinel]

god if the sourcebook bundle wasn't 600 bucks I'd buy it x-x

[smoky adder]

You can do that here: https://www.dndbeyond.com/account

[cobalt frigate]

Again, you don't need to buy the source books if you're a player, especially a new player. As a DM I own most of the 5E books (both physical and digital).

[carmine shuttle]

Much obliged. A thing to work on, eventually.

[full sentinel]

oh wait, found a bundle but it doesn't have monsters of the multiverse it instead has swordcoasts

[smoky adder]

Oh, it's super quick. You just log into the Apple/Google account you want to link and you're done.

[smoky adder]

The Player Bundle, yeah. You save $20 off buying those all separately.

[full sentinel]

I can just get multiverse seperately at another date

[cobalt frigate]

The Sword Coast Adventurer's Guide isn't worth it IMO.

[full sentinel]

wait really? Why's that?

[fallen surge]

Most of the content in it is either outdated or of low quality

The useful bits have all be reprinted in other books

[cobalt frigate]

It's one of the thinnest 5E books, the lore is lacking (previous edition FR books cover more and in greater detail), and sub-classes are meh.

[full sentinel]

if only the bundle had multiverse instead

[carmine shuttle]

Just have a busy couple days ahead, and then there's the question of whether I'll remember the next time I'm in front of my computer (as opposed to accessing DDB from my phone/tablet)

[full sentinel]

wait... why does dndbeyond have a coupon thing, yet everywhere I look everyone seems to say they don't do coupons lol

[cobalt frigate]

They occasionally have coupons.

[fallen surge]

coupon codes, yeah

[cobalt frigate]

The original Essentials Kit came with a 50% off coupon code for the PHB on D&D Beyond.

[carmine shuttle]

And there are periodic sales on things that can be as much as a 40% discount on books. It's about the only times I've spent money there.

[topaz steppe]

So I've spent a lot of time making my bard. The campaign I'm gonna be playing with my DM is only a one shot, but I don't want to just use my character once and never again. I want to keep leveling up and join a new one if possible. Can I do this, or should I just make a new separate character and use it in this one shot?

[harsh fjord]

You can re-use the character conceptually, but they wouldn't have any of the loot or experience from the one-shot.

[cobalt frigate]

That's up to the (new) DM if they will let you carry over the same character. Most DMs will probably want you to roll a new character.

[topaz steppe]

Okay.

I think I'll end up making a new one, then.

[carmine shuttle]

This is where something like organized play (see #adventurers-league ) can be nice.

[exotic remnant]

What is the Adventurers League?

The D&D Adventurers League is an ongoing official campaign for Dungeons & Dragons. It uses the fifth edition Dungeons & Dragons rules, and features the Forgotten Realms setting. You can play D&D Adventurers League games literally anywhere. Players use the fifth edition rules to create a character and bring that character to games anywhere D&D Adventurers League play is happening.
[Find out more](#al-rules-compendium message)

Are you interested in the Adventurers League?
We have several channels to discuss Adventurers League play:

• #al-admin-questions — Ask the AL Admins questions
• #adventurers-league — Chat about AL games, events, how to get started, AL characters, or other general AL chatter.
• #1050206875079155742 — Adventurers League rules discussion and questions. General D&D rules discussion belongs in #dnd-rules
• #al-dm-discussion — [SPOILER WARNING] A place for AL Dungeon Masters of all levels of experience to discuss their games, share tips, or share constructive feedback.
• #al-dungeoncraft — [SPOILER WARNING] A place for fledgling or experienced AL authors to discuss the Dungeoncraft program, ask questions, offer tips, or share constructive feedback.

[ancient delta]

just finished first character any tips for finding open games?

[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.

[upbeat trellis]

#find-a-game

Hey guys

Do you guys know how I find a game?

[harsh fjord]

You can post an ad yourself or reply to posts in other channels under the Find a Game section, depending on whether you're a player or a DM.

[ancient delta]

how do you post an ad? Is posting an ad mainly used for Advertising that you have a game that you wish to DM or that you wish to be a player?

[harsh fjord]

If you're a player, you can post an ad yourself in #750812887697588356 in the hopes a DM will read your ad and contact you. If you're a DM, you'd post in #looking-for-players and wait for people to express interest.

To post an ad, in any channel where you have permission to type, type /looking and select the appropriate choice. Hit enter. You'll be taken to a form to fill out, and the bot will post in the channel you selected.

[ancient delta]

do you type (/looking) in the specific chat that you want. IE if I want to post an ad for looking for dm should I have the Looking for dm tab open, or does that not matter?

nevermind figured it out

[solemn light]

You can't actually post/type at all in the chats, so you need to type in another channel- I'd recommend #find-a-game itself. But seems like you've got it figured out?

[ancient delta]

I believe so, why would you recommend find a game over looking for a dm though?

[solemn light]

You can't post in #750812887697588356 so there is no way to type the /looking-for-DM

The bot must post for you, and to activate the command, you need to type in another channel

[ancient delta]

I am not sure I understand

oh so i need to type the command in find a game

[solemn light]

It can be in any channel you have permission to type, but that's an easy one that you can scroll up and look at the instructions again.

[ancient delta]

oh, gotcha

[stark pond]

Interaction failed

[echo kelp]

Huh?

[stark pond]

When I hit cancel

[echo kelp]

You've somehow jumped from #non-dnd-topics to here ( #dnd-newcomers)

That sounds like a Discord/bot failure

Maybe try restarting your Discord client/app.

[winged holly]

hey fellas, I'm new to DND sessions, a lot of my knowledge stems from baulders gate 3, and a lot of DnD videos my friends use to show me.

I've never been in an actual dnd (not counting this app i had 4 years ago that basically let you play a simulation one with bots lol)

actual dnd session*

[untold wagon]

Good evening,

Is there a guide, or video, that breakdowns the character sheet block by block? I am looking for something that explains it on a very basic level.

[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]

Check out the Handbook Helper videos linked above

[untold wagon]

Ah, thank you!

[normal cave]

Hey all, new guy here! Stoked to be a part of the community. Starting a fresh campaign with some neighbors, we're all very new to this including the DM. Where is the best place to go in this Discord for specific questions about creating a character and the rules for that?

[glass summit]

You can ask here if you like
Would defs recommend giving the bot post just above a read to get a rough grasp of the basic rules

[normal cave]

Basically we're confused on how many spells we get to have as a warlock to start. The DM says 2 first lvl spells and 2 first lvl spells from our Pact. So a total of 4 we can cast from the beginning not including Cantrips?

[keen spruce]

Warlock gets 2 Spells Known at 1st-level - this can be any spell of 1st-level from the Warlock spell list. Each Warlock subclass gets an Expanded Spell list depending on the Patron, with 2 additional spells from 1st to 5th level added to the Warlock spell list as options for you to pick

[keen spruce]

The Basic Rules should help you with this: https://www.dndbeyond.com/sources/basic-rules/classes#CreatingaWarlock

[normal cave]

So we still only get 2 spells to start with, the Pact just gives us more options to choose from?

[keen spruce]

Yes

the spells on the Expanded Spell List for that subclass are otherwise not on the Warlock spell list