Got a notebook and enough money for a set of dice? Hours of fun await.
What is a TTRPG?
A tabletop role-playing game is everything you might expect from a role-playing video game but done in a more analogue format. Instead of a screen, you’ll have battle maps, and instead of unseen numbers determining whether you can do something, you’ll be rolling dice.
Usually, you’ll work with the person running the game (Dungeon Master) to create a character. Sometimes they might want you to pick from a selection of pre-made characters. You then take this character and play through the events described to you by the DM. With the other players and the DM, you’ll work together to solve puzzles, and battle creatures, and craft an unforgettable story.
You can either play a one-off session of around 4-6 hours or a campaign of 2-4 hour sessions. The former is referred to as a ‘one-shot’ and is often a good way to play the game for the first time. At least in a one-shot, you aren’t as likely to lose a character because you didn’t understand the rules.
What you’ll need
Dice - sets of role-playing dice come in a variety of price points. You’ll likely want a seven piece set so you have all the dice you need. The different games have different requirements so check what they need before you start. You could play it safe and get a 14-piece set with everything you could possibly hope for.
Word of warning: dice collecting can be addictive, be careful you don’t become a dice goblin.
Notebook & pencils - As you play, you’ll want to keep track of everything your character would know. Normally pens are the most helpful here, but it’s good practice to use pencils because your character sheet may have things that need to be changed every so often.
A creative and enthusiastic mindset - Part of what you’ll be doing is helping the DM craft a story. Don’t be afraid to let your most creative side out. In fact, this is the preferred option.
Who knows? The DM might reward you for that innovative way you got past the dragon.
Notable examples
Dungeons & Dragons
The one everyone probably has heard of, even if it’s just from Stranger Things. Originally developed by Gary Gygax in the ‘70s, the game has five editions, each evolving the gameplay. Recently, they’ve been testing new ways of doing things, with the aim of never having to release another version and unifying the rules.
With 13 classes to choose from and even more races than that, D&D has huge character customization.
Pathfinder
From the outside, Pathfinder may seem similar to D&D. The setting and vibe are indeed very much the same, but they differ in their rules. D&D is much simpler than Pathfinder, but Pathfinder has much more flexibility. If you want something a bit more challenging to sink your teeth into, Pathfinder is the one.
Cyberpunk
This name may be familiar after the release of Cyberpunk 2077, which is actually based on a tabletop RPG. Set in a dystopian future and with a ton of customization options, Cyberpunk is a good choice for those not fancying the high fantasy vibe.
Call of Cthulhu
Fans of horror will love this. Inspired by the H.P. Lovecraft story of the same name, it was originally released in the early 80s. If you want to leave your sessions with a chill running down your spine, find a DM willing to run this spooky RPG.
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