How to Get Started with TTRPGs (Without Stressing About It)
So, you’ve heard about tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) — maybe from a friend, a show, or a random post like this one. The idea of collaborative storytelling, rolling dice, and playing a character sounds like stepping into your own fantasy novel or sci-fi epic. But also… kinda intimidating, right?
Here’s the truth: You don’t need a rulebook. You don’t need fancy dice. You don’t even need to know what a “d20” is.
You just need to find a game, show up, and give it a shot.
You Belong at the Table
It can feel like you need to study before you can sit down at a table, but that’s just not true. The vast majority of the TTRPG community is welcoming, helpful, and excited to have new players. I’d guess at least 75% of the people at my tables have never played the game I’m running before. And that’s fine. That’s normal.
If someone makes you feel unwelcome for being new, you don’t need to play at that table. That’s on them, not you. As a matter of fact, tell me about them and I’ll fuss at them for you.
A good table will help you get settled, walk you through the basics, and cheer you on when you roll your first natural 20.
Step One: Find a Game
That’s the big one. If you’re curious about TTRPGs, the best thing you can do is just find a game and show up.
You don’t need a perfect group. You don’t need to know the rules. You don’t need to “earn” your spot.
Whether it’s D&D at a game store or ShadowDark at a local con, the best way to get started is to just try it.
Here’s where to look:
Friends & Family – Someone in your circle probably plays or wants to.
Local Game Stores or Conventions – Lots of shops and events offer beginner-friendly one-shots and open tables. I’ve helped start a curated list (that I’m sure will grow as time goes on) over on NerdLouisville.org that shows the other opportunities to roll some dice. Click here to check it out.
Online Platforms – Great for remote players or folks looking for flexible scheduling:
StartPlaying.games – Paid and free sessions, easy filters.
Roll20.net – Huge online play community.
Reddit’s r/LFG, Discord servers, and Facebook groups.
In Louisville? We have our flagship event with Nerd Louisville (yes, I’m biased):
Slur Your Roll Sunday Game Nights at Kaiju Bar (Second & Fourth Sundays, Every Month)
$6 for a seat, ages 21+
Usually 4+ tables of different games
Casual, welcoming, low-pressure
Do not let the fact that it is at a bar deter you. Yes, some folks get a drink but many don’t. I usually get a ginger ale. But this isn’t a normal bar, it’s a cool bar. They have sushi! You can roll some dice, eat some ramen, have some sushi. They usually have an old movie or Wife Swap on the TVs too. It’s an amazing place.
Starts at 5:30 PM — Tickets & info
Tables do sell out so act fast! Walk ins are always welcome and we try our best to accommodate but buying your ticket in advance is your best bet.
If you can’t find something in your town, online works just as well. It’s about the people, not the location.
What You Actually Need to Bring
Here’s the beauty of trying TTRPGs for the first time: you don’t need to bring much, if anything.
Most GMs (myself included) will have the following ready for new players:
Pregenerated characters (called pregens) that are easy to jump into
Dice you can borrow
Quick guides or rule summaries
Note pads and pencils
A helpful attitude and a deep love for bringing new people in
You don’t need your own books. You don’t need your own dice (though they’re fun to have eventually).
You don’t even need to understand the rules.
Just show up. Know what game you signed up for so you find the right table. That’s it.
Seriously. That’s it.
Once you’ve played once, you’ll start to get a feel for what you enjoy. You can grab your own dice, build your own character, and even explore other games. But the first step? Try the thing.
But I get it, some of you have to bring something. Bring a set of dice, a notepad, and a writing utensil. Oh, also be on time and even a little early. That helps us so much! And you will get better dibs on the pregen characters.
Want to Make Your Own Character? Cool—but Optional
Once you’ve played a few times, you might want to build your own character. That’s awesome! But not necessary at the start.
Most systems even offer (meaning FREE) quickstart guides and premade characters so you can ease into it. Dragonbane has two free quickstarts, check one of them out here. And ShadowDark has a wonderful intro to the system on their website.
When you’re ready, all you need to know is:
Who is your character?
What do they want?
What makes them interesting? (or maybe not interesting at all?)
That’s it. Don’t worry about perfect stats or lore. That stuff comes later and it’ll come pretty naturally as well.
So, What Now?
Find a game
Show up
Try it
That’s how it starts. If you have fun, you’ll want to come back. You’ll start learning the lingo. You’ll build a character. You might even run your own game someday.
But for now? Just sit down, roll some dice, and see what happens.
And as always, be careful out there.
