Skip to main content

New Player Getting Started Guide

New Player Guide

Welcome, future adventurer! This step-by-step guide will take you from complete beginner to ready-to-play in just a few easy steps. Follow along at your own pace - there's no rush!

Your Journey to Adventure​

Step 1: Learn the Basic Game Rules 📚​

Time needed: 20-30 minutes

Start by reading the core game mechanics:

✅ You'll know you're ready when: You understand that most actions involve rolling a d20 + modifier vs. a target number.

Step 2: Create Your Character 🎭​

Time needed: 30-45 minutes

Now for the fun part - bringing your hero to life!

  1. Choose your race - What species is your character?
  2. Choose your class - What's your character's profession/role?
  3. Determine ability scores - Your character's basic capabilities
  4. Calculate key stats:
    • Hit points - How much damage you can take
    • Armor class - How hard you are to hit
    • Skills - What your character is good at
  5. Choose starting equipment - Your gear and possessions
  6. Add personality details - Name, background, goals, quirks

✅ You'll know you're ready when: You have a completed character sheet with all the numbers filled in.

Step 3: Learn Session Basics 🎲​

Time needed: 15-20 minutes

Prepare for your first game session:

  • Read Your First Session to know what to expect
  • Understand the three types of scenes: social, exploration, and combat
  • Learn basic dice rolling etiquette and table manners

✅ You'll know you're ready when: You know what to bring to a session and how to participate respectfully.

Step 4: Understand Group Dynamics 🤝​

Time needed: 10-15 minutes

Learn to be a great team player:

  • Read Working with Your Group
  • Understand the social contract of cooperative storytelling
  • Learn how to share the spotlight and support other players

✅ You'll know you're ready when: You understand that the goal is collective fun, not individual "winning."

Step 5: Join Your First Game! 🎉​

Time needed: 3-4 hours

You're ready to play! For your first session:

  • Bring: Character sheet, dice, pencil, paper, snacks, positive attitude
  • Remember: Everyone was new once - ask questions freely
  • Focus on: Having fun and learning, not playing perfectly
  • Take notes about important NPCs, locations, and events

✅ You'll know you're ready when: You're sitting at the table with your character sheet and dice in hand!

Quick Reference Checklist​

Before your first session, make sure you have:

  • Character sheet completely filled out
  • Understanding of your character's basic abilities
  • Dice set (or dice app on your phone)
  • Basic knowledge of how d20 tests work
  • Pencil and paper for notes
  • Questions prepared for your GM about anything you're unsure about

Common New Player Questions​

"What if I make a mistake?"​

Everyone makes mistakes! Experienced players and GMs will help you learn. The worst that happens is you learn something new.

"What if I don't know what to do?"​

Ask! Say "What are my options here?" or "What would my character notice?" Your GM and fellow players want to help.

"Do I need to do voices for my character?"​

Absolutely not! Many players just describe what their character does and says. Do whatever feels comfortable.

"What if my character dies?"​

Character death is rare, especially at low levels. If it happens, your GM will help you create a new character quickly.

Additional Resources​

When You're Ready for More:​

Optional Reading:​

Tips for Success​

  1. Start simple: Don't try to learn everything at once
  2. Ask questions: Your GM and fellow players are your best resources
  3. Take notes: Write down important names, places, and events
  4. Stay in character: Think about what your character would do, not what's most optimal
  5. Support others: Help create opportunities for other players to shine
  6. Have fun: If you're not enjoying something, speak up - good groups want everyone to have fun

Ready to Adventure?​

Once you've completed these steps, you'll be well-prepared for your first tabletop RPG experience. Remember: the goal isn't to be perfect, it's to have fun telling stories with friends.

Need help with any of these steps? Don't hesitate to ask your GM or experienced players. The tabletop RPG community is known for being welcoming to newcomers!

Next Step: Find a group or work with your GM to schedule your first session!