BeginnersWhat do I need to play? |
First Published 1 March 2018 | Last Updated 24 May 2021
To get started with Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) you only need the very basic equipment. This includes a copy of the Basic Rules (available to download for free from the Wizards Of The Coast website), a piece of blank paper, a pencil and eraser of your choice, and a set of polyhedral dice.
Traditionally D&D uses a set of 6 dice, but most sets available from hobby shops and online stores today generally have 7. It doesn’t matter either way, as long as you have access to a set that contains 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 20 sided dice. If possible, it is even better to get two sets, as many rolls require more than one die at a time. I have plenty of dice at The Foalestead Citadel (hundreds to be honest...) so no need to rush out and get any, and unless you have a favourite pencil don't even worry about bringing one of those. All equipment will be supplied.
Long term there are other items you can consider, such as the Player's Handbook - the game's main rule book - but starting simple is the best way to learn the game, and I will explain all the rules to you as we go along.
You may have seen some gaming groups use miniatures to represent their characters. These can be purchased either individually or in bulk at gaming stores or online. We often use miniatures in our games, but there is no requirement for you to buy any, as I have plenty available. If you do decide you want to buy or make your own just make sure they are 1 inch base scale. Another option is to find a design for 3D printing, and I can print it for you. There are hundreds of free ones available - and then you get the added fun of painting it yourself! No need to be thinking about this just yet though, as you don't know what you character is going to look like. Maybe we should start working that out...
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