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, 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. 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. 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
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.
Here's where to look:
- Friends and 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.
- Online platforms — great for remote players or flexible scheduling: StartPlaying.games, Roll20, and Reddit's r/LFG, Discord servers, and Facebook groups.
In Louisville? Our flagship event with Nerd Louisville is Slur Your Roll game nights at Kaiju Bar (second and fourth Sundays). It's $8 for a seat, ages 21+, usually 3+ tables of different games, and it's casual, welcoming, and low-pressure. Tables do sell out, so buying a 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 ready for new players:
- Pregenerated characters (pregens) that are easy to jump into
- Dice you can borrow
- Quick guides or rule summaries
- Notepads 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 — and know which game you signed up for so you find the right table.
If you have to bring something: a set of dice, a notepad, and something to write with. Oh, and be on time — even a little early. That helps us so much, and you'll get better dibs on the pregens.
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 offer free quickstart guides and premade characters so you can ease in. When you're ready, all you really 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 comes later, and pretty naturally.
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, build a character, and maybe 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.