Written by: Alex LeFort
If you’re reading this, you’re probably itching to roll some dice, dive into dungeons, slay some dragons, and create unforgettable stories. But there's just one little snag – where do you find your first TTRPG group? The easiest thing would be to simply gather three to five of your closest friends, pick a day of the week, and get to playing. But this might not work for you, either because of conflicting schedules, lack of interest, or any number of other reasons. You’re definitely not alone. In fact, it’s quite common that people looking to play TTRPGs have to branch outwards and meet new people in order to get regular games going.
So, how can you find your first tabletop roleplaying group? Fear not, for we’re here to provide you with a list of resources for finding players and DMs for your first D&D (or any TTRPG) group.
Consider Running the Game
Here’s a secret: there’s always a shortage of Dungeon Masters (or Game Masters, or Narrators, or whatever term you prefer). While running the game is usually more ‘work’ than being a player, many people believe when they’re starting out that just playing is enough of a challenge and that surely they need to wet their toes before trying something so bold as running a game themselves.
Nonsense!
Being a GM isn’t black magic. Anyone can do it. True, the role of the Dungeon Master comes with its own set of challenges, but it's nothing you can't handle. With a plethora of resources at your fingertips—ranging from rulebooks, online forums, video tutorials, and pre-designed adventures—stepping into the role of the storyteller is more like embarking on a new adventure than performing arcane rituals. Plus, if everyone in your group is new to the game, you’ll be learning the ropes together. Mistakes are just plot twists in your ongoing saga. Each session will see you becoming more confident and creative in your role.
Players flock to Dungeon Masters. This is the silver lining of the DM shortage cloud. By stepping up to the plate and offering to run a game, you suddenly become the person everyone wants to know. You won't have to spend hours scouring the internet for an open slot in a game; instead, you'll likely have the luxury of selecting who you want to bring into your story. This doesn't just make it easier to get started—it also puts you in a unique position to craft a gaming experience that aligns with your vision. What's more, as a DM, you have the opportunity to introduce new players to the game, fostering a welcoming and inclusive community around your table.
Scheduling Priority
If you have decided to run a game, you’ve got two general approaches for filling out your groups. Each method has its own set of advantages and challenges, much like choosing between a safe path through the forest or a shortcut through the goblin-infested mountains.
Start with a group, or start with a schedule. The first approach involves gathering your party before setting out, meaning you find interested players and then collectively decide on a time that suits everyone. This method fosters a democratic atmosphere and maybe makes you feel like you’re getting exactly the players that you want. However, coordinating schedules can be like herding cats—a challenging and time-consuming task, especially with larger groups. On the flip side, deciding on a timeslot from the get-go and then seeking players who can fit this schedule might seem rigid, but proves to be incredibly effective. It dramatically simplifies the logistical nightmare of scheduling, ensuring that the game is prioritized in everyone’s calendar from the start. This approach is particularly suited to those with limited flexibility in their schedules or for a DM with a clear vision for their campaign’s pacing.
Starting with a schedule works. Committing to a specific time slot before filling out your adventuring party is a strategic move akin to securing a stronghold before inviting allies. It sets a clear expectation, provides structure, and greatly increases the chances of consistent attendance. While it may narrow the pool of potential players, those who join will be those who can truly commit, leading to fewer last-minute cancellations and a more reliable, engaged gaming experience. If you haven’t heard this already, let us enlighten you: the hardest boss that any TTRPG group can face is “The Schedule.” Set yourself up for success.
So now you may or may not have decided to run a game yourself. Either way, you need to find some other players. Here’s how.
Dive Into the Digital Realm
The digital world is vast and filled with communities as passionate about D&D as you are. Think of it as your personal teleportation circle to fellow adventurers and dungeon masters across the globe.
Subreddits to the Rescue: The subreddit /r/lfg (Looking For Group) should be one of your go-to resources. Here, players and DMs from all over are seeking their party members. It's not just limited to D&D; other TTRPGs are welcome, too, but you'll find a majority of them are D&D enthusiasts.
Discord Channels – Where the Magic Happens: Discord is the bustling tavern where adventurers gather to share tales and find their party. Check out channels like the D&D Discord or search for D&D in Discord’s explore section. You'll find many servers dedicated to matching players with groups.
Roll20 – Your Digital Tabletop: Roll20 isn’t just a platform to play D&D online; it’s also a great place to meet new players. They have a built-in Looking For Group (LFG) feature that allows you to find games that fit your schedule and style. Players and DMs alike make posts advertising what they’re looking for, and you’ll find a ton of options to choose from.
Facebook Groups – The Old Reliable: Believe it or not, Facebook isn’t entirely useless in 2024. It wouldn’t be our first choice for sourcing a party, but there are numerous D&D groups where you can post your interest or respond to calls for adventurers. Search for “Dungeons & Dragons” in groups and your location if you’re looking to play in person. You’ll be surprised at how many quest-givers there are.
The ‘Real World’
It makes sense that the internet might be your first stop in finding a party, but maybe it doesn’t have to be. Don’t overlook the potential adventurers in your everyday life; you might be surprised at what you find.
Call to Adventure. Sending out a call to action at your school or workplace might just rally a party you never knew existed. Put up a notice on the school bulletin board, workplace newsletter, or distribution list. Be specific about what you're looking for. Clarity and enthusiasm are your allies.
The Power of Casual Conversations. Never underestimate the potential of casual, offhand mentions of your interest in D&D during lunch breaks, coffee runs, or any informal gatherings. You could spark curiosity in someone who's never played but has always wanted to, or you might discover a coworker who's a hidden DM guru. These conversations can organically grow into a budding D&D group.
Local Community Centers and Hobby Shops. Extend your search beyond the workplace or school by visiting local community centers, libraries, or hobby shops. Many of these places host game nights or have bulletin boards where you can post your search for fellow adventurers. It's not uncommon to find dedicated groups looking for additional members or others like you wanting to start a new journey.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re stepping into the role of Dungeon Master, figuring out the best time to meet, diving into online communities, or tapping into the network around you, finding your group is the first step on a fantastic journey. It’s about more than just playing a game; it’s about the stories you’ll create and the connections you’ll forge along the way. So, take the leap, gather your party, and embark on your adventure. The most memorable tales are those you write together with friends, new and old. Your quest awaits!
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