D&D Character Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

A photo of a path through a forest in autumn

Dungeon & Dragons can seem intimidating at first, especially if you've never played before. Here are some answers to the most common questions new players have. These answers should help make your first steps into D&D easier and more fun, whether you're wondering how it works, what you'll need, or what to expect.

What is Dungeons & Dragons?

Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is a tabletop role-playing game where players create characters and go on adventures together in a fantasy world. One player, the Dungeon Master (DM), describes the world and controls the story, while the other players decide what their characters do.

Do I need experience to play D&D?

No, not at all! D&D 5th edition is especially easy for new players, and many groups are happy to teach new players the basics.

How many people do you need to play?

A typical game has around 3-6 players, including one Dungeon Master. It's definitely possible to play with fewer or more, but that range is best for beginners.

What is a Dungeon Master (DM)?

The Dungeon Master is the person who runs the game. Their job is to describe the world, play monsters and NPCs, and guide the story. They also determine what outcomes your actions will have. There are pre-made adventures that a DM might follow, but many DMs create their own unique world and setting for their players.

What do I need to start playing?

At minimum, you'll need:

  • A character sheet
  • Dice or a dice app
  • The basic rules (most of which you can find online)
  • A group to play with

Everything else, like miniatures, maps, and books, is completely optional.

Do I need to buy books to play D&D?

No. While the official rulebooks are helpful, they definitely aren't required to play. You can find the basic rules online for free, and many groups share books or help new players learn as they go.

How long does a D&D game last?

This completely depends on your group and story. Typically, sessions can range from 2-4 hours long, but some groups may only have time for an hour, while other may have time for 5 hours or more. Some campaigns may only be a few sessions, while some can last for months or even years!

Is D&D just about fighting monsters?

Nope! Combat is part of the game, but it's also about role-playing, exploration, and problem-solving. One of my favorite campaigns I was in focused much more on storytelling than on combat.

Do I have to act or use a funny voice?

Not at all. You can act or use voices if you want, or you can just describe what your character does. Both styles are perfectly valid. Feel free to play however you like!

Can I play D&D online?

Absolutely! Playing online can make it much easier to find a group, even if they don't live near you. Many groups video call or voice chat online through apps like Discord. Some groups may even add tabletop elements with games like Tabletop Simulator.