After this post there are 5 remaining to struggle through, and then it’s over for another year.
Let’s get on with this thang!
I’m taking the easy way out on this one. What do you need to play an RPG?
- Some-one to be the DM/GM
- Players
- A copy of the rules for the system you are playing
- Pencils and paper
- Character sheets
- Dice
That’s the bare minimum. Everything after that such as:
- DM/GM screen
- Miniatures
- Terrain and scenery
- Battle map
- Published adventures
- Additional rule books
- Tablets/laptops
- Speakers and background music
Are just icing on the cake so to speak. They aren’t necessary but they do enhance the experience.
It’s even possible to play for “free” or more accurately very cheaply if you take into account having to purchase dice. WotC make the basic rules free to download for D&D, along with pre-made characters. Get the free Matt Colville adventure The Delian Tomb that he created in the very first Running the Game video. Watch the first three Running the Game videos whilst there for running the adventure.
If memory serves me right several other systems have free getting started adventures that you can download to try them out. The Judge Dredd and the Worlds of 2000 A.D. had one. These usually include a stripped down version of the rules, pre-made characters and a short adventure.
The next step up from these are starter kits. They usually have cut down rules, an adventure, a set of dice, and pre-made characters as a minimum. After that they might have maps, cardboard standees, a cardboard DM/GM screen, and cards. I want to say these are inexpensive but that’s a relative thing. But usually fall in the £20 to £40 range. And a great way to try out RPGs with your friends.
It’s never been easier to play an RPG, pick a system/theme you and your friends like, get the starter kit and play!