How To Get Started with Tabletop RPGs (Digital)

The world of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) has experienced a massive resurgence in recent years, thanks in no small part to the accessibility and convenience offered by digital platforms. No longer confined to physical tables and hand-drawn maps, players can now embark on epic adventures from the comfort of their own homes, connecting with friends across continents and exploring fantastical realms with ease. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of how to get started with digital tabletop RPGs, covering everything from choosing a game system to utilizing virtual tabletop software and building a compelling narrative.

I. Embracing the Digital Frontier: Advantages and Considerations

Before diving into the specifics, it's crucial to understand the unique advantages and potential drawbacks of playing TTRPGs digitally compared to their traditional, in-person counterparts.

A. Advantages of Digital TTRPGs:

• Accessibility and Convenience: The most significant advantage is undoubtedly accessibility. Digital platforms eliminate geographical barriers, allowing you to play with friends and strangers from around the globe. Scheduling becomes more flexible, as players can participate from different time zones and locations.
• Virtual Tabletop (VTT) Software: VTTs like Roll20, Foundry VTT, and Fantasy Grounds provide a wealth of tools that enhance the gaming experience. These tools include:
  • Dynamic Maps: Upload and customize maps with fog of war, lighting effects, and other visual aids to create immersive environments.
  • Token Management: Use tokens to represent characters and monsters, easily tracking their positions and status on the map.
  • Dice Rolling and Character Sheets: Streamlined dice rolling mechanics and integrated character sheets simplify gameplay and reduce the need for manual calculations.
  • Voice and Video Communication: Built-in voice and video chat features allow for seamless communication between players.
  • Automation and Macros: Automate common tasks, such as attack rolls and spell effects, using macros to speed up gameplay.
• Wider Game Selection: Digital platforms offer access to a vast library of TTRPG rulebooks, modules, and supplements, often at discounted prices compared to physical copies. You can explore niche systems and indie games that might be difficult to find in local game stores.
• Digital Character Sheets and Resources: Character sheets, rules references, and other resources are readily available online, making it easier to look up information and manage your character.
• Recording and Streaming: Digital platforms make it easy to record or stream your games, allowing you to share your adventures with a wider audience or simply relive memorable moments.
• Lower Cost of Entry (Potentially): While some VTTs require subscriptions or one-time purchases, the initial investment can be lower compared to buying physical rulebooks, dice sets, and miniatures. Many free resources and open-source options are also available.

B. Considerations for Digital TTRPGs:

• Technical Requirements: Playing digitally requires a reliable internet connection, a computer or tablet, and potentially a microphone and webcam. Technical issues can disrupt gameplay and require troubleshooting.
• Screen Fatigue: Spending extended periods staring at a screen can lead to eye strain and fatigue. It's important to take breaks and adjust your screen settings to minimize discomfort.
• Potential for Distraction: The digital environment can be filled with distractions, such as social media notifications and other applications. It's important to minimize distractions and focus on the game.
• Loss of Physical Presence: The lack of physical presence can make it harder to read body language and build personal connections with other players. Active communication and engagement are crucial to overcome this limitation.
• Learning Curve with VTT Software: Virtual tabletop software can have a steep learning curve, especially for beginners. It's important to invest time in learning the platform's features and functionalities.
• Copyright and Piracy Concerns: It's essential to respect copyright laws and avoid using pirated content. Support creators by purchasing legitimate copies of rulebooks and other resources.

II. Choosing Your First TTRPG System

The first step in your digital TTRPG journey is to select a game system. With countless options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Consider the following factors:

A. Genre and Setting:

What kind of stories do you want to tell? Are you interested in fantasy, science fiction, horror, or something else? Each genre has its own distinct appeal and offers different opportunities for character development and storytelling.

• Fantasy: Explore classic fantasy worlds filled with elves, dwarves, dragons, and magic. Popular systems include Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), Pathfinder, and Dungeon World.
• Science Fiction: Venture into futuristic landscapes with advanced technology, interstellar travel, and alien encounters. Systems like Starfinder, Stars Without Number, and Traveller offer diverse sci-fi experiences.
• Horror: Face terrifying creatures, unravel mysteries, and confront your deepest fears in horror-themed games. Call of Cthulhu, Vampire: The Masquerade, and Alien RPG are popular choices.
• Superhero: Become a superpowered hero and fight crime, protect the innocent, and save the world. Champions, Mutants & Masterminds, and Sentinel Comics RPG allow you to create your own superhero universes.
• Historical: Immerse yourself in historical settings, exploring real-world events and cultures. GURPS (Generic Universal RolePlaying System) is a versatile system that can be adapted to various historical periods.

B. Rules Complexity:

TTRPGs vary widely in their rules complexity. Some systems are highly detailed and require extensive knowledge of the rules, while others are more streamlined and focus on narrative storytelling.

• High Complexity: Systems like Pathfinder 2e and GURPS offer a wealth of rules and options, allowing for highly customizable characters and detailed simulations. These systems are best suited for players who enjoy crunching numbers and delving into the mechanics of the game.
• Medium Complexity: Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition (D&D 5e) and Starfinder strike a balance between rules and narrative, providing enough structure to support gameplay without overwhelming players with complexity.
• Low Complexity: Systems like Dungeon World, FATE, and Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) games prioritize narrative storytelling and character development over strict rules. These systems are ideal for players who prefer collaborative storytelling and improvisational gameplay.

C. Accessibility and Community Support:

Consider the availability of resources and the size of the community surrounding the game system. A large and active community can provide valuable support, including online forums, tutorials, and pre-made adventures.

• Dungeons & Dragons (D&D): D&D is the most popular TTRPG in the world, with a massive community and a wealth of resources available online and in print. D&D 5e is particularly beginner-friendly and offers a wide range of official and third-party content.
• Pathfinder: Pathfinder is another popular fantasy TTRPG with a large and active community. Pathfinder 2e is a more complex and customizable system than D&D 5e, offering a deeper level of tactical combat.
• Call of Cthulhu: Call of Cthulhu is a classic horror TTRPG based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft. It has a dedicated community and a wealth of resources available, including numerous scenarios and campaigns.
• Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) Games: PbtA is a family of games that share a common design philosophy, emphasizing narrative storytelling and player agency. Popular PbtA games include Apocalypse World, Monster of the Week, and Masks: A New Generation.

D. Starter Sets and Free Resources:

Many TTRPGs offer starter sets or free resources that can help you get started without investing a lot of money. These resources typically include a simplified rulebook, pre-generated characters, and a short adventure.

• D&D 5e Starter Set: The D&D 5e Starter Set is an excellent introduction to the game, providing everything you need to play your first adventure.
• Pathfinder Beginner Box: The Pathfinder Beginner Box is similar to the D&D 5e Starter Set, offering a simplified version of the Pathfinder rules and a pre-made adventure.
• Free RPG Day: Many game stores participate in Free RPG Day, offering free samples of various TTRPGs. This is a great opportunity to try out different systems and see which ones you enjoy.

III. Setting Up Your Digital Table: Choosing a Virtual Tabletop (VTT)

Once you've chosen a game system, you'll need to select a virtual tabletop (VTT) platform to host your digital games. Several VTTs are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

A. Popular VTT Platforms:

• Roll20: Roll20 is one of the most popular VTTs, offering a free tier with basic features and paid subscriptions for more advanced functionality. It's user-friendly and supports a wide range of TTRPG systems. Roll20 is web-based, meaning you don't need to download any software.
• Foundry VTT: Foundry VTT is a powerful and highly customizable VTT that requires a one-time purchase. It offers a wealth of features, including dynamic lighting, advanced automation, and a robust module system. Foundry VTT is self-hosted, giving you more control over your data and server performance.
• Fantasy Grounds: Fantasy Grounds is a long-standing VTT with a strong focus on automation and integration with official rulebooks. It offers a variety of subscription options and one-time purchases. Fantasy Grounds is known for its robust combat tracker and its ability to handle complex rulesets.
• Astral TableTop: Astral TableTop is a free-to-use VTT with a focus on simplicity and ease of use. It offers a streamlined interface and basic features for running TTRPGs online.
• Owlbear Rodeo: Owlbear Rodeo is a minimalist VTT that focuses on map sharing and token management. It's web-based and requires no account creation. Owlbear Rodeo is ideal for players who want a simple and straightforward VTT experience.

B. Key Features to Consider:

• Ease of Use: Choose a VTT that you find intuitive and easy to navigate. Consider the learning curve and the availability of tutorials and documentation.
• System Support: Ensure that the VTT supports the TTRPG system you plan to play. Some VTTs offer integrated character sheets, dice rolling mechanics, and other system-specific features.
• Mapping Tools: Evaluate the VTT's mapping tools, including the ability to upload and customize maps, add dynamic lighting and fog of war, and manage tokens.
• Automation Features: Consider the VTT's automation features, such as macros, combat trackers, and automated character sheet calculations. Automation can significantly speed up gameplay and reduce the need for manual calculations.
• Voice and Video Communication: Check whether the VTT offers built-in voice and video communication features or if you'll need to use a separate application like Discord or Zoom.
• Pricing and Subscription Options: Compare the pricing and subscription options of different VTTs. Some VTTs offer free tiers with limited features, while others require a one-time purchase or a monthly subscription.
• Community and Support: Look for a VTT with a strong community and good support resources. A helpful community can provide valuable assistance and answer your questions.

C. Setting Up Your VTT:

Once you've chosen a VTT, you'll need to set it up and configure it for your game. This typically involves the following steps:

• Creating an Account: Create an account on the VTT platform and choose a subscription plan if necessary.
• Creating a Game: Create a new game in the VTT and select the TTRPG system you plan to play.
• Inviting Players: Invite your players to join the game by sending them a link or invitation code.
• Uploading Maps and Tokens: Upload maps and tokens to the VTT and organize them into folders.
• Creating Characters: Create character sheets for each player character, either using the VTT's built-in character sheet editor or importing character sheets from a separate application.
• Configuring Settings: Configure the VTT's settings, such as dice rolling mechanics, map scaling, and audio/video settings.

IV. Building Your Digital Group and Finding Players

Finding players is crucial to starting your digital TTRPG journey. Here's how to build your group:

A. Start with Friends and Family:

The easiest way to find players is to start with your friends and family. Introduce them to the world of TTRPGs and invite them to join your game. Playing with familiar faces can make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable, especially for beginners.

B. Online Communities and Forums:

If you don't have friends or family who are interested in TTRPGs, you can find players in online communities and forums. Websites like Reddit (r/lfg, r/roll20LFG), Discord servers dedicated to specific TTRPGs, and online forums like the Paizo forums (for Pathfinder) are excellent places to connect with potential players.

C. Virtual Tabletop Platforms' LFG Tools:

Many virtual tabletop platforms, such as Roll20 and Fantasy Grounds, have built-in LFG (Looking for Group) tools that allow you to advertise your game and find players who are interested in joining. These tools typically allow you to specify the TTRPG system, the game's schedule, and your player requirements.

D. Conventions and Online Events:

Attend online TTRPG conventions and events to meet new players and find games to join. Many conventions offer virtual gaming sessions and opportunities to connect with other players. Websites like Warhorn list upcoming conventions and events.

E. Tips for Finding the Right Players:

• Be Clear About Your Expectations: Clearly communicate your expectations for the game, including the TTRPG system, the game's schedule, and your desired play style.
• Screen Potential Players: Take the time to screen potential players to ensure that they are a good fit for your group. Ask them about their experience with TTRPGs, their preferred play style, and their availability.
• Establish Ground Rules: Establish clear ground rules for the game, including rules about behavior, communication, and scheduling. This will help to prevent misunderstandings and ensure that everyone has a positive experience.
• Be Patient: Finding the right players can take time. Don't get discouraged if you don't find the perfect group right away. Keep searching and eventually you'll find players who share your passion for TTRPGs.

V. Preparing for Your First Session: A GM's Guide

If you're planning to be the Game Master (GM), also known as the Dungeon Master (DM) in D&D, you'll need to prepare for your first session. Here's a guide to help you get started:

A. Choosing an Adventure:

Select an adventure that is appropriate for your players' experience level. Beginner-friendly adventures are typically shorter, simpler, and more focused on exploration and character development.

• Pre-Written Adventures: Many TTRPGs offer pre-written adventures that are designed for beginner GMs and players. These adventures provide a ready-made story, maps, and characters, saving you time and effort.
• One-Shot Adventures: One-shot adventures are self-contained stories that can be completed in a single gaming session. They're a great way to introduce new players to TTRPGs without committing to a long-term campaign.
• Homebrew Adventures: If you're feeling creative, you can create your own homebrew adventure. This allows you to tailor the story and setting to your players' interests.

B. Reading the Adventure Thoroughly:

Before running the adventure, read it thoroughly and familiarize yourself with the story, characters, and locations. Make notes on key events, NPCs, and challenges.

C. Preparing Maps and Tokens:

Prepare the maps and tokens that you'll need for the adventure. If you're using a virtual tabletop, upload the maps and tokens to the VTT and arrange them appropriately.

D. Creating NPCs:

Create non-player characters (NPCs) that the players will interact with during the adventure. Give each NPC a distinct personality, motivation, and backstory.

E. Planning Encounters:

Plan the encounters that the players will face during the adventure, including combat encounters, puzzles, and social interactions. Determine the difficulty of each encounter and adjust it based on your players' skill level.

F. Familiarizing Yourself with the Rules:

Familiarize yourself with the rules of the TTRPG system, particularly the rules that are relevant to the adventure. Be prepared to answer players' questions and resolve any rules disputes that may arise.

G. Preparing Notes and Handouts:

Prepare notes and handouts for the players, such as maps, clues, and NPC descriptions. These resources can help to immerse the players in the game world and provide them with valuable information.

H. Setting the Tone and Atmosphere:

Think about the tone and atmosphere you want to create for the game. Use music, sound effects, and descriptions to set the mood and immerse the players in the story.

I. Session Zero:

Before starting the adventure, consider running a "Session Zero" to discuss the game's expectations, character creation, and any house rules you plan to use. This session helps ensure everyone is on the same page and comfortable with the game's direction.

VI. Gameplay: Tips for a Smooth Digital Experience

Running a digital TTRPG session effectively requires some adjustments compared to in-person games. Here are some tips for a smooth and engaging experience:

A. Clear Communication:

Effective communication is essential in digital TTRPGs. Encourage players to speak clearly and avoid talking over each other. Use push-to-talk or noise-canceling microphones to minimize background noise.

B. Managing Player Attention:

Digital environments can be distracting. Encourage players to minimize distractions, such as social media and other applications. Take regular breaks to help players stay focused and engaged.

C. Utilizing VTT Features:

Take full advantage of the VTT's features to enhance the gaming experience. Use dynamic lighting, fog of war, and token management to create immersive environments. Automate common tasks using macros to speed up gameplay.

D. Visual Aids:

Use visual aids, such as maps, images, and videos, to help players visualize the game world. Share images of NPCs, locations, and important objects to bring the story to life.

E. Active Listening:

Listen actively to your players' ideas and suggestions. Encourage them to participate in the storytelling process and give them agency over their characters' actions.

F. Flexibility and Improvisation:

Be prepared to adapt to unexpected events and player choices. Embrace improvisation and allow the story to evolve organically. Don't be afraid to deviate from the pre-written adventure if it leads to a more interesting or engaging outcome.

G. Handling Rules Disputes:

Be prepared to handle rules disputes that may arise during the game. Refer to the rulebook for clarification and make a fair and impartial ruling. If you're unsure about a rule, you can make a temporary ruling and look it up later.

H. Positive Reinforcement:

Provide positive reinforcement to your players for their contributions to the game. Praise them for their creative ideas, their clever problem-solving, and their engaging roleplaying.

I. End-of-Session Debrief:

At the end of each session, take a few minutes to debrief with your players. Ask them for feedback on the game and discuss any issues or concerns that they may have. This will help you to improve your GMing skills and ensure that everyone is enjoying the game.

VII. Advanced Techniques and Resources

Once you're comfortable with the basics, you can explore advanced techniques and resources to further enhance your digital TTRPG experience:

A. Custom Macros and Automation:

Learn how to create custom macros and automate common tasks in your VTT. This can significantly speed up gameplay and reduce the need for manual calculations. Many VTTs have scripting languages that allow you to create complex automation routines.

B. Dynamic Lighting and Advanced Mapping:

Explore advanced mapping techniques, such as dynamic lighting and fog of war, to create immersive and visually appealing environments. Use third-party mapping tools, such as Wonderdraft or DungeonDraft, to create custom maps.

C. Sound Design and Music:

Incorporate sound design and music into your games to enhance the atmosphere and create a more immersive experience. Use sound effects to emphasize key events and play background music to set the mood. Websites like Tabletop Audio and Syrinscape offer a wide range of sound effects and music for TTRPGs.

D. Streaming and Recording:

Consider streaming or recording your games to share your adventures with a wider audience. Use streaming software, such as OBS Studio, to capture your game and broadcast it to platforms like Twitch or YouTube.

E. Third-Party Tools and Resources:

Explore third-party tools and resources that can enhance your digital TTRPG experience. Websites like DnDBeyond offer digital character sheets, rulebooks, and other resources for D&D. Online encounter builders can help you to create balanced and challenging encounters.

F. Continuous Learning:

The world of digital TTRPGs is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies by reading blogs, watching tutorials, and participating in online communities.

VIII. Conclusion: Your Adventure Awaits

Getting started with digital tabletop RPGs can seem daunting at first, but with a little patience and effort, you can unlock a world of exciting adventures and unforgettable experiences. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose a game system, select a virtual tabletop platform, build your group, prepare for your first session, and create a smooth and engaging digital gaming experience. So gather your friends (or make some new ones online), roll some dice, and embark on your own epic TTRPG adventure!

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