Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) has been around since the ’70s. It’s a game that has withstood attacks time and time again. At first, it was said to lead young impressionable minds down a dark road to Satan. Then it was considered super geeky and something only oddballs or guys who live in their mom’s basements play. But now, in the age where technology is a part of almost every aspect of our lives, things seem to be going good for D&D.
Why The Sudden Interested In Dungeons And Dragons
People who play debate this all the time. We have TV shows that display how entertaining it is. Streamers and YouTubers who provide amazing stories and content that people can’t get enough of. And of course, there is now tons of research coming out. It shows all the various benefits of sitting down with friends and letting your imagination guide you down a unique story together. Many people can’t help but wonder where has this game been hiding at? The truth is it hasn’t!
Dungeons and Dragons Is Cool Now!?!?
Dungeons and Dragons has become crazy popular all over the world. A few years ago, Wizards of the Coast reported that 2017 was Dungeons & Dragons’ most profitable year since its release in 1974 and it has continued to do very well since. With millions watching live streams and wanting to learn more about the game.
While all these streams and TV shows have certainly helped the game, they have also possibly created a new problem for players interested in trying the game. And that problem is expectations!
Player Expectations
These player expectations are not only towards the game and the dungeon masters they play with, but are also held over themselves too. Many people watch these streams and immediately decide they want to play in a game just like the one they watch and come to the table with unrealistic expectations of the other players at the table. These expectations can cause players to become frustrated, walk away and not return.
The other issue is the players who want to play but feel they are not capable of doing it the way “it is supposed to be.” I can’t tell you how many people I talk to who have said they wanted to play for years but hadn’t because they didn’t think they could do funny voices, or they didn’t have a good enough imagination to try the game. They see people using voices and diving deep into character and feel they are not up to the challenge. So, they stop themselves from ever actually trying the game.
The truth is, you only have to do what you are comfortable with. It is a game and at the end of the day, the only real rules we need to apply to ourselves is, have fun and help others have fun too.
What To Do As A Community
The most important thing we can do as a community is sit down with these new players and talk to them. Learn what they are looking for in the game. Find out what they know and see where their expectations are coming from.
The more we understand these concerns the better we can adjust our approach and possibly our games to help guide them into the world of Table Top Roleplaying Games (TTRPGs).
Letting players know what to expect and also that we don’t expect them to be voice actors with a degree in theater to play can really help someone relax and just take in the adventure rather than worry about if their character or the game is being “played right”.
What To Do As A Player
If you are someone who is hesitating to play, find someone to help you. Find a store nearby or a local group. If that seems intimidating you can always hire a professional DM if you want to learn in a private setting first. Here is a list of a few in various areas that I have connected with LINK HERE. Once you find help don’t be scared to ask questions. At the end of the day you will be glad you did.
Things To Get To Start Playing
- D&D Starter Set – It doesn’t have all the rules but it has all the mechanics you need to get started!
- D&D Core Books – These three books, Player’s Handbook, Dungeon Master’s Guide, and Monster Manual include all the Core rules You can also buy them individually if you prefer
- Dice sets – Cause you got to have dice to play!
Conclusion
We all have expectations, but it is always important to talk and share our questions with others. After all D&D is all about communications! I hope all you new players out there shake off your worries and just find someone to play with. D&D, when played with the right people, can really give you amazing memories and it is totally worth giving it a roll.
