Common Questions about Tabletop Roleplaying Games

Basic Questions

What is a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG)?

A TTRPG is a game where players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting, guided by a Game Master (GM), who describes the environment and events.

What do I need to start playing a TTRPG?

Typically, you'll need rulebooks, character sheets, dice (especially a set of polyhedral dice), pencils, and imagination. Some games also use miniatures and maps.

How do you play a TTRPG?

Players create characters with specific abilities and stats. The GM describes scenarios, and players describe their characters' actions. Outcomes of actions are determined by rolling dice and applying game rules.

What is a Game Master (GM) or Dungeon Master (DM)?

The GM/DM is the person who runs the game, creates the story, controls the non-player characters (NPCs), and adjudicates the rules.

Character Creation

How do I create a character?

Character creation typically involves choosing a race, class, and background, and then assigning ability scores, skills, and equipment based on the game's rules.

What are ability scores?

Ability scores are numerical values that represent a character's core attributes, such as strength, dexterity, constitution, intelligence, wisdom, and charisma.

What is a character sheet?

A character sheet is a document that records all the details about a player's character, including ability scores, skills, equipment, and other pertinent information.

Gameplay Mechanics

What are hit points (HP)?

Hit points represent a character's health. When a character takes damage, their HP decreases, and if it reaches zero, they may become incapacitated or die.

How do dice rolls work in a TTRPG?

Dice rolls are used to determine the outcomes of actions. Different games use different types of dice, denoted by "d" followed by a number (e.g., d20 for a 20-sided die).

What is a skill check?

A skill check is a roll made to determine whether a character succeeds at a task that requires skill, such as climbing a wall or picking a lock.

What is combat in a TTRPG?

Combat is a structured part of the game where characters engage in battles against enemies. It involves turns, actions, and dice rolls to resolve attacks and defenses.

Advanced Topics

What is a campaign?

A campaign is a series of interconnected adventures and sessions that form a larger story.

What are house rules?

House rules are custom rules created by the GM or players that deviate from the official game rules to better suit their play style or preferences.

What is roleplaying (RP)?

Roleplaying is the act of acting out a character's actions, decisions, and dialogue as if you were that character.

What is metagaming?

Metagaming is when a player uses knowledge that their character wouldn't have to make decisions in the game, which can disrupt the immersion and fairness of the game.

Game-Specific Questions

What is Dungeons & Dragons (D&D)?

Dungeons & Dragons is one of the most popular and well-known TTRPGs, originally created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. It involves fantasy adventures and uses a d20 system.

What other TTRPGs are popular?

Other popular TTRPGs include Pathfinder, Call of Cthulhu, Shadowrun, and Vampire: The Masquerade.

What is the difference between different editions of a game?

Different editions of a game often feature updated rules, mechanics, and settings. For example, Dungeons & Dragons has several editions, each with its own rule set and gameplay style.