D&D: A Beginners Perspective by Josh VanGorder
D&D is one of those games. You know what I mean, some people absolutely
love it, and some people hate it. So… Here is my perspective from being a new
player to D&D post 2020. I would like to explore what it’s like for beginners, how
players should learn, and most importantly, how to have a blast while learning to
play.
For a beginner, it is important to know that D&D isn’t just a game, it’s a
gathering, a mood, an environment, and a lengthy rulebook. Now, of course you can
read the rulebook from cover to cover and know how to play, but from my
experience, that is not what makes D&D special. When beginning to play DnD, the
two primary goals should be enjoyment and learning. Don’t get me wrong, the
rulebook is great to have, in fact you will still always need it. However, having other
tools to learn from that are not so intense can be very beneficial. Not only will you
be able to learn without your head spinning, but you’ll have more fun in the process.
Sometimes D&D can be harsh, strict, and very difficult for players on their
first campaign. I believe that DM’s need to understand that especially for
beginners, this game is about having fun and being immersed in the experience.
This is in fact a game that is very open ended and changes on the fly. Following the
rules is important, but remember, a DM can always bend them to create a more
enjoyable environment. My advice is find a DM that is there to be in the moment.
Find a DM that is there to have fun. Find a DM that loves creating a story with
input from each member in the party. Just because someone is new does not mean
that they shouldn’t contribute as much as the experts. Play with friends, or play
with people that will be your friend, because it is essential that each member is
there for the same reasons, otherwise, it can put a damper on the value of the
game. I recommend that DM’s are kind and courteous to new players, because they
will never play again if their first experience involves the rulebook being thrown at
them. Again, this game is about much more than just rules. This game is a hobby
and a lifestyle for many. There is no other game in existence that has such an
ability to create memories, stories, and laughter with those around you. It is truly
about the experience of playing, from your very first session, to your 10th
campaign.
Before I tell you how I learned D&D, let me explore the great times I had
when learning how to play. I played my very first campaign with friends I had known for years.
Our DM was a long-time D&D player, and our party consisted of 4
players. One member knew the rulebook like the back of his hand, and had been DM
for many campaigns. The other 3 members had never done a single session,
including myself. With that being said, the environment that was created was
perfect. The DM was okay with fixing things and letting us drive the story. We
focused on the story, and let the rules fall into place, getting more complex as the
campaign went on. I think this is crucial for new players. I also believe that D&D is
a piece of art that the DM creates, that is altered and pushed forward through
the influences of their party members. If this is your focus, learning this game will
be easy and enjoyable.
I began playing D&D in 2021. The tool I used to learn this amazing game had
never been used before… by ANYONE. I had the opportunity to learn how to play
DnD through the use of Avelore’s Tome of Knowledge. I loved my experience from
the start until now. As a beginner, I was able to focus on having fun with my D&D
experience, while still learning the game in a fun fashion. This book gave me,
someone who had never played, immediate organization of every part of the game.
I knew where things were, and what items I had. I knew my gained abilities, my
stat changes, and most importantly, how much gold, silver, and copper I had at all
times. I knew where to find everything. I knew what my magical broom did just by
flipping to a page. I knew my hit dice, damage, and range for EVERY weapon. Yes
the handbook helps, but is not not nearly as clean and efficient, nor as enjoyable,
as the Tome of Knowledge. This book stands the test of time, and even after over
a year of playing, I have decided, I will never use anything else for my D&D
campaigns.
