Tabletop Role-playing Games, or RPGs, have been a staple of the “nerd” identity since the late 70s with the publishing of Dungeons and Dragons, 1st Edition.

Onlines shows like Critical Role and Penny Arcade’s Acquisitions, Inc. have popularized the hobby to the public.

Even Netflix’s incredibly popular series Stranger Things features characters playing D&D in their basement in the fictional 1980s town of Hawkins, Indiana. 

In short, it’s finally cool to play D&D.

However, with this newfound popularity, many people are left dumbstruck as to how to play various RPG’s, let alone which ones to choose.

What exactly is an RPG?

A simple definition of a Tabletop RPG is a game one plays with friends in which they assume the role of a character.

Effectively, it’s improv theater with dice rolls.

To start playing, all you’ll need is friends. 

Having friends who are interested in playing Tabletop RPG’s is the true categorical imperative. Without those, there are several options including apps and websites that will bring the friends to you, truly every nerd’s greatest dream.

The second thing needed is dice. The more dice, the better the experience will be. RPG nerds are seldom found without a small bag filled with dice on or near their person.

A full set of polyhedral, that is, multi-sided dice will run you about two-four dollars.

Different RPGs will require different types of dice pools. Some games will require all the six-sided dice your little arms can carry; others will require a single twenty-sided dice and a boatload of moxy.

Choosing the right game is extremely important for the optimum experience, as all RPG’s offer a different one.

Do you want a grand, fantastical adventure filled with elves, dragons, and bad decisions? Games like D&D and Pathfinder are your bread and butter.

Do want a relaxed escapade through the sadistic and unhinged psyches of your closet friends? You should check out a little number by the name of Fiasco.

Just be aware of options and pick the game that best fits your needs. Do some research beforehand and find the game that best clicks for you and your coterie.

Some may be apprehensive, thinking. “Isn’t this nerdy?”

Yes, it is.  It is incredibly nerdy.

The thing is though, once you’re sitting at the table and in the moment, it’s just a fun game to play with friends.

Also consider that many famous people play these games:Terry Crews and Vin Diesel being two of the most notable.

Getting into Tabletop RPG’s can be hard. What makes it worth it is the social aspect of it.

Playing these games can bring friends closer or can help make new ones. If there is one thesis, one manifesto, to playing these games it’s the connection to other people it brings.

All you need to do to experience it is to take that step.