Finding players for your D&D game can be one of the most intimidating parts of getting a campaign started. We’ve got some tips to help you get started.
While we can’t give you a table full of eager players, we can help you use the right strategies to find a great group as quickly and easily as possible.
Disclaimer: All opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
Finding D&D Players For a Tabletop Roleplaying Campaign
There’s a belief that if you are a Dungeon Master, you will always have a group. There are loads of players looking for a good group at any given moment, and Dungeon Masters can be hard to come by. Still, the process of picking up a few people you want to see on a weekly basis or so can be a bit challenging if you don’t know where to start.
For some of us, grabbing a few people from our social circles is pretty easy. If that sounds like you, please count yourself amongst the lucky. I am woefully burdened with social anxiety. I wouldn’t even go into a game store when an event was running for a very, very long time.
Despite this, I have still been able to find groups over the years, and I’ve met some incredible people.
If I can do it, so can you! Here are my strategies for getting a group together, in order of preference.
Friends of Friends (or Family)
Ask the people you like best if they know anyone who wants to get in on a game. One of my most favorite people in the world came to my table this way (and Sam, it just wouldn’t be the same without you).
This does also run the risk of being problematic if the group doesn’t get along with this new person. If that ends up being an issue, you can either kick them back out, or work on conflict resolution. We have an article on that for you here if you’re interested.
Work People You Don’t Hate
Have any office nerds you’d enjoy spending more time with outside of your 9-5? They may know MORE nerds. It’s like a quiet, secret network once you get them going.
I am fortunate to work in a pretty creative environment where almost everyone either already plays games, or is interested in trying. You may not be as fortunate, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask.
Meetup Site
If you haven’t yet, check out Meetup. There are tons of tabletop gaming groups and campaigns on here.
Whether you’re looking to join a game or as start a new campaign, this is a really awesome resource. Lots of people opt to meet in public, so you don’t have to feel uncomfortable going to someone else’s house before you meet them.
Game Stores
Most good game stores have Dungeons and Dragons or other TTRPG nights. I have never personally looked for players this way, because I am too shy. But I have met potential players while playing and hosting games within a store as a public place to meet and make everyone feel safe.
Other nerds are not as shy as I am, and many times people will come up and say hi as you’re setting up. Sometimes store owners or patrons just want to watch. It can be great fun (or super weird, but… you know).
Digital Resources For Online Gaming
If you’re seeking an virtual or online game, there are loads of resources for this, too. Check out the links below; they all offer help for group seekers. Some do require paying for a professional Dungeon Master, so make sure you read the fine print.
Closing Thoughts
Finding an excellent D&D group doesn’t need to have a high DC. Taking a bit of time and spending a little effort up front can go a long way.
And generally, Dungeon Masters generally don’t have too much difficulty in putting together a group. If you build it, they will come.
If you have any other resources or tips, I’d love to read about them in the comments below.
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