Playing D&D Online: A Guide to Easier and More Accessible Sessions
Playing Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) online is rapidly gaining popularity, with more people opting for virtual tabletop RPGs instead of in-person games. Personally, the transition to online play has been seamless for me, as I run multiple games per week using tools like Discord, Roll20, and Owlbear Rodeo.
However, if you're new to digital D&D, figuring out how to play online may seem daunting. There are various choices to make and concepts to grasp. If you're interested in browser-based play, you might wonder about the difference between a virtual tabletop (VTT) and a client, how to use dice, or what macros are. And if you're considering purchasing a dedicated tabletop gaming computer, you might be curious about the best specs for playing D&D.
Allow me to guide you in finding the right approach. Read on to discover everything you need to know about playing D&D online, including voice chat options, virtual tabletops, optimizing online play, and more.
What Do You Need to Play D&D Online?
The first requirement is a means of gathering online. While you can use familiar video call software like Google Meet, Skype, or Zoom, I highly recommend Discord for its convenience, reliability, and versatility. A Discord server not only facilitates seamless voice chat during sessions but also serves as a hub for game discussions, image or video sharing, pinned messages containing useful rules or maps, and more.
In addition to voice chat, a virtual tabletop can be a valuable aid, although it's not mandatory for playing D&D and other tabletop RPGs online. A virtual tabletop is a shared digital space for your game, offering features such as maps, dice rolling, and automated rule elements.
Many virtual tabletops are available, and for D&D specifically, D&D Beyond is an excellent tool. Although not a full VTT and lacking interactive elements like battle maps, D&D Beyond simplifies playing D&D by providing a character builder and automated character sheets. Best of all, it's free to use, making it a worthwhile option to explore.
Naturally, you'll need a copy of the game rules. You can obtain a PDF or ebook version of the D&D 5e rules. Alternatively, if you prefer a digital character management tool, D&D Beyond is an excellent resource.
Lastly, you'll need a virtual space to play. Often, this will be a virtual tabletop, but if you prefer a more tangible experience, tools like Maptools or Dwarven Forge allow you to construct 3D dungeons for your adventurers' exploration.
What Is a Virtual Tabletop (VTT)?
A VTT, or virtual tabletop, is a type of digital tool designed for playing tabletop games online. Most VTTs function as shared spaces for your game, offering automated features that streamline gameplay.
For example, rolling dice in a VTT is as simple as clicking on the appropriate stat and letting the VTT automatically roll the required number of dice. VTTs can also assist with character building and automate many of the game's rules.
Here are some of the best VTTs for playing D&D:
Other D&D Online Tools Worth Exploring
In addition to the aforementioned tools, there are numerous other resources that can enhance your online D&D experience:
