There has never been a better time to get your kids playing Dungeons & Dragons. We are all stuck at home, looking for something to do. More importantly, parents need a way to entertain the kids. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the advantages found in playing roleplaying games, how to get started, and how to get your kids interested in becoming the hero they were born to play.
What is Dungeons & Dragons?
Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is a roleplaying game published by Wizards of the Coast. It was originally created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson from a set of wargaming rules that Gary had previously worked on. The two teamed up to create the set of rules that became Dungeons and Dragons, releasing it in 1974. This kick-started the roleplaying game (RPG) movement and has influenced pop culture over the years in ways unimaginable to its creators. Today it is played the world over and interest in the game is growing year by year.
Roleplaying games allow the players to take on the role of a fictional character. These are usually created by the player with the assistance of a Games Master (GM). As with playing the game, there is a set of rules that must be followed. These help determine what race, gender, and profession a character has, which in turn influence the stats and abilities of the character. The game is directed by the GM, who tells the story and will take on the roles of non-player characters (NPCs) the players interact with. The players will take actions and their success is determined by their character’s stats, abilities, and sometimes a bit of luck. The GM will often run the game according to a pre-created adventure featuring puzzles the players must solve in order to win. The games are set within fantasy-based realms where players will get to fight orcs, meet elves, and quaff beer with dwarves.
What Are The Advantages Of Playing D&D?
First and foremost is that D&D is a fun social game typically played with 5+ people. One will take on the role of the GM with the remaining acting as players. Friendships will form quickly as a good gaming group will meet regularly. Players will often be shy in the beginning, but given gentle pushes will come out of their shell as they explore who their character is. Confidence will grow as they enthusiastically play the role.
GMs and players are encouraged to not just play the game, but to act out the game. The process is similar to that of theatrical acting but their stage is the table they sit around and the “script” is limited only by their imagination. To fully round out a character, players have the opportunity to funnel their creative juices as they create their character and build their back story. The process is not only enjoyable but it helps develop key skills and helps with language ability. GMs and players not only become great actors but amazing writers. It is no wonder that some of Hollywood’s greatest play D&D.
During play, characters will encounter many challenges. There will be times where players have to quickly analyze and diffuse a situation. It could be an encounter with a band of mercenaries, where a wrong move could end in disaster. A locked door that will only open if a specific sequence of events takes place. Or perhaps the most enjoyable,the final encounter with the dungeon’s lord whose abilities can only be overcome through the players’ cunning and special abilities. All of these not only test a player’s critical thinking but logical reasoning and problem solving as well.
This All Sounds Great, So How Do I Get My Kids Playing?
There are games run specifically for kids. These will often be run at a local games store by someone with experience in introducing new players to the game. Most games will be for specific age ranges and will be tailored to them. You may also find games that encourage a parent and child to play together. This is a great bonding experience. Check out your local games store, library, or club at school for more information. If you are unable to find a gaming group, or are stuck at home, why not start your own? Get your family playing, or perhaps your kid and their friends.
For some there will already be a strong interest in fantasy gaming, and the hardest part will be dragging them away from their keyboards. For others, you have the opportunity to explore fantasy novels and movies. Sitting down and watching The Hobbit is a great way of getting them interested. Compare the scenes in the movie with a D&D adventure. Be careful, don’t give too much away, but let them read the rule books and adventure and introduce them to the lore. There is a rich and diverse world for them to explore.
If your kids are very young, Wizards of the Coast have released a series of ‘Young Adventurers Guide’ books that may be useful. There has also been a re-release of ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books. Not all people want to be a player, it could be the role of GM that is of interest. There is no law stopping them from being the GM from the get-go.
D&D is not the only roleplaying game available. If science fiction is more their thing, look at Paizo’s Starfinder or Fantasy Flight’s Star Wars Roleplaying Game. You could also try a different tabletop game. There are plenty available that share similar themes. These can be an excellent gateway to roleplaying.
If after all that and your child is still hesitant or uninterested, don’t force them. You don’t want them to resent playing. Allow them the freedom to explore the game in their own time. The worst case is that your child won’t want to play. That doesn’t mean there aren’t adventures in real life that you can’t share. Why not build a fort in the backyard?
Sidenote:
Dungeons & Dragons franchise owner Wizards of the Coast announced free content for the roleplaying game. Available for a limited time only, new content is announced each weekday and has included the backbone of every great session – campaign adventures. For those of you who don’t have a set of rules, fret not; they also released their digital ‘starter set’ which includes everything you need to get going as well as more advanced players and dungeon masters guide from the D&D Adventures League. There really hasn’t been a better time to get your kids playing Dungeons & Dragons.
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