The Complete Guide to Playing Dungeons & Dragons Online

To play Dungeons & Dragons online, all you really need is an internet connection. But your experience will be even better if you also have:

1. A webcam
2. A microphone
3. Rulebooks, like the 2024 Player's Handbook

There are a few different ways to play. Roll20 is a website with over 12 million users that lets you play Dungeons & Dragons online for free. It has all of the rules and tools you need, and you can also use the site to find a group to play with, buy officially-licensed books and adventures, try content from a huge community of creators, and more.

Roll20 is in the "virtual tabletop" category. A virtual tabletop (VTT) is an online application that allows people to play tabletop role-playing games on a shared digital canvas. Virtual tabletops can be used for all sorts of tabletop RPGs, including Dungeons and Dragons.

The VTT provides a digital environment for players and game masters to come together and engage in their favorite tabletop roleplaying games (RPGs) like D&D from anywhere in the world.

One of the primary benefits of using a virtual tabletop is the ability to connect with other players online. This enables gamers to join (and rejoin) groups with people they would not have been able to play with in person otherwise. VTTs provide a platform for players to schedule and organize game sessions, store character sheets and campaign notes, and manage the flow of the game. (Roll20 handles all of that in your web browser, including integrated audio and video.)

Anything you can do around a real table is free on Roll20.net. That means rolling dice, making characters, drawing maps, measuring distances, aligning assets to a grid, and distributing handouts are all possible on our virtual tabletop for free.

Getting Started with Online D&D

Setting up your first online D&D session requires some preparation:

1. Choose your platform: Consider which VTT best matches your group's needs and technical abilities. (Roll20 is widely considered the easiest place to start!)
2. Gather your digital tools: Beyond the VTT itself, you might want to check out third-party content on DMsGuild, or map-making tools like Dungeon Scrawl.
3. Set expectations with a Session Zero: A solid Session Zero is the key to setting expectations, building characters, and avoiding game-derailing conflicts. With Roll20, running a Session Zero is easy!
4. Test your setup: Before your first game, run a technical check with all players to ensure everyone's audio, video, and internet connection work properly.
5. Establish table rules: Online play introduces unique considerations like muting protocols, how to indicate when you want to speak, safety tools, and managing side conversations.

Building an Online D&D Group

Finding players remains one of the biggest challenges for many Dungeon Masters. Fortunately, online play opens numerous avenues:

• LFG (Looking For Group) tools: Dedicated spaces on Reddit (r/lfg) and platform-specific forums connect players and DMs. (Roll20 has its own internal LFG tool!)
• Social media groups: Facebook and Discord communities regularly host game advertisements and player searches.

When recruiting online players, clearly communicate your game style, session length, and expected commitment level to find compatible group members.

Adapting DM Techniques for Online Play

Dungeon Masters face unique challenges and opportunities when running games online:

• Pacing adjustments: Online sessions typically run shorter than in-person games. Plan a session that will comfortably fit into your allotted time. (Sessions typically run from 1-3 hours.)
• Visual aids: Leverage the digital format with art packs, handouts, and atmospheric images to enhance immersion.
• Automation (within reason): While VTTs can automate many calculations, know when to override systems for narrative purposes. Macros are a powerful tool and Mods even more so (for Pro subscribers only).
• Player engagement: Use direct address techniques and occasional check-ins to maintain attention in the absence of physical presence.

Successful online DMs often prepare differently than for tabletop sessions, focusing on content that translates well to the digital medium.

Whether you're an experienced player seeking a new group or a curious newcomer, online D&D provides accessible entry into one of the world's most engaging hobby communities. With minimal equipment requirements and numerous free options, the barriers to adventure have never been lower!