Role-playing games (RPGs) have been at the heart of traditional and digital gaming for decades. From classic tabletop experiences to immersive, story-driven video games, RPGs have captured the imagination of players all around the world. Here at Bomran, we’re dedicated to bringing gamers the best RPGs, including popular titles like Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer 40K, alongside a range of accessories and tools to enhance your gaming experience. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started with RPGs at home, so you’ll be fully equipped to embark on your first role-playing adventure.
What is an RPG?
An RPG is a type of game where you take on the role of a character in a fictional setting. The beauty of RPGs is that they let you embody someone (or something) entirely different from yourself. Whether you’re a wizard casting spells or a space marine fighting alien invaders, RPGs provide a unique way to explore storytelling, creativity and strategic thinking.
There are different types of RPGs, from traditional tabletop games played with dice and paper to video games where you control characters in a virtual world. In the context of this post, we’ll focus on traditional tabletop RPGs, where players gather around a table, usually with a Game Master (GM) or Dungeon Master (DM) who guides the story and manages the world.
In most tabletop RPGs, you’ll need a set of rules to govern the gameplay, which helps create structure and fairness during the game. For example, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) uses a set of rules to determine combat outcomes, character abilities and magical powers, making it easier for players to immerse themselves in their roles and make decisions based on their character’s strengths and weaknesses.
How to Get Started with Role-Playing Games at Home
RPGs are a fantastic way to spend time with family and friends, but getting started can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re new to the world of role-playing. Here’s how you can get started at home…
1. Choose Your Game
The first thing you’ll need to do is decide which RPG to play. If you’re not sure where to start, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is the perfect beginner-friendly choice. It’s the world’s most popular RPG and has tons of resources for beginners, which makes it a great entry point for new players. Whether you’re exploring fantastical dungeons, battling terrifying monsters, or uncovering hidden treasures, D&D offers limitless possibilities for creativity. If you’re more into strategy and miniature battles, Warhammer 40K might be your style. With its detailed miniature armies and tactical combat, Warhammer 40K offers a more complex, but equally rewarding experience. Both are available at Bomran and come with all the resources you need to start your journey, whether you’re picking up your first set of dice or assembling your Warhammer army.
2. Understand the Rules
Each RPG has its own set of rules, and these will govern how you play. Start by reading the rulebook for the game you’ve chosen, or ask the GM or DM to explain the key elements of gameplay. Don’t stress about memorising everything, RPGs are meant to be fun, and you’ll get the hang of the rules as you play. The beauty of these games lies in their flexibility, and the DM will guide you through the process, helping you understand the mechanics as the game progresses. If you’re playing a game like D&D, the rules can help define your character’s abilities, actions, and interactions with the world, making it easier to immerse yourself in the story. Just take things one step at a time, and don’t worry about getting everything right immediately, part of the fun is learning as you go!
3. Gather Your Materials
Most tabletop RPGs require certain materials to get started, such as dice, character sheets and perhaps miniatures. For D&D, you’ll need a set of polyhedral dice (including a d20, d12, d10, d8, d6, and d4), a character sheet, and a rulebook. Having these basic supplies is essential as they help track your progress and determine the outcome of your decisions. Warhammer 40K, on the other hand, will require miniatures, paints and a battlefield setup. These are key for the tactical aspect of the game, allowing you to move and battle on a visual and strategic level. Bomran offers a range of these materials, so you can get everything in one place. Whether you’re picking out your first set of dice or gathering the perfect miniatures, Bomran has what you need to jump into your chosen RPG.
4. Find Players
RPGs are usually played with a group of people, so gather your friends, family, or online buddies to play. You’ll need a DM to guide the story and players who will take on the roles of characters within the game world. Depending on the game, you’ll want to have a group that’s large enough to ensure everyone can participate, but not so large that it becomes hard to manage. Typically, RPGs work best with 3-6 players, but you can have more or less depending on the game and your preferences. You can also find RPG groups online through forums or dedicated gaming platforms. Once you’ve gathered your crew, make sure to schedule regular sessions so everyone stays invested in the adventure.
5. Create Your Character
Once you have your players, it’s time to create your character. This is one of the most fun parts of RPGs and where your imagination can really come to life. You’ll get to decide what kind of character you want to play, whether it’s a mighty wizard, a noble knight, or a sneaky rogue, your character can be as unique as you want. Many RPGs, like D&D, provide character sheets to help you track your stats, abilities, and inventory, as well as a backstory to develop. This is a chance to fully immerse yourself in the game world, and working with your GM to create a character that fits the campaign setting can really enrich your experience. Think about how your character’s personality, skills, and motivations will influence the choices you make throughout the adventure. Don’t be afraid to let your creativity run wild!
6. Set the Scene
Before you start playing, the DM will usually set the scene, describing the world your characters will inhabit. This could be anything from a high fantasy kingdom filled with magic to a post-apocalyptic wasteland where survival is key. The scene-setting is an important part of the experience, as it helps players visualise the world and get into character. Listen closely and ask questions if you need clarification. This is your chance to immerse yourself in the world before embarking on your adventure. The more you engage with the setting and its lore, the deeper your immersion will be. Plus, it gives you a better understanding of the world’s rules and the threats you may face.
7. Start the Adventure
Now it’s time to dive in! The GM will guide the story, and your decisions will shape the outcome. Whether you’re solving puzzles, battling monsters, or negotiating with NPCs (non-player characters), your choices will determine how the story unfolds. As you progress, you may find yourself facing unexpected challenges, which is part of the thrill of RPGs. It’s important to work with your fellow players and the GM to build a collaborative story. RPGs are a team effort, and your character’s decisions will not only impact your own journey but also those of your fellow players. Embrace the opportunities for collaboration, conflict, and creative problem-solving as you engage in this shared adventure.
8. Stay Engaged
RPGs are all about immersion, so stay engaged throughout the game. Pay attention to the dialogue, take note of important plot points, and remember key details about the world, the characters, and the quest. Keep track of your character’s progress, remember important story points, and interact with other players. It’s also a good idea to take notes to remember key details, like who the villain is or where important treasures are hidden. Being actively engaged will not only enhance your experience, but will also make the game more enjoyable for everyone at the table. The more you immerse yourself, the more rewarding the adventure becomes!
9. Respect the DM & Players
Role-playing games are a shared experience, and everyone at the table should have a chance to contribute. Respect the GM’s role as the storyteller and the players’ decisions, as they will each add value to the unfolding narrative. It’s important to be mindful of the pacing and ensure everyone has a voice in the story. Don’t dominate the game, and let others enjoy the experience too. Every player and GM is there to have fun and share in the adventure, so maintaining a collaborative and respectful environment is essential for a smooth gaming experience.
10. Have Fun!
Most importantly, have fun! RPGs are about creativity, adventure, and storytelling, so embrace the freedom that comes with playing a role in a dynamic world. Don’t worry if you make mistakes along the way—just embrace the experience and enjoy the journey. The true joy of RPGs is in the friendships you form, the creative stories you build, and the thrill of shared adventure. Whether your campaign ends in victory or defeat, the experience of living through a character’s eyes is one that is bound to leave a lasting impact. So sit back, relax, and let your imagination soar!
Once you’ve followed these steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your first RPG session at home! With the right game, group and attitude, you’ll discover that RPGs offer a uniquely engaging way to explore stories, develop friendships, and unleash your creativity. So, gather your dice, character sheets, and friends, your adventure awaits, and there’s no better time than now to begin!
Types of Role-Playing Games
Now that you know how to get started, let’s explore some of the most popular types of RPGs you can dive into at home. Two of the most iconic RPGs are Dungeons & Dragons and Warhammer 40K. These two titles offer a unique experience and are loved by players around the world.
Dungeons & Dragons is the quintessential tabletop RPG, with a rich history dating back to the 1970s. It’s a fantasy game where you can play a variety of characters, like elves, dwarves, orcs, and more, while embarking on epic quests and battling fierce monsters. D&D is known for its deep lore, creative storytelling, and strategic gameplay.
With D&D, you can either play a campaign that spans multiple sessions or engage in one-off adventures. Bomran offers a wide range of D&D products, including core rulebooks, dice, miniatures, and accessories to make your D&D sessions as immersive as possible.
For those who prefer a more tactical experience, Warhammer 40K is a must-try. Unlike D&D’s focus on storytelling and role-playing, Warhammer 40K is a miniatures game that combines strategic warfare with a rich science fiction universe. You’ll assemble and paint miniatures representing different factions, such as Space Marines, Orks, or Necrons, and engage in tactical battles against other players.
Warhammer 40K offers a deep and expansive universe, with a range of books and lore to explore. It’s perfect for players who love collecting miniatures and enjoying detailed battle tactics. Bomran stocks a variety of Warhammer 40K products, including miniatures, paints, and accessories to help you get started.
RPGs…Your Adventure Awaits…
Role-playing games are a fantastic way to explore new worlds, meet new people, and let your imagination run wild. Whether you’re stepping into the world of Dungeons & Dragons or planning your next Warhammer 40K battle, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect, just dive in, have fun, and remember that every great adventure begins with a single step. At Bomran, we are committed to providing all the tools, resources, and products you need to get started with RPGs at home. Ready to start your journey? Head over to our website and pick up your D&D or Warhammer essentials today!
Ready to Begin Your RPG Journey?
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