That's the most expensive way to get dice I've ever heard. Just buy a Bag of Holding, brah.

The Core books with the alternate cover. It is a little expensive but boy, they look gorgeous!

Metallic dice, they're so nice and make a nice noise when they land

Giant d20. The numbers aren't balanced, but it is a nice way to decorate something with sweet D&D ref

Make your party minis in Hero Forge!

Ugh I don't even play anymore and I want to buy some dice...

come on look at the deals

A battle mat, used to play out any combat during sessions: https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

Amazon in my experience is one of the best places to buy the books when it comes to price. The books are almost always constantly on sale for 20% or 30% off.

It also depends on his role. Is he mostly just a player? An aspiring DM? Either way, if he already doesn't have it he should have the players handbook. Probably the Dungeon Masters guide, and a few others. The top books I'd say he should have (in order of priority) are probably:

1. Players Handbook
   
2. The Dungeon Masters Guide
   
3. The Monster Manual
   
4. Xanathar's Guide to Everything
   
5. Volos Guide to Monsters
   
6. Mordenkainens Tome of Foes
   
   There's also a bunch of other books and adventures, but these are most important. For adventures I highly recommend Tales From the Yawning Portal, Ghosts of Saltmarsh, Curse of Strahd and Storm Kings Thunder.
   
   
   
   Now, if you want to make the gift more special, there are a few of the more prestigious (or at least cool) items.
   
   
   
   The Rook and the Raven makes superb notebooks. I use them, my wife uses them. I highly recommend them. They are a bit pricey for a notebook, but they are well made, disco-bound so you can add pages and customize your layout, and there are pages with special prompts to help you brainstorm and organize. Whether you are a DM or player, I highly recommend them. Start with either a player diary or DM planner, then go from there. Warning, your skills order these right away. They makes each book custom from scratch, so fulfillment can take a while (sometimes 8 weeks or so).
   https://shop.therookandtheraven.com/
   
   
   Want to get him the books, but make it a bit more memorable? Get the Core Rulebook Gift Set with Limited Edition Covers. Very nice looking, has the players handbook, Dungeon Masters Guide, and Monster Manual with special edition covers, as well as a special edition Dungeon Masters Screen. You can find it on Amazon (see link below) or sometimes at your local game store.
   Dungeons and Dragons RPG: Core Rulebook Gift Set Limited Alternate Covers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_IiERDbMK8RT3K
   
   
   
   Dice. Dice. Dice. Players and DMs alike love Dice. Especially cool or special dice. You can look around on Amazon for large sets of regular dice (Wiz Dice Bag of Devouring: Collection of 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets for Tabletop Role-Playing Games - Solids, Translucents, Swirls, Glitters, Alchemic Oddities https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_rlERDbMH5C6AB), miniature dice (Wiz Dice Halfling's Haversack - 140 Mini Polyhedral Dice, 20 Colors in Complete Sets of 7, Miniature 10mm Pocket Size is Portable and Great for Travel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BWK7HVB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_HkERDb6P484G7) or some sets of special material dice, like metal dice (TecUnite 7 Die Metal Polyhedral Dice Set DND Role Playing Game Dice Set with Storage Bag for RPG Dungeons and Dragons D&D Math Teaching (Shiny Black and Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CVT3RZR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_GmERDbQ090HDB).
   I would also check out Artisan Dice. Very pricey, but VERY nice. There are some dice from here made from ACTUAL stones like Malachite, and some even made from Bison Horn.
   
   
   If he's a fan of Critical Role you should of course check out their Merch Shop. Plenty of cool items there, like apparel, maps, tankards, etc.
   https://shop.critrole.com/
   
   
   If he likes using digital tools at the table, you can always get him a subscription to D&D Beyond. It can be a very useful, intuitive tool.
   
   There's so much out there, it's hard to choose. And everyone has different tastes, so its hard to make specific recommendations. If you have any questions, let me know. Getting new players more involved in the hobby is one of my favorite things. And honestly, you sound like an awesome mom. I would have loved for my mom to have supported my hobbies like this when I was younger, and it's impressive the kind of research you are doing. Hes a lucky kid.
   
   Edit:
   Just remembered a few more things. Reaper makes excellent miniatures he can use in his games, and mini painting is a great hobby he can get into. Check out Reaper Miniatures (https://www.reapermini.com/) and some sets of paints. I recommend Vallejo or Citadel for paints, but Reaper also has some nice starter kits. For tutorials, have him look at YouTube, especially channels like Goobertown hobbies, Miniac, Black Magic Craft, etc.
   
   Also, right now Reaper has a kickstarter going on. They've done this a few times before and it's been quite successful in the past. It's going in now and will end Nov. 1st. Basically, you pledge a certain amount of money and they give you a TON of minis at a much lower cost per mini. I think the core set is like $120, but I think you get well over a hundred minis, so it's a great value. If you don't mind waiting on the actual gift (fulfillment is expected around Feb 2021?), it can be a great way to quickly get a ton of cool minis.
   Reaper Miniatures Bones 5: Escape from Pizza Dungeon, via @Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/reaperbones5/reaper-miniatures-bones-5-escape-from-pizza-dungeon?ref=android_project_share

Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set: Fantasy Roleplaying Game Starter Set (D&D Boxed Game) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0786965592/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_Yoefvb0F5P4G9

$12 for this starter pack is a crazy price. This box has a really good storyline, prebuilt characters, and a basic set of rules that are extremely easy to get into. Best way to start!

Edit: Snag these too. That way you don't all have to share one set of dice!

100+ Pack of Random Polyhedral Dice in Multiple Colors Plus Free Pouch Set by Wiz Dice https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_DTffvb0WSX43P

Not super large, but maybe big enough to get the point across? Haha

Learning Resources Jumbo Foam Polyhedral Dice, 5 Dice, 4, 8, 10, 20 Sides, Ages 5+ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_A2MGDbTGYZ6CV

You'd probably get a better response from this over at /r/rpg Your product is useful for that type of gaming, with miniatures and stuff like that, while this subreddit is generally for modern boardgames, and games that are a complete product, which generally won't need this.

That said, for some useful crituqes, I think your updated design would be hard to use. With all the various different lines, it would be hard to keep track of exactly where the hexes are. You don't really need multiple sizes, because most miniatures are all around the same size, with different sizes for different creatures, but those generally take up multiple squares. I don't know exactly the size, but I think they are around 1" diameter at their base for a standard size. Personally I'd like to see something that just has a square grid on one side and a hex grid on the other side. I have a mat like this one, and I think you'll find that is what most people are using. So if you want to get RPG business, you're competing against them. They are clear and large, but personally I can say that the map is really big, and its a real pain to transport and store. So you're product is nice that it folds up and you can store it where ever. If it was as usable as the mat I linked too, I would definitely consider buying one.

As others have pointed out, the essential book is for 4th edition and is not compatible with what you are doing.

Here is a list of books

• The starter-set will be fine to get started. That´s all you need.
  
• This is the free version of the rules. This is what you can send to your players if they want to read up so all of you don´t have to share starter-set pamphlet.
  
  After you have run the starter set:
  
  
• Later on I recommend that your group own at least one players handbook. But usually each player has one (when they are invested). I gave one to each player as a Christmas gift ;). A player usually have the players handbook and dice. This will give you more options as well. Look at this to give you an idea.
  
• As a DM you might also want to invest in the Dungeon Masters guide as well.
  
• You will now have two option. You can buy and run adventures or create your own. If your planning on creating your own I recommend that you buy The Monster manual.
  
• You also want to buy a gaming mat. Something like this.
  
  That will keep you busy for years. Don´t worry about investing in 3D terrain, or getting all of the books, unless you really want to.
  
  Some tips:
  
  
• Above all else, this is a game, and the goal is to have fun. Say this before you start the game to everyone. Goal is to have fun. This means that the players can´t be dicks because they think it´s fun (like stealing from other players). AKA the don´t be a dick rule. It also means that if a player comes up with a crazy cool idea, you as a DM should try to make that happen. Be the yes man "within reason".
  Player: "Ok so I want to like do like a somersault above the monster and while I am in the air try to hit him with my swords!"
  DM: "As it happens there is a chandelier right after the table and before the monster, you can run up on the table, grab the chandler to get enough height and momentum, do a dex check".
  
• The DM makes the rules, the rules in the books are just a suggestion. At sessions, especially at the beginning it´s going to be a lot of discussions about how things work. This is good as all of you are learning. BUT there will moments when some one starts to act like a lawyer, DO NOT FALL FOR IT! Instead make a quick ruling and say that after the session you can have that discussion, you will look up more exactly how it´s done afterwards and make a permanent ruling. Keep the game flowing.
  
• Delegate. The DM does not have to do everything. These are thing I delegate. One players keep tracks of conditions on monsters and add appropriate token on the player mat. One player get´s to schedule the next session. One player get´s to decide when to break.

This is what I bought! Wet erase markers only

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat:... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Learning Resources Jumbo Foam Polyhedral Dice, 5 Dice, 4, 8, 10, 20 Sides, Ages 5+ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8QKSDbM2TMVGN

Well, here are my thoughts:

1. Price. Critical Hit Die, Jumbo D20, Set of foam dice all run about 10-15 dollars, and fall into the "Novelty dice" category. I think a entry level popper should be available for that cost, at lest under 20.
   
   
2. I haven't tested it, but I don't see any reason why you couldn't put more then one die in one of these, so large ones made for multiple die would be cool.
   
   
3. Readability would be a concern here. It's important the dome is clear enough to easily read through, and doesn't distort the die to the point of making it unreadable unless you are above it. How low the dice sits in it would also be a concern. Looking at the pictures, it looks like this is all covered though, but I would have to have one sitting on my game table to be sure.
   
   
4. Feet. Here some testing would need to be done. I'm thinking of two separate approaches to this, but I'm not sure which would be more popular. First approach is standard foam feet in each corner to keep it from scratching the table and from sliding. Second approach is, why not embrace the sliding? You are going to be passing this back and forth, so why not put a Teflon base on it (like on the bottom of a good mouse). Not only would it prevent scratching, it should give it a nice glide action to push it back and forth across the table between players. Maybe a felt bottom? Lots of possibilities here.
   
   
5. Customibility. Shapes, sizes, colors...themes. Obviously this would come later...but a Numenera themed one with a d20 and d6 already inside would not only fetch you more money...but it would also mean that people are more likely to buy more then one, since they might want one for all the Tabletop games they play, or if a GM received a themed one from his group as a gift, he might want to get a regular one for other games if he likes it.
   
   
6. Super deluxe digital version. It has special die you have to use for it, and it can tell what the roll is, and announces it in a programmable, selectable voice. Would it be cheap? No. Would people buy it, just to put there voice laughing manically when their player rolls a 1? Of course. Also, no more "roll and grab" or debate on what the roll was or any of that.

As a player and Dungeon Master, it makes me so happy to see /r/DnD making it to bestof more than once. :)

For those interested, the newest edition being released book by book right now is 5e (previously D&D Next when it was still in the playtesting phase). Player's Handbook (PHB) and Monster Manual (MM) are the only rule books out right now. The main storyline book out right now is Hoard of the Dragon Queen (HotDQ) and soon The Rise of Tiamat (RoT).

What you need to play D&D IRL:

• D&D Basic Rules for Players and DMs
  
• 3-4 players (PCs or player characters) is ideal
  
• 1 Dungeon Master (DM), who runs the game
  
• Dice (Wiz Dice is a good starting point if nobody has dice. Just buy the big bag.)
  
• Paper and pencils
  
• Optional: A battle mat (like this one from Chessex)
  
• Optional: Miniatures (minis) to represent your PCs, NPCs, and monsters. I use dice to represent monsters in my games, because minis are expensive.
  
  If you want to play a D&D online tabletop:
  
  
• Roll20.net
  
• Use /r/lfg, /r/roll20lfg, or their dedicated LFG function/forums to find other people
  
• Roll20 itself has all you need to play the game - character sheets, dice rollers, built in webcam/mic, special view for DMs versus players, music, handouts, macros, etc.
  
  
  Shameless plug: My group streams D&D 3.5e (older edition) on Twitch almost every Monday night at 8pm EST. I also play and DM 5e, so I'm happy to answer questions about either edition!
  

Cards Against Humanity is a great dorm game as long as you're not at a super conservative college. (Apples to Apples can be substituted, too.) My friends and I played BANG! a lot. Any short, easy-to-learn games are really great to have.

In this vein: a rug or floor cushions. I lucked out with nice hardwood floors. Most dorms have linoleum. Have something nicer for guests to sit on and keep it clean. If there's room (and your roommate is cool with it, too), a couch or cozy futon will instantly make your room the best one to hang out in.

A small speaker with an AUX input, preferably Bluetooth.

My personal favorite thing in my dorm was my aquarium, which are usually allowed in dorms. A little 5 gallon betta tank is calming and a good conversation starter. Just make sure you're ready for maintenance if you do that and have a plan to get the fish home at the end of the semester.

Less fun but very important: A lamp. Dorms usually come with fluorescent lighting, like what you find in offices. It makes your room feel like a hospital. Buy a floor lamp and it's instantly 100% more homey.

A dry erase DnD map. I got one as a gift and it was the best DnD gift I’ve ever gotten. I’ll link the one I got below.

A DM screen is always a safe bet too if they do not have one. I assume you can find that thru Amazon.


Map: https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR

This is the pack I purchased. Was expecting each die to be random, not 15 random full sets. I only wish I hadn't gotten 2 translucent green. A different type of red instead would have been ideal. Not bad for $20 though.

Went and bought myself a bag of holding so no one has an excuse

Yup. That's why the WizDice bag of dice is a much better buy. They're a dollar cheaper, and another poster recently noted they almost always come in complete or near-complete matched sets.

• OP's Halloween dice
  
  
• Skeleton 6-sided dice
  
  
• Orange dice, glow yellow in the dark
  
  
• Absolute Dice Halloween game -- How to play video. Opinion: Neat dice, but horribly unfun game.
  
  
• Zombie Dice -- Game review. It's a light, fast, good press-your-luck game. You'll want to glue one end cap to the dice cup because the cardboard gets warped and the end caps no longer stay on. Basically, create your own game storage container from a small plastic lidded container from a dollar store. Slap a Halloween graphic on the top of the container, and you're done. If you get into the game, you'll want to buy one or two packs of brain counters.

I refuse to get any brand other than Chessex. I bought two sets of the Borealis polyhedrals and I LOVE them.

EDIT: There's also a few companies that make polyhedrals with designs on them:

Steampunk

Cthulhu

Elvish (Glow-in-the-Dark)

Link for the foam dice if anyone needs. The 2 6 sided I already had and can't remember where I got.

Learning Resources Jumbo Foam Polyhedral Dice https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_vyZfzbRPZFVMB

Ordered by increasing gratitude:

Gave you a bandaid when you cut yourself:
http://www.amazon.com/GameScience-Blue-Moonstone-d20-gold/dp/B001GL0H5U/ref=sr_1_25

Covered for you while you went to the clinic (don't ask):
http://www.amazon.com/GameScience-Precision-Coal-Black-7-Dice/dp/B006TF2UM6/ref=sr_1_11

Bought and delivered new pants to you, on the toilet (again, don't ask):
http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=sr_1_14

Saved your damn fool life:
http://www.amazon.com/Steel-Dwarven-Metal-Seven-Piece/dp/B0014HN7QM/ref=sr_1_7

If you guys can pool ~$30 you can get a Chessex Battlemat and some wet erase markers. It'll be just a little bigger than (what I'm guessing is) 8.5x11 and just as functional/reuseable as your option.

> So, I only have 30 minutes with the group once a week as a DnD club. I figure that I'm just going to be there to facilitate them getting into groups and finding their own DMs so they can play outside of the school day.

Yes, this sounds like the way to do it. It sounds like you'll have a weekly clinic for people to level up characters, talk out rules issues, work out group issues, share awesome stories and such.

> I also will likely need to start some fundraisers for game materials since we're in a VERY high poverty school.

Since you have so many players, you're getting into territory where buying in bulk becomes realistic.

• Dice at $1.50 per set
  
• Butt loads of paper for tactical combat
  
• Meeples instead of minis
  
  Even if $1.50 is too much for these kids to spare for a set of dice, if the kids are playing at school after hours, these can be club materials.
  
  You might also reach out to book stores, game stores, theater groups, art stores, office supply stores and such to see if there's any type of sponsorship opportunities to help with some of this stuff.

I bought this before the first time I DMed. I got 15 complete sets, a partial set missing the d20 and d12, and immediately gave away probably three of them. Then a few more. I think I'm down to about eight sets now.

No one wanted the pink dice, so I use them as the dice of shame. If someone does something stupid, I take away their dice and make them play with the pink set.

Pig stacking was already a game. I smell a copyright infringement coming up. RIP Hasbro

Also, I recommend a proper battlemat. They're pricey at first, but they last a long time, can improve overall table stuffs, and you can use erasable markers on them without too much trouble (note: red seems to stain a little if left on too long, while the other colors do not).

Look for ones like this (I think by Chessex): good mat

Do not buy the one that looks like this: bad mat

I highly recommend NOT going for a chessex pound of dice as a new roleplayer. They do not come with neat sets and the spread over the different kind of dice (so your standard d6 then, d8,d10,12,d20 etc.) is very uneven.

I highly recommend a wizdice pack if you want a solid amount of dice. They are cheap, and come with mostly full sets of dice (i had 16 in one pack). So even for more experienced roleplayers this might be a better choice, or a great gift to new players as you get them.

Here are some comparison pictures from /u/Airos_the_Tiger :

Chessex pound of dice: http://i.imgur.com/LVjeKWt.jpg

Wizdice dice pack: http://i.imgur.com/clFrt0L.jpg

This is the cart I bought: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006OHKVXE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You have to put it together yourself and its pretty simple to put together but it's definitely not the strongest cart in the world. If you fully load it like I have you will be wary of using it as a rolling cart, the whole thing is held together by 6 screws so expect a lot of swaying.

Other links:

Dungeonscapes: https://www.etsy.com/shop/DungeonScapes

Tact Tiles: https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H0TNFY

Where is this 6 sets of dice for $9 you speak of? The closest I've found are these:

https://www.amazon.com/6x-Sets-10-Polyhedral-Dice/dp/B00JNV7QG8

EDIT: Oh, and actually these look okay: https://www.amazon.com/SmartDealsPro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=pd_day0_21_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01ABST9S4&pd_rd_r=6J3Y84Q3BG935JH4XYAH&pd_rd_w=stSf0&pd_rd_wg=cDK0I&psc=1&refRID=6J3Y84Q3BG935JH4XYAH&dpID=51TLq9O7vtL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=detail

2nd EDIT: Aha! These are actually pretty good! 6 sets for less than $10.50, and better ratings than the previous two links. Also, you get precisely the colors shown (which could be a negative for some people, I suppose):

https://www.amazon.com/iFergoo-Polyhedral-Polyhhedral-Dungeons-Dragons/dp/B0719X9SQZ/ref=pd_day0_21_11?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B0719X9SQZ&pd_rd_r=6J3Y84Q3BG935JH4XYAH&pd_rd_w=stSf0&pd_rd_wg=cDK0I&psc=1&refRID=6J3Y84Q3BG935JH4XYAH

I recently bought the WizDice random pack on Amazon and would highly
recommend it. Came with several full sets and several partial sets for only $20 or so. I also bought my players dice bags as a small Christmas gift, and was able to give each of then three dice sets and save several more for myself. The whole thing cost me maybe $40 for four people, although the dice itself was only half of that. http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY

I looked it up and found the pack with the three core books and DM screen all with alternate covers on Amazon for $199.99 plus $24.99 shipping. Amazon. Says they will be available Nov 7th and arrive December 14th if you pre-order. Given the price and the shipping time, buying at an local game store would probably be your best option.

Here is the link: https://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-RPG-Rulebook-Alternate/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540402409&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=dungeons+and+dragons+gift+set+limited+edition&dpPl=1&dpID=51zkcYDTtuL&ref=plSrch

You are incorrect, sir or ma'am. Local game shops have been selling them on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hbm8BbRJVC3MM

And they were even available for Pre-Order on Amazon as soon as they were announced. Soo..

Because its so cheap, ~$20 for 100+ dice. Of the "random set" a lot of people get matched sets. That being said, not everyone gets them.

I ordered these too last time it was posted here. From the 123 dice I received, I got just 1 color-matched (opaque red) set besides the guaranteed set (radioactive orange), and was only able to make 2 other sets. The full pack only contained 4 d10s, but had 29 d00's. I was able to make a total of 7 sets out of all the dies, because that's how many d20's it contained (I used a sharpie to change some d00's to d10's). While the above is disappointing considering all the reviews I'd read, its still within the product description. The biggest disappointment was the quality of the dice. While a fair amount were pretty good, at least a quarter had visible defects, either ink outside the lines, or a few with barely visible numbers.
So, it's really kind of a gamble. If you don't like what you have, you can always head over to /r/diceswap and see trades you can make.

https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=zg_bs_1265808011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=D1Y99S8YTAQSHR3Y5XWC Here's 5 sets of dice for $10.

Alternatively, there are a ton of free apps - though I do find apps to not be as satisfying and very easy for people to cheat with, especially with younger players.

A Chessex Gridded Role Playing Mat really helped me out (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015IQO2O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1). Obviously things like dice are helpful too - I'd recommend this https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-001LBCHX-Pound-O-Dice/dp/B008C0KXYS/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1481377749&sr=1-1&keywords=pound+of+dice because who doesn't want a pound of dice lol.

Miniatures on the other hand are a really fast way of blowing through whatever budget you have and should imo be the last thing you get

Chessex makes a much better product, which is designed for use with wet-erase markers. It's a thick expanded vinyl product.

Chessex Battle Mat
1" squares on one side, hexes on the opposite.

http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=pd_sbs_t_1

All the dice you could need. Generally comes with at least a few complete sets, fairly basic colors.

I have had a few friends buy this: https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_4

It guarantees 15 full sets and the quality seemed fine. It's hard to beat for the price.

Wizdice guarantees 15 complete sets:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/

Buy 3 sets of these and you're all set:

https://www.amazon.com/SmartDealsPro-Durable-Drawstring-Jewelry-Packaging/dp/B00W3R2BDC

I bought a bag of Wizdice years ago when everyone was praising them for the number of complete sets. My son and I eagerly put together the bag and got ONE complete set. 3 days later Wizdice reached out to me via reddit because of a post I made and offered to send me a new bag, because the bag I got was a "bag of hurt."

I didn't even complain in the post. I just said that not every bag is a winner and that's the chance you take, I'm still happy with the purchase.

So, now I always recommend Wizdice to everyone, because they went above and beyond for me.

EDIT: These bags are even cheaper: https://www.amazon.com/Medium-Pouches-Drawstrings-Wiz-Dice/dp/B00DH1FZNG/

Like this?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HFG969C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Couldn't resist the alternate starter set myself.

Do yourself a favor and get yourself one of these, plus some Wet Erase Markers. http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1450276466&sr=8-2&keywords=erasable+map

I have way too many Pathfinder battle maps and even the Pathfinder map tiles. They come in handy every once in a while, but unless your players keep coming back to the same location, they aren't generic enough that you can use them all the time.

My drawing skills are terrible, but once you GM enough, you discover your players don't expect art. They just need a rough idea of the terrain, pointing out walls and things that can be used in combat (cover, partial cover, rocks for high ground, lava, etc) and even simple lines and circles can cover most of that.

I think it's this Chessex map, but there different types, prices and sizes, this one is like a tablecloth. Note you cannot use regular whiteboard eraser on it, you need "dry erasers", and then just a damp rag or something to wipe it off at the end of the session (it it's there for longer the color can stick a bit).

100+ Pack of Random Polyhedral Dice in Multiple Colors Plus Free Pouch Set by Wiz Dice

$19.99 on Amazon.

Not scientific means and standards knife edge quality, but far from junk, and you are promised to get full sets. They will even fix things for you if you get a bad batch.

Highly recommend.

Edit: Here's the link I should have added in the first place, but I was in a hurry and forgot to add.

http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY

If you're just starting out, I recommend the 100-dice package from Wiz Dice. Even as a player, you'll find having multiple sets really handy, and the quality's a little bit better than Chessex's equivalent.

Here's something I typed out for someone else who asked the same question a while back.

Basically a quick guide to what you should get to get started:

------

Here's what I'd buy, in order (5e):

• 1. Starter Set. This contains an excellent adventure for new players - I highly suggest running it if you're a 1st time DM - you can easily transition into a homebrew campaign or other adventures after it's over, using it as a "jumping off point". Also contains core rules and classes (which you can also download online so everyone in your group can have their own copy). The character options are limited, but you can always add more later.
     
     
• 2. Player's Handbook. Ideally, everyone has their own copy of this, but at least 1 copy vastly expands your party's customization options, and gives you the option to level up past 5. If you continue on past the first adventure, you will need this eventually.
     
     
• 3. The Monster Manual. You have enough monsters to work with from the starter set, but this gives you a lot more. Good to have in the long-term... not necessary while you're playing the starter set adventure, since all the monsters used there are included.
     
     
• 4. Dungeon Master's Guide. Honestly, I have little use for this, and I only open it rarely. However, if you run a more "random" or "sandbox" campaign where the players are more free to explore wherever they want in your world, this can be very handy for you. The one thing I do use it for is the magic items, which it has a huge collection of. This one can wait.
     
     As for non-book stuff, I'd highly suggest the following:
     
     
• EXTRA DICE. I suggest having 1 d20 for each player since it's by far the most common roll. On top of that, have, for the table, a set of at least: 2d12, 2d10, 6d8, 6d6, and 2d4. Having that set greatly speeds up the game as you level up, so you don't want to have to roll your one d6 8 times to get the damage of your attack.
  
  
• An erasable grid. (Something like this one) and some dry erase markers. Some people say "Theater of the Mind" play works fine for them - personally, I think having a grid speeds things up, takes a lot of pressure off the DM, and makes the combat side of the game more "fair". You don't have to be a fantastic artist, just sketch in some borders for the room, and you're good to go.
  
  
• To go with the above, find something to use as tokens. You can buy a big bag of army men, use the player pieces and houses/hotels from the monopoly game you have buried in your closet, or just get some pennies and tape scraps of paper on top of them. Anything you can use to mark where someone is.
  
  
• A DM screen. It may seem like "cheating", but it's actually a good thing to be able to fudge results sometimes (e.g., if you find out you balanced an encounter too hard), or to roll things in secret from players (e.g., a monster's perception roll to see if they know the party is coming). If you don't want to buy one, you can cut one out of a cardboard box, or just prop up a large book in front of you that you can roll dice behind.
  
  
• Food and drinks. The mark of a good D&D game is good friends, good RP, and smooth progression. The mark of a great one is all that plus pizza and beer.
  
  
  Good luck!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01ABST9S4?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title

I would recommend starting out with The Starter Set. It has everything you need to get started (basic rules, pre-built characters, and a set of dice), but you don't have to sink a lot of money yet.

If you all want to keep going, you will need Player's Handbooks, a Dungeon Master's Guide, and a Monster Manual. Those are your 3 Core Rulebooks. Oh, and all the dice, lots of dice.

Have fun!!

Your best bet for this is going to be your local gaming shop. They usually have drawers of sorted dice and let you mix and match whatever you need for like ten cents a die.

If you can't go to a local store wiz dice has good, cheap bags of dice.

Highly recommend these alternative mapping options as well:

Dry Erase Dungeon Tiles, Combo Set of five 10" and sixteen 5" interlocking squares for role-playing and miniature tabletop games
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016H1B0RW/

I'm about to make a post about how I built a fully functional DM screen from scratch for about $14, but as far as original content that's it for me. However, here's some links that caught my interest or inspired me if it helps any.

Tips

ProJared: How to be a good DM

DM Support Group

Content Generation

DonJon Inn Generator

[World Gen] (http://rpg.stackexchange.com/questions/14706/rules-for-generating-a-game-world-as-you-go)

Map making

Podcasts

For inspiration

Adventure Zone - A real play podcast with a group of seasoned improvisational comedians. The perfect, I think, blend of fun, fantasy, and storytelling. Certainly not serious, but still has really great storytelling and roleplaying. Griffin is an amazing DM and has really inspired me to create like he does.

Hello from the Magic Tavern - Doesn't play DnD, but lots of lore inspiration...for better or worse.

Dungeon Master's Block - Lots of good idea and discussions.

Materials

[Role 4 Initiative dry erase tiles] (http://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H1B0RW) - My dungeon master uses these, it is SO much easier than using one giant dry erase playmat. We used to totally cheese things in dungeons because we knew the action must be in the direction of the rest of the empty squares. With the tiles, it's not obvious anymore which doors to take and which direction to go.

[Color coded ball pawns] (http://www.amazon.com/Ball-Pawns-Accessories-Assorted-Colors/dp/B00JOPU3UY?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s01) - I haven't gotten these in the mail yet, but I think they'll work great for marking the player characters. If I even run a longer campaign, I think it would be fun to use wooden peg dolls, painted with paint pens, as player characters, NPCs, most humanoid monsters...and other various wooden things for the bigger and weirder.

[1 inch wooden squares] (http://www.amazon.com/Package-Round-Disc-Unfinished-Cutouts/dp/B00CA1Y878?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00) - cheap way to make markers for enemies, can write on with sharpie or use a 1 inch circle cutter to use your own color. See the really good guide here.

DM cheat sheets

Ozuro

Ronny Hart

I don't think either of these are perfect; nobody else's DM screens will ever be perfect for how you run a game. I combined these two and added my own notes for my own screen.

Reddit threads I've saved

Overland travel

Sandbox play

Terrain features for encounters

Software

DM Minion - Seems like it would help a lot with organization, certainly not required for success. Can't get it to work with my PC.

I have no idea why we're talking about the randomness or decay potential of these dice, and not just price point.

$15 for a single polyhedral die?! $30 for a set? Aren't there way nicer-looking dice out there for much cheaper?

I believe it was the Paizo Flip-Mat. Basically a foldable cardboard mat.

This is the cutest game of dnd i have ever seen.

But to answer your question you might want to check this out

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371126295&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+battlemat

You can use wet erase markers on it and create levels on the fly.

For miniatures you can use these coins that you make instead, you can learn how to make it at this site

http://newbiedm.com/2008/11/22/newbiedm-tutorial-counters-tokens-or-pogs/

(great tool for creating tokens http://www.rptools.net/index.php?page=tokentool)

With all this you can save you a lot of money but still give you a official feel.

Chessex makes two sided vinyl mats that are awesome.

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

Make sure you get the proper markers for them, normal dry erase markers will ruin them.

The idea is you draw out the dungeon or area as it is explored. It works pretty well for pre-made dungeons.

Personally I had 3 of the 23x26" ones. That way I can map out a larger area of a dungeon without needed to erase, makes letting the party backtrack much more easy.

On the back side they are hexes which work real well for outdoor wilderness exploration. (scaled down)

[pass the pigs! ] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005JG3Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_WpBXAb64WVWXN)

This is one of my favorite games!

You could ask everyone in your party to chip in for a WizDice set of 100. Comes out to $3.33 ($4 if you're good on dice) and everyone can get at least one set.

Dungeons and Dragons RPG: Core Rulebook Gift Set Limited Alternate Covers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_tai_t5bPDbD43X1T6

First of all,
>are those the only items?

These are the only pre-made items, obviously. But are they the be all and end all of the magical items available to you? Not at all. As DM and the master of your world you are free to create magical items to your hearts' content, making them as weak or as powerful as you feel like.
The short of it is yes, yes you can make any kind of items you'd like for your friends to find or enchant.
>are there 'rules' to creation?

No, not really. If you want your player(s) to have a +5 Sword of Awesomeness, you go ahead and give it to them (read: let them get it).
>how would my players go out getting a +5 Sword of Awesomeness?

Once again, as the DM, this is really up to you. If you want there to be an NPC that sells magical items in the city/village/wherever your players are, then you do that. Or you can work it into an adventure. Perhaps your players overhear an NPC talking about the nearby tomb of Melvin Awesomesword. They decide to go investigate, and once they overcome the challenges you present them with, lo and behold, there lies Melvin in his tomb. And with him? Why, it's a +5 Sword of Awesomeness! That's just an example, obviously. You've got to make it your own. There really are no rules as to how you give items to your players. If you want it to fall out of the sky in a meteorite, fine. Do it! My advice would be to not make it too easy for them however. It should be a challenge. You (in my opinion) don't want to offer them stuff on a silver platter. There's no better feeling than completing a challenge or winning a fight and being rewarded accordingly!

>tools for making a decent playing mat?

Not really my area of things, but I use this and it works great. You can draw whatever you like on it, and simply erase it afterwards.

Sorry this was a bit wordy! Hope it's helpful...

I use a Chessex Play Mat for the bulk of my encounters. It works well for quickly drawing out a smaller dungeon or combat encounter. It's about 20x25 squares.

If I need additional space or need to be creative with my level design, I use Gaming Paper. The grid dimensions are 1 inch squares, so it works perfectly with the play mat. Also the gaming paper is durable enough to use repeatedly if you have a few encounters in the same kind of area, like homes/taverns. You could also glue the gaming paper to something like foam board, and create your own dungeon tiles for cheap.

You can get the mat, a roll of gaming paper, and a set of wet erase markers for around $30 USD.

Hopefully that helps!

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Jumbo-Foam-Polyhedral/dp/B003IHTZGW/

Its a chess ex matt! I have a local Black Diamond Games. Heres an amazon link : http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IUAAG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1462230024&sr=8-2&pi=SL75_QL70&keywords=chessex

I prefer Wiz Dice because they have less random ones in the set. I don't need a LRC and Backgammon betting die, just more d12's I'll also never use.

$20/lb, or $25 for Chessex.

I've seen dice seconds sold in bulk at Cons, but rarely online. I'm sure they're out there somewhere but you'd have to do some hunting. I think nowadays they mostly get remelted and recast.

Well, how about a Dice Bag of Holding?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01476QV14/

The starter set for the current edition is $25: https://smile.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-Starter-Set-Roleplaying/dp/B00SI774U6/

Everything you need to run a game when everyone is new. Dice, pre-built characters for players to choose from, and a story for the Dungeon Master to run them through.

Alternatively you can buy the player's handbook and the dungeon master's guide individually:

https://smile.amazon.com/Players-Handbook-Dungeons-Dragons-Wizards/dp/0786965606/


https://smile.amazon.com/Dungeon-Masters-Guide-Core-Rulebook/dp/0786965622/

and some dice

https://smile.amazon.com/SmartDealsPro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/

With those you can do the same thing as the starter set but there's a whole lot more information available about all the different classes, races, weapons, combat rules, spells, etc. I'd recommend the starter set and if y'all are interested in going further getting the rest.

Set aside a few hours one evening to play a session. A lot of groups will do a shorter session 0 where they discuss what characters they're going to play and make sure they've got a decent grasp of the mechanics and rules.

In the course of about 2-3 hours you'll probably get through one combat encounter and one non-combat encounter (talking to townspeople, investigating something, dicking around at the tavern) but it all depends on the choices the players make based on the options presented by the DM.

You can buy the starter set it’s a good base point for little money to start at. It will give you a taste of the game. It comes with pre-set characters you guys can choose from and an adventure book for any one that wants to DM in your party. I would recommend it before you spend money on any of the core books. All pitch in about 5 bucks and get started. Have any other questions?

Dungeons & Dragons Starter Set: Fantasy D&D Roleplaying Game 5th Edition (RPG Boxed Game) Plus Additional Bonus Set of 7 Dice https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CNF823R/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Blg8Bb5V31EWV

Also you are going to need dice luckily they sell it in a set of 5:
Smartdealspro 5 x 7-Die Series Two Colors Dungeons and Dragons DND RPG MTG Table Games Dice with Free Pouches https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_pmg8BbNCJBS3G

This battle mat is absolutely amazing. You can draw on it with overhead projector pens and erase with water when you are done.

I got this when I first started D&D. Now I only buy dice when I think they are REALLY COOL.

Yeah, as others have said, for beginners do try out the D&D 5e Starter Set.

It has enough rules for the small premade adventure they give you to start up, the small adventure itself (which is no small thing for a beginner Dungeon Master), a few pregenerated characters and a set of dice.

You could add to that a few miniatures (or just use paper tokens) and an extra set of dice.


The Starter Set goes to level 5 only (out of 20 max). If you like it, then go ahead and buy the Holy Trinity of D&D Books:

• the Player's Manual, which is a complete* set of all official possibilities about character creation and playing. You don't all need one for playing, but it's easier that way. Sharing is also good, that said.
  
• The Dungeon Master's Guide, which is a book made to help the Dungeon Master create his adventures and make the game enjoyable. Only one is required, really.
  
• The Monster Manual, which containes a lot of premade monsters which are very helpful for DMs.
  
  
  The other books, such as Curse of Strahd, Out of the Abyss or Tales from the Yawning Portal, are simply adventures that you can buy if you don't want to make your own. They are fun to play and way less of a hassle to DMs... but after a while most will like to make their own stories.
  
  On another note... While obviously I can't recommend that both because supporting creators is important and because of subreddit rules, you can find pdfs of all those books online, if you don't want to spend the money. Or simply because Ctrl-F is better than manually searching.
  
  
  *They have added a few more options is some adventures or the Sword Coast Adventure Guide, and there are some unofficial elements that are being tested in the Unearthed Arcana, but trust me with the core books you have enough to play with for a while.

Dungeons & Dragons is the big dog, it's the only TTRPG most people have ever heard of and that name recognition means whatever the current edition of D&D is will almost always have the largest player base in a given area in the English-speaking world.

But if you want a different game you could go with something like Savage Worlds, which is a rules-medium system that can play in any genre you want. The corebook (which is the only book you'd need to play, though others are helpful) is less than $10, which is a plus. See the demo here: https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/peg-freebies/TD06.pdf
Corebook here https://www.amazon.com/Savage-Worlds-Deluxe-Explorers-S2P10016/dp/1937013200

If you want to get some friends together and try some D&D (5th edition, which is the current one) though, I'd try it with the free demo rules before dropping between $90 - 120 on the 3 core books depending on where you buy them. Free demo rules here: https://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/basicrules

If you play a game with your friends you'll want some dice, unless you just decide to use a dice roller app on your phones. I'd recommend buying a big bundle of cheap dice rather than paying a lot for individual sets. A bundle like this one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B01KN7REWQ&pd_rd_wg=8uUwb&pd_rd_r=HQQYF600AKZZA1GKEZHV&pd_rd_w=CjKc8

DrivethruRPG is the site you'll want for other RPGs and older Dungeons & Dragons material, they're the amazon or wal mart of TTRPGs, selling PDFs and print on demand books. https://www.drivethrurpg.com/

Personally I enjoy my Wiz Dice Bag of Devouring: 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets

The dice seem well balanced. I don't have weird outliers like I seem to always get with Chessex, plus it comes in a sweet bag of devouring bag. Plop that baby down at a table and gamers ooh and awe.

Depends on how much goes into that pitcher, but I think you can get far better deals.

The Chessex Pound-O-Dice currently goes for $31.95 on their website, but if you check Amazon you can get it for $20.76. So that's a full pound of random dice, bit over 100 in my experience, plus one matching set of seven.

Wiz Dice does a similar thing with their Bag of Holding, which clocks in at $19.99 for over 100 random dice (though in my experience less random than Chessex') plus a complete set. They also offer their Bag of Devouring at $22.29 for 140 non-random dice, consisting of 20 sets and a bag.

And that's not even counting the amount of cheap sets from less known (possibly lower quality) companies that are floating around.

When you say maps do you mean town maps or battle maps? If you mean town maps they were likely just drawn and printed up. If you mean the battle maps that they do mini combat on, replicating or even coming to a close approximation of their setup would be an insane amount of work. I would reccomend using something like this battle mat instead. It still gives you squares to determine movement in 5 foot chunks without needing to put in all the time that printing, sculpting, kitbashing, and painting those glorious setpieces must take.

It's the Players Handbook from the Limited Edition 5e Gift Set, which contains the PHB, DMG, and Monster Manual with alternate covers. (They're otherwise exactly the same as the regular releases.)

I can't speak for the Chessex Pound-O-Dice but I just bought this dice set a few weeks ago. I personally got 17 complete matched sets of dice, in 15 unique colors. The only defects that are obvious are painting problems that make some of the faces hard to read.

Started Set

Bulk Dice

The starter set is a great way to introduce players to the game. I have never played it, but it comes highly recommended as far as I can tell. Wiz Dice is awesome. I got a bulk set for Christmas and it contained at least 10 complete sets. Well worth it. Good luck!

http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY/

Stop providing ALL the necessities for every other player. I give one set of 7 dice to every new player.

I buy a pound at a time here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY

I let them borrow my PHB for initial character build and 1 session, then they buy their own.

I do not recommend the Chessex bag.
Get this one by Wiz Dice instead.


The Chessex one often has messed up dice and rarely gives you full sets in my experience. The Wiz Dice one gave me 15 full sets and was two dice away from completing the 16th set. They're all good dice (no factor mishaps or anything like the Chessex ones include), and it came out to be cheaper than the Chessex bag when I did it.

15 sets for $25 on Amazon:
Easy Roller Dice Polyhedral Dice for Dungeons and Dragons and Math Dice Games, 105 Pieces, 15 Complete Sets with Dice Bag, Color may vary https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00L2N1OVI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ncOlyb6MQXP3V

Additionally, I've seen high school clubs will get a module and make copies for all their DMs and then see how each team handles the same situations. You could find an easy one or just make one up from a game you've already played.

These dice are about 20 cents each. These are probably about whats in the machine.

I agree with the others that have commented on here. You lose the concept at that level. You need to break it up into smaller groups. And 8 - 10 groups could work. You could teach people how to DM, and then run a bigger campaign for all of them to be involved in.

Here is where it could get interesting.

You could have all the campaigns involved in a single battle. Have them interact then. And then swap into other groups as they get jostled around during the battle.

They can get lost along their journey. Or left behind because of an injury. Or their player character can die, and they would have to start over. And have all of the parties discovering different aspects of the adventure, so they have to share information to figure out the bigger picture.

IT WILL REQUIRE MAPS!!! HUGE MAPS!!!! IT WOULD BE AMAZING!!

I used to be a science teacher, and a swim coach. My wife is a professor at a university. We could do this. We could figure it out. You would need a lot of dice. And you would need books. I can give you some digital ones that I found online.

What if it were like this. They all have to knock down an evil force. And they have to work together, so they would have to meet up at the local inn and find out from each other what they learned. Then they get a map, or some piece of information. So there are watch towers all around. And they would each have to disable a watch tower at the same time. So they would have to coordinate.

Back it up even farther than that. Have them all start in other towns, have them meet each other and decide they want adventure. Then have them find a flier that says 'Looking for Mercenaries'.

Then they can hunt and travel to the place that is hiring mercenaries. They have to hunt to make money, they can come across bridge trolls and werewolves and other things. But they need to up their levels during this trip, get magic items that they will need, and buy armor and weapons. They will also need to develop skills such as metal work for fixing armor, and making arrows.

We could do this. We could even build it into a lesson plan. You could have some of them team up to build trebuchets and have them build them out of popsicle sticks. We could include the Periodic Table of Elements if we got really creative.

You could have the find information that was in the library. Identify artifacts. You could blend it really well.

For some laughs, these aren't too expensive.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003IHTZGW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1370665569&sr=8-2&pi=SL75

Chessex battlemaps and Pathfinder flip map are two of the common maps.

As for miniatures, Pathfinder paws are the biggest bang for your buck. They are thick card stock and fairly durable and would be the easiest buy. If you want miniatures, sites like miniature market has around 160 for $2 or less for each miniature, the cost can add up quickly, but are pre-painted.

• This should last you a while.
  
  
• This is about 1/4th the price of the above, and it should last you even longer.

1. This encounter builder that someone on here built is all sorts of lovely. I'm doing something somewhat similar to you; my group is 6 players and we're playing a campaign built for 4. On top of that, we're playing a 3.5e campaign in 5e. Converting encounters manually is a bit of a pain, but with this app I can just see that the encounter calls for (this is a specific example that I did yesterday) 2 bugbears, check how that compares, see what happens by adding another bugbear, and call that a day. Super quick, super simple, super easy.
   
   
2. Mood can be set by the players, and mood can be set by the DM. Generally mood is set by both. Talk with your players individually and out of character. Ask them what they want. Once you get a general idea of what they want, talk to them as a group or individually and say what you've found. Something along the lines of "Some of us want a more serious game, and a couple want a lot of humor. We can have both, but when it's time to be serious, please be serious for the rest of us." People will generally at least try to be accommodating.
   
   
3. First, you are the DM. Your players are not. You are the final say on rules. Your players are not. If you have an idea of how something should work, make a quick decision about it. Look it up when you have more time. Don't let your players bog you down with minutia or rules lawyering. You are the rules. That said, if a player can actually manage to pay attention and look up rules at the same time, feel free to allow them to do that when it is not their turn, and when it is their turn they can bring up what they found. Deal with it as you like; retroactively or not, whatever. Also, you have 8 players. 8 players is a LOT. You and your players don't have time for people to look up their spells every time it's their turn. Have your spellcasters and ability users write up skill sheets for themselves... spell cards and the like. It's a bit of work but it saves a ton of time in game, when it matters.
   
   
4. You don't necessarily have to have everyone. My general philosophy is if 1 person is gone, they're off doing something else and we continue playing with the rest of the party. If two people are gone, I just cancel the session. I'm not sure where I'd draw that line with 8 players, though. Alternately, just schedule for when everyone is available if possible.
   
   
5. Personally, I adore my this thing. It makes drawing encounters for people so easy. I also love tactical gameplay and play with other people who, like me, grew up as video gamers, so there's that. For miniatures, I use chess pieces. I have a game of chess 4 which has 4 complete sets of pieces. Players pick their pieces and enemies are generally pawns. Once I have a bit more spare cash and am no longer spending all of my spare cash on D&D books and related paraphernalia, I'll start investing in actual miniatures. Paizo is just one source of those, mind; there are many more, including randoms on eBay. For a cheaper alternative, there are character tokens. That picture came from here. I don't know where to buy just tokens, but it's a thing people sell.
   
   
6. I don't use fog of war, really; once a character has seen something, all the players can always see it... but then you get into distinguishing character knowledge from player knowledge and vice versa. Encourage your players to act as though their characters only know what their characters could know. Frodo's finger just got bitten off by Gollum? Aragorn doesn't know that, because Aragorn isn't in bloody Mordor.
   
   
7. Eh, no opinion here; I don't bother with a screen. I like when people see how screwed or not that they are.

Kudos for doing that, but couldn't you just have bought the official Pathfinder Flip-Mats for way less moneys?

My suggestions for fun two player games that have a small footprint are below. I haven't tried playing these in a pub, but I think they should work.

Love Letter - I played this at a party recently and enjoyed it. There are various themes, including a munchkins variant.

Pass the Pigs - I used to bring this game with me on plane trips because it is compact and playable on a tray table.

Toss Up - Fun dice game, simple rules, could be turned into a drinking game if you are so inclined.

Timeline - Lots of different versions of this game, all have to do with history, but you can pick different topics, and even combine packs.

Exploding Kittens - random fun, there is also a NSFW version that is full of boob/penis/poop/etc jokes.

Hanabi - I have the tile version of this, which is a little bulkier, but is much more drink and food resistant.

Pass the Pigs is another great dice game. Can't beat the pig shaped dice.

Are you looking for something efficient or something pretty ?

I use those flip mat for d&d, like this https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O (I also like this one because the hex side is easier on the eyes imo)

They're not especially good eye candy, but they're enough for the whole game area (without players, but it helps set up a visual delimitation imo), they're not too expensive, and we draw the connections between the various locations on them, which is actually fun to do.

I don't like the idea of a mat with dedicated player space anyway, because of all the ways you could gain or lose equipment space (bandolier, charisma, items that take 2 slots, like flamethrower or enchanted blade, ...)

I use the Chessex battlemaps, they are tan on both sides but super durable, and pretty affordable all things considered.

I have both the both the battle map and mega map, and they have seen near weekly use for the last 3 years without any problems. The only down side is that blue ink does need to be washed off quickly or you will have a faint stain there.

I used a chessex vinyl mat. Wet erase markers are perfect on it. https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

My D&D group hovers around five to six players, and we often end up with someone using "spares" or lacking a matching set. We decided to pitch in for more dice, and settled with Wiz Dice's 1 pound bags of dice. Total cost came out to $43, for 32 different sets. Overall, we've been really pleased with these, and would recommend them to anyone who needs more dice.

Wiz Dice has a 100+ dice bag as well, that has multiple complete sets with maybe a few extras.

I play 5th edition and all advice is for that edition. 5E is pretty wallet friendly if you don't get it all at once. Here's a bunch of stuff you can look at to help your decision, though not all of it is mandatory.

• Number one, the cheapest, is to simply review the (somewhat limited, I'll admit) materials available on Wizards of the coast and start from there.
  
  
• Second is available in the form of the 5th edition starter set. I own one of these and it comes with everything you need for a game with a group of friends. A criticism I have of it though, is that experienced players will probably destroy the module included with it. I'd just forego this option entirely if you plan to buy any other materials, but it's a very low risk purchase.
  
  
• Third is just a player's handbook, which you really should own regardless of anything . The 5th Edition PHB has enough material to easily homebrew your own campaign with, but it will definitely leave you wishing you had more to work off of.
  
  
• Fourth is any of the several available modules for the game out right now. Having only played Hoard of the Dragon queen (And it's direct follow up, Rise of Tiamat), I can say that with the exception of a long, slightly boring segment in the middle, it's a solid adventure all the way through for the players.
  
  
• Fifth is the supplemental Dungeon master's Guide and Monster Manual, additional resources to help you craft better campaigns, but unnecessary until later. The monster manual should definitely be the first of the two purchases, in my opinion. I wouldn't even recommend the sword coast adventurer's guide unless you plan to specifically adventure in Faerun.
  
  So now that books are out of the way, let's talk figurines. You really don't need them, because ANYTHING can represent things on a board. But they're a fun thing to collect and use. BUT they are a great and fun thing to have. What we do at my table is have everyone acquire their own. I like to buy from Reaper Miniatures, but local comic book and hobby shops might have them as well. Make sure you have bases that are less than an inch wide (A square inch works best), because if you're using miniatures, then you're using a battle grid.
  
  Speaking of battle grids, they're also not entirely necessary, but they definitely help. This is a very reliable one if you take care of it and don't crease it too much. But the fun thing is, if you have a printer, you can print your own Battle Maps! Just set it to print a grid set to 1-inch increments and have as big or as small as a battle mat as you need. 5E technically uses a hex grid for outdoor maps, but we've always ignored that at our games.
  
  As for dice, I think it's the players responsibility to acquire their own dice, but on the off chance you just want to buy the things for everyone, I find a lot of enjoyment in picking through a Chessex Pound-o-Dice, or a Wiz Dice 100+ pack just so everyone has some. Plus, you never know when you'll suddenly need 20d6 for maximum fall damage!
  
  Other than that, just have pencils, paper, and a good way to keep notes handy and you're set.
  
  This is far from a comprehensive guide, and probably the worst thing you could do is buy everything or nothing right at the start. Consider asking friends or checking libraries for these books (And secondhand bookshops near you!) to save a penny or two.
  
  So, in summary, if I were starting out DMing and buying anything, it would be a player's handbook, a set of dice, and if I weren't confident in my ability to homebrew, I'd buy a module or a dungeon master's guide. But you can go further or less far if you like.

You should definitely start with a live tabletop game to get your hooks into them. Typing in a macro and rolling imaginary dice while talking over Skype isn't for newbies. That's for filthy addicts who need another crit just to get through the day. Myself included.

I recommend running a short, concise campaign that has a clear ending but leaves it open to further sessions. Build up a MBEG (Medium Bad Evil Guy) that they can capture or kill after 4-5 encounters including one 'tutorial', some overland travel, and 2-3 good puzzles. Drop nuggets about the world at large, and once they kill MBEG have them find a map/instructions/scroll that hints at his even evil-er master. This way you need a commitment only of two weekend nights (or one mega-weekend) to get them through a legit story. I'd recommend making them level 3-5.

In terms of cost, there's a few ways to approach it:

A) Pay money, but go the budget route. Get an erasable battlemat, a big bag of dice, some washers, and a gluestick.

B) Do theater of the mind. It's going to be a bigger leap for new players to get into it, and for you as a new DM, but you can still have fun with it.

I recommend 5th edition because it's so simple to pick up and play. The Proficiency and Advantage/Disadvantage system is SO much easier than the endless adding and subtracting of numbers I got used to with 3.5e. I never played 4e, but really as long as you engage them in a lively way hopefully it'll stick.

I travel most of the time when I DM so here's my basic setup (note: I don't have any minis or anything like that).

I have a backpack containing:

• PHP
  
• MM
  
• VGtM
  
• XGtE
  
• Whatever modual or setting book I'm running (right now one is Dragon Heist, and the other game I'm running I use the Tal'Dorei Campaign Setting)
  
• DM Screen
  
• Composition notebook with all my notes
  
• Binder - this contains all my notes that are more reference (lists of the NPCs, etc.) I specifically use those notebook/binder hybrids so everything fits in my backpack
  
• Dry erase dungeon tiles
  
• Waterbottle
  
• Coke. No, not that kind! Ain't ever gonna run a session without caffeine!
  
  Here's a pic of the stuff I take that's not in the backpack.
  
  I have a poster shipping tube that I taped some webbing I had lying around to in order to make a strap. I keep all my pre-drawn maps in there (I usually draw them on gridded wrapping paper).
  
  I have a box with a handle on the lid that has a nice inset as well containing:
  
  Top Tray
  
  
• Monster markers - they're 1" colored wooden tokens with numbers on them. Sadly my dog ate the organizer I made for them, so they're just now in a big mess until I make another one
  
• Monster status indicators - they're just decorative bottle caps that fit nicely around the tokens. Once again, dog at the organizer - haven't made a new one yet
  
• Pencils
  
• Dry erase markers
  
• Dry erase eraser
  
• Pair of scissors
  
• Travel pack of tissues
  
• Pen and highlighters that I take all my notes with
  
• Some spell cards
  
• Post it notes for initiative
  
• Scotch tape
  
• Rubber bands
  
• Binder clips
  
• My husband's dice
  
  Bottom Tray:
  
  
• Portable bluetooth speaker
  
• Portable phone charger (I run the music from my phone)
  
• Colored pens I use for marking some things (honestly, I'll probably remove those - I don't really use them anymore)
  
• Markers for drawing maps (I use the tombow dual brush because I have them)
  
• Zipper case of "terrain assets" - I printed out a bunch of trees and rocks and similar from someone's free photoshop assets and cut them out to use as scatter terrain
  
• Dice box (the brown paper mache box - the lid is a rolling tray, and it's a divided tray)
  
• Notecards - I use these for NPCs
  
• Larger monster indicators - made them out of craft foam for the larger monsters
  
• Calculator, because I SUCK at mental math.
  
  I often end up throwing my current notes/printed out monsters and composition notebook in the box as well and then my backpack is really just the "just in case" thing I bring along.
  
  This setup works pretty well for one person to carry up stairs and around in cars, etc. The books are the heavy part, so if you're going to be traveling a lot, and you like online stuff, really consider D&D Beyond - I just can't do online stuff personally.

I highly recommend a binder to keep the Item cards organized. You can add in new items are they're unlocked and easy to "browse through the shop".

BCW PRO 16-POCKET PAGE

I have done a similar thing but with Wiz-dice.


Pound-o-dice on Amazon



Nice thing it it's always complete sets. And a pretty good deal price-wise. We have a big tin can which I keep all the ones I don't use in. Then we can make sets for new players as needed. I kinda dice hoard....

I use this one from Chessex and I love it. Not sure if that's the size I have or if I went with the one that's 1 bigger. I think the linked one is the same size as what came in the beginner box.

Just be sure to use wet erase markers and erase it within a few weeks or it bleeds into the material a bit.

In my opinion, a battle mat is a must have for any campaign. Check around your local game shop if you have one, they probably have some cheap dry erase ones. I am fond of Chessex mats, but any will do.

As for miniatures, I'd say that they aren't necessary, but can really help new players feel connected to the game. Being able to see your avatar is useful, especially if you guys are having trouble visualizing battles.

I use the Chessex Battlemap. Its pretty big about 35x48. Its wet-erase but as long as you don't leave the drawings on it they will wipe off clean.

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511382060&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+mat

I really recommend using paper minis if you're on a tight budget. If you have access to photoshop then they are incredibly easy to make from any image you can find for free on google. If not then Printable Heroes is a great resource for cool looking minis. You can contribute a small amount and get access to a ton of them but there are also a bunch of free ones here.

They don’t take long to put together, either. This video shows you the best way to assemble them. I would also ad that I use 3/4 inch binder clips for the base as they fit perfectly on the grid and are a bit cheaper than buying bases.

I also really recommend a Chessex Battle Mat in whatever size you think works for your game. Make sure you also buy wet erase markers as dry erase will seep into these maps and become permanent markings.

As far as landscapes go, I just draw any features of the map that can be seen on the ground on my map. I've never tried it but there are printable folding paper environments that you can make and use. I don't because I don't like having an obstructed view for me or the players.

I hope that helped!

I bought this from Amazon some time ago and it has been a great product. Wet-erase only, but super durable, huge (but not unwieldy), and durable as hell. It rolls up for storage quite simply, and is overall a great buy. They sell smaller ones as well for slightly less. Check them out. I highly recommend them.

Here are some slightly over-sized foam dice. They may not be big enough for what you need though. Thinkgeek used to carry an even bigger set, but they don't seem to carry it anymore, and I can't find them anywhere. Just be careful, my daughter bit a huge chunk out of the foam d20 we had.

edit: Found them! However, they are only an inch bigger, and they don't include a d6.

Deeply useful. Very good investment that can be used for all sorts of things in D&D.

I recommend wet erase, though, not dry.

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1506280316&sr=8-4&keywords=gaming+grid+mat

1. Passive skills include passive perception (your ability to notice something in the environment) and passive insight (your ability to read a persons body language, to gauge truthfulness etc). They are your relevant ability modifier + 10
   
   
2. An at-will power is exactly that, a power you can use as much as you like on your turn as per game rules (Encounter, once per 'fight' and Daily, once per day). The power will state, Standard, Minor, Move, Free action.
   
   2.5) In 4e Crits are maximum damage possible + any extra dice (Ranger with hunters quarry must still roll their d6/8, same applies for Warlocks and other special dice needed). People tend to make their own rules around nat 20s and 1s. At my table a nat 1 in combat is just a miss, a nat 1 outside of combat is a fail. A nat 20 in combat is a crit and a nat 20 outside of combat is usually a critical success
   
   2.75) Bloodied is just an indicator to your friends (healer, defender) that your hurt and need assistance. The same applies to monsters. It's just a visual identifier to keep track on who is nearing death.
   
   
3. Check the side bar and YouTube for guides on DMing (Chris Perkins is a name that appears alot, search for Acquisitions Incorporated)
   
   
4. I just write it down, turn an A4 page landscape and do it down in a list with HP. This way you can attach effects like sleep or dazed, it also helps with initiative, just follow the list
   
   
5. Snacks are up to your and your group (same applies for alcohol, if it's your first game, drinking may not be a good idea)
   
   
6. The length of each adventure depends on the party (for reference, it took my group I think a full night of gaming) It's like herding cats!
   
   
7. Set the table rules before you begin playing. If you don't want phones, tell them. If they disrespect, make them roll a saving throw and see if they were too distracted and were hit by a falling boulder/stray arrow/fell into a ditch etc (be creative)
   
   
8. Eventually you may get the Player Handbooks and other source materials, in those books are lists of magic and non-magic items they may wish to spend their cash on (the famous bag of holding being one example)
   
   Other:
   
   
9. If you want to continue playing, you'll want at least the Players Handbook (just #1 to begin with) and the DM's Guide. A Monster Manual wouldn't hurt either. You'll also want to either make your own adventure or procure some of those
   
   
10. For Monsters, have a look at the Pathfinder beast box, it usually has the right monsters for the job. You may also want a Gaming mat but you can make your own. For PC's, try local game stores, they usually have minis. Also, there are Pathfinder/DnD sets released with mini's in them you can use.
    
    Hope this helped
    
    

The flip mats are great once or twice, but they lack reusability. Not bad for Pathfinder Society or if there is a blank side, but overall, I would recommend a battle mat instead (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IQO2O/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1526744894&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=battle+mat&dpPl=1&dpID=41i0qiG8fUL&ref=plSrch) Maybe not as much details or as pretty, but good quality and lasts ages.

As for fog of war with flip mats, post it notes.

I'd go with chessex.

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

There's one twice that size for a few dollars over 30.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015IUAAG

> Or am I supposed to just describe the rooms? If I should describe them, what if a fight occurs?

You can absolutely play without a map, it's called theatre of the mind. Usually, the DM keeps track of locations and the players ask things like "How far is the closest monster" or "Am I close enough to hit Y" and so on. It's a little abstracted, but some people like it more than maps-and-miniatures. Personally, as I use maps with line drawings of the locations, I give way more detail in descriptive words than my map contains.


> . My question is how you usually make maps (mainly for dungeons). All I have access to are A4 sheets of paper and a printer for those sheets. The maximum amount of squares I get on those are 8x11, which means that I'll have to use several sheets of paper even for small dungeons.

Honestly not unusual if you're home-printing. Personally, I use a large battle mat about the same size as my table surface. This mat has allowed me to draw out full dungeons in most cases, but it's also the size of a medium dining room table. I also have a smaller square battle mat in case the dungeon is too large or I want a specific subsection or another place included in the same session. For instance, I'll draw the keep they start in on the small mat, and the dungeon they're traveling to on the large mat. Then, the keep-mat can even be used to obscure areas they haven't seen within the dungeon-mat, at least for a time. Fog of war can be handled by not drawing the full area ahead of time, or using something like paper or towels to physically cover the mat.


For both, I use dry erase markers for a simple outline of dungeons (Crosshatch in between-walls places where there is no space to exist, for clarities sake), and might include some basic fluff like rock piles, stalagtites/mites, etc. I also have a bunch of clay and cardboard miniature set pieces I use to accent the maps - barrels, fires, rocks, fountains, statues, etc. These bits are my own make, so there's some time involved, but you can buy premade miniature items to use as well, or just forgo the accents entirely. It's not necessary, I just like it.

My setup looks like this, all-told. (Was before I got the big mat, so this is just the smaller one). This one mat contained an entire wing of a 3-part dungeon, enough for a session and a half or so. The next section was a large labyrinth and is why I now own a larger mat.


> they also includd things only the DM is supposed to read anyway, like Trap Locations or Secrets.

Often there are two maps - a DM version and a clean Player version. Alternatively, googling 'placename dungeon map' will usually find you plenty of cleaned up or player-made versions of maps, sometimes better than what's in the actual module.

> To my knowledge, you always need a map for a fight,

As I said earlier, nope. It's easiest for at least the DM to have a map to mark things on themselves, but you can in fact go 100% mapless, and it works just fine. Just have to be used to it, pretty much. If you're not providing a map for your players, as a new DM I'd say keep your own printed map and some little markers like pennies or dimes to track locations so you can be ready with information. Even just some gridlined paper you can draw out as you go is plenty for your own tracking purposes.

I don't know if you are looking for specific sets of dice but if you just want a lot of sets for cheap, this is probably the best dice deal you can find

Player's Handbook (Dungeons & Dragons) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0786965606/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_jc4JwbCDD6G4A

Dungeon Master's Guide (D&D Core Rulebook) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0786965622/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_7c4JwbBVGGET8

Monster Manual (D&D Core Rulebook) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0786965614/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_yd4Jwb88PWSB0


These books, dice, and a bag of Lego men is all we had on day 1.

The PHB has all the basic rules and lists the races and classes and walks you through building characters. DMG has info for creating encounters and building your world. MM is a giant list of creatures, info about them, and their stats.

If nobody has ever played dice games before and you don't have any dice, it wouldn't be a bad idea to just buy something like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_Kj4JwbCDMRFGF That'll be enough for everyone to have a matched set plus extras.

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=aw_cm_cr_asin_lnk

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

I personally like this set -- over 100 dice, and at least for me they came in nice sets of 7

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009R6J8RY/

Here's my haul:
http://imgur.com/CRVUkz1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009R6J8RY#

100+ dice from Wiz Dice. I got 17 complete sets d20-d4 with only 1 "bad" die, it was a percentile die that the numbers weren't stamped deep enough. Tons of dice.

If I'm getting a pound of dice, I would rather go with Wiz Dice brand. Chessex just uses random discarded and extra dice, so you never know how many of each you're going to get. Wiz Dice pound of dice bag comes in full matching sets, plus a small dice bag that can carry two sets.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And it's only $20. Downside? It's not Amazon Prime, so there is shipping on there.

May I suggest this instead? WizDice Bag of Holding :) It's the equivalent to Chessex POD, but you know what you get and the Bag of Holding looks awesome.
There will be a second BOH from WizDice soon with the new colors (and, from what I've heard, a different bag). The new colors look awesome.
The reason I suggest this is because WizDice are known to be pretty fair dice (unlike Chessex) and their Customer Support is awesome.

This!

A good way for everyone to get their own set of dice cheap and quick if you don't have good game shops locally is:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14


They are not as nice as chessex dice and are a tad bit smaller but they are nice for a DM to have on hand (to loan new players or player that forgets theirs) or a group to split up.

For the massive amount you need for a decent price, I'd recommend you to get the pound of dice online. I personally ordered 140 dice (20 complete sets). That'll give you like a set of dice for a pair of players if all will be playing at the same time. Otherwise, it'll cover two groups of 5 or so occurring at the same time (much more likely). If you wanted, you could either have players order their own dice or buy two bags so everybody has a set and have them pitch in a few bucks. If you had everybody pitch in $5, you could order about 6 bags so that everybody gets three sets.
https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14

I got the Wiz Dice Bag of Holding. Twenty complete sets of dice (140, compared to the pound-o-dice ~100), which aren't factory seconds like the pound-o-dice. Plus it was like $4 cheaper than the pound-o-dice when I bought it.

I recently got these tiles as well, and they are a godsend. I was drawing the map as they went but this is way better. I am able to prepare my maps beforehand and not have to worry about trying to hide the unexplored bits. These are the ones I got. or you can get the bigger ones.

I swear by these: Dry-Erase interlocking dungeon tiles.

Cons:

The surface can be somewhat uneven since they're puzzle pieces.
Requires care in taking them apart and drawing on them so that the edges don't get damaged or stained.

Pros:
Can be as large and oddly-shaped as you need.
Very easy to store and very portable.
Double-sided, so you can draw "secrets" on one side and flip over as appropriate.

I found that they fit perfectly in a shoebox (or Ikea's small cardboard storage boxes), and that so long as you have a modicum of care while using them, they stay nice for a long time. They're easy to clean off and so long as you don't leave the marker on for weeks at a time, they don't stain. I've used mine for 2 years (we play monthly) and aside from a few dings they're still just as nice as when I got them. They're great for pre-drawing your map on, then taking them apart, transporting the map, and assembling it as needed.

Don't print them… draw your own on a reusable surface. Your maps don't don't need to be super detailed.

Get a $12.00 flip mat and some wet erase markers and just sketch out the corridors to scale.

Another solution is a chessex map. If you're really going to get into the hobby then this is a longer-term solution than the flip mats.

A final option is to buy a roll of 1" grid paper and some sharpies, and draw your own.

All of these are cheaper than buying a projector or printing each map to a 1" grid scale.

I personally find it good to have the grid, tokens, and minis. It clears up a lot of miscommunication between the DM and the players.

I have played in a group that chose not to use any grid or props besides tokens. As a player I was constantly confused as to where the tree line was, where the door was, what door I was doing a perception check on, and so on.

The best example of this was when the party said "we will stay a few feet away from the door while we rest." The DM took this as we were literally huddling around this small door. The monsters beyond the door hear us, got a surprise round, and we almost wiped.

My recommendation to you is to get a grid and some wet erase markers. You dont have to stay in the squares, and if you want, you can even use the hex side.

When it comes to large scale maps, ones where a square represents more than 5ft, I do prefer that it is just drawn sloppily on a piece of paper or something. As long as everyone understands where they are, what way is north, and how they can get from one place to another. The best way to do this, in my experience, is to have a drawing.

TLDR: Get a grid mat and some wet erase markers. Less set up time than Roll20, more customization than almost anything, and it is sufficiently accurate for almost all D&D encounters.

The Chessex battlemat is definitely the gold standard here. I’ve had mine for ten years and it’s still in great shape. They’re wet-erase, but don’t let that dissuade you.

< Am a teacher:

First go to your principal and see what the school needs. Normally there is a process to get a new club started but since this was already a club it shouldn't be as hard. A lot of schools need a supervising teacher etc, etc, etc. If you ask the principal to send out an email there's a chance that one of the teachers in your building is already into dnd and can help you out.

​

to answer your specific questions:

​

1. it really depends on how well you advertise/the specific kids at your school. If you can get 1-3 5 player campaigns to start that would be awesome. On that note, try and introduce them to some of your favorite dnd stuff. Critical roll highlights can hook a lot of people for example. And make sure to advertise for your club really well the first week; posters, announcements, fb(or w/e social media you're using), the whole schebang.
   
   ​
   
   

2. a lot of dnd can be run without the books. There are free downloadable and legal pdfs available online that cover phb basic rules. its enough to get newbies started at the very least. In addition to this, monster and item stats are pretty reliably found by typing "5e dnd [monster]" into google. I would have 1 actual phb,mhm,and dmg available for reference. The school or possibly the supervising teacher might be able to help you front some of the $. The big one that would be helpful to have would be a couple preplanned adventures if your dm's don't want to homebrew. again the internet can be a great resource, or buy a couple of them if you have a way to get some start up $.
   
   ​
   
   
3. The most important thing (imo) is to be realistic about what you can do each session. i imagine after school clubs run like 1.5 hours? If that is the case then you need to have a specific goal for each of your first few meetings. In addition to this, make sure you give people something to do, even if only for a couple minutes, in your beginning sessions. let them roll up a character (or start to). If you are teaching rules, have a mock battle set up and let people control a pre-made basic charecters, etc.
   
   ​
   
   sorry for the long post, but i really hope you can set this up and have some luck doing it.
   
   i linked cheap dice(10$ for 5 sets) and the downloadable phb
   
   https://www.amazon.com/d/Role-Playing-Dice/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/B01ABST9S4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541318360&sr=8-1&keywords=dnd+dive
   
   ​
   
   https://media.wizards.com/2014/downloads/dnd/PlayerDnDBasicRules_v0.2_PrintFriendly.pdf

Me and my friends bought Wiz Dice a while back, the bags had 15 full sets of dice for 20 dollars. My friend had one defective dice but after emailing them and sending them the broken die they sent back a replacement in a couple of days so their customer service is good in case you have any issues with the product.

​

I think it was this set but it has been years since I bought it. https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=pd_cp_200_1/138-3020814-9609954?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KN7REWQ&pd_rd_r=0c29d453-8968-4e60-90cc-7f0b39c89482&pd_rd_w=v417q&pd_rd_wg=p8zBK&pf_rd_p=0e5324e1-c848-4872-bbd5-5be6baedf80e&pf_rd_r=NFKQTY0PBFP6HH95K961&psc=1&refRID=NFKQTY0PBFP6HH95K961

Materials used:

-Lamp: https://www.target.com/p/fillable-glass-small-lamp-base-clear-threshold-153/-/A-53328566?preselect=15546771

-Shade: https://www.target.com/p/montreal-wren-lamp-shade-white-project-62-153/-/A-53329417?preselect=52434531

-100 pack of random dice: https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref

-A wrapping paper cardboard tube cut down one side.

The lamp has a solid metal rod running down the middle. Open the lamp and wrap the cardboard tube around the rod. This decreases the area inside the jar so you can fill it with less dice. This has about 2 layers deep of dice. I bet if I made a cardboard tube large enough I could fill it with one layer of dice and it would look the same.

Meh, for $5 more you can get better looking dice: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KN7REWQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

One of us. One of us.

Wiz Dice Bag of Devouring: Collection of 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets for Tabletop Role-Playing Games - Solids, Translucents, Swirls, Glitters, Alchemic Oddities https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_-ciyDbW485ZEZ

Excuse you, the Bag of Devouring is obviously a superior product

Is this not the same?
Dungeons and Dragons RPG: Core Rulebook Gift Set Limited Alternate Covers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hbm8BbRJVC3MM

Local game store deal for $170 (10% off on preorders), although I think Amazon offers it for a significant price jump.

Edit: Correction, they are slightly cheaper on Amazon but support your LGS.

It is part of a special edition Core Rule Book Set

In addition to what others are saying about the SRD and basic rules versions being free to use, next month a gift set containing the core three books (Dungeon Master's Guide, Monster Manual, and Player's Handbook) along with some other goodies is coming out. It's a decent chunk of change, but if you guys decide you like the free version enough it might be something to save towards https://smile.amazon.com/Core-Rulebook-Gift-Wizards-Team/dp/0786966629 (or if you have a local gaming store sometimes they're cheaper there, and some are getting an exclusive version with some pretty sweet alt cover art). You can get a decent starter set of dice sets for pretty cheap, https://smile.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Role-playing/dp/B01KP4T6TQ (20 complete 7 die sets for ~30 USD, might be a bit overkill for starting out) https://smile.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ (5 complete 7 die sets for ~10 USD, might be a bit more reasonable)

The only Thing a player needs of their own to keep things "smooth" is a set of dice.

If I were you I'd go on amazon and buy a bulk set of dice

Both of these are cheap (even though they're not sexy) options for having enough dice at the table for everyone to share and everyone can have their own d20 instead of having to pass around 1 or two.

The PHB is less of an issue because you can turn the act of character creation into a group activity and for first time players that can be fun and efficient since everyone is learning at the same time.

First result that came up:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ

Wizdice

Or apparently their new set that I just noticed series ii

I've picked up 3 lbs of the first link, came with almost always complete sets, with maybe 5 random extra dice that didn't match.

Edit, found a picture of the last [bag] (http://i.imgur.com/JZVxCQE.jpg)

Check your local game store if you can. If you don't find them there or aren't near any, Try This Boxed Set or Alternate Covers.

wiz dice pound

edit: formatting skills

The Chessex pound-o-dice is nice enough, but I would recommend the Wiz Dice pack

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009R6J8RY/ref=aw_cm_cr_asin_lnk

Seems like it tends to produce more sets.

> 1) what do you recomend to do?

I'd personally start with 5e, because it is a much more simplified system that allows for more aspects of role-playing, which is great for everyone - especially new players.

A nice start for new groups to DnD is a starter set. Here is a link to buy a starter set which comes with a 64-page adventure pre-made module book, a 32-page rule-book for playing characters level 1–5, 5 pregenerated characters, each with a character sheet and supporting reference material, and 6 dice. If you are playing 5e, you need the 5e books - the 3.5 books won't work for 5e, they are completely different games due to additional information added over each new edition.

I'd also recommend that you all sit down together in the same room, hook up a computer to a TV in the room, and watch some good DnD games to figure out what role-playing means, how DM's look in action, and how the game runs overall. Shows such as Critical-Role, or Acquisitions Incorporated are amazing.

Here is the playlsit for Critical Role on Youtube:

• Critical Role
  
  Here are the Acquisitions Incorporated games on Youtube:
  
  
• PAX East 2015
  
  
• PAX East 2014
  
  
• PAX Prime 2015
  
  
• PAX Prime 2014
  
  
• PAX Prime 2013
  
  
• PAX Penny Arcade Celebrity Game 2012
  
  
• PAX Penny Arcade Celebrity Game 2011
  
  
• PAX Penny Arcade Celebrity Game 2010
  
  > 2) what dices do we need to get either way?
  
  You each need a 7 set of DnD dice, and DM's do well to have some extra dice for faster group monster rolls. Plenty of bulk dice sellers on Amazon:
  
  
• Wiz Dice
  
  
• Dave's Dice
  
  
• Easy Roller Dice
  
  > 3) do we need to get board/minutures?
  
  You can if you want, it's a nice visual aid. I'd recommend to use a large table to play around, and then buy some battle mats which can be written on with wet erase markers. Mineratures are all over the place for sale, so just google them. Or if you don't want to spend a ton of money on physical maps, you could use a virutal set-up in an IRL game, like my party does. You can use Roll20 which hosts privtae game rooms with virtual tabletops on which you draw maps into and insert images. Plug a laptop into a huge TV, and boom, you have a giant virtual battle-mat to use during the game!
  
  Tons of other info on the sidebar of this subreddit, or just search the subreddit for other "starting DnD" posts, because there are a ton of them with good info.
  
  

Just want to add that Easy Roller Dice has some bulk options that I find are better than Chessex' Pound of Dice. Their competing product is at USD24.95 right now. These guarantee 15 complete sets, and it even comes with a rather high quality dice bag. They also have a cheaper option that also comes in a dice bag, but with 6 sets instead of 15.

The dice don't have the most elaborate designs, but my own order of 15 came with 5 marbled sets, 5 clear sets, and 5 regular sets. Quite a bit of variety, and none of the colors repeated.

The easiest cheapest option would be the Paizo flip-mats (produced under the Pathfinder and Game Mastery brands). These are foldable, and you can get bare battlefield versions or ones with printed maps on them. All function fine with dry and wet erase.

Another popular choice is the Chessex game mats which are rollable and blank. They're more durable than the Paizo ones and can be gotten with squares and/or hexes. They come in a variety of sizes, some large enough to cover a tabletop -- here's one example.

A more flexible option are these interlocking dungeon tiles. Each has a blank grid, and I think they're neat because you can draw out your dungeon and reveal it room by room by placing down individual tiles. This is the only one I've not used myself.

Lastly, Arcknight makes a wide variety of printed plastic products, from plastic minis to AOE templates to printed battlemats that are all dry erasable and stuff. They are all relatively large sized so they won't fit in a bag, but they're really beautifully made and quite durable.

If you're looking for something to show off land and stuff, there are dry erase rollout grid mats for like $20 that are great. Have a dungeon on paper and you can draw stuff on the mat as they move through an area.

Conversely you can go the pure imagination route and none of that is necessary. Although, it can look a little bit less cool.

Edit: here are links to two different ones.

One big rollout dry erase mat:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076HCL2VC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ixhqDbEGG1DYC

Pack of 9 smaller squares to set up and use how you'd like:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016H0TNFY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_myhqDb4G5F9CY

Depending on the complexity of the dungeon I'll either predraw, draw as it goes along, or only day certain areas as needed (with the rest being theatre of the mind). I use these when dming.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B016H1B0RW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ygmaCbW14X828

I just use a normal Binder and separate them by Upgrade Type

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018OM5MGC/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I17K5ITZXIQ122&colid=3V0CFCMZ1V3JC

This is an excellent deal on quality dice to get you started.

Here's a nice metal set at a good price, but need a rolling tray when using metal dice.

This, is your new lifelong roleplaying friend, treat him well, and he'll take you anywhere you want to go. - http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

::edit:: also, this http://donjon.bin.sh/pathfinder/encounter/

I just use a Chessex Megamat. Works great for drawing any terrain. I've had TONS of huge, fun battles all over it, drawing and erasing and redrawing easily. I use either scraps of paper for monsters or my friend's miniature collection.

I've been DMing LMoP for a few months now, and I did so much prep work, I got in trouble at my real job for it. I have maps of EVERYTHING as PDFs with notes for every single room.

The upshot of this is that I barely referenced my notes last session because I have it all memorized. But notes are absolutely essential.

And like others have said, dungeons just need maps. My group tried theater of the mind for about two seconds before I went "OH MY GOD, I'll just draw it!" I'd recommend getting a big battle mat for that. It's pricey, but definitely worth it. I have this one, it's fantastic. Gotta be careful to use the right markers, though. But you definitely won't run out of room!

Have you tried foam dice sets?

Sushi Go!

Sushi Go! is a quick to teach, quick to play light drafting game. I love it as an intro to the drafting mechanic and as a filler.

No Thanks

Probably my favorite "light" card game. Very easy to teach.

For Sale

Great filler auctioning game. Every time I teach it we end up playing 2-3 games in a row.

Love Letter

A must own IMO. Quick and easy.

Zombie Dice

Under rated push your luck dice game. Plus zombies.

You should be able to pick 2-3 from this list and be happy with it :).

• Be sure to have GF music going! Make a playlist on Soundcloud using Brad Breek's stuff, and look for fun remixes too, there are a lot out there.
  
• I'm assuming you are not adults and thus should gloss over my immediate first thought of "Ohh GF drinking game..." But I suppose you could re-create the fun of 'QUICK EVERYONE SHOVE IT IN YOUR FACE' by using candy pieces or something.
  
• Play actual street fighter.
  
• Zombie Dice! Not specifically GF but it's fun, very easy, and you could get a Scareyoke poster nearby to keep it in-theme.
  
• Similarly...Cthulu Dice!, just change the theme to be all about Bill and you're good. If you really wanted to get into it, you could get a blank d12, and paint it to re-create the game die but with Bill imagery.
  
• Look up any 'Murder Mystery' party game rules and adapt it for 'Who Stole the Capers' or any other ridiculous mystery in-theme with the show.
  
• Could similarly try a modified Werewolf to be more themed around the show as well. Perhaps you're looking for people who are possessed by Bill! And the 'Seer' has the journals to help. [Edit] Instead of the werewolf killing people, people possessed by Bill could be turning people into stone statues.
  
• You or someone experienced in such things could run a mini campaign of simplified D&D&MD. They don't make 38-sided die commercially, but a 30 sided die would be closer than a d20 at least. Super simple rules would be to let people basically 'do whatever they want', and then just role opposing dice checks to see who wins in each 'event'. For example, they decide what their characters are (Doesn't even really matter if you keep it super basic, can just be flavor), go into a dungeon, and the warrior decides he wants to wrestle that Ogrepig to the ground until it squeals...roll opposed checks, whoever rolls higher wins. If you want to give people a bit more customization...maybe let each person pick one thing they're really good at, and give them a d6 to represent that ability. We could easily brainstorm up a whole concept if you wanted but this might be beyond your desires or abilities so Imma stop there.
  

First, I'd recommend that you keep the box and all of the components in good condition, so you can consider re-selling it once you're done with it. The Red Box seems to be out of print and is selling for far above its $20 MSRP, and if you can recoup some of the money you spent on it to buy some resources that will have more lasting value, it might be worth it (depending on how highly you value your time), since you will have little use for most of the contents of the box once you're through with the initial adventure.

Or, if it's not too late, you may want to cancel your order. The Starter Set is a relatively gentle introduction to D&D, but not necessarily the best one and certainly not the cheapest.

To prepare, you might want to read, and have everyone else read, the quick start rules. You can also have the players choose pre-generated characters from that document and print off the corresponding character sheets. The Red Box method of character creation involves running through a solo "choose-your-own-adventure" book, which you might not want to do 3 or 4 times in succession for each of your players. Note that the the quick start rules uses slightly different versions of the character classes presented in the Red Box, but the characters/systems are compatible.

You will not immediately need to create your own group adventure, as one is included with the Starter Set.

Also, as an alternative to the Starter Set, /u/Dracoprimus posted a bunch of links to free adventures. You can also choose to run one of these adventures after you finish with the Red Box.

However, neither those those links nor the Red Box will not give you the resources needed to build your own characters or advance them past level 2, nor do they contain the info a DM needs to create his own campaign, or extensively modify an existing one. For that, I recommend getting the following resources (buying some of the books used may yield a good savings):

• Heroes of the Fallen Lands (alternatives/supplements: Heroes of the Forgotten Kingdoms, the 4e Player's Handbook)
  
• The 4e Dungeon Master's Guide (alternative/supplement: the 4e Rules Compendium)
  
• The Monster Vault (buy a new or like-new copy so you can be sure you get all of the included components)
  
  With those three products, you have everything you need to run a level 1-30 campaign. A D&D Insider subscription can substitute for those resources to a large extent, and supplement them with tons of content, but it's most useful as a convenience and reference. I would still recommend getting the core books even if your group has a DDI sub.
  
  On top of that, a few game aids are nice to have:
  
  
• A blank, reusable flip-mat, like the Paizo basic flip-mat, plus some dry- or wet-erase markers.
  
• Alternatively, a 1" gridded easel pad, which you can probably get at an office supply store.
  
• Enough dice for everyone. Bulk dice like Chessex Pound O' Dice can be a good way to go.
  
• Tokens or character markers. The Monster Vault and Starter Set include some. You can make your own, buy miniatures or products that come with miniatures, like the Descent board game or the Legend of Drizzt, or WotC's Dungeon Command games.

I HIGHLY recommend Paizo's flipmats. They are cheap and you can use wet erase, dry erase, and apparently sharpie.

I swapped from my old wet erase Chessex to them. You can even get them with terrain on them (and I got some white chalk pens so you can see the ink on the dark terrain) if that floats your boat.

They fold up to a squareish shape the size of a piece of paper and they cost under $20.

The basic one is $14 on Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/Paizo-Inc-PZO30024-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat/dp/1601255381/ref=sr_1_2?crid=39IMFAIP4GZIU&keywords=paizo+flip-mat&qid=1568080272&s=gateway&sprefix=paizo+%2Caps%2C125&sr=8-2

They have a larger one for $20: https://smile.amazon.com/Pathfinder-Flip-Mat-Bigger-Jason-Engle/dp/1601257821/ref=sr_1_1?crid=39IMFAIP4GZIU&keywords=paizo+flip-mat&qid=1568080294&s=gateway&sprefix=paizo+%2Caps%2C125&sr=8-1

I HIGHLY recommend them... I've used a ton of things in my over 30 years of gaming and these are what we've landed on that hits that sweet spot of utility + convenience + cost effectiveness.

I like to draw the outline of areas at home with wet erase pens then when I'm at the table, I fill in details with dry erase as they explore/do things. A LOT less messy that way.

[Or Pass the Pigs :-)] (http://www.amazon.com/Winning-Moves-1046-Pass-Pigs/dp/B00005JG3Y)

Yes, battle mats are pretty necessary in 4e. It would be easier to switch to a different edition than to decouple the need for grids.

That said, the most common thing you'll find is a rollup battle grid like this one that you can draw on with wet erase markers.

1. Book coverage: Waterdeep is a lot like a broad template at times - like reading the Wikipedia recap of a TV episode. Many aspects are fully fleshed out. Others say "The players are tasked with finding three bandits who stole a necklace" and then you just have to figure that out yourself. Get ready to improv!
   
   
2. I would only consider doing voices if you think you have 30+ unique voices in you already. Otherwise, they'll all sound mostly the same, and your players may get confused. Learn a few of the most important characters (the main villains, vital NPCs, etc) and make a voice for them. For everyone else, generic fantasy British works most of the time!
   
   
3. Buy one of these (https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O) and a set of wet erase markers (https://www.amazon.com/Wet-Erase-Overhead-Transparency-Markers-Assorted/dp/B00006IFGX/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=wet+erase+markers&qid=1564073953&s=gateway&sr=8-5) and never worry about battle maps again - unless you REALLY want to make unique and custom maps for every single thing the players see. I find that the flexibility of being able to quickly draw out a big rectangle with some trees and barrels on one of these maps for those encounters you couldn't have planned on outweighs the benefit of having a detailed battle map you custom-make for everything (unless you just have the time and money to do so!). The official Dungeon Tiles are also great, and you can lay them on top of the map I linked earlier. (https://www.amazon.com/DUNGEON-TILES-REINCARNATED-CITY/dp/0786966297/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=d%26d+tiles&qid=1564074069&s=gateway&sr=8-4)
   
   Also, check out the official Waterdeep: Dragon Heist subreddit for an entire host of questions, answers and resources just for that book. https://www.reddit.com/r/WaterdeepDragonHeist/

That’s a really neat idea. You’ll probably find that an Othello board is too small, though. An 8x8 grid doesn’t give you much room to maneuver.

One suggestion I have, if you’re willing to forgo minis and play more fast and loose is to get yourself a small portable whiteboard, and a cheap pack of dry erase crayons. I use this exact thing when I’m trying to travel light:

https://www.amazon.ca/School-Craft-Supplies-Crafts-Crayola/dp/B00BAGADOQ/

The crayons are great, as they wipe off easily but don’t accidentally smudge. Perfect for drawing out gridless situations and maps. The set is dirt cheap, too.

If you definitely want a grid, though, I’d suggest a Paizo flip-mat. They’re light, cheap, and laminated for use with dry erase markers. They fold down to a size smaller than the PHB, and very thin.

https://www.amazon.ca/Pathfinder-Flip-Mat-Basic-Revised/dp/1601255381

For cheap minis, I’ve seen folks get a lot of use out a plastic dollar store chess set, using the pieces to represent various PCs and monsters. Again, light and cheap.

Canadian here too. I picked up an awesome blank grid in a pathfinder box from 411 games in Toronto for 20$. Allows dry and wet erase.

This is the product on amazon. Highly recommend it.

http://www.amazon.com/Paizo-Publishng-Inc-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat/dp/1601255381

Hey man!

Super happy to hear you're enjoying D&D with your GF and getting more into DMing!

For supplies:

Dry Erase Game Mat - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Paizo-Publishing-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat-Basic/dp/1601255381/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458214248&sr=8-1&keywords=dry+erase+game+mat (That's exactly the one I use). You'll need some dry wipe pens, I recommend NOT super big ones so you can do detail.

The tiles I use are Dwarven Forge, (http://dwarvenforge.eu/) very expensive but very cool! You can also get pre-printed card tiles, search for Pathfinder Adventure Tiles.

As for Minis, we luckily had Yogs buy us a set of 32 booster boxes of the Pathfinder Red Dragon set. Other minis I use include the Reaper Bones series, but they need painting (painted by myself, Trott or Katie).

I buy booster boxes from: https://www.tritex-games.co.uk/

Hope this helps!

This. I bought it along with a set of dice when I started playing and we use it all the time, I can't imagine using anything else. We also bought a couple of markers in different colors, so we can easily draw things like spreading fire.

These are the mats I'm talking about: https://www.amazon.com/Paizo-Inc-PZOSQW30024-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat/dp/1601255381

Another thing you could try is just get basic blank flip maps like these. My group and I just draw terrain with dry erase markers on them. Works pretty well if you don't want to but 800 maps.

TL;DR If you want large, vinyl, hexes, and wet erase: look to Chessex. If you want large-ish, laminated, no hexes, and dry erase: look to Pathfinder. I'd say measure your game space first.

The mat you're most likely talking about is the Chessex MEGAMAT.($30) This is by and large the most popular battlemat on the market. It's vinyl, rectangular (3' x 4'), hex reversible, quality make, but it's wet erase. (You'll probs need to buy wet erase markers) This is also the mat I have. Here's my brief critique: it is larger than I have ever needed, though I will admit I have sometimes been encouraged by the mat's size to make a larger battlefield. It's so large that it barely fits on the table, giving my players little room for their papers, making it difficult for me as a DM to quickly access all parts of the map, and making transporting it a minor annoyance. The wet erase is only slightly annoying, but if you're going to be doing a lot of erasing, you'll quickly tire of the rags and water. However, it is very high quality, plenty big, and terrific if you have the right space and table to use it.

A very similar mat is the regular Chessex Battlemat($22) It's smaller (2' x 2'), vinyl, square, high quality, hex reversible, and still wet erase. Really again a great mat that's very similar to the MEGAMAT, just a little less. . . MEGA.

Another large vinyl one more similar to the MEGAMAT is the Wiz Dice Battle Mat.($32) It shares all the same qualities of the MEGAMAT, but owners have claimed that is does not erase quite as nicely. However, it is a clean white mat, rather than the sort of textured beige of the Chessex mats.

Finally, the most viable dry erase mats are the Evolve Skins battlemats($28) which come in white or beige, are not hex reversible, are laminated, are 3' x 2', and seem to not be entirely dry erase. A better choice would probably be the laminated, 2' x 2.5', dry erase, not hex reversible, Pathfinder battlemats.($13)

I'd recommend measuring your game space, prioritizing what you think are the most important qualities, and then comparing these options that I have presented.

I understand where you are coming from, my players as well like the grid more. Combat for us is like 20-30% Theater of the Mind and 70-80% Grid.


But those 20-30% is often an extremely trivial encounter or some sort of chase/trap event.


A grid does make it easier for AoE spells or Auras on how many they hit. The grid often brings clarity to the group on how they can spend their abilities. It also removes some DM pressure of telling them every time how many enemies a spell can hit.


If you live in the US it could be cheap starting a Grid.


Pathfinder Flipmap!


I just use that one and use what ever tokens, bottle caps and so forth you have at home.

I normally draw the whole map on grid paper beforehand and cover parts of it with plain paper, then reveal it as the players explore. I also use these reusable grid mats for impromptu locations, which might be good for you if you want to stick with drawing maps as you go.

I would make them a bit larger - maybe 1m square. You could use paper instead of cellular rubber unless you're planning on making permanent model scenery. Not sure dry erase markers come off of the rubber and they might store easier.

Squares are probably easier to add than hexes and work just fine. There are also pre-made battle mats printed on laminated cardstock.

We're planning on doing something similar! I'm hoping to find party games that play quickly, don't require too many small pieces that could get lost, and are quick to learn. I would avoid actual board games because they tend to be a bit more complicated and take longer to play. Here'a few other games we're considering:

Pass the pigs - basically a dice game but the dice are pigs!
Crokinole - more of a shuffleboard-type game, but it's expensive so only if I can find one for cheap/borrow a friend's
Telestration - telephone game with drawing
Guesstures - high speed charades, there's an electronic version as well
Mad Gab - could be hard to play if the music is loud

Is Zipcar an option for you? https://www.zipcar.com/

We love Pass The Pigs when camping. it's fun, fast, and tiny https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Moves-Games-Pass-Pigs/dp/B00005JG3Y

Similar to Pass the Pigs?

I love busting out fun games/activites with the many people you can meet on the road. A couple things I've travelled with:

• Pass the Pigs is a great game to take on tour! Compact, super easy to learn, tons of fun. Challenge random people in bars, coffeeshops, etc.
  
  
• Light-up frisbee. A little pricy, but damn worth it. Great way to meet people at colleges.
  
  
• Hackey sack. Duh.
  
  
• Bubble wand + bubble solution. This shit is fun pretty much anytime, anywhere. 99 cents and worth every penny.
  
  
• Cards Against Humanity. Bring the ruckus at hiker-biker campsites. I've never travelled with one, but I can imagine it being a worthwhile addition.
  
  
  ^^ninja ^^edit
  
  

> Bang è un bel gioco, vale la pena anche prendere le espansioni.

Io consiglio la pallottola

As expected, most are pretty poor. Here are a few people might consider.

• Jumbo Bananagrams
  
• Formula D
  
• Bang!
  
• The Resistance
  
• Quirkle
  
• Settlers of Catan
  
• Bang! The Bullet

Chessex Battle Mat is the best product for such things. It is $26 and uses wet erase markers to draw on it.

Now, if that's too much, you have a few other options. For the longest time, we used a cheap plastic frame like you'd get for holding posters. Then you either print out grid paper, buy some, or draw it yourself on the cardboard and you can use markers on the plastic. It isn't perfect; the plastic isn't perfect for the markers and over time it will tinge. Also, test every marker you use in a corner (let it dry for 5 minutes, then remove) because some colors seemed to be far harder to remove than others.

For the truly low budget, you can do some sheet of paper with grid lines and tape them together. I'd set it up to print without margins and overlap the paper by a full square (1 inch) so you can easily tape it.

New double-sided gaming mat:

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

Best purchase if you have minis.

Get a chessex as fulganger said.

They are amazing. http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1407451534&sr=8-2&keywords=chessex

that is the one i got, it is the 2 by 2 or length of an armish.


Now the key is to not buy the expensive wet erase markers they recommend. They're overpriced. Buy crayola washable markers. They have big giant WASHABLE on the front. If you buy during back to school time, they are as little as 1$-1.5$ for 8 markers! Such a steal compared to wet erase.

Also baby wipes are amazing for them. Towel+ spray bottle of water is cheaper though.

If you want to use pdf versions of the books, you'll have to look for them, piracy isn't kosher in this sub. Character sheet is easily found by searching "4e/3.5/Pathfinder dnd character sheet" depending on what version you choose.

There are some free published adventures available online, but I'm not familiar enough with them.

As for dice, I bought a ~100 dice set on amazon for $30 (or you can buy 5$/set at any game/hobby store, and they're a bit nicer), and a wet erase mat from Chessex for $30 (this one), and I use Sorry pieces and extra dice for monsters and Lego minifigs for players and companions.

The only product I really recommend buying is this Chessex battlemat:
http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324057800&sr=8-1

Also pick up some WET-erase markers (not dry erase). You can draw the walls of each room as they enter.

Miniatures are cool, but not necessary. Coins, paper tokens, cardboard (D&D Monster Vault) all work fine. But I think that having a map with miniatures helps everyone visualize the battle much better. It's practically a necessity for 4E.

I also really recommend making your own campaigns and adventures if the DM is up for the time and challenge. They are usually better because the DM has a deeper understanding and knowledge of his own world, and can customize it to his players better.

I use Battlemats. They use Wet erase markers and you can draw what you want on the fly, and afterwards a quick bit of windex and a paper towel and its all gone. Takes some $ up front (just under $30), but after that as long as you take care of them, it will last years.

You can get chessex mats from amazon or other sites. I live in Belgium and my local game store even has them in stock most of the times. I have even ran with a whiteboard on which I drew a map with gridlines. Takes some time but it works.

I just bought a mat. You can use dry erase markers on it, then wipe it down when you're done. Rolls up for easy storage. You can also buy a large pad of grid paper and just draw on it, then toss the sheet when you're done. They sell them in most office supply stores. The pads are large, intended to be placed on an easel and used in presentations.

I have something like tthis which I think is great.

What you're looking for is what the community refers to as an FLGS (friendly local game store). Usually these aren't chain stores. So, unfortunately, you'll have to do a little bit of searching. Often times you can just google "D&D store" or "game store" and your city/town name and you'll get a good place to start. If your town has both a video game specialty store (at least one that isn't Gamestop) and a tabletop gaming specialty store, usually the employees of both will know where the other one is and will happily send you to them. Your FLGS will have all the books you need (and if they don't, they'll order them for you) as well as the official character sheets from Wizards of the Coast, and all the dice you could ever need.

Here's the shopping list for you to get started strong.

• Player's Handbook
  
  
• Dungeon Master's Guide
  
  
• Monster Manual
  
  
• Dice
  
  
• Character Sheets (if you have a printer, you can download them and print them off here)
  
  
• Pencils & Paper
  
  The following are optional enhancements.
  
  
• Graph Paper
  
  
• A Vinyl Battle Mat
  
  
• Wet Erase Markers for your battle mat
  
  
• Figurines for your battle mat

Buy the starter set.

https://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-Starter-Wizards-Team/dp/0786965592

Buy a pound of dice

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-001LBCHX-Pound-O-Dice/dp/B008C0KXYS

Buy 18 sets of dice

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01FRQI6CA

Buy a battlemat

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

That's all you need to get started. Don't spend $300 buying EVERYTHING. That's just a silly thing to do.

That's a Chessex Wet-Erase Battle Mat, a very useful tool if you're playing with miniatures.

I make use of the Chessex Wet-Erase battlemat (comes in 2 sizes and is reversible for hexes vs squares) which works well for my games.

Alternatively you can buy some large 1" grid paper. Which is great if you want to do prep work for your dungeon and draw out nice looking maps ahead of time. Typically this allows you to have more detailed maps because you're not under the pressure of doing it at the table before combat starts. I want to start doing this more often, but even more so I want to get some props and do more elaborate battle sets.

I suggest either buying gaming paper or a Chessex mat (which you can use wet-erase markers on) like this one.

If you can't afford those I'll make some A3 sized grids for you later, just remind me :)

Personally, I like using the wet erase mats like this one

It's less wasteful, and you can easily make changes to it as things happen.

1. Depends on your group.
   
   
2. Depends on your group.
   
   
3. Depends on your group.
   
   
4. www.gamenightlife.com, assuming they ever start shipping. Barring that, a Cheesex battlemat is pretty standard fare assuming you can deal with the cleanup of wet-erase markers: https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O
   
   I'm not trying to be flippant. It really depends on your group and the type of game they want to play. I've played war gaming D&D where the battlemat was the game. I've played narrative D&D where it was faster to just go with the flow.
   
   I'd start without one. Just have some paper and a pencil handy if you need to draw something out for clarification. If you find yourself needing to draw a lot of stuff, you might want a battlemat.

For miniatures, be warned that the Heroclix and Mage Knight minis, while useable, are mostly larger than the 1" standard width (for a medium character or creature) - this is generally not that big of a problem but if you're going with modular terrain it means they may not fit well, especially along with other miniatures beside them.

Ebay is a good choice for miniatures, especially if you have particular needs for certain things - you want that male elf archer in leather armor, or are you looking for a beholder? You can find and get them there. Here's my favorite seller for these things, shipping is definitely reasonable and the choices are expansive:
http://www.ebay.com/usr/auggest?_trksid=p2053788.m1543.l2754

Another option to miniatures are tokens, and they are much, much cheaper. These are small cardboard circles that fit a 1" block as standard size (larger creatures will fill more, of course). The best starter set for this for a DM is the Monster Vault, but there are a ton of others as well. I suggest ebay for these for the most part, there are some that sell them by the sheet and others that sell the full boxed sets. You can get these for characters as well as monsters. Here's a link to the Monster Vault so you can see what you get with it:
http://www.amazon.com/Monster-Vault-Essential-Dungeons-Dragons/dp/0786956313/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420725056&sr=8-2&keywords=dungeons+and+dragons+Tokens

Cheapest and most versatile "professional looking" option for the map / terrain is a chessex battlemat - make sure you have WET ERASE markers, not dry erase and keep it clean between adventures. Below are links to one of their mats (there are other sizes, just search on amazon) and to some excellent markers:
http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420724703&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+mat

http://www.amazon.com/Expo-Vis-A-Vis-Markers-Colored-16078/dp/B00006IFGW/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1420724703&sr=8-9&keywords=chessex+mat

Cheapest option for modular-type terrain would be tiles. These are cardboard "grids" that most often have designs on them and come in different sizes. The best starter set out there is the Dungeon Tiles Master Set - The Dungeon. It has a lot of tiles and is pretty versatile, at least for base grid options like dungeons and general floors. There are a ton of other options for them - again I suggest you look on ebay for these because you can often find used ones that are in perfect shape sold as a set, or even individual tiles if there's something in particular you need. This is the link to the aforementioned base set on amazon so you can see what it has:
http://www.amazon.com/Dungeon-Tiles-Master-Set-Essential/dp/0786955554/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420724907&sr=8-1&keywords=dungeon+tiles+master+set

If you want to spend more money and go with something much more dynamic, there are 3-d modular sets ranging from paper to near-stone like quality but they can cost a ton. I have a large set of Dungeonstone (www.dungeonstone.com) that I bring out and always get oo's and ahh's. But they're heavy to carry around a lot, especially if I need the whole set. Another option, that's generally slightly more expensive than dungeonstone is Dwarven Forge. You can look them up - but I only mention this in case you decide to spend more money than you want to at this point. :)

Good luck! I hope this helps.

200$? Challenge accepted.

Buy the books for 100,76$

players handbook

dungeon master's guide

monster manual

To be fair, you're already set now. I would advise the players to also buy a player's handbook or at the very least download the free basic rules


If you need figurines you can google what you want, print them off and use them or you can use this from u/printableheroes and pay him 10$

You don't need an erasable battle map to play, you can just draw everything yourself but I would highly recommend it and it's not that expensive. just 21,66$

For the dice, just buy a bag of everything for 19,99$

you're now all set to go on epic adventures for a combined total off 152,41$

If you have any money left that you would want to spend, I would recommend buying the starter set, so you can learn how it is to DM before making everything up on your own. And at 29,99$ it's really a steal

This would bring your money spend on 182,4$

Allright we're 17,6$ under budget. You can use that to buy some drawing paper, pens and what not.

Then if you want to start DM-ing go and watch these videos, You will learn a lot from them. Also, if you want to start playing on wednesday, you're either going to have to read as a maniac or use the first adventure that u/mattcolville talks about in his first videos. If you make up a town with a few NPC's and have them travel there with an encounter (let's say wolves in a forest), you've already got a few hours playtime. However, you will all need to roll up characters which will also take some time. Especially if you are all new at this. Maybe use the templates from the starter set to get the feel.

Also, because they are fun, awesome and it will help you understand what d&d is and to grow as a DM, watch some critical role.

In the spare time you have left, contemplate on how much time you had before you started this awesome hobby and how you wished somebody else would DM so you could just sit down on a lazy chair and kill things.

Congratulations, you're one of us now.

The starter set can be run without maps entirely, I really think a battlemat (like this one from chessex: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_WqKHzbYV6YRQX) helps the players a lot

This one.

Hot Damn. I now wish I had an extra $20 laying around. I got excited just looking at the damn things on amazon.

5e is a great system. Super easy to just pick up if you have experience with any previous editions. The starter set is great, though you'll probably want to pick up some extra dice since it only comes with the one set. The Lost Mines of Phandelver (the included adventure) is really well written, and I don't think it'll require any tweaking to make it age-appropriate for your girls.

Yea but it's cheap and easy. I got 13 sets of dice for $20.

Go big or go home.

Buy cork for counters like one of the other posters suggested, or even use things like othello counters or poker chips. Really anything you can mark on ("G is for Goblin guys, H for hobgoblin").

Buy a dry erase board and some markers/eraser for it, it is a bigger investment, but it can at least be used for other things later if you don't end up playing in the long run. Mine serves double duty for homeschool and D&D and I leave it unmounted so we can lay it down on the table we play on.

Buy reaper minis for just the player characters and any really big baddie you are going to face. This gives the players a little more incentive to play and a touch of personal flair. They should pick out their minis that best represent their character concept. If your campaign has a big dragon as the end boss, you could splurge and buy that model to bring out in the last of the campaign as an exciting bit.

Paper models are all over the net. You could even have a whole small village in paper models if you wanted, but make sure if you spend the time investment it can be reused later for other adventures. Generic houses and such are easy, but the "Bridge of Durkon Bronzeweaver" might be a little too specific.

Go on Amazon and look at bulk bags of dice, we bought the Wizdice 100 random dice bag for $20 and had enough for 17 players to have full sets if we wanted.

http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY

Really worth it since you could have the players pitch in a little bit and have a huge return in selection. Really nice as a dm too to be able to have different color dice represent different monsters.

You're welcome! You may also want to buy some more dice since the starter set only comes with one set. A set of dice looks like this:

Polyhedral 7-Die Opaque Dice Set - Blue with White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UQ7OD0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_BbzOzbJ6X8GTS

They come in all different colors. Try to pick a set where the numbers stand out from the body so they are easy to read at the table.

Or you can buy a big bag of random dice like this and share:

Wiz Dice Random Polyhedral Dice in Multiple Colors (100 + Pack) Bundle with Wiz Dice Pouch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6czOzbHQCRM29

Downside is that your colors may not match up. But that doesn't affect gameplay at all.

Edit: also forgot to say that if you have any DM questions feel free to send me a message to ask questions. I'm always here to help those new to the hobby.

Edit2: don't forget to download these rules for free and give to your players:

http://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/basicrules

The method of sorting is one unique type of dice for each category. Categories are solids (top), pearlescent (middle) and clear (bottom). I also acquired many other dice of the exact type as well as a d30 (not sure what to do with that).


Overall I'm happy with the variety, but disappointed with the amount of complete sets; only the two that came in the small paux-velvet bags.


Edit: Link for people who are wanting to get a bag themselves.

I'm getting a 100 Pakc by Wiz Dice. Most of the reviews put it above Chessex's Pound-o-Dice. It should get here tomorrow and I can let you know how it goes if you're still interested.

No dice, literally.

I bought the Bag of Holding with 20 complete sets when I started DM'ing again.

Gave the bag of devouring to one of my players for her birthday.

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1520722403&sr=8-5&keywords=bag+of+holding

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Polyhedral/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=pd_bxgy_21_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01KP4T6TQ&pd_rd_r=CPW9QQNV8BM67GYA17F5&pd_rd_w=kWJtV&pd_rd_wg=GIb1t&psc=1&refRID=CPW9QQNV8BM67GYA17F5

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Tricks-Role-playing/dp/B079DY4FKL/ref=pd_sim_21_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B079DY4FKL&pd_rd_r=QZCFND2YDJC6SPXQ0JTW&pd_rd_w=g2esz&pd_rd_wg=nhf38&psc=1&refRID=QZCFND2YDJC6SPXQ0JTW

How do you not have enough dice?!?! Are you new to this?

Here, this will help. https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14

Wiz Dice actually has a "never" bag of holding, which contains 140 dice in 20 guaranteed complete sets.
amazon link

My DM has a set of something like these: https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H0TNFY

and seems to really like them.

This is what I use as well, and it works good. It doesn't stay perfectly flat, though. It tends to stick up in the middle a bit. If you spread it out and put a book on top of it for an hour or so before playing I'm sure it'd smarten it up, though.

The DM in the game I play in often uses modular tiles, kind of like these. They seem to work really well, and you can adjust the size based on the map you're drawing.

Dry-erase tiles! These are the ones we bought at our local game store

All of our characters end up with similar Perceptions, so I draw the tiles [usually before game- I'm the best with drawing lines and colours and other such jazz]. Anything people can't see is attached later on, or we draw the dotted lines of dividing.

It can be a bit of a pain at the end of the night to clean, but the ability to create your map on the go = worth it. Bonus, you can break pieces off, erase and re-use as need be :)

Nah, I bought them from Amazon. [Link]

Do you own everything?

I use the Plano tackle box, DVD case, and Card binder storage solution and it works really well.

so another user posted this except for he linked the wrong storage box. Ill link the storage box that would work for it all. If you paint minis then i would suggest possibly felt/foam lining the plano storage boxes. This really is a great way to store the game.
Pie in the sky way to store everything: For map tiles: AmazonBasics Nylon CD/DVD Wallet (128 Capacity) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DIHVM36/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_xF79DSJicfLBu
For command cards/character and imperial decks: BCW PRO 16-POCKET PAGE - TOPLOAD - (20 CT. PACK) FOR X-WING AND ARMADA UPGRADES https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018OM5MGC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_jcKHoZQcRucSk
For agenda cards and mission cards: Ultra Pro 25/9 Pocket Page Protectors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005HIOVOG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UjgMybSN3F7RS
Putting them in a binder lets you more easily find a specific card they fit in these sheets even with card sleeves. I bought a nice binder that has slip sleeves in it so that I can store all the rules and skirmish/mission pamphlets along with the sleeved card sheets.The CD case holds any tile 4 spaces wide I keep the larger tiles separate and was able to fit every expansion in the CD case.
For the minis and everything else: Plano Angled Tackle System 732 https://www.amazon.com/Plano-732-Extreme-Tackle-System/dp/B009JG53S0/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1490804922&sr=8-2&keywords=plano+732

Hi there! I just introduced my family to D&D over the weekend as well. Let me answer your questions.

Truthfully, everything you need can be found online. The D&D starter rules (for both playing and DMing) can both be found on Wizard's website. Others will recommend the Starter Edition, which is great place to start mind you, but the adventure is definitely not a one-shot. It can take up to 3-4 sessions to complete it.

Because of this, I opted to create my own one-shot adventure and I watched Matthew Colville's wonderful intro to DMing guide on Youtube. It's actually a lot easier than you think. For a one-shot all you need are at least 5 encounters; puzzle, trap, combat, dialogue/story, final boss. Put it in a dungeon; keep it simple. Dungeonographer is a wonderful program to help you maps and interior locations.

If you keep your adventure simple, DMing is very straightforward. Set the story and the adventure hook (why is your party going on a quest/adventure), lay down some breadcrumbs that lead them onward, and manage the experience. Remember that players roll the D20 for just about everything, but feel free to throw your own flair as well. For instance, I often had my family roll "luck" to see how fortunate they were in certain circumstances. Specifically, the party was fleeing from town and my father was like, "There's gotta be boats at the dock, let's go!" And I tell him to roll a D20 to see how fortunate they were to find one (or if one was actually there). I made up the chances (based on the story) and the outcome was up to the roll.

The guides obviously will break everything down in very good detail, but what helped me feel more comfortable DMing was to prepare some additional materials.

• Printed out documentation of the adventure script (what's going on, what's happening) and things that you will say at key moments (location description, etc.). I included different kinds of checks that players can do at certain areas (e.g., Investigation, History, or Intelligence checks).
  
  
• Create a Bestiary that contains all of the monsters and npcs players will encounter. Include all information about stats, attacks, etc. This will save you time so you don't have to look into a book for this information.
  
  
• Create simple maps in dungeonographer to help your players feel a sense of presence.
  
  Check out the video link I posted earlier. It really helped.
  
  Oh, and I ordered 5 sets of dice from here. $9.99 for the lot. Great price!

Here dude I'll get a link from Amazon and edit this comment for you to get some good cheap dice

Here you are: https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?keywords=dice&qid=1569179055&s=gateway&sr=8-8

And here's another: https://www.amazon.com/Assorted-Polyhedral-Drawstring-Complete-Dungeons/dp/B074WPY4ZM/ref=mp_s_a_1_12?keywords=dice&qid=1569179055&s=gateway&sr=8-12

I love playing tabletop RPGs! I got hooked when I was around 8 or 9 years old when my dad took me over to his friend's house, handed me a character sheet, a pencil, and a set of dice and we continued a game that had been going on since the 80's. It was my dad, his friend (dm'ing), my uncle, another adult, my dad's friend's son, and myself. Been playing ever since. I have a little bit of a problem when it comes to dice and can never have enough!

u/fairypants Get your Trekkie Self in here!

amazon has 5 sets of dice for $10

This set is five sets for $10. It even comes with five dice bags. They look really nice and I can personally attest to their quality because I use them all the time.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01ABST9S4/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1524512869&sr=1-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=51TLq9O7vtL&ref=plSrch

This is what I went with. The dice are fine quality and they come with individual baggies if you want to play with friends and loan out some dice to them. Maybe they chip in a buck or two and it only costs you like $5 or less for your set. Though I don't know the shipping rates to you.

If price is an issue, don't go with chessex. It's not worth it.

Amazon has a bulk buy of polyhedral dice for like 10 bucks I think. I believe it comes with like 5 color coded sets

​

https://www.amazon.com/d/Role-Playing-Dice/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/B01ABST9S4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1551029473&sr=8-3&keywords=dice+set+d%26d

If you have a friendly local game store (FLGS) near you, they likely have it as well as the right dice. With any luck, they'd even have staff that are knowledgeable enough to help further.

If you don't, there's several online outlets, with amazon being the most obvious. Internet stores tend to have the advantage of a significant discount, but of course require waiting for the things to ship and arrive.

The absolute simplest way to get into it would be purchasing the Starter Set. It comes with simplified rules, one set of dice, and an adventure you can run.

If you enjoy that, or are just absolutely certain you will like the game and want to go ahead and get it all, there is the Player's Handbook. That is the only essential, but you will want sooner than later the Dungeon Master's Guide and Monster Manual.

As for dice, there are tons of ways to go about that. There are phone apps that can do the job cheaper, which you can find with a quick search. Most groups I think will find they prefer using physical dice. It's more expensive but also just that much more fun.

The correct type of dice come at a variety of costs and qualities, but the only necessity is that you have all 7 types of dice available. That is, you want a 4-sided, 6-sided, 8-sided, 10-sided, 12-sided, 20-sided, and percentile die.

Chessex is the most popular dice company and has an absolute ton of varieties. Here's just one example and luckily it is standard to sell all the necessary dice in sets together.

There are also various bulk sets which make up in volume what they lack in choice, and are good for getting started.

Last but not least, you'll need friends willing to play with you. But that's true of any tabletop game.

That was longer than I anticipated, but I promise it's not too hard. There's a bit of a learning curve with any game, but RPGs are a lot of fun once you get comfortable with them.

maybe write up a gofundme/kickstarter or even hit up WotC and see about donations. and by far your best bet for dice is going to be a grab bag:
https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Tricks-Role-playing/dp/B079DY4FKL/

https://www.amazon.com/Quarter-Pound-Dice-Chessex-Game/dp/B07913R5YC/

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-001LBCHX-Pound-O-Dice/dp/B008C0KXYS/

I'd probably get myself two of these and spend the rest on beer since my wife makes dice bags already and I don't have to pay for one.

Ya know, they have these things you can order known as "Pound O' Dice" that comes with quite a few sets. Perfect for your addiction.

I'm an enabler.

Edit: here's a link, JUST IN CASE.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_3PVPybNTS3MQ3

Does he use miniatures in his games? You could pick him up a random booster pack of D&D minis- new monsters to use can be inspiration for encounters.

EDIT: This would most likely be on budget and these are new figures! Came out in late July.
https://www.miniaturemarket.com/wzk72871-pack.html

If he plays 5e there are new books coming out still- you could look at what he has or order something upcoming for him to lean his campaign toward.

EDIT: Make sure you check his shelf/bin if you don't want to get something he has already!
https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=5e+books

Maybe he is a fan of fantasy books/movies? You might have some luck picking something he would like- that could bleed through for inspiration.

Also, tabletop players always enjoy a new set of dice, if they are a shiny new color or something.
I suggest these!

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502128441&sr=8-1-fkmr1&keywords=alchemical+oddities+dice

EDIT:

This is kind of a stretch probably- but consider steering him toward something like https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1513061270/reaper-miniatures-bones-4-mr-bones-epic-adventure/comments which can be a near endless source of materials/resources.

You could try picking up one of the starter sets to see if he would like painting!

https://www.amazon.com/Reaper-Miniatures-08906-Learn-Paint/dp/B00NTMC49G/ref=sr_1_2?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1502128215&sr=1-2&keywords=reaper+bones+paints

https://www.amazon.com/Layer-Bones-Miniatures-Learn-Reaper/dp/B01N458GBK/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1502128232&sr=1-1&keywords=reaper+bones+paints

Order Up

Is this still in circulation? Because I'm looking for an orange set that doesn't look like vomit-flavored jellybeans (sorry Bag of Devouring).

Get a battlemat. It's a big grid that you can roll up and draw on with markers.

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR

I personally use this one .

I’ve been using it every week for about a year and there’s no stain at all, I just wash it quickly after every use. It may be a little more pricey, but I think it’s worth it.

On the down side, it’s one sided and there’s no Hex-grid, but I’d probably never use it anyway.

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1542750784&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=dnd+mat&psc=1

Questions for DM/Players DnD [5e]

Hey everyone, I have some questions coming from a DM's standpoint. I've recently drug my friends into DnD and everyone seems to be loving it. I still have a few questions regarding how to go about things as a DM though or how other groups go about it, anyways here goes. (We're currently running LMoP by the way)

​

1. How do you go about telling certain players what they see if another player might not see the item/object? Do you just tell them, send them a text, write it on a piece of paper, etc.?
   
2. We're currently using a dry erase grid How do you go about revealing areas of the map to them? Do you draw them out in whole and let them venture through, or go about it in sections as they walk into them then drawing out what they see?
   
3. Also how do you go about picking targets if they're engaged in combat? I always feel like I pick on the closest one to the enemy when combat breaks out, am I wrong to feel that way?
   
   These are some of the questions I have for now, but I might be back with more we'll see lol. Anyways thanks in advance for any suggestions or answers!

Relevant link so people can see the awesomeness

https://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-RPG-Rulebook-Alternate/dp/B07HFG969C

This can help out a lot.

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1342943910&sr=8-1&keywords=battle+mat

If you're willing to pay a little, there are nice erasable mats out there. Cheaper in the long run than using paper and certainly much more transportable/manageable.

I'm guessing that you're thinking of a Chessex Battle Mat, which allows you to use wet erase markers to draw out maps. You can also use graph paper to accomplish much the same function, although this will mean that you'll have to pass the combat map around, which may not be as good as everyone being able to draw on it at a given time.

welcome.
here are a few simple things that i have found a newbie like me make things easier...

1. spell cards this is an easy resource to help you keep track of what spells you have. its even easier if you do like marisha does and set it up in a spell folder. . u can pick this up at your local staples/ office depot.
   
   
2. a small notebook to write notes in, such as everyones names. important NPCs, loot you found, i always date my pages so i know when and what happened. marisha and laura are really good at doing this in stream.
   
   
3. lazer pens. + battle mat + minis. or even paper minis.
   
   
4. sit as close as you can. preferably around a table.
   
   
5. index cards. i use index cards sometimes for my special paladin abilities that i always forget i have. when you are new, it can be overwhelming keeping track of your special abilities. its easier to see than writing it on your character sheet.
   
   
6. Ale
   

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1504364342&sr=8-2&keywords=chessex+battlemat

I just ran my first session as a new DM with LMoP last week! I'll jot down my experience running a group of 4 beginners. (so take my advice with a grain of salt as a beginner that has not finished the campaign)

---
First, read through the books in the Starter Set! (If you can afford the Player's Handbook, that is a good idea as well.) I highly recommend going through the rulebook (or Basic Rules) then at least skimming through the entire LMoP module. You don't have to memorize everything but as a DM it is important to have the idea of the setting in your head.

For combat, you have to decide if you are going to run "Theater of the Mind" or battlemat+miniatures for combat. Theater of the Mind is more flexible and requires less preparation but battlemats give great visuals at a cost of preparation and supply.

Then you have to decide if you think your players would want to make their own characters or not. For my beginner group, I decided that they would be a lot more invested/excited if they could identify with their own creation so I chose to not use the pre-generated character sheets. Once you are comfortable with the rules of D&D enough, set a date to meet with your group.

Since we had to make characters, I held a Session 0 to introduce the basic concept of what to expect in committing to D&D as well as character creation. I highly suggest making characters together a separate day before Session 1 because it usually takes a decent amount of time for the first time (3ish hours for me).

My Session 0 looked like this:

• Introduction to D&D
  
  
• Explaining all races, classes, backgrounds and letting them pick
  
  
• Giving character sheets, rolling stats
  
  
• Guiding them through the char sheet by referencing DNDBeyond for background/race/class bonuses
  
  After everyone was done, I let them take home the character sheet and work on character appearance, personality, and background story.
  
  The week after, we had Session 1. Make sure you actually read through the LMoP module in depth, at least up to Part 1-2 beforehand. I also decided to take some elements of this supplement Part 0 for LMoP to use as a tutorial for my players. Then, begin your adventure! My party took a lot longer than I expected and only got to the entrance of the Cragmaw Hideout after 3 hours.
  
  Good luck to your campaign, I'm looking forward to my second session!
  
  ---
  
  Some recommended guides I used:
  
  
• Matt Mercer tips (all DM's love this man)
  
  
• Don't Stop Thinking guides (great graphic visuals and in-depth coverage)
  
  
• Matt Colville tips (gives a good idea of how D&D should look like at an advanced level)
  
  
• DungeonDudes (channel that covers good topics)
  
  
• DNDBeyond (amazing website for the Basic Rules, classes, and races)
  
  
• OneCritWonder LMoP tips (helpful overview of the module)
  
  
• LMoP enemies (generator that adapts to how many players you have)
  
  ---
  Supplies I personally prepared (BUT ARE OPTIONAL):
  
  
• Beginner dice (shared with my beginners, they are planning to get their own sets soon)
  
  
• Custom character sheets (a bit overwhelming at first but I find helpful for each class)
  
  
• Spell cards (I don't think many people use these but I find it an amazing resource to give your players if they are spellcasters)
  
  
• Battlemat (use with Wet-Erase markers)
  
  
• Paper minis (dedication and time required, can use coins, legos, or anything instead or even real miniatures if you can afford it)
  
  
• DM Screen (the official and most standard and affordable screen)

Well I suppose you said you've played before, but I'm going to give you a basic resources spiel, so forgive me if I'm saying anything obvious. The basic things you're going to want are a set of dice /for each player/ (a d4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 20, to be clear). I mean, you can get away with a single set of dice, but it's a pain to pass them around. Personally I like to have enough dice so I can roll all at once for a given ability - a spell that deals 4d8 damage? I have 4d8s. Of course, people with smartphones could get an app like Dice Ex Machina, too. Then, if you want to play with a board (I understand some people can play certain systems like 5e by just having the DM describe how far apart things are but that sounds maddening to me), you're probably going to want a playmat (http://smile.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=smi_www_rco2_go_smi_2053972162?ie=UTF8&%252AVersion%252A=1&%252Aentries%252A=0) and some Vis-a-Vis wet erase pens to draw on it. Lastly, you're going to need /something/ to represent people on said playmat. Miniatures are super expensive, so you can theoretically, especially starting out, scrounge up various little things that fit in the 1 inch squares - pieces from other board games, whatever. Now, if you've got more money to spend a great deal that's much more cost efficient than minis are Paizo's Pawn Boxes such as this http://paizo.com/products/btpy8x1f?Pathfinder-Pawns-NPC-Codex-Box

Now, you could also go the super cheap route and grab graph paper, and then write letters to represent characters, then draw and erase when they move. This is how I started - it sucks, but it's free. Another free way to circumvent ALL of these play resources by playing on the computer: https://app.roll20.net/home. This has obvious pros and cons but it's simultaneously free and fancy if it works out. If you use that, you'll want this too: http://www.rptools.net/tools/token-tool/

As for systems, I have two recommendations. My biggest recommendation is for the new 5th Edition Dungeons and Dragons. It is excellent, and most importantly it's really easy for beginners. You can get the starter set for a mere 20$, which comes with 4 pre made characters, a good adventure and a set of dice. And maybe a DM shield? Anyway, free basic rules here: http://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/basicrules

After that, there are 3 books, the Players Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide and Monster Manuel. They're all great. And 50$ each. If you try the starter set, like the system and have a dedicated group of players, I definitely recommend them if you can afford them. If you can't, however, there's my other recommendation:

Based off of 3.5e Dungeons and Dragons, Pathfinder is a great system with tons and tons of content, and with the exclusion of published adventures and flavor books, it's all free: http://www.d20pfsrd.com/home
It also has a free module you can try out: http://paizo.com/products/btpy8j5w?Pathfinder-Module-We-Be-Goblins

Thing is, it's also quite complicated. For beginners to learn it without a veteran to teach them - to learn just by reading the rules - would be very very difficult. No way I would have been able to learn by reading. Plus, that 'tons and tons of content,' while awesome, makes it all the more overwhelming for beginners. Still, it's freeeeeee.

I don't print maps for my players at all. I only draw a map when a situation is complex enough that we need the help tracking where everyone is. I use something like this mat with wet-erase markers as a reusable surface for drawing maps on: http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

TL;DR: can push pins be used as miniatures on vinyl mats without doing too much short-term damage? We are looking at this mat.


My group and I are just getting started, and so far we kind of improvised a paper grid on top of a cork board so we could use color coordinated push pins instead of miniatures. We really liked this because it meant we didn't have to worry about anything bumping/shaking the map, even if we left the table for a while.

We are looking into a more permanent option now, and I see that the vinyl mats seem to be the preferred option for most players. I just want to make sure we know one way or the other, before we accidentally wreck a brand new mat!

Ideally we'd be reusing the same pin hole on any given square as much as possible, so hopefully that would minimize the damage from using the push pins...

I'll usually use something similar to this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IQO2O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481173019&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=Battle+grid+mat&dpPl=1&dpID=41i0qiG8fUL&ref=plSrch

I'll use wet erase markers and either draw something ahead of time, or draw quick outlines and erase them and redraw as needed if my players go off course.

The fact that it's double sided comes in handy too. You can use one side for improv battles and the other for preset encounters.

I usually only use maps for encounters, I'll use smaller drawings for world or city maps. I typically don't draw too much detail. The outline of the encounter area/room and major defining features that could come into play in the battle(a giant chasm in the floor for example). I'll rely on descriptions and any questions my players may have to fill in the blanks and give any other relevant information about the area.

As far as LMoP goes, in planning each of your sessions you'll probably have a good idea of what you'll be going through in each sitting so you should be able plan accordingly and really only have to improvise if your players go off the rails or decide to pick unplanned fights.

It's also perfectly OK to not use grids at all and just describe the area to you players and let them know where the enemies are on relation to them. You don't have to spend money on this part, especially if it's your first time, but Ive found it easier to use a grid especially for new players. It definitely helps keep things straight.

My group primarily uses one of these, which is a really good investment along with some dry wet erase markers. Other this I've seen is buying large grid paper from Staples or some other office supply retailer, which you can also have laminated to use as a dry erase mat, but often costs the same or more than ordering the chessex mat.

Edit:I made a mistake, you should be using wet erase markers for chessex mats. Dry erase can ruin the mat, and even with thorough care, dramatically reduces its life span. With wet erase markers, the worst it will get is you need to give it a thorough cleaning once in a while with something other than water. There are some tips and guidelines here to help maintain the life of the mat.

I'm happy with this one. It's big but still fits nicely on my table, and has a square grid on one side and a hex on the other, and I generally like the hex better but many times I use the square for an indoor halls-and-corridors type setting.

I got one of these and I use it all the time. They're meant to be used with wet-erase markers. I usually just draw things out as the party explores. There's lots of ways to go about this, and these mats are highly reusable!

I used this battle mat

Amazon Link

Some rubber cement

Amazon Link

Also some kind of sanded particle board from Lowes/Home Depot. I can't remember what it was called, but 1/8" thick. At the time I was in college and had access to the school's laser table and was able to cut using that. I couldn't see why a table saw wouldn't work though.

I made all the tiles powers of two (Computer engineer, can't help it). If I remember it was like 1x1, 1x2, 1x4, 2x2, 2x4, 2x8, 4x4, 4x8, and 8x8 tiles. You can do any other sizes or increments, that's just what I am most comfortable with.

We use a chessex mat (like this).

Don't draw the whole dungeon on the mat, just the room(s) combat is happening in.

For the dungeon map, you can have your players draw it on a sheet of paper from your descriptions.

Campaigns I run at home I just draw on a [Chessex battlemat] (https://smile.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_5?crid=4WKSOITKESTV&keywords=chessex+battle+mat&qid=1569130255&s=gateway&sprefix=chessex%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-5). Just doodle whatever I need.

I ran a few on d20, which I mostly used a mapgen program. What I want is usually something fairly large so players can flank, move, fly, etc. Like 50x50, most of it can just be wilderness with trees, etc, I just want them to be able to move if they want. I want some interesting terrain features, I want clear, visible lines for cover/and what stuff is. I prefer a theme if possible.

edit I agree with the other guy, NO GRIDLINES. Pain in the ass to deal with those.

For me:

• Macbook Pro: Acts as my “screen”, though, I roll in front of my players.
  
  
• Google Drive for Initiative tracker, Monster Stats, Music, Campaign notes, name list, Etc.
  
  
• 3 ring binder for maps and a store that I
  hand to my players should they want to go shopping.
  
  
• Chessex Dice + 3 extra D20s from a loosey bin. edit This purple is regal as fuck.
  
  
• My books (DMG, PHB, MM, Volo's) are kept on a side table to be referenced in disputes.
  
  
  For Combat:
  
  
• Chessex Battlemat: Larger size means everyone can use it to take notes, remain entertained (read: doodle), track damage on things, etc. Rolls up and stows without taking up a lot of real estate.
  
  
• EXPO wet erase markers, Dollar store spray bottle, Dollar store microfiber cloths.
  
  
• Pathfinder Pawns I print out my own and glue them on.
  
  
• Foam core and cardboard for terrain - Theatre of the mind ain't my bag. Tabletop wargame skillz recycled.
  
  
  For my players:
  
  
• G2 Mechanical Pencils
  
  
• Poker chips to track spell slots
  
  
• Assortment of Minis from my table top wargaming days or a pathfinder pawn if they like how it looks better.

I've got this one in two sizes

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_jSZNBb10389Q9

While the commercial maps might be somewhat expensive, the [Chessex Battlemap] (https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1503572042&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+battlemat) has been our go to for years.

We bought one 5 years ago and it still looks great, the material is soft so it folds easily, and it is easy to clean. $30 for 5 years is totally worth it: Chessex makes high quality stuff.

I have this one, it is quality and large worth the money imo

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1450652471&sr=8-7&keywords=gaming+mat

I played 1e and 2e for many years, and every group I was in always used theater of the mind. When I returned to D&D a year ago, the group I was playing with used a battle mat and minis and it was a revelation for me: I really like being able to see where all the creatures are, and having a good set of wet-erase markers means we can draw anything we need to on the mat. When I started DMing again, I bought a battle mat and a set of markers and it makes things very easy, especially for younger players (one of my groups is 4 11-year-olds). Being able to make a custom mini (using something like HeroForge) means that everyone can get a mini that really expresses their character concept, which helps people get invested in the game. Also, Lego minifigures are almost exactly the right size, which is awesome, and you can print your minis on paper as well (better for monsters, IMO).

Having said all that, Sly Flourish has a really good guide to Theater of the Mind combat and there's a lot to recommend it.

Gaming carry bag - like the Bag of Holding.

Battle mats, maybe a big one.

d20 socks, cause who doesn't need socks?

One Round T-Shirt would be good - gamers love shirts. Penny Arcade has a bunch. They also have some cool prints that are table gaming related.

Just giving some non-dice suggestions, as I have a crap-ton of dice myself.

I have been very happy with the Chessex dry erase grid. If you could find wrapping paper with a 1" grid, it would work great.

I'm a big fan of Chessex, it works great as long as you don't mess up and use a permanent pen on it...

For long-term flexibility, I'd recommend getting one of the bigger multi sided ones (like this one). For $33 it's a great buy.

Get yourself a chessex map!

Chessex makes an amazing battlemap with squares on one side and hex on the other.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IUAAG

Looks like it, thanks brother.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001G4OV9U?pc_redir=1407573427&robot_redir=1

It's only an issue with the Borealis. If you haven't bought them, you wouldn't have experienced it. Chessex or not, this is a problem with this specific line. And doing some research, this is a known issue that's been brought up on this sub before and can be found in the reviews for these type of dice.

One of the reviewers even mentions contacting Chessex:


> EDIT: I contacted Chessex and they responded quickly; apparently the scuffs are mold marks (they provided pictures to show that all of the borealis and translucent dice have them). Oh well. Added two stars because of good customer service, not full because of the marks though.

Yes they came in the usual packaging. Yes, they're Chessex dice. Sparkly dice have enough draw that anybody making "counterfeit" could probably just brand their own and sell them without the need to fake the Chessex label. I suspect that places like Amazon (or its sellers) are just buying off the B Grade dice for cheap to sell. And yes, Chessex has B grade dice, every manufacturer does. Where do you think their Pound of Dice comes from?

I'm in love with the purple bag, it would fit perfectly my set of dice.

You should make those for selling, I would totally buy it from you if I lived in the US!

I'll recommend D&D 5th ed as the starting point for several reasons. I'll recommend the Starter Box set as a beginning point (http://dnd.wizards.com/products/tabletop-games/rpg-products/rpg_starterset). This will have the dice, rules, and pre-made stuff to get you actually playing the game.

The site also has the basic rules for free download (http://dnd.wizards.com/articles/features/basicrules). You'd need monsters for it to be usable, though the DM basic may have some. This would let your group learn about character creation and try out more stuff without dumping a bunch of money if you're still on the fence.

Eventually you'd want a Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, and Monster Manual as your core book set. Each player will want a dice set with a few extra 6-sided included (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001GZRLKK/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?qid=1464455272&sr=8-9&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=d20+set).

5th is very, very friendly to new payers compared to other editons. Pathfinder is an updated version of an older D&D version. A lot of people play it, but it's more complex to start out without an experienced person running the game. It's a good game, but I wouldn't recommend it unless someone could help with rules as you go.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_VrA0Db8WW1VPM. Maybe here. These are foam but are large

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001S6YKOW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_VvA0DbQM50SYX
Or these

https://www.dnddice.com/sets-of-dice/giant-dice-sets/24mm-purple-dice-set-opaque-oversize.html
Or look around on here, these guys may have something

I searched for a while, This one is kind of hard. I think your best bet would be to make a small care package. If they're in the Army, Small things to take with them places are what they would thrive on. But have fun with it, zombie theme it!

Include things like:

Army Gummy Men

Switchblade Comb

Nerf gun

Some type of zombie toy



Add a bunch of cool snacks, maybe a drink or two (could make home made labels for these things), some travel size toiletries and a really cool personalized mini story/warning letter about your adventures sending him the box during the zombie apocalypse.

edit:Words

Edit2: A quick fun zombie game would go well too!

Zombie Dice

Zombie Fluxx

In a semi related note, get this game as well and make friends wherever you go. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003IKMR0U/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1377105229&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165

Got them in a Wiz Dice 100+ bag

this one ?

Extra Idea to bring along:

Bags and Dice so you can just give away a free set to each person joining you to play. Having their own dice lets people feel more invested in your game.

> Should I let them build there own characters, or should I bring pregens?

This is up to you and your players. I’d ask each of them what they’d prefer. Personally, I would have pregens (or ones you’ve made) available as backups.

> As wargamers, we have TONS of minis, but no battlemat. Is there a cheap alternative? Do I really need one? I could pick one up at my LGS, but it'd be a bit more than I'd like to pay atm.

It’s not required. I know plenty of DMs who don’t use a battlemat.

I paid $35 for my mega mat so it depends on your budget. You can get a smaller one for $23.

Standard battle/megamats have 1 in. squares. You can find graph paper with that size squares at hobby lobby type stores or office supplies stores. You can get 8 ½ x 11 on up.

> I don't really want to purchase an adventure, but homebrewing the first game is kind of daunting. I mean, I know these guys would be perfectly happy being dropped in a dungeon and killing every last monster in the place without any kind of motivation whatsoever, but I really want at least some roleplay, if only to see how they react. I'd be grateful for any advice in this regard.

Dm guild is a very good resource for free campaigns or modules.

Something like this?

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

It seems like a great idea to hold off on miniatures. I'll probably use some kind of cheap stand-in in the meantime. Thank you for your response!!!

This.

Or maybe instead of the DMG, buy a mat/whiteboard and some pathfinder pawns or something for minis. Up to you really. You could always do theater of the mind, but having minis is so fun!

Edit: Found these for a quick comparison of the prices

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0786965606/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_ikjsybH67VV0Y PHB £27.41

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0786965614/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_GljsybN0V9304 MM £27.29

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0786965622/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_VpjsybZWA65JC DMG £38.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_cojsybDFPYPQR Mat £21.99

Looks like the DMG is the most expensive bit.

Regarding the map, all you really need to draw out is the area directly important to a combat encounter, everything else you can just describe. You could be a larger dry erase map like this.

You can always have someone else run your girlfriend's character while she's away, if she doesn't mind. Or if the party has a group of hirelings she could step into any of those. I have a lot of players come and go, and until recently just ignored how they were all popping in and out of the existence week to week.

If you're feeling lenient you could secretly roll for characters when they are about to trigger a trap as a sort of emergency danger sense. It's something you probably don't want to do very often, because there's a price for foolhardiness! Try to include descriptions of possible traps when you're describing a room. Don't make it obvious, but some flags to spur them on to further searches.

I'm sure there are rules for both werewolves and necromancers in some book or online somewhere.

So do you want a reusable one? If so, a Chessex battle mat is what I use. It works with wet-erase markers, but don't use dry-erase on it. If not or if you want something you can use colored pencils on or something, then the post-it thing that exleye mentioned would work fine.

I've always used something similar:

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

This is what I've seen 2 different DM's use as a map. One drew right on it and the other put plexiglass over it to erase easier. Either way works, and it's a huge help to the realness. I've never played without one but have seen pictures of people who have. I don't know how they do it.

You can also get roll up mats (like this ) which allow you to use washable marker to draw dungeons out.

I find them very handy when complicated battles break out.

The other guys have explained D&D vs Pathfinder very well. As for the mat, one of the more versatile solutions is to buy a wet-erase mat like this one and draw your own maps. It's easy to change things, improvise, and you can just mark locations of characters mid-combat and pick up next week.

Look around for maps. I've seen fan-made versions that you can print out, but unfortunately I don't have links handy.

For serious though, just buy one of these guys and some wet erase markers. Draw as you go!

I have been running games for a long time but haven't used a grid before. I'm about to start a new campaign and wanted to give it a go. I'm a dad of young kids, so I'm time and storage space poor. Here's what I'm doing:

• Chessex battlemat. Reuseable with wet erase markers (these things).
  
  
• Warhammer fantasy bases, that I've picked up in bulk from eBay. 25mm = small and medium, 50mm = large. Larger ones for huge and gargantuan. I'm planning to just print out portraits for characters and monsters and stick them onto the bases for a 2D representation of the battlefield.
  
  Should cost me nothing now that I've made the initial outlay for the grid, markers, and bases.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: Battlemat Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games (26 in x 23 1/2 in) Squares/Hexes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_5CxOCbSK7ND37

EXPO 16078 Vis-A-Vis Wet-Erase Overhead Transparency Markers, Fine Point, Assorted Colors, 8-Count https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wDxOCbB3WHT45

If I don't have a mini for the monster I need I use a cheap, solid color dice from a big set I bought. Looks like the one I got is no longer being made but this is similar:
Yellow Mountain Imports 42 Polyhedral Dice, 6 Colors with Complete Set of D4, D6, D8, D10, D12, D20, and D% https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07586H7KJ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1ExOCbK31AJD9

Pathfinders Bestiary Box 1 goes on sale for 20 something dollars sometimes, tons of monsters from the Monster Manual at a decent price:
Pathfinder Pawns: Bestiary Box https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601255616/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_nGxOCbJB02KBK

I wouldn't worry too much about having minis, and terrain, and everything as dnd is more about the imagination and sometimes too much detail at the table can detract from that. My friend runs his campaign mostly "theater of mind" style but has a little tiny dry erase board he draws on to show relative positions and obstacles and it works great.

Hope this helps!

You could do that, or use one of these. It will last you just as long if not longer, and you won't be throwing away all that paper every week.

Plus it's got a grid.

For miniatures, it's really hard to beat the tabletop Warhammer minis. Yes, they're a little pricy, but a Cadian Command squad comes provides a LOT of flexibility, and averages out to about $4/mini, which isn't any worse than something from Reaper (the company that makes the Pathfinder minis). I've heard that the Necromunda minis are also great options.

For a map, a Chessex Dry Erase Mat is a great option. However, it occasionally gets annoying to handle multiple maps in a single session. I picked up a huge pad of 1"x1" graph paper from my local art supply store, and I absolutely love it. I use my dry erase mat for things which I didn't anticipate, and I use the graph paper to draw out maps before the session.

I also saved a couple of links for custom tokens:

http://www.reddit.com/r/rpg/comments/qnedr/reddit_cakeday_gift_to_myself_156_custom/

http://www.reddit.com/r/DnD/comments/16v798/my_alternative_to_miniatures/

This one, but really, I am kind of disappointed with how wavy they are. The creases and such keep it from lying flat. If I had to purchase a new one, I'd get the one sided roll out kind. All told, it is still usable and the double sides have come in handy.

Phew This'll be a long a post, but certainly reward to read by the end of it. Playing D&D/Pathfinder really is the Nerdiest, Nerd thing I've ever done, and it is a lot of fun! Watch +DawnforgedCast's Session 0 video and download his checklist here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0FmGxmJLiw It's meant for a GameMaster/Dungeon Master, but that checklist will help you out greatly in understanding what you want when starting out in a new group, with or without veteran players. If you aren't able to find a group locally (I don't recommend online groups for your first introduction) then taking up the mantle of leadership as the GameMaster/Dungeon Master, can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time. However, if you're one with a vivid imagination, or are good with thinking on the fly (believe me, it gets better with time) then you'll already have a headstart on the majority of GMs out there. A great beginning module that has a little bit of everything, adventure hook (i.e., reason why your players should be doing this), NPC interaction, wilderness adventuring, dungeon crawling, is the Hollow's Last Hope module for 1st Level Players as it works for both D&D and Pathfinder. You don't really need the print version, since you can download it for FREE at Paizo's website https://pathfinderwiki.com/wiki/Hollow%27s_Last_Hope

I greatly recommend you get the Pathfinder RPG: Beginner Box ($25-$35) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601256302 it is a different game, but the rule set is uber-simplified and honestly, superior to the D&D Starter Set ($15), and is worth the extra money. The Beginner Box literally has the all of the beginning needs for play. Pre-generated characters, blank character sheets for the four classes (Wizard, Rogue, Cleric, and Fighter) with either of the three races (Elf, Dwarf, and Human) that are easy to introduce new players to, a flip out map that you can use dry-erase- or wet-erase markers, and permanent markers on (all of which can be erased off, I use these wet-erase makers that are $9 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00006IFGW because I'll draw camp fires with brown, yellow, orange, and red colors, green helps with trees and shrubbery, blue for water, and black for everything else), a Hero's handbook, and really, really, good GM guide, plus thick, cardboard punch-out marker pawns of various Monsters, NPCs, Player characters, and other creatures, that amount to a wealth of miniatures that would take a lot of money and time to paint them all up, plus they're easier to store in the box. Unfortunately, it only comes with one set of dice, so it wouldn't hurt to get these on these 7 sets ($12) on the cheap https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MDJNE93 and pass them out to your players, or if they have their own, then you'll have plenty of extra multiples of dice, which will come in handy during combat with spellcasters and sneak attacks by Rogues. I handed them out to my players after they told me what their favorite colors were. =P

That'd would be all you'd really need to start, $30ish Beginner Box, plus $10 for markers, and $10 more if you or your players need dice. Now, what follows is what I used for my first GMing of a game, based on many different people's recommendations. In order to make combat work in a logical way that I could understand, I bought the Pathfinder Combat Pad $20 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601255470, along with those wet-erase markers from earlier. It's usefulness has been far better, and worth it's price in gold, to use than a cheap $1 store notebook, when I would have to erase or rewrite when players would defeat monsters or would hold their actions, or would tell them the wrong initiative bonus to start (lol!). Again, rather use a dollar store binder, I bought the Pathfinder GM Screen $16ish https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601252161, because it was short enough for me to look over rather than 3-ring binders or a paper folder at the actual game table. Speaking the table, I bought the Chessex Battlemats https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IQO2O this is a link to the smaller one ($20), since I bought the Megamat ($35), only because I had a large table, and players could use it as a coaster for drinks too (even though I did have coasters, to prevent spillage). As an added bonus, I recently discovered the Condition cards $10 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601252854, to use with Pathfinder, and they are great to hand out to players (as you would already know these conditions since it's written behind the GM Screen) so they know what condition they are in at a glance. Keep in mind though, you only get 4 or each, so if you are lucky enough to have more players, it wouldn't hurt to buy an extra set (however, it would be strange if all of your players had the same condition).

Now, let's say you enjoy Pathfinder, and you bought the Core Rulebook $20 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601258879 (if it's a hardcover, always look inside for the Sixth edition printing, the paperback will already be that edition) but are getting tired of looking up Monster stats online, then grab the Paperback version of the first Bestiary $16 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601258887 which has the great majority of all of the "regular" monsters in either D&D or Pathfinder. If you're not much of an artist, then there's the recently released Pathfinder Traps and Treasures Pawns Collection $25 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601259719 but be warned that you only want to place on the board AFTER the players find out what it is or after they trip it since it does have text explaining what it is as a trap, and if you're use the treasure ones, make sure you add whatever is actually printed on the tile is IN the list of treasure you give the players, because they can and will ask about, "can't I grab that cup or sword, it's on the tile?" ;)

Lastly, if you enjoy being the GameMaster/Dungeon Master, the storyteller, the world builder, then I'd recommend getting the Pathfinder Gamemastery Guide $15 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601259492, which again, can be applied to both RPG games. And if you what better weather effects to throw at your party than what is presented in the CRB and GMG, then Pathfinder Ultimate Wilderness $30 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601259867 has all that you need, and then some, plus some cool spells and tons of new animal companions and familiars for spellcasters alike, and a new shapeshifting melee-fighting class called the Shifter, which is pretty neat to use (albeit, you may want to check out Paizo's website for any official errata or clarifications, just in case). If you want to actually create a campaign and are having a hard time coming up with ideas, locations, groups/factions, kingdoms, races, then one more purchase, which is what +DawnforgedCast used for his Pathfinder games seen here is the Inner Sea World Guide $45 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1601252692 It is pricey, but again, very much worth it, to create your own world or to use the pre-made world, as well. Remember, the Beginner Box, Markers, and Dice is really all you need, the rest of this is to expand out. I hope this helps you and anyone else out as well. =P

You mean like this?

Yes! I'm messaging my DM now and I'll post the link when he sends it my way

Edit: This is where my DM got his mat for those wondering.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IQO2O?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_t1
I use this mat with wet erase markers. If you don’t want to spend money on miniatures, legos work in a pinch. Last campaign we used a bunch of skylanders figures my nephew had. They were a little too big for the map but worked in a pinch. You could also print out paper miniatures and glue them to little bases.

Brand new DM here. Currently running LMoP for 3 first-timers and 2 (barely) amateurs. Bought these for my party. $17 USD

Google “LMoP paper minis” for the enemies/villains. Use some common coins as and some Elmer’s Glue for a base. It honestly takes 2 hours (with breaks for beer and Reddit lol) to cut and paste once you assemble the materials.

Otherwise get a double sided battle mat, like $22 USD and some dry erase markers, $6 USD



Skip the party’s minis if you want to save some money. But the battle mat and markers can be used FOREVER.

I bought a Chessex roll-up battle map about twelve years ago. I still use it today. You can write on it with crayola markers and wash it off after. Best $20 I ever spent on DND.

Anyway, that's what I draw on. Usually I only draw encounter maps, dungeons, and exploration areas on it. It's great for minis because mine has a 1" square grid.

I usually just draw town and world maps by hand on sketch paper, and use those as general reference. I give these to the party when they arrive in a new town or are planning to set out on the road.

When I'm planning an encounter or dungeon, I usually sketch out a rough idea of each room, with a few notes on where terrain, hazards, monsters, and traps are located. I try to use the same notation marks as the official published maps, but, c'mon, ain't nobody got time for that.

Then, when my party starts a dungeon or enters a new room, I sketch it out a bit more carefully on the battle map. Pro tip: use black markers for dungeon walls, brown for terrain and hazards, dark blue for features, and never use red (it stains the mat).

I had a real problem sourcing some UK based battle map resources, be it paper or re-usable mats. In the end I took the hit and ordered one of these. It's quite expensive but really is good providing you use dry wipe pens and don't stain it.

Obviously that wont help you for tomorrow but have you considered simply drawing the outline of the area itself on an A1 piece of blank paper? You can get them cheap enough from Ryman's or WHSmith and obviously won't have a grid on but from my experience once you're in the heat of combat no-one will really mind.

Looks exactly like this one I ordered a week or so ago.

All the other options are probably better, but Roleplaying mats or grids are always useful. Chessex is a solid for the price. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0015IQO2O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1449084728&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=rpg+grid+mat&dpPl=1&dpID=41i0qiG8fUL&ref=plSrch

But there are other options out there as well.

Anyone have any ideas on gifts for the DM/player who has it all?

I was one of the oddballs that started playing D&D on 4e and moved to 5e. And honestly, 4e wasn't as bad as many people make it out to be if, and this is the big if, you are fine with doing a lot of mental calculations and tracking of abilities. This edition turned virtually everyone into casters, which means you can customize your character's combat identity to be exactly what you want no matter what your class, but makes you essentially a muscle-wizard, magic-wizard, sneaky-wizard, etc.

Level ups are crazy, too, requiring you to recalculate almost every stat on your character. The power creep is real in that edition, and you will eventually become an unkillable force of nature. No, seriously, epic destinies in that game often go "You hunt gods for fun, and respawn unharmed 6 seconds after you die."

However, to your original question, combat can easily be done using anything to represent your characters: we used everything from pogs to minis to coins. A battlegrid is still a life-saver, and I'd recommend biting the bullet and getting something like this. Otherwise, prepare to use a lot of paper for crudely drawn maps, because you pretty much need a grid for that edition.

And the good thing is you can use that mat for any other edition as well. And personally, I would actually recommend starting with 5e unless you're all engineering types who have fun with math and like the epic-hero power fantasy, or have some experienced players who can help teach the rules of combat. Otherwise combat, even at level 1, would take forever. My first group was a bunch of engineers and math minors at college, so we enjoyed the number crunch, and the DM and 2 of the 5 knew the system already.

Solutions I've used in the past:

• Vinyl battlemats with wet-erase markers (I've had more success with these over dry-erase).
  
• Grid paper easel pads or grid paper rolls with your drawing utensil(s) of choice.
  
• I used to have a simple tile-based dungeon maker app (I'll see if I can find it once I get home) that would export to an image that I'd then take to Office Depot and have them print on their large format engineering printer. It would usually be <$10 for all the maps needed for a one-shot adventure (B&W only).
  
• Similar to above, I had another DM print gridless maps on large-format paper and just said that 1" = 5ft and let us move in any direction.
  
• I've even played games simply on 8.5 x 11" graph paper. The DM would draw the map, and lightly draw where we were in pencil, erasing and redrawing when we moved.
  
• At PAX, I saw DMs using full-color printouts on regular printer paper, and players and the DM would simply point out and explain on the map where they were and what they were doing, using theater-of-the-mind for everything else.
  
  There are tons of options, and you can do whatever works for you.

If you're looking for beginner friendly then I have to suggest the 5th edition. Since the core books are still being released it's not as bloated as the other editions. It also helps that the basic rules are available online for free.

To start, you can grab the Starter Set. It includes pre-made characters and an intro adventure (careful, it's notoriously difficult).

For grids, I've fallen in love with the Chessex Megamat. It uses wet-erase markers and is top quality, sturdy stuff.

The last thing you'd need is dice for everybody.

Good luck!

I seriously don't understand how this is cost effective considering it's going to cost at least about the same as a battlemat (unless you somehow get the whiteboard for free). If you did get the whiteboard for free that doesn't mean it's a "cost effective solution" that just means it's a "recycled solution". Not only that but the time and effort involved in making the grid, maintaining the grid, and dealing with all that saran wrap makes this far from a cost effective solution.

34" x 48" battle mat $31.64: http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743125&sr=8-2

36" x 48" whiteboard $51.88: http://www.amazon.com/UNVSL-Dry-Erase-Melamine-Satin-Finished-Aluminum/dp/B000J0CARW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743143&sr=8-3

Edit: found a cheaper brand whiteboard, still not cheaper than a battle mat of similar size:

36" x 48" whiteboard $35.62: http://www.amazon.com/Universal-Dry-Erase-Melamine-Aluminum-Plastic/dp/B0015ZW7H8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1331743143&sr=8-6

28" 70" is a weird shape. Most playmats are closer to square.

You could get a standard 34" 48" mat (like http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/) and cut it in half to get two 34" 24" pieces that added lengthwise would be 24" 68" that's not far off from what you're looking for.

The other option is just to get raw material of the type you'd like the surface to have and cut it to shape yourself. You can search for stuff like "poker table felt" and you'll find raw material in the size you'd nee to cut to size.

I'm not an ultra-light packer by any means, but the dice might be worth their weight because of their intrinsic novelty value and entertainment for kids, who might not really enjoy the tabletop / roleplay if it's way too spartan / basic. I know even my adult friends like the RP experience with some embellishment. I use a roll-up map like this one with some markers to help draw out the situation as we go and some folding paper "figurines."

Maybe use a dice roller app on your phone with a nice animation, but some cheap clear dice or mini-dice might be worth taking.

Also, "ranger beads" or pace-counting beads can pull double duty for keeping count of things. You can use regular coins or currency to sub in for Fate Points and other things.

chessex battle mat
http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG

you need to use wet erase (which is surprisingly hard to find) (crayola washable markers work really well)

mats are cheap and super high quality. I bought two. No regrets

The Chessex ones on Amazon are pretty reliable and ready to clean.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: MEGAMAT Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games - 34 1/2in x 48in https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_II0NzbAZG0FAE

This has been one of my best friends. This and a couple of wet erase markers and you're golden. Just don't let anyone spill their beer.

I believe I use a Chessex mat, 4'' by 3' I think. It was a touch expensive when I bought it as a poor college kid, but it's lasted for well over a decade and has seen plenty of use.

Here's more or less what I use - http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IUAAG/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1368969213&sr=8-2&keywords=chessex+battlemat

Mine doesn't have the hexes on the back and I'm certain I paid more than $30 for it so it looks like prices have come down on them.

I've also seen people make their own, but usually it's out of whiteboard material and I like the ability to roll up the Chessex for storage.

I use Vis-a-Vis wet erase markers for drawing on it. The multiple colors are useful for differentiating terrain and whatnot. Only thing is that you need to erase it each night because if you leave the marker on it for a few days it sort of taints/stains the mat. The stains eventually come out (I think re-writing on the mat with marker must lift the pigment out from the previous use when you clean the new marks), but it's sort of irritating to mess with.

We take picture of battles if we end up having to call time in the middle of a battle due to work the next day.

I bought this product from amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0015IUAAG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You write on it with wet erase pens (like you use for a OHP). I can draw the dungeon map out ahead of the session and bring the mat along with me. The pen won't come off unless you use a wet cloth, so no worries transporting it. Then I just cover unexplored areas with sheets of paper, removing them as the player move through the dungeon. I find it a lot easier to have all the drawing done before hand, so we don't waste time with me drawing stuff out.

Bonus is that it has hexes on the back, so I can actually have two maps drawn out and ready, or use the reverse for improv maps and encounters which I can sketch out quickly.

Plus it's almost 3x4 foot, so loads of room to draw out a decent sized dungeon!

https://www.amazon.com/Call-Cthulhu-Black-Green-Dice/dp/B001G4OV9U/ref=sr_1_14?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1509048240&sr=1-14&keywords=dnd+dice

Mirko Vosk Mind Drinker is only $.77

To continue the pattern of nerdy stuffs, these awesome dice are about $20

Keep in mind this sub is for Pathfinder Society, which is an organized style of play that tends to discourage homebrew and creativity in favor of strict adherence to rules. You might also check in with /r/pathfinder_rpg for a less strict interpretation of the game.

The basics of Pathfinder are pretty simple and you have everything you need to get started in that bundle. You've got the core rulebook and bestiary, and what seems like a pretty wide range of modules and campaigns to get your feet wet with. The Beginner's Box will also include tutorial-style guided adventures to get everyone familiar with the basic rules. The most important concept is how actions are broken down.

In order from most expensive to least expensive, actions are: full-round actions, standard actions, move actions, swift actions, immediate actions, and free actions. Unless modified by spells or other conditions, everyone gets one move action and one standard action per round (and a full-round action uses both.) Swift actions don't "cost" an action, but you may only perform one swift action per round; immediate actions don't "cost" an action and can be done even when it's not your turn to act, but can only be done once and count against your "swift" action option when it becomes your turn. Free actions can be done as often as you'd like, whenever it's your turn to act; some free actions can be considered more involved or powerful than others and it's up to GM discretion if they want to place limitations on such free actions. Generally speaking, most basic spells and attacks (like casting a Fireball or swinging your greataxe at someone) will cost a standard action.

There's a considerable amount of complexity in the system, but it's fairly simple to learn and understand. The "tutorial adventure" in the beginner's box should take you through all the major processes in a typical dungeon crawl, including skill checks, making saves, attack rolls, and so on.

You'll probably want to get a set of dice for each player, and maybe eventually another set or two for the DM: Chessex is probably the most common brand, but there are about as many dice manufacturers as there are colors in the rainbow. For a simple set of 7 dice made of plastic or similar materials, you shouldn't expect to pay more than $8-10; if you're paying more, you're probably getting ripped off. You could consider buying sacks of dice, too.

If you want more than just the basic cardboard minis the beginner's box comes with, there are all different kinds of plastic and pewter miniatures made by a variety of companies (Reaper is one of the most common) - many of them come unpainted, and painting minis is a whole new hobby you can get into with your kids! The basic cardboard minis or pre-painted minis are just fine, but there's really something to be said for assembling and hand-painting your own mini to have it look exactly like the character you're playing as :)

Lastly, it can be really useful to have the Systems Reference Document open on mobile or a notebook (or even desktop if your play area is near one.) Access is free and it includes all of the rules, monster entries, etc from a wide variety of sources.

Found something relatively similar that you might want to look at, second hit when I searched "dice sets" on amazon. The Set.

D&D players ALWAYS need dice!! Go to Amazon and type "D&D dice" and you will find TONS of results. Most dice come in a pack of seven, like this one. Also if you go to etsy.com you can find keychains with a 20-sided die. These are popular gifts that I've given to many of my fellow D&D players and are very inexpensive!

Reminds me of the Chessex Borealis sets.

This is going to be fun. Across my multiple wishlists...

1.) Something that is grey.
Grey bedsheets.

2.) Something reminiscent of rain.
Pet water fountain.

3.) Something food related that is unusual.
Astronaut Ice Cream

4.) Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!)
This Bruins banner is for my BFF Becky. She loves the Bruins more than anything. Hockey is her obsession. I put it on my list to remind myself to get it for her at some point. It would make her happy.

5.) A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it!
The Name of the Wind. Of everything I've read in the past 6 months, this one I devoured and have been desperate for the second book in (it's on my list to pick up this week, actually, if my paycheck EVER comes in).

Look, I hate... HATE... first person perspective. I see it as a sign of sloppy writing. However, this book had me SOLD on it. Kvothe is possibly one of my new favorite characters OF ALL TIME.

Avid reader doesn't even begin to describe me. I have my own library. I need books like air. And if I had to make a list of 100 books that were all I was allowed to have for the rest of my life, THIS WOULD BE ON IT.

6.) An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related!
This kindle book

7.) Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...)
The most interesting cat toy in the world

8.) Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it.
This choker. Enough said.

9.) A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why?
The Breakfast Club Why? Because. It's a good movie. Whether you were the jock, the brain, the spoiled brat, the loser, or the troublemaker-- there's a character you can identify with, and it shows that whatever and whoever you are, you can get along with someone who isn't in your clique.

10.) Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.
A Seed Vault

Everyone worries about fighting zombies.

Dumb. You see, when the zombies come, I'm holing up. A few weeks and if they are undead, they'll have rotted themselves to death. If they are fast moving, viral sumbitches, then they'll have likely ended up offing themselves through dehydration or whatever.

In any event, I'll wait them out. But then, I will need to rebuilt and eat.

(Besides, I have my trusty zombie-killing baseball bat, and a bow. Quiet. Efficient.)

11.) Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals.
This book on Aztec and Inca expansionism. I'm back in school, and my focus is Mesoamerican Studies. Eventual degrees, here I come!

12.) One of those pesky Add-On items.
Zucchini seeds.

13.) The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why?
A KitchenAid Mixer Why? I like to cook and bake. My mother has one that I used for years when I was a kid and still living with her. I'm 30 now. I remember she got it when I was like, 5. IT STILL WORKS. Over a dozen moves, being abused for holidays making bread and cookies and cakes, being used by my Dad (I swear, he looks at appliances and they break) and it STILL FUNCTIONS PERFECTLY.

I cannot think of a kitchen appliance that would be more useful.

14.) Something bigger than a bread box. EDIT A bread box is typically similar in size to a microwave.

This loft bed

15.) Something smaller than a golf ball.
How about 7 somethings? A set of dice.

16.) Something that smells wonderful.
Italian Herb Bread Mix It smells good when you open the box. When it's mixed. While it's rising. While it bakes. After it bakes. As you've slathered butter on it and begin to nom.

17.) A (SFW) toy.
Hawkeye is so SFW I would bring him in to put on my desk.

18.) Something that would be helpful for going back to school.
This book, of course.

19.) Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be.
Funko Tyrion Lannister because even a small man can cast a great shadow.

20.) Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand.
This.

No one will understand the magnificence of this plushie.

It is a rotund, cuddly, snuggly Cthulhu.

But Cthulhu does not cuddle. He does not care. When the stars are right, he will rise from the deeps and from his seat Ry'leh, devour his cultists-- and everyone else-- by the millions, and bring forth an end to all things.

But how can you deny his Elder God wrath? HOW?! Look at him, all squishy and warm and soft. Look at his little T-Rex arms, reaching out for your love and devotion. His eyes, his wiggly little face tentacles. YOU MUST SNUGGLE HIM.

fear cuts deeper than swords

What do we say to death? NOT TODAY.

These

Try a Fancy Deck box, nice 4 row Binder, A new Playmat or some Funky Dice. How about Gigantic Dice?
> http://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Jumbo-Foam-Polyhedral/dp/B003IHTZGW

> http://www.amazon.com/Jumbo-Dice-Count-Down-55mm/dp/B001F2ZL24

When it comes to hardcore magic players, unless you're getting them that one card they're looking for, maybe sidestep it for non-card items.

https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Jumbo-Foam-Polyhedral/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=foam+dice&qid=1574172811&sr=8-10

We found them at our local gaming store.

Similar to these: https://smile.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Jumbo-Foam-Polyhedral/dp/B003IHTZGW/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1504803989&sr=8-12&keywords=foam+dice

jumbo polyhedral dice these might be a little over kill, and I don't trust them to roll fair, but at about 3 inches a piece they should be readable.

If you can find a local game store, I'd go and ask what their policy is on returns. You could just go with a gift card to the place, though I know that can be impersonal, but if they allow it on unopened games, I'd get him something small like Zombie Dice, Hive, Codenames, Forbidden Island, or Sushi Go (all between $5 and $20 generally). If he has the game he can return it for some dice, or something else he needs, but I think the thought of going out and researching what good games are out there is nice.

Do you have Zombie dice It is a fun easy game that you can play with the 10 year old -

It's $12 on Amazon Prime.

The Resistance is always fun and plays up to 10 people really easily. Although, some people say Avalon is better

Zombie Dice is an option for lots of people and super easy to teach.

We're coming for you, saratonin.

Scary vintage, coming right up.

My wishlist item is Zombie Dice.

Optimus Prime

Zombie Dice! This game is so much fun, easy, and something that my coworkers and I can play during lunch!

You should get this game! It's a game of zombies!

Thanks for the contest!

Alternatives that I've seen mentioned both here on Reddit and over at /tg/

https://www.amazon.com/Polyhedral-Multiple-Complete-Percentile-Included/dp/B00W9PJMPS/ref=sr_1_sc_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1466252168&sr=8-2-spell&keywords=Wizdice

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Random-Polyhedral-Multiple/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1466252168&sr=8-1&keywords=Wizdice

If you are in Europe Amazon UK

If you are in North America Amazon.com

Or if Chessex ain't your thing, this works too!

The beginner's box is cheap but, if you want to play FOR FREE, it is entirely possible to do so using the free ruleset that has already been mentioned and linked and a dice rolling app on your phone, tablet or computer. The free ruleset has less races and classes, but it's still enough to keep you and your friends hooked for months.

If you feel like this is your thing, then you and your friends can save up and get the core books and maybe even Wiz Dice's Bag of Dice and you will be set for pretty much as long as you'll ever want. After that, getting pre-made adventures, new settings or even new editions will be entirely up to whether you feel like spending more money or not.

If the entire group is using the same set of dice that can really slow down the pace. One set of dice goes for like no more than $4 at any kind of comic and games shop and there are good deals online like this.

Don't be afraid to end the session mid-adventure. Try your best to avoid ending it mid-combat, but other than that feel free to end it at any time really. Good stopping points are right before/after combat or right before/after a short/long rest. Make sure to just write everything down if you end before a long rest - things like HP/Hit Die/Spell Slots and Class/Feat specific resources like Ki and Superiority Dice. Also make sure to prep the beginning of the next adventure if you end towards the end an adventure.

As it turns out, this spatula is the cheapest thing in my entire wishlist. Go figure.

As for the higher price item I want, I figured that I'd leave it to the fates and you, /u/tinyblondehuman, to decide. I'd like either a 100 plus set of dice or this here plastic model kit.

Thanks for running this contest!

The question becomes, how fancy do you want to go?
If you want just some nice stuff, Chessex dice your local game store for the rest. (
http://chessex.com/
http://www.crystalcaste.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=SFNT&Store_Code=CC )
or
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY?ref_=sr_1_1&qid=1456462016&sr=8-1&keywords=bag%20of%20dice&pldnSite=1 (Bag o' Dice, lots of sets)
If you want fancier things;
Dice:
http://www.artisandice.com/ (though some people have said that it's on the iffy side in terms of pure quality.)
http://www.metallicdicegames.com/
http://q-workshop.com/

Dice towers:
https://wyrmwoodgaming.com/ (also carry rolling trays)

Rolling trays:
etsy, just search "rolling trays" or "dice towers" they have a lot of different stuff.
https://www.elderwoodacademy.com/

Minis:
http://www.beholderthebargains.com/
http://www.beholderthebargains.com/against-the-giants/

Other:
http://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-Spellbook-Bundle-43-230/dp/B00YASPZNA/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?ie=UTF8&dpID=51l8C36ZokL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL100_SR100%2C48_&refRID=1AF97TTP7RF180DFG8Q1&ref_=pd_aw_sim_sbs_21_4 (cards for all the spells in the game, a good way to keep everything near and you don't constantly have to look in the book because you have the spells in front of you)
http://dmdavid.com/tag/photo-guide-to-dungeon-masters-tools/ (purely a reference source for all sorts of things)
https://www.reddit.com/r/geek/comments/ecweu/im_looking_for_really_cool_dd_dice_are_there_any/ (another place to look for cool dice)

Hope that gets you started

What I would recommend is looking online at WizKid's $20 assortment. The assortments tend to be pretty good, you can look around /r/diceporn for various unboxing pics, they tend to give you several complete sets.

If the cost is scary, talk to your gaming group and ask if they feel like chipping in for the cost in exchange for (potentially) a new set of dice for a few bucks.

You're gambling with what you get but when I bought mine, I got some great dice and it seems like most people who buy it tend to get really nice sets.

1. I personally prefer to use a Paizo Flip Map and draw on it using Retractable Dry Erase Markers. These are relatively cheap and there are options that have terrain/buildings on them instead of the basic one linked. In one of my groups, we have a couple of us who meet in person and two people who moved to the other coast. What we do is setup a roll20 session and display that on a computer monitor locally.
   
2. Dice, pencils, character sheets, and rulebooks. As a GM, I have a pound of dice (I personally went with Chessex but others on here have loved WizDice) and a bunch of mechanical pencils I bring to every session. In my experience, someone will forget something (or doesn't have enough d8s for their full attack) so having those on hand works well.
   
3. I do not recommend actually reading the core rulebook. I would recommend they only look through the rules required for the character they are building. For GMing I recommend this list. This list can be shortened for players (removing creating adversaries and whatnot). Players should be familiar with their class abilities, moving, basic combat, skills, etc. Since it sounds like you've GM'd before, I expect you're familiar enough with the rules that if something comes up the players don't know then you can help them figure it out.
   
4. In person: pencil and paper. I've used HeroLab in the past but even then I copied the character to a hand written sheet.
   
5. I bought mine a long while back and went with the D&D 4e Characters (Example Set). Looking at the prices on Amazon, I definitely don't recommend that now. If you have a decently sized hobby/gaming shop in town, I would walk through it and see what you find. That's how I found the 4e figures.

I would get a big bag of random dice for players to borrow from. Keep your personal dice seperate: you'll never get them back once you start loaning them out.

Practice making characters before session 0. It's a difficult thing to do, and the first time filling up a character sheet is a lot of numbers that don't have any context. I always tell my players they will have the option to re-make characters, so that the initial stakes are low. Give them a chance to explain their character to the group.

Start with a simple, quick quest that has tangible rewards. Something they can achieve in one session- kidnapped children is usually a decent hook. Throw in a simple puzzle for them to figure out, and be sure to pile on the rewards. An NPC companion healer to prevent them from dying can stave off a lot of frustration- you don't want anyone having to sit out of the action on their first session.

It can be frustrating to DM, especially when you're just starting out- but you set the tone. Praise their choices. Laugh. Take your time. Take breaks. Have a water bottle or two, you'll be talking a lot.

Are you looking for bulk dice or fancy dice? because that changes things.

If you want bulk dice, you can get the chessex pound-o-dice or wizkid's random polyhedral dice. I believe the pound-o-dice is generally considered better, as the dice are slightly more well made (i.e. more balanced and such).

If you're looking for fancy dice, i'm pretty fond of artisan dice, though i've heard some people who had horror stories with them messing things up.

I've never purchased anything from Q workshop, but i have heard of them. They're fine for dice, as far as I'm aware.

Just like /u/legendofhilda said you can Chessex or Wiz Dice "pound of dice" bags. I have bought the Wiz Dice (original version) and am happy with it.

Here are links to different ones:

Wiz Dice (original one): https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Random-Polyhedral-Multiple/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=sr_1_11?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891356&sr=1-11&keywords=wiz+dice

Wiz Dice II: https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891356&sr=1-6&keywords=wiz+dice

Wiz Dice III: https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Polyhedral-Translucent-Treatments/dp/B07885N371/ref=sr_1_7?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891356&sr=1-7&keywords=wiz+dice&dpID=61mucRANYJL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Chessex: https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-001LBCHX-Pound-O-Dice/dp/B008C0KXYS/ref=sr_1_24?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891356&sr=1-24&keywords=wiz+dice


Then there are other companies. Some say they include complete sets, like the ones above, and other say you get random dice.:

Monster Protectors: https://www.amazon.com/100-Gaming-Dice-Monster-Education/dp/B00XLTADMW/ref=sr_1_5?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891591&sr=1-5&keywords=pound+of+dice

Risky Actions: https://www.amazon.com/Polyhedral-Dice-Set-126-Complete/dp/B01N6OC2OV/ref=sr_1_17?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891591&sr=1-17&keywords=pound+of+dice

Dardugo: https://www.amazon.com/Polyhedral-Multiple-Complete-Percentile-Included/dp/B00W9PJMPS/ref=sr_1_29?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891591&sr=1-29&keywords=pound+of+dice


You can also buy a Pound of D6's from Chessex: https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-CHX-001d6-lb-o-D6-Dice/dp/B0015IUA7O/ref=sr_1_18?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521891591&sr=1-18&keywords=pound+of+dice


Then there are the chinese sites like AliExpress but they will take longer to get to you: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/T-G-Wholesale-Bulk-Plastic-Multi-sided-Dice-Set-100pcs-set-In-Random-Color-style-for/32831291403.html?spm=2114.search0104.3.2.1eeb333ddQ59F0&ws_ab_test=searchweb0_0,searchweb201602_5_10152_10151_10065_10344_10130_10068_10324_10342_10547_10325_10343_10546_10340_10548_10341_10545_10696_10084_10083_10618_10307_5711215_10313_10059_10534_100031_10103_10624_10623_10622_10621_10620_10810_10811,searchweb201603_49,ppcSwitch_4&algo_expid=fed1d4cb-58d6-4265-9547-9b9ccec5312d-0&algo_pvid=fed1d4cb-58d6-4265-9547-9b9ccec5312d&priceBeautifyAB=0


There are probably others and you can always contact the different manufacturers directly to see if they can sell you bulk dice.

/u/MeishkaD said that my entry disappeared, so here it is again. I've deleted my previous entry now (after you said it disappeared), just to make sure it doesn't show up twice.

---

1.) Something that is grey. [Not on wishlist]


2.) Something reminiscent of rain. [Not on wishlist]


3.) Something food related that is unusual.


4.) Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!)

This is for my classroom mostly. One of the projects the student's like to do is making board games. They like using various types of die, but when we made cardboard ones, they fall apart.

5.) A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it!

I can't give too great a reference. This book is on my wishlist, as I've not read it, after all. It's supposed to be really funny though, with an interesting story. The downside is that getting the whole series is too expensive.


6.) An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related! [Not on wishlist]


7.) Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...)

These are pretty awesome.


8.) Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it. [Not on wishlist]

I've wanted one of these for ages, but they're not useful enough to justify.


9.) A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why? [Not on wishlist - I own it]

It's incredibly funny and almost everyone has seen the film it's based on. A lot of people have never even seen a parody movie, so it's a new genre to a lot of people and thus a new experience.


10.) Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.

A bit of a different item than normal. When the zombies attack, we're going to need to be well rested. Baseball bats and the like are common enough, but a good pillow is hard to find.


11.) Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals. [Not on wishlist, as Amazon.co.uk item]

A book about learning to become a Primary School teacher. After my current teaching job, I want to go back and train as one in my home country.


12.) One of those pesky Add-On items. [Not on wishlist - the base game is on wishlist].


13.) The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why?

Playstation 4. It's not on my wishlist as I think anyone would ever buy it, but more to remind myself that it's region-free and only $400 in the US if I can get enough giftcards someday. In my home country it's about $550. The why is mostly Kingdom Hearts 3 and Final Fantasy XV - both series which I've gained a lot of enjoyment from. There's also that some of my favorite series such as Disgaea are Playstation-exclusive.


14.) Something bigger than a bread box.


15.) Something smaller than a golf ball.


16.) Something that smells wonderful.


17.) A (SFW) toy.


18.) Something that would be helpful for going back to school.

(For reading digital textbooks on)


19.) Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be.

Disgaea D2. My current obsession has been trying to convert my old Disgaea 3 save, which has 120 hours and my Disgaea 4 save which has 95 hours, so that I can use it on another PS3.


20.) Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand. [Not on wishlist.. but it should be]

The toilet throne. It's amazing that someone has thought of it, if nothing else. Now you can feel like a Queen or King, while going to the restroom.


---

Bonus: Made in Oregon

Raffle: fear cuts deeper than swords

If your short dice there are plenty of dice smart phone apps. There is nothing like rolling real dice though and having phones around can cause other distractions.

Here is a cheep bag of 100+ dice. Some of them may be a little off but the majority of them are good dice.

Here is an example of a possible wizdice spread

For those who would like an op haul [Wiz Dice 100+ pack] (http://www.amazon.com/Random-Polyhedral-Dice-Multiple-Wiz/dp/B009R6J8RY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373221338&sr=8-1&keywords=wiz+dice). I bought it and got 6 sets of matching colors and 7 other sets of dice. Worth the $20 and never have to worry about dice again.

I love Kevin and my favorite item is this

you can pick for me :)

I can't pick! I love all the helmets and swords (specifically this one and Pocky is like crack. The collection of dice is awesome cuz I love games and numbers.

I love Kevin lots!

If I have to pick something off my list, I really need a new laptop battery but my face needs eyeliner and I drink a lot of tea and water. Honestly, whatever you would pick would be great!

Something incredibly awesome for you!


Something very random and I think is pretty darn awesome for me!

I love Kevin!

omg dice...I love them because I'm an old school D&D geek and they make me happy...and sometimes kill me.

I love Kevin!

Crafting books make me happy

I love Kevin!

woo 100 dice

i like games

Your List

My List

I love Kevin! He is awesome!

I have a big bag of these for my players and they are quite nice for letting them pick "sets" out (I have a handful of bags so they don't have to sort every time) http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009R6J8RY

I got mine on Amazon (USA). There are multiple sellers that may have different shipping policies: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY

You could also try directly from Brybelly, but I think they are more of a wholesaler:
https://www.brybelly.com/products.php?categoryId=896&productId=5228

I also found the WizDice facbook page that some more info, but mostly points back to Amazon: https://www.facebook.com/wizdice

Those are the Wiz Dice pack of 100+, right? I got some of them here for a lady friend and I and was very pleased with the quality.

If you are in need of a bunch of colorful cheap dice. Check these out. I order some a while back got 17 complete sets of dice in 16 different colors. Well worth it!

Give everyone dice:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009R6J8RY?cache=58d233ee12d986b748be90cd4a423fdc&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1414770966&sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B009R6J8RY/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2L0LODUJGR5H7

Should do it.. Hopefully, as I'm on my phone at the moment

I'd suggest one set per player, and two for the DM (a set consisting of one of each d20, d12, d8, d6 and d4, and two d10's).

Go online to amazon and buy a bag of 100 die. I ended up getting at least 15 full sets with a few random dice. For only $20 plus shipping. Seriously, its your best option as buying individual sets of dice run about $5 a set. Below is a link.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There are also free apps for smartphones that roll dice for you. While this isn't as satisfying as rolling physical die, it is cheap.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009R6J8RY/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

These aren't as pretty as Chessex dice, but if you need a lot of dice for GMing, these are what you want. I ordered from them and got 16 full sets of dice. The one downside would be that they don't come in a nice velvet bag, but you can grab one of those yourself.

The WizDice is 100+ dice they only guarantee 1 full set of seven (d20,d12,2d10,d8,d6,d4) with bag, but most people receive 15 full sets of the 'random' 100 dice

I should note that you do not get to pick your sets. They are selected for you, but if you end up with what most people have you'll have 15 different choices in sets for just one ~$20 purchase.

Sorry I'm late, but I also run a small club, so I wanted to give my 2 cents.

I've tried a few things, but my current set up seems to be working fairly well. At the end of each meeting, the players get to role a number of 'prize dice' according to how well they did. Then from what they roll, they pick the 1 they want. This way everyone gets something, and there is still an incentive to win, but even the worst player has a chance at the best prize.

The prizes I currently have are :

• 2 Rares (These are just bulk rares. I put 2 of a color in a sleeve of that color. This allows the winner to have some say in the cards they want. This is the most common roll at any odd number.)
  
  
• Boosters (If you roll a 20!)
  
  
• Deck boxes (If you roll an 18!)
  
  
• Various gaming dice. I picked up one of these and split it up into individual d20s or other combos.
  
  
• d20 Spindowns I got on sale over the holidays
  
  
• Some foreign language cards in packs of 3
  
  
• 'Pick-a-Mythic' (This is the most popular usually. Its just a small binder filled with junk Mythics and I flip to a page and they have to pick 1 card.)

http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Roller-Dice-Polyhedral-Dungeons/dp/B00L2N1OVI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459210069&sr=8-1&keywords=105+dice

15 full sets of dice, best deal around plus you get a free dice bag which is pretty cool and itself worth ~10$

I know of two.

This is one. It's hard to find right now, being new. Full disclosure, I'm involved in selling these. They're for sale but we haven't started advertising yet. We're going to have more pictures up soon, but, hey, they're Wiz Dice. There are tons of pictures out there. We just buy them wholesale from the Wiz Dice people (who are awesome) and then sort them into sets of 15 so we can guarantee full sets. We also sell a smaller pack of 5 random sets.

The other Wiz Dice reseller I know of is here. This guy is selling the same thing but with a large velvet dice bag.

This second set is partially what inspired us to sell Wiz Dice in guaranteed sets; we didn't think the velvet bag added that much value, and (to be honest) we thought he was being kind of deceptive in pretending that "Easy Roller Dice Co." is an actual brand of dice, rather than acknowledging they're Wiz Dice.

So, I don't know. I don't want to be "salesy." But there's some information about it.... :)

There's a certain level of excitement in the moments before a big roll where you pray to the dice gods and white-knuckle the dice in your hands.

The dice aren't really that expensive. I bought this bag of 15 10-die sets and I think it was worth it. There weren't any chipped or cracked ones, only one or two had a big bubble in them, and after testing I came to the conclusion that it hasn't really affected their randomness. The bag is pretty nice too. You don't get to choose the colors, but for $25 it's still a good value. To contrast, my brother decided to buy individual 7-die sets for $7 each and paid a pretty large premium for the privilege of choosing colors.

In case anyone is wondering what colors came in my bag, here. They came in a few varieties - clear, solid, glittery solid, and marbled. The only color I really detest is the orange one. The d4 looks like a traffic cone.

Since there are so many my group decided to give each player their own set (to avoid confusion) and the extra sets are used as markers to help visualize everyone's position in combat.

Chessex are pretty good and the array of colors is nice.

If OP (or anyone) is looking for bulk amounts of dice, I bought this set from Amazon several months ago - I was pleasantly surprised at the quality. The colors tend to be much simpler and plainer than Chessex, but they roll just fine.

I just got these in 1 hour ago, and they are fantastic. All complete sets, only slight blemishes on a couple dice. Very worth it.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L2N1OVI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

> There's another company that does a pound o' dice who's name I can't remember

You're probably thinking of Wizdice. They have The Bag of Holding & The Bag of Devouring. Can attest to the dice in Bag of Devouring to be very nice!

1: You can get 5th edition for free, by googling the "Starter Set" (someone will surely link it in another comment)

1.5: The starter set, I believe, comes with an example adventure

2: If you write your own adventure or use the SS, read it more than once and understand it. Why does the bad guy want to do a bad thing, why does the party want to stop him.

3: I would recommend buying as many sets of dice as you can afford, because I don't like passing dice around between everyone. 1 set of dice between the DM and a bunch of players is a nightmare, especially if someone needs to remember what they rolled while waiting for someone else to collect the right dice and roll something else.

4: I bought this the other day. It has enough dice for 20 players, and will give you every type of dice you need (d4, d6, d8, d10, d12, d20, d100)

5: If you're on the fence and don't expect to enjoy D&D, I would invest as little money and time as possible. While I personally love it and wish more people played, it can be an expensive money sink and nothing stings more than buyer's remorse.

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Role-playing/dp/B01476QV14

20 sets at $1.50 each? Hard to argue with.

And this is what they cost in Germany... :D

I got 15 full sets in mine, plus 2d6, 2d4, 2d8 and a d10. For $10 more you can get 20 complete sets and a large dice bag:

http://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14

Wiz Dice. https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Role-playing/dp/B01476QV14

There are various collections. 30 bucks USD gets you a sack full of dice in matched sets.

If thats too much 13 bucks gets you a 5 set cup
https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Cup-Plenty-Polyhedral/dp/B0771W4TX9

I keep all my non-game dice in the Bag of Holding that came with this: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01476QV14 Not very practical or pretty, but I like it.

For Dice Masters, I use Plano trays.

Definitely a dice-aholic then. I've bought like 8 sets individually, but that was too slow. I then went online and bought the Bag of Holding. 20 fairly nice sets all at once. And in a nice bag!

Sadly I still need more dice. I need things like d2's and d3's. Maybe some d32's. And an actual d100 would also be nice.

Been addicted for a decade, not going to stop now.

I got this from my wife and LOVE IT


Wiz Dice Bag of Holding: 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01476QV14/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_yZWUAbZ5K7XT1

I picked up these:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Holding-Polyhedral/dp/B01476QV14/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1482648256&sr=8-2&keywords=bag+of+holding

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Polyhedral/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1482648256&sr=8-5&keywords=bag+of+holding

And then gifted out the dice sets at random during the game, then the MVP of the game got the bag of holding, and the Bag of Devouring went to a player of my choice (ended up being the guy without a dice bag, long story).

I also went a little monty haul in-game as well, but nothing too ridiculous.

Oh, and we had a 5 lb hershey bar.... so there's that.

Just get two of these.

Unfortunately that'll mean you're not guaranteed to have uniquely-coloured sets. If you just want to roll 20 attacks you can roll the damage dice along with and pair them up by colour. If there are duplicate colours then you'd need some other mechanism to guarantee that you don't pair up misses and low-damage rolls preferentially.

This is what I am getting:https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01476QV14/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB

Here, let me change your life:

https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H0TNFY

These things are hands down the best grids I've used.

edit: there are other sizes, too. I have the 5" ones

For my game I bought two packs of these http://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H0TNFY

Since they are modular I can go from a 5 foot by 2.5 foot giant map to a whole bunch of smaller sized maps. You can draw out a dungeon then take it apart and lay the map down as the party explores. Also, they are double sided so you can do that with two maps if you really want to plan out something massive ahead of time.

There are a variety of ways do even this. You can have a player be the cartographer and they have to draw the maps as you describe them (kind of a slow method for mapping). If you want to use dry erase, typically 1 inch squares, you can buy paper for it that's is laminated or you laminate, or, what I like, get some of those interlocking gridded tiles.

https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H0TNFY it's a bit high in price but that's actually cheaper than what you'll find at a brick and mortar gaming store.

Or you can easily find maps online of the dungeons in LMoP (starter set campaign) and print them at a good scale (easiest way is to use Paint to print them, so you can say how many pages you want them to take up. Getting close to 1 inch squares is probably optimal.

Hexagons are actually really nice for measuring diagonally, but mapping is more difficult since the source maps are going to be using squares.

I got some Dungeon Tiles. Very sweet for laying out any size dungeon.

We use these and our whole group thinks they're great. We can quickly mock up the map with dry erase markers and it's easy to add a tile on if the battle shifts. Our current party is 8 with the NPCs without including any enemies so it really helps us keep track of where everyone is. It also helps justify my miniature obsession.

Play around with the tiles a bit to see if you like them! You can go as deep down the rabbit hole as you want, to be honest. The common consensus is that simple eraserboard tiles/maps work great as the workhorse for drawing out combat areas. These kinds of tiles are really useful because you can simulate line of sight/closed doors/etc by not placing down your tiles until your players advance further in. And you can draw features on the tiles to represent things in the area that are important.

I like to incorporate these blank tiles with other terrain that I've made or purchased as a way to make "filler" tiles. Say you have some city tiles that work for an encounter, but you need a walkway between two buildings or you need an alley between two buildings or something. You can place the blank tiles down, then place your city tiles on top and tell your players "the white space is an alley between these two buildings." Or in a recent game I had a small shrine in the wilderness where the party was attacked by a predator that was stalking them. I set up my blank tiles and put the terrain that represented the shrine on the table. Now the blank tiles represented the forest around the shrine.

I think it's better to start with stuff like this than it is to spend a bunch of money/time on Dwarven Forge or Hirst Arts specially made terrain. Over time, if you have the money and interest, you can eventually build up a collection of whatever kind of terrain you want. But for now, start with things that will be useful almost all of the time and are relatively cheap.

If you're looking to go three dimensional with your terrain/accessories, I can't recommend papercraft terrain like Fat Dragon Games makes enough.

As far as minis go, you have a LOT of options. WotC sells blind-box miniatures boxes that have decent quality, prepainted minis. And there are sites like Miniature Market and Troll & Toad where you can buy the specific miniatures you want. You also have a massive variety of unpainted miniatures you can use. The D&D officially branded Nolzur's miniatures are high quality and well-regarded. I also highly recommend the Reaper Bones line of minis. The quality is slightly worse than the Nolzur line, but the variety and price are difficult to argue with.

One option I don't see mentioned enough are "flat" miniatures. Pathfinder has a box set of popular monsters printed on cardstock that you put on stands to represent what the players are fighting. I've also seen plastic versions of these which I have never purchased, but Sly Flourish speaks highly of. If you do some googling I'm sure you can find tons more resources for printable "paper miniatures."

Hope this helps!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016H1B0RW/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_4zD.Bb331G0Z4

I bought them at my local game store for this price actually.

I use these erasable battle tiles and an erasable battle mat from Chessex.

Dry Erase Dungeon Tiles, Combo Set of Five 10" and Sixteen 5" Interlocking Squares for Role-Playing and Miniature Tabletop Games https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016H1B0RW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_2cU5CbMEMM7QC

You could try these

https://www.amazon.com/Dry-Erase-inch-Dungeon-Tiles/dp/B016H1B0RW

This is probably your best bet for DIY. It's most likely only gonna fit your core stuff and not much in regards to expansions. Honestly your best bet is probably to buy a Plano 732 and use pluck foam (the plucked bits to cushion your figures if you care about that sort of thing). Your best bet for storing map tiles IMO is [this CD case](AmazonBasics Nylon CD/DVD Wallet (128 Capacity) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DIHVM36/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_JdaJybHXQN7YW). It holds all map tiles from all expansions tiles sized 4 squares wide. All the other larger tiles fit in one of the boxes for expansions (that's where I keep them at least. Between the Plano holding all of my cards and figures except my skirmish cards (which I have in a binder using these sheets) the CD case does a nice job of keeping everything easy to grab for set ups.

BCW Pro 8-Pocket - Multiple Size Pockets - (20 Ct. Pack) - For Star Wars Armada https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IUG071W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Rev3CbGXMFH90

I use these for ships and titles. You can put the titles in the small pockets next to the ship cards.

BCW PRO 16-POCKET PAGE - TOPLOAD - (20 CT. PACK) FOR X-WING AND ARMADA UPGRADES https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018OM5MGC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Ofv3CbCMQ7GJT

I use these for all other upgrade cards.

Both of these hold the cards well sleeved or unsleeved.

Also, keep in mind that each ship can only have certain upgrades assigned to it. There are icons at the bottom of the ship card that represent what upgrade slots are available. Those icons match the icons on the back of the upgrade cards.

To use your example, you can only use the XI7 on a ship that has a turbo laser upgrade slot. So you can put it on a CR-90A, but not on a CR-90B.

I have mine sorted with Rebel commanders on one page, Rebel Officers on a page, Imperial Commanders, etc. One sixteen pocket page per type of upgrade.

Stanley click and connect box with two small add ons, a small Plano for tokens to go in the top, and a binder with bcw pages for alllll of your cards. The small Plano linked below fits right in the top box under the lid. All of the items I linked are cheaper elsewhere so look around.

Stanley Hand Tools STST19900 Click & Connect 2-in-2 Deep Tool Box And Organizer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBJ8GBF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fO5Jzb09HFDPF

Plano Moldings #3600-20 Utility Stowaway Organizer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C9ZULAI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_EO5Jzb87B9K82

BCW Pro 8-Pocket - Multiple Size Pockets - (20 Ct. Pack) - For Star Wars Armada https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IUG071W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.O5Jzb78K68WQ

BCW PRO 16-POCKET PAGE - TOPLOAD - (20 CT. PACK) FOR X-WING AND ARMADA UPGRADES https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018OM5MGC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qP5Jzb35MB5SB


And regular magic card size sleeves for pilots and big admirals.

Here's my current set up. (Amazon links for everything)

The binder I'm using I have cards on one side, with the dials and base tokens on the other side. My one and only issue with it is that I'm nearly at capacity. Functionally it's great.

Small cards

Big cards

Dials, and base tokens

Movable tabs (I cut them in half)

Edit: [Here's a picture of how I have it set up] (http://i.imgur.com/wdvYQM7.jpg)

Not as good of quality but these are what I'm using: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B018OM5MGC/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502164999&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=bcw+pro+16-pocket+page+-+topload+-+%2820+ct.+pack&dpPl=1&dpID=41QnoY4xaIL&ref=plSrch

I'd get:

One of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Dragons-Play-Multipocket-Dice-Green/dp/B07DJ18RRB/

Or this which is less fancy but comes with dice:
https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/

Maybe this:
https://www.amazon.com/Embossed-Leather-Stone-Unlined-Journal/dp/B006T92BTO/

Or this:
https://www.amazon.com/Leather-Refillable-Notebook-Handmade-Journals-Sketchbook/dp/B077B7KDY7/

This kinda cool:
https://www.amazon.com/Vintage-Hardback-Binder-Organizer-Planner/dp/B06XGQZY2D/

A copy of the Player's Handbook would be nice too but she may already have that.

Spell Cards are also super cool, but class dependent so find out what she's playing first:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=D%26D+spell+cards&ref=nb_sb_noss_2

I just got 5 sets of 7 Dice for $10 on Amazon that are pretty nice. You could also go the pound of dice route if you want to share with the communal dice-bowl style of play.

https://www.amazon.com/SmartDealsPro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=sr_1_8?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1509865091&sr=1-8&keywords=dice&dpID=51TLq9O7vtL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

I like these, though im easy to satisfy so...
5 sets for $10 though you can give a set to your friends

If you buy local you may pay as much as $1 per die. If you’ve got amazon prime the link below is $10 but gives you five sets of dice. Especially if you are a caster it will be more convenient to have multiples, because situations may call for 6, 8, or even 10 dice. But if budget is king you can totally play with only one of each. Enjoy your adventures!

Smartdealspro 5 x 7-Die Series Two Colors Dungeons and Dragons DND RPG MTG Table Games Dice with FREE Pouches https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TNXLBbSX3JTJY

Just get this: or any comparable item from Amazon.

You get a ton of dice for like $10, and these ones in particular look pretty nice.

Plus, if you have friends who don't remember to bring theirs, or lose one from a set, or have an attack that requires 4d6, etc...

Reaper minis are the cheapest I've seen, by far. If you're not set on minis, you can use army men, tokens, or anything really.

 

As for maps, I personally use this mat, but I'm thinking about switching to paper maps. I just had Staples print a 3ftx4ft Wave Echo Cave map for me, and it was only $7.29 (engineering print).

Have you taken a look at these yet? I think it would solve your problem pretty handily.

http://www.amazon.com/Pathfinder-Flip-Mat-Basic-Paizo-Publishing/dp/1601255381/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1407112231&sr=8-14&keywords=gamemastery+flip+mat

Here's the exact mat I use.

Upgraded the Starter Set a little bit!

In total, there is:

• Lost Mine of Phandelver module
  
• Starter Set Rulebook
  
• A copy of each pre-generated character that comes with the adventure
  
• Some number of blank character sheets; I use the Alternate Character Sheets available directly from WotC for this, then on committed groups I usually suggest them to use this Class-specific CSs
  
• Two or three copies of a "what I can do in my turn" cheatsheets for the players, that I honestly don't recall where I took them from.
  
• A blank grid (which hopefully will get replaced with Paizo's flip-map soon!)
  
• 4 sets of dice, I use all-black dice with colored numbers, because they are simple, easy to read, and look awesome together!
  
• The DM Screen, that is made with 2mm thick black cardboard, and THIS DM screen pages printed and cut into them to fit. I will be modifying this sometime in the future as some sections (like the Gods with their symbols and allignments) don't really fancy me, and I'd love adding other stuff, like some of the alt-rules from Xanathar's Guide to Everything like falling, sleeping in armor and etc.
  
• a 36d6 set, for when needing to mark several enemies and the likes; sadly we still don't have minis (sadly off the photos, I just forgot to grab it for the shooting session of sorts).
  
  Aaaand.. that's pretty much it! Add some pen, pencil, eraser (and when I laminate the grid, some eraseable markers) and you are good to go! I'd probably add some character descriptor slips in the future with name, AC, saves and etc. to hang on the screen and use as initiative trackers, plus some general dice (I forgot to include them in the picture, but I always carry a 36-set of d6's for.. general purpose.. using them as enemies on the grid, for example.

Possibly:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Paizo-Publishing-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat-Basic/dp/1601255381

or

https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/e5m/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat-Double-Sided-Reversible/B0015IQO2O

Looks like the same on my DM uses, not sure on the brand though

I use a dry-erase game mat, but you can also use standard graph paper, or gaming paper.

I've been using the Paizo Flip Mats. The basic grid is half the cost of the Chessex vinyl mats and works with both dry and wet erase markers. The downside is they are folded cardboard so you have to deal with creases popping up for a while. The creases broke in after running a couple games on both sides for a few months, and I find it convenient to store them folded along with my books.

https://www.amazon.com/Paizo-Publishng-Inc-Pathfinder-Flip-Mat/dp/1601255381/

Possibly something like this? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1601255381/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

hopefully the link works

I've never had an issue with munchkin. We all back-stab each other and it's all in good fun. Now...Killer Bunnies on the other hand...yeah that always got nasty.

I'm surprised no one has mentioned bang when mentioning card games. It's fun as hell and also very light-hearted.

I will definitely do that! Also If people are interested I have BANG! The Bullet! which I could bring sometime!

Je recommande fortement le jeu Bang!, un jeu de carte Western Spaghetti pas mal plaisant!

This is the mat I use, a.k.a. the classic.

Recently I've been playing on the hex grid, modifying some rules to use it for combat. It's handy to have both, and I've had this mat for ~8 years now and it's holding up strong.

I used 1"x1" paper squares I cut out myself with numbers on them at first. Then when I had some money, I bought the Pathfinder Pawns for minis. I use them for 5e so they don't match up perfectly, but it's enough to just tell my players "This is X monster" or whatever. Someone else is probably going to mention this too, but if you want miniatures for characters or whatever, boardgames like Talisman or the DnD ones are your best bet for cheap-ish minis. You get a bunch (For example, Talisman comes with ~14 minis your players can use) for relatively less than you'd pay to get them individually.

Maps wise, if you have access to Photoshop (never used GIMP) you can make grid lines overlay on whatever you draw. You can also find these online or in stores. 1" square graph paper is good if you don't want to buy a Chessex Battlemat, though I'd highly recommend it and some wet-erase markers. Those things last for years and they're super useful if you don't mind wiping off the map a few times a session.

A not so expensive option for reusable is something like this. Now I don't know your full budget but I know that I used one of these for a long time and it was great. Also if you get one only use black ink and use wet erase not dry.

> The starter set is that fifth edition

Yep, the one you mentioned (With Lost Mines of Phandelver, it's included) is for 5e. If you're learning rules for anything BUT 5th, you may get a little confused while relearning.

> Also if I am designing a campaign do I have to find a way to systematically make sure they hit the main points of the story or just adapt.

Both. Use hooks to draw the characters to the right starting point/NPC/location, but don't expect or force your players into the exact situation you want. If they ignore your hooks and go in another route, adapt your plans. For instance, if you want them to visit the best Mage in town to learn of some danger, but they just keep talking to shopkeepers, maybe have those shopkeepers mention some evil happenings or point them toward the Mage. If you want them to go through Door A, but they go Door B, you can always just move what was behind A to behind B, and they'll be none the wiser.

> I understand most of it is rpg but in terms of battling where do I get/make maps.

Dry-erase gridded battle mats can be bought online and you can draw maps directly onto it. You can also just google 'Dungeon map' or 'DnD castle map' to get ideas or complete maps to use, or just draw out your own. There are many resources for dungeon/location mapping ideas and methods, and tons of free generation/creation tools online. Pre-made modules like the books sold by Wizards (AND the Lost Mines of Phandelver module from the starter set) include maps for important locations, though they may not be separate maps you can just drop on your table.

You can also run theater of the mind wherein your players may not have a map to look at at all - some people like this more, some hate it, so be wary of forcing it onto players.

I have this one, and I love it to death. When I run a campaign the players love to doodle and take notes on the edges, and it provides a grid for all kinds of encounters- small dungeons, forest clearings, caravan ambushes, taverns, marketplaces, you name it. Pick up a good set of wet erase makers and you're set. While not really "theatre of the mind," it lets me skip the prep work and ad-lib a lot encounter spaces as I go.

I reccommend this map instead: http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1371126295&sr=8-1&keywords=chessex+battlemat

Much easier to erase after sessions, looks better, rolls up nice

If you do decide to get a battlemat, I recommend this one.

It looks like Amazon has them for sale. The Chessex mats have both grid and hex patterns which is nice.

As a starter DM maybe a wipe clean battle map and some dry wipe markers?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

Or (and I know this sounds daft) some mepples! They can come in lots of different colours so you can have player meeples and enemy ones all on different colours. Fighting goblins? Green meeples! Meeting a king? Use a gold meeple! cheap and often effective :D

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Pack-of-8-Mini-meeples-in-1-of-12-colours-/251804417776?var=&hash=item3aa0b67ef0:m:mVgWi7j9-8H5snivz-6uIRw

5E D&D can be played mind's eye theater style with no board. In that case the DM just describes distances and makes a gut call on if someone is, for example, within 120 feet for a magic missile to hit them. Alternatively you can use a grid map (like this one) and either miniatures or tokens for the characters and monsters. Either style is supported and it's just a matter of preference.

I'd very much recommend getting the starter set. It comes with pregenerated characters (even if you create your own it's nice to see examples), and a fairly lengthy adventure (which, again, is helpful for a first time dungeon master). I picked it up even though I've played every edition since 2E.

If you have any rules questions feel free to ask here, or over at /r/DnDNext.

It's really hard to beat Chessex dice... I've tried several more expensive sets (including a synthetic turquoise set) and none of them were worth the money. The dice I use are all Chessex.

I think the grid is worth it, it doesn't really matter what kind you use. We use this one which I didn't realize was also Chessex until right now... it's nice because it's wet-erase (we tried dry erase, but it's nice to not have your walls disappear while you're moving around your minis) and it has the dual side, so you can use square or hex grids.

My groups use one of these. They are perfect with a set of wet erase markers. The only thing is that it seems like each mat has a specific color that does not like to be erased from it (for mine it's red).

I have considered getting a digital projector and running with digital maps but I just don't have the cash right now. If I did do this I would probably use photoshop for my display program. Just create a layer for your map and another layer on top of it as a mask. When you need to uncover another area on the map you just turn off the projector (or your laptop's external display port), make your masking layer opaque so you can see the map below it, select and delete the are you want to display, make the mask layer solid again, and turn back on the projector. This takes more pre-game time to setup but much less time than drawing out each room you need for combat and explaining funky architecture. Just remember to have a DM map with secret doors and traps marked on it, and another map for the players that does not contain this info.

Chessex Role Playing Play Mat: Battlemat Double-Sided Reversible Mat for RPGs and Miniature Figure Games (26 in x 23 1/2 in) Squares/Hexes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_RfhEDbZVNC3NG


I use that mat with wet erase markers, mostly just using black. Wet erase and black because it’s the least likely to stain the mat and won’t get smudged during play.

Unless you're running things entirely theatre of the mind style, you'll need some kind of figures and maps for combat. I recommend a Chessex playing matt and some wet erase markers, but you can always just use paper and roughly eyeball distances on it.

Minis can get pricey, so you can work around them. You can honestly use anything; I used unused dice as enemies for the longest time. A more cost effective thing is Paizo's Pathfinder Pawns, which come in bulk sets that include lots of different monsters, and are all flat and easy to store. Plus, they're just cardboard squares, so another thing I'd do is just print out pictures of monsters I'd want to use and just tape them over the pictures of creatures I wouldn't use.

I would suggest OP purchase:

1. The Players Handbook
   
   
2. The Monster Manual
   
   
3. A Chessex battlemap
   
   
4. Pathfinder Assorted Bases
   
   I feel like the inclusion of the PHB and MM are self-explanatory.
   
   The battemat is something I own and I have used to great effect - It's supremely durable, survived multiple moves, and still looks great. I'm moving more towards tiles now that I have a little bit more money to spend on D&D, but the mat was one of my biggest tools when I was first starting out as a DM.
   
   The token bases are from pathfinder, a related tabletop RPG, but can easily be used in DnD 5E. Simply print out pictures of the monsters that you've found online, cut them out, and place them in the bases, and viola - instant miniatures! They can help tide your players over while you build your own miniature collection.
   
   N.B. I agree with many of the other posters here that the use of a map and miniatures is not at all necessary for doing D&D, however, I have found that using them greatly enhances the experience, and it is my opinion that I like them. If you feel so inclined, OP, instead of the battlemap and bases, purchase the DM's Guide, which contains great advice in building and running your own adventures and campaigns, which might interest you down the road if it doesn't already.
   
   Total cost: $95.86 on amazon.

If you are talking about a play mat you can get them on amazon.com or your local game store might have it.

You just need a rough sketch of the area. I use a Chessex Battlemat similar to the one linked at the end of the comment. You could easily use 4 sheets of paper with one inch squares drawn or printed on them. Then in pencil just mark out the dungeon walls or whatever.

I personally think using a battlemat makes the game better. It adds something new to the game that it didn't have before (tactical battles). Now mind you, that battles aren't super technical but it certainly makes them feel more technical than just trying to describe things.

I personally don't get much enjoyment from the DM saying, "You backflip off the wall and slice the guy's head off." I can have fictional battles in my head where I'm awesome any time I want.

Using a battlemat also marks a huge difference between social encounters and battle encounters. Social encounters are all done as theater of the mind, so do you really need another encounter that uses the same technique? I think not.

>I was thinking maybe doing no map but for main encounters throw a map on

I've thought about doing this as well, but haven't actually done it. The bonus about it that I can see is that it allows you to fit the expected battles per day, which is what forces the players to manage their limited resources and abilities. (spells, healing dice, ki points, etc.)

In the end I probably won't end up doing that and will just continue to push the players to make their decisions quickly. If they make an "nonoptimal" decision then so be it.

I think the reason battles slow the game down so much is that players plan too much. Too much time is spent on, "Hey who wants bardic inspiration? ... Who's next in the initiative order? Oh, Sally goes before Bob. But Bob would benefit from the inspiration more. Bob, do you mind if I don't give you inspiration this time? What's that Sally? Oh you're going to be using an action that won't benefit from it okay... Then Frank you can have it."

Whew. Longest bonus action ever. Let's hope that player never has to make a decision about movement and provoking an attack of opportunity! Just do your think players!

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

My buddy has a chessex battle mat, It works well. we use white board cleaner to get the marks off.

I just got in my wizdice battle mat and have not had a chance to play on it yet.

My AL dm uses washable kid markers on his and it comes off super easy.

Edit Fixed the link

Is this what you are referring to?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_3kiNybQHGBYRT

Are you playing in person? You really don't need minis at all, everything can exist in the theatre of the mind.

But if you like minis (and I absolutely do!), a cheap way to get all set up is:

• Paper minis! Print, fold, tape, done. https://www.google.com/search?q=d%26d+paper+miniatures&rlz=1C1MSIM_enUS541US541&espv=2&biw=1920&bih=950&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjs14nx0oPSAhUKS2MKHRZ7C2cQ_AUIBygC
  
• Chessex wet-erase mat. Draw your map! https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O
  
• Wet erase markers: https://www.amazon.com/Wet-Erase-Overhead-Transparency-Markers-Assorted/dp/B00006IFGW/ref=pd_bxgy_21_img_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00006IFGW&pd_rd_r=JB1YHHX9GY8SN66SXRRZ&pd_rd_w=QTuyY&pd_rd_wg=Qyyt2&psc=1&refRID=JB1YHHX9GY8SN66SXRRZ
  
  And done!

Consider getting a wet erase grid mat and some markers. They're cheap and work really well. Grab something cheap for monster tokens and you're all set. Maybe use an app for character sheets, there are plenty. I have a pdf of the 5e character sheet with editable fields if you want it.

I have this mat

The group I used to play with (hopeing to be able to start a new one soon) had a few simple things. The main things are going to be your standards:

• Set of dice (multiples for new people are nice too)
  
• Lots and lots of mechanical pencils
  
• Minis and various tokens to represent your characters
  
• Plenty of paper of different sorts (lined, graph, and plain being the main ones)
  
• Large dry erase square/hex grid sheet like this
  
• Dry erase markers
  
• Snacks/drinks of various sorts
  
  I'm hopefully going to be introducing Dungeon World (/r/dungeonworld) to a group of friends. It's a rules light story forward RPG system which is great for beginners. There was a link posted the the Dungeon World subreddit for running a 4 hour long one shot (link here) which brought up using index cards for on the fly map generation which I think is good to have for any RPG adventure.
  
  edit: Forgot minis... How did I forget minis???

This is very helpful

A monster manuel may be nice to have.

You could always check out dwaven forge for inspiration.

The mat under the ship? My friend got me a Battle Board. I really like it, it takes up pretty much the whole table and is very easy to clean. I have a smaller Chessex one that is good too. Links for both below:

​

Battle Board:

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-MATERIAL/dp/B01N6RQ3DT/ref=pd_sbs_21_2/138-4846148-4203743?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01N6RQ3DT&pd_rd_r=b471178b-8183-11e9-b4c5-ef907af3647f&pd_rd_w=Axi6R&pd_rd_wg=o3t9e&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=5KWW2MJGMH6FT887PT86&psc=1&refRID=5KWW2MJGMH6FT887PT86

​

Chessex:

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=battle%2Bmat&qid=1559073798&s=gateway&sr=8-5&th=1

I got mine online.

Oh! I see, I misinterpreted what you were looking for.

Since this is more battle-mats than dungeon maps, the generic solution that everyone does is a Chessex wet-erase Mat, but you could also try Paizo dry/wet erase flip mats. If you're not pleased with the $20 range and want even cheaper, Gaming Paper for $4, or Graph Paper Notebook for $6.

I think it's nice of you to volunteer what skills you have, and great that you want to contribute.

The sad truth is that I doubt people will want to accept what you're trying to offer.

So I hope this doesn't sound mean, but I'm going to be direct:

No hobby game programmer I know is in need of an ideas guy. I have a trello board full of ideas that I just wish I could get to, plus I need to practice art, rewrite my base code so I can open source it, learn to make music, experiment with foley sound effects, do a lot of experimental marketing, try voxel magic to see if I can make a 3D game feel right, make a networked game, produce a series of youtube video tutorials, the list goes on for quite a ways. And that's just the gamedev hobby list. Life is short, and I'll never get to all the things I want to study, learn, and do. Ideas are not the bottleneck here.

Sorry if that sounds hard. But the truth is if you want to be the idea provider, you just need to learn to make games for yourself.

If you cannot program and don't believe you can learn it, perhaps you should buy a hex/square double-sided game mat like this one and gather a pile of tokens. Now you can create a tabletop tactics version of whatever roguelike ideas you have.

If your ideas are algorithmic and well-justified, then you should be a good board game designer.

You also talk about complex universes. If you prefer something more narrative than mechanical, you could focus on writing and learn to use the twine interactive story engine which everybody says is easy to learn.

Of you could look to rogueliker, who is launching a kickstarter for his tabletop RPG game, he managed to make a game without any programming! Wormhole on Kickstarter

If you can almost learn to program but not quite, there are several nice options for you, such as the Playmaker system for Unity and RPG maker. These tools are specifically designed to allow someone with algorithmic thinking but no ability to code to make their own games without a programmer.

My point is that nobody is going to make your games for you, you have to make them yourself. There are many ways to get that done, and the lack of a technical skill cannot prevent you!

So get to work today, and good luck on your journey! :)

Chessex is a good brand for gaming things. I second the recommendation for the pound of dice.

Gaming mats are also great, with WET/DRY erase markers (Check the product first to see whether it works with wet or dry markers). Toss in an empty spray bottle and a washcloth for a wet erase, or an eraser and maybe a bottle of cleaner for a dry erase, and you've got a great gift set.

Also, a DM screen is great to have.

Essentials, Pen, Pencils, Paper, Players Handbook, and some dice.

Most of that can be purchased at Target/Walmart/CVS. PHB can be bought from B&N, a local came store, Amazon or other online retailers.

As far as extras go? I'd get some sort of layout. These work really well for me. And then something to act as miniatures. You can get actual minis if you have the money. If not; coins, dice, lego men or any other small objects work.

Other than that, a story, some good imaginations and a group are all you need.

Here are some suggestions in that range

http://www.amazon.com/Burning-Wheel-RPG-Gold-Edition/dp/B005N2GN2E

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1418611134&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=RPG+battlemat

http://www.amazon.com/Octagonal-Dice-Rolling-Surface-Wiz/dp/B00DDY7WCO/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1418611166&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=die+rolling+box

http://toddlyles.com/tiny-epic/

Battlemap via Amazon https://www.amazon.de/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O

Qua mini's will marktplaats nog aardig werken, of als je een heroquest spel kunt vinden

First trick is deciding which edition you want to play, for new players I highly recommend sticking to 4th edition, the rules are simpler and combat is generally more interesting. If you guys are brand and are new starting with nothing, I highly recommend picking up the 4th edition DM Manual 1, Monster Manual 1, and the Player's Handbook 1.

If your DM wants to take his hand at designing his own adventures I also highly recommend picking up a wet erase play mat as well as wet erase markers. I recommend wet erase over dry erase as dry erase can easily be wiped off during combat and such.

You'll also want to buy some dice for everyone to use, there are a few ways to go about that, you can mismatch dice from local hobby shops, you could buy dice sets or you could purchase the Chessex "Pound of Dice" for the whole group's use and ease. I, as a highly superstitious gamer, own 2 dice sets of my own and an additional lucky D20 that I don't let anyone touch (as they'll likely suck the luck out of it), so figure out what kind of gamers you are and what dice will best suit you.

As you guys grow and expand you may want to look into getting the other Player's Handbooks, to increase your options as players, as well as the other monster manuals for easier adventure creation for your DM.

I also highly recommend your DM (for his ease in adventure creation) look into reading materials on the internet (easily found for free) to help create the most interesting and fun adventures possible. One I can recommend off-hand is Chris Perkin's (a writer for the D&D books and "professional DM") "blog" called "The DM Experience."

Also if you have any other questions feel free to ask me in a comment or message me, I love to see new player getting into the game and would like to help in any way possible.

Just be sure to have fun, happy gaming :D

If youre still looking to do dungeons sometime, I have a great site that generates them! I used it all the time its so handy.

http://donjon.bin.sh/5e/

A couple notes, play with the dungeon generator to figure out how big the dungeons are, remember that bigger is not always better, and small corridors force players to choose their actions very carefully sometimes and makes it more exciting.

Also, when you get the stats for the traps/monster look through them before you run the dungeon. I know the traps in particular are very strong in this gen and its ok to nerf them if your players are new.

Also its .. really worth getting a grid mat, even a small one. I have one like this and I love it

http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1421947212&sr=8-1&keywords=square+grid+on+vinyl&pebp=1421947216413&peasin=B0015IQO2O

Con respecto a los mapas, si buscas versatilidad por precio, recomendaría comprarte un BattleMat, o busca el básic mat de Pathfinder, es lo mismo que tú hoja A3 pero más grande y podés usar marcadores para dibujar y después borrar tus dungeons o escenarios de combate, yo uso uno y me resulta más fácil para dibujar sobre la marcha pasadizos secretos recién descubiertos, etc. ( https://www.amazon.es/Chessex-Role-Playing-Play-Mat/dp/B0015IQO2O )
Ahora, si querés algo más lindo y elegante, compra tiles, son escenarios ya dibujados (de forma muy profesional y realista) que podés combinar para extenderlo, el único problema con este método es que llega un punto que reciclar lo vuelve monótono, aunque es más realista por las imágenes del mapa que el battlemat. ( https://www.amazon.es/Dungeon-Tiles-Reincarnated/dp/0786966300/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?keywords=dungeon+tiles&qid=1570868315&sr=8-1 )

Con las miniaturas, lo mejor que te puedo recomendar es que busques las cajas ICONS OF THE REALM de D&D, vienen 4 miniaturas por caja, al azar, 3 medianas o pequeñas y una grande, allí encontrarás más que nada enemigos, algunos muy interesantes, otros meh. ( https://www.amazon.es/dp/B0155L0OKO/ref=dp_cerb_1 )
De la misma línea hay unos basados en el starter set que vienen heroes básicos (un enano clérigo, un humano guerrero, un elfo mago, etc), quizás ahí veas una oportunidad para buscar algo más representativo a tu grupo. ( https://www.amazon.es/WizKids-72779-Realms-Miniatures-Starter/dp/B0722N48N2/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?keywords=d%26d+icons+of+the+realms&qid=1570868365&sprefix=d%26d+icons&sr=8-15 )

Espero te sirva :)

>I hadn't thought of the dry erase board...

Try this! I love that stupid thing.

If you're going to get more than one set, might as well get five.

covering all dice you need, pretty, cheap, at your doorstep with prime asap: https://www.amazon.com/SmartDealsPro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=sr_1_4?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1521667654&sr=1-4&keywords=dnd+dice+set

A pack of 5 full sets is like 10 bucks on Amazon. Probably not the best quality, but it'll get you started.

Amazon link

I would really reccomend not getting the chessex bundle though. get the wiz dice one. Lat time i bought the chessex one it was 60% d6s.

The wiz dice set comes with a bunch of full sets. I've bought 3 of the wiz dice bundles and have had 0 stray dice, all of them are from a set.

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487972754&sr=8-3&keywords=wiz+dice

Best dice deals are on amazon. 17.99 for 15 sets of dice.

I collect dice sets like a goblin. As long as they're easy to read and don't dick me over too hard, they get to live in the dice bag.

I buy plastic dice in bulk, and I put them in my ridiculous bag I got to hold them all in. If I'm at a con or a game store and see a set I think looks cool, I'll buy it and add it to the mix, but usually I stick to the bulk dice. If someone gifts me a set though, I keep it separate and use them for something special, like loaning it to new players.

Also, I don't hand roll plastics anymore. I just feed them through a dice tower. It's nice as a DM or a caster, because you can just grab a handful of d6's and send them through instead of rolling one or two dice 8 damn times. Also your players can't yell at you for rolling really well or really poor. If you're superstitious, this puts rolls all on fate.

Idk why, but I really like the quirky weird dice-culture that comes with not growing too attached to one specific set. Some dice are lucky and have good juju. Others are assholes and need to be punished. I've also got a jail to lock up the dice that've done me dirty.

And if they don't learn their lesson from being in jail... well.... they should understand I buy dice in bulk and own several hammers.

Edit: words/grammar

Now, that's the perfect excuse to use the contents of my bag of devouring at once!

Oh and if you guys don't have dice- my suggestion is to go on Amazon and get the wiz dice 100+ pack, then just split up the sets between each other (link below)

Wiz Dice Bag of Devouring: 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ldB2xbYN6XVYH

While the Chessex Pound-o-Dice is fine, I prefer grabbing one of the [Wiz Dice] (https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Polyhedral/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=sr_1_9?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1495144504&sr=1-9&keywords=polyhedral+dice) value packs. You end up with more full matching sets.

I bought this. Great deal at just over $1.64 per set (If you take shipping into account). Gave away dice sets to at least 7 people but have gotten a few more sets here and there for personal use. (Diablo 3 die from Blizzcon X is my current go-to set.)

Pfft. That's easy.

https://www.amazon.com/Chessex-001LBCHX-Pound-O-Dice/dp/B008C0KXYS

Then I pocket the extra cash.

Alternatively:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Polyhedral/dp/B01KP4T6TQ

Bag o Dice

Wiz Dice Bag of Devouring: Collection of 140 Polyhedral Dice in 20 Guaranteed Complete Sets for Tabletop Role-Playing Games - Solids, Translucents, Swirls, Glitters, Alchemic Oddities https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_u5rMDb89MEBDG

If you have the money, get a battle mat and some dry erase markers. Also, grab some of these eraser sponges to make cleaning the mat off at the end of the night super easy.

If for some reason you can't get one of those, you can also get a dry erase whiteboard and use a ruler and a knife to score a grid into it, and then just rub black dry erase marker over the grid. The black powdered ink will get stuck in the grooves and turn into a grid. You can then use it like any other battle mat (just won't be able to roll it up when you're done). Takes some time and work, but if you already have a big whiteboard you're not using you can save yourself $30.

I'm going to try to be more detailed than is strictly necessary in an attempt to cover all the bases, so apologies if I cover something that seems obvious to you, since I'm not sure what does and does not!

The main responsibility of the DM is to prepare and "run" a single, or series of adventures, either written by themselves or someone else. Most pre-written adventures have some background on exactly what to do when running it (information to pass along to the players, boxed text to read, etc.), and writing your own adventure is a bit daunting, so I'd recommend starting with a pre-written one.

That might be what you mean when you say "Adventurer's League Campaign Book," but I'm not sure: is this a published hardcover? What is it's title?

If you DON'T have a pre-published adventure and are looking to select one:

Lost Mines of Phandelver is the adventure that comes with the starter set, and is widely regarded as a good starting point for both new players and DMs. It also has the advantage of having all monster stat blocks included. I personally like any of the Places by the Way series by Douglas Sun (particularly Treasure on the Rocks and Secret of Oyster Cove, which form something of a pair), which are smaller and can transition into other adventures with relative ease, though these require the monster manual (though they are almost certainly workable with basic rules monsters with a bit of adjustment)

The official hardcovers are sort of a mixed bag. Waterdeep Dragon Heist and Ghosts of Saltmarsh are both geared towards being "starter set" type adventures, whereas Out of The Abyss or Storm King's Thunder are quite advanced. I believe also that at least some of these require the Monster Manual.

You can obtain any or all of these by going on dmsguild.com. This is Wizards DrivethruRPG storefront, where every DnD module is available for purchase as a PDF. You can also browse around for other introductory modules for characters level 1-5, though make sure you are buying 5th edition products (as previous editions don't work with newer rules without a great deal of adjustment). Some homebrewed modules are even Pay What You Want, if money is an issue, though I cannot speak to the quality of these

Either way, you should read through your chosen adventure. If you don't feel like reading it through cover to cover, don't. But in either case, read through the first few "encounters": these are usually indicated by numbers in prewritten adventures. Try to read through about 8 or so, though this will almost certainly be far more than you will get through your first session. Familiarize yourself with the monsters and NPCs contained therein and devote a little time to thinking how exactly the encounter will go, what moves the enemies have, etc. This is more for mental preparation than anything else.

After that, it's up to how you personally organize your thoughts. I personally am not a note-taker: when I prep a prewritten adventure, I usually don't take notes beyond post its to help me find pages or references, or occasionaly redrawing maps for use on a battle map. Some people like to copy almost the whole book onto a separate sheet. Find what works for you. Just do whatever it takes to feel like you "know" the adventure, so that when your players inevitably do something the adventure doesn't predict, you can roll with it.

If you are dead set on writing your own adventure, I recommend starting with the formula detailed in Matt Colville's Running the Game series: a low level monster gang, headed by a slightly higher level monster, has stolen something precious from town, and it is up to your players' characters to retrieve it. That will be enough for a first session.

Beyond prepping the adventure, make sure to come prepared just for the game. Bring pencils, a notebook (and graph paper), index cards, and post its. A DM screen is a very popular accessory, used to hide notes and secret dice rolls from the players, though it is by no means mandatory. You can make one yourself out of binders or folders if you don't want to purchase an additional product. Despite our protestations, the DM often has a secondary duty to "manage" the table. That means you should bring extra pencils, extra dice, a copy of the rules (ensuring there's at least one copy at the table), because someone will forget them.

If you want to do gridded combat, you'll need some kind of battle-mat, with 1" squares or hexes. This can be a printed sheet of paper or a product like this. You will also need miniatures or tokens to represent your characters and NPCs. These can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. I use disks of foamcore posterboard, a handful of molded plastic minis, and M&Ms for NPCs. Gridded combat is by no means mandatory, so if you're not comfortable with it, feel free to leave these for a different day.

Familiarize yourself with the rules. All players should know the rules, but you act as the "referee" in cases where the rules are unclear or no one can be bothered to look them up. So it behooves you to know the rules at least as well as the player who knows them best.

Check your player's character sheets to ensure they created them correctly. If your players rolled for ability scores out of your sight, consider either making them use the point buy system, or making them reroll the characters together at the table (for some reason, rolling ability scores ahead of time tempts even the purest hearts, and they come with a character with two 17s and nothing below 10 on their sheet). This will be your first "ruling" as a DM: if a player complains, gently remind them that it is your responsibility to ensure the rules are enforced consistently and fairly, and to that end character creation is your choice to make, and that they gave you this power when they asked you to be DM.

Finally, have fun.

I was not sure if I can leave a link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1KF7Cb2S1HNGT

My favorite way to map with minis is using a Battlemat which is what I've used for most of my combat encounters so far. I've also printed maps on standard letter paper by breaking up larger maps into multiple prints and taping them together. I personally prefer half inch squares for griding.

I just bought this Battlemat and it works great for everything we would need it for. The size is kinda in-between both of the ones you linked, and as a bonus it comes with markers (which work really great btw).

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MQHECUR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That DM screen is normally only available as part of the limited edition gift set. https://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-RPG-Rulebook-Alternate/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=pd_sbs_14_5/132-7781302-9702733?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07HFG969C&pd_rd_r=91fd645c-d34b-47b7-9829-df29026a2f32&pd_rd_w=JHeMC&pd_rd_wg=5jq6L&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=KZWEDGB5JDS3SM0DCZ08&psc=1&refRID=KZWEDGB5JDS3SM0DCZ08

​

If you want just the screen you'll have to look for a third party seller.

The books are beautiful too! Dungeons and Dragons RPG: Core Rulebook Gift Set Limited Alternate Covers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HFG969C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_wxrACbE0MFZ3Z

I like big sexy books. Here are some of my recommendations. Though finding the physical copies of some may be difficult.

• Degenesis: Rebirth (Out of Stock)
  
• Maze of the Blue Medusa (Out of Stock, Warning: Zak S.)
  
• The Dark of Hot Springs Island
  
• A Field Guide to Hot Springs Island
  
• Silent Titans
  
• Burning Wheel Gold
  
• Burning Wheel Codex
  
• Veins of the Earth
  
• Zweihander Grim & Perilous
  
• D&D 5e Core Rulebook Gift Set Foil Covers (Might be better to buy in-store)

That's really surprising considering the name of the establishment is a riff on D&D.

For most tabletop games, as long as you supply a decently sized table, you can expect the players to bring everything they need. If you want to go the extra mile, nab a few generic play mats for miniatures, and maybe a few sets of cheap RPG dice and have them available as well.

If you want to encourage people to try playing tabletop games when they never have before, you can have some of the core books on hand and reach out to GMs in the area who might be willing to run one-shots for randos and newbies. Maybe make it a semi-regular event like Tabletop nights every Tuesday/Wednesday/Whatever.

Not that it has any bearing on the OP's question, but for all the other people stressing about whether or not you have a certain number of dice available, if you're a gamer of any kind, just get one of these bags of dice or this bag or this set if you want to be fancy and color-coordinated. Find a friend or two and split the cost and you'll have more dice than you'll ever need AND you can design any sort of game you might be thinking of. I regularly go to the teacher supply store and see what sorts of weird dice they have. I understand it's a cost that is being put on the gamer, but it's almost part of the ritual of becoming a player, selecting one's dice.

We use dot us these Training Swords in my medieval combat class!

They also make a Shield

This steampunk flavored Cryptex Flash Drive might be appreciated! Useful and stylish in a similar vein to this Steampunk Watch
As for board games, I recommend Shadow Hunters, Splendor, and Coup

For tabletop games, you could get him A Nice Set of Color Coded Diece

When it comes to video games, this Retro Arcade Console Desk Toy could be a great work passtime with 200 games! Alternatively if you have a fridge or a metal workspace, Magnetic Tetris! for idle hands


Hope any of these help haha

In dnd you can never have too many dice. I recommend getting a pack of 3 to 5 sets at least. If you get them through amazon I recommend something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=zg_bs_1265808011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=CWBEJ5KPK3NH0A3837GR

(Sorry for such a long link)

I just purchased dice that I thought were going to be decent, although they were cheap. They are all unbalanced. So do you think I just bought bad dice then??

https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=sxin_3_ac_d_pm?ac_md=1-0-VW5kZXIgJDI1-ac_d_pm&keywords=dnd+dice&pd_rd_i=B01ABST9S4&pd_rd_r=7de5271a-538c-4f8a-8efd-89bdd6714985&pd_rd_w=DqE9m&pd_rd_wg=3gSX1&pf_rd_p=24d053a8-30a1-4822-a2ff-4d1ab2b984fc&pf_rd_r=9097GZSSAZ0W2T807QG5&psc=1&qid=1573739621

DM's handbook (for DnD), I want to get into DMing. Everyone knows that the best way to bring your closest friends suffering, fear, and general hatred is to mess with the lives of their DnD characters. I need that in my life!


It's this bad boy.


(EDIT: Just realized how expensive the book was. I could always use some good dice instead if you don't want to spend 30 dollars.)

I want new dice because I have a addiction


https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01ABST9S4/?coliid=I25NH776YPDBCG&colid=18GMEKVEDMPSX&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

I really like this dice set https://www.amazon.com/Smartdealspro-Colors-Dungeons-Dragons-Pouches/dp/B01ABST9S4/ref=zg_bs_1265808011_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=087DQWA17Y9WKJ24WEXY

the starter kit is 15$ on amazon and should contain everything you need to give it a shot one night.

The essentials kit is 16$~

you can get several extra sets of dice for 10$

the starter kit and the dice is like 25$ total and can easily get you started.

I picked up these 5 sets for $10. It's more than enough, and lets me switch them out when they lose their luck.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ABST9S4

You can get some sets inexpensively on Amazon

Xplanet Games Is probably you're best bet, the shop owner's a nice guy and will help you out. https://www.facebook.com/XPlanetGames/

Dice:
Check Amazon for Bag-o-dice or Bag of Dice any shop you go to will sell you $1=1dice or like $8 for a full set, Amazon will give you like 5x the value.
https://www.amazon.ca/Wiz-Dice-Polyhedral-Dice-15-Guaranteed/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1495387654&sr=8-11&keywords=bag+of+dice

Miniatures:
Minis are where it gets $$$ The collection will grow overtime... Its called plastic crack for a reason.
Games Workshop (Warhammer) Minis come unpainted, you can use dollar store paint if you want (its lower quality but much cheaper), with a base acrylic primer spray you can pick up from any gameshop or from Crappy Tire. (black is best for lazy painters, cuz your missed spots just look like shadow)

Mini Examples:
Goblins are like $2/figure for cannon fodder and that's probably one of the better prices to unit you'll see
https://www.games-workshop.com/en-CA/Goblin-Warriors

Reaper Minis (you'll find these at Xplanet and a lotta other game shops) they're good for hero characters, since they're unique and compared to Warhammer Heros they're 1/10th the price
http://www.reapermini.com/miniatures/bones

Tabletop:
Pick up some Easel sized Grid paper, each square is 1x1 inch so you can draw your maps out on there rather easily.
http://www.staples.ca/en/Quartet-Newsprint-Flip-Chart-Easel-Pad-24-x-36-50-Sheets/product_975147_2-CA_1_20001

Other Notes:
Dungeon Generator & other cool shyt https://donjon.bin.sh/5e/dungeon/
Online Gameplay https://roll20.net/
Q&A help https://rpg.stackexchange.com/

Metal dice are a pain, they are heavy, don't roll well in my experience, and can seriously damage a table top. I would recommend either going to your flgs and buying a set or buying one of these two off Amazon: Chessex Pound-o-Dice Wiz Dice Big Bag. I prefer the chessex for the designs and the number layouts. The chessex set is 25 and the wiz dice set is 20.

This here https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ

It might be ruining your thought experiment, but practically speaking, dice aren't that expensive and don't take up a ton of space. Especially if you aren't looking for specialty or specific dice. You can get 15 sets of dice for $20 (100 dice total) If you want a specific set of dice, you're looking at $6-ish for a cheap set or more for nicer sets.

There are plenty of RPGs that only use 6-sided dice which you likely already have lots of from other board games lying around. Powered by the Apocalypse and Forged in the Dark games tend to only use D6s. Same for Ten Candles and Fiasco and I'm sure others.

If you want to go all out I'd recommend these books:

https://www.amazon.com/Dungeons-Dragons-Monster-Rulebook-Roleplaying/dp/0786965614/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840456&sr=8-6&keywords=dungeons+and+dragons

https://www.amazon.com/Xanathars-Guide-Everything-Wizards-Team/dp/0786966114/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840456&sr=8-10&keywords=dungeons+and+dragons

https://www.amazon.com/Volos-Guide-Monsters-Wizards-Team/dp/0786966017/ref=sr_1_14?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840456&sr=8-14&keywords=dungeons+and+dragons

Enough dice for you and whoever you're playing with:

https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Pack-Random-Polyhedral/dp/B01KN7REWQ/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840537&sr=8-4&keywords=1+pound+of+dice

If you want minis:

https://www.amazon.com/Pathfinder-Roleplaying-Game-Codex-Pawns/dp/1601254725/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840982&sr=8-4&keywords=monster+codex+box

https://www.amazon.com/Paizo-Inc-Pathfinder-Pawns-Bestiary/dp/1601255616/ref=pd_sbs_14_1?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1601255616&pd_rd_r=d89745e3-2d8a-11e9-bc59-4fcf3b72f982&pd_rd_w=Ip8Jz&pd_rd_wg=d87AF&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=CQ2TM4MZQSVKFXX2GYRS&psc=1&refRID=CQ2TM4MZQSVKFXX2GYRS

https://www.amazon.com/Pathfinder-Pawns-Villain-Codex-Box/dp/1601259255/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549840982&sr=8-3&keywords=monster+codex+box

I prefer Wiz dice from amazon as they are guaranteed sets. The chessex dice sometimes can be very mismatched.

You can get him a big block of dice, or precision dice, or pretty dice for pretty cheap. Other cool accessories are harder to place without a good idea of what he already has (books, minis, etc). Etsy sells custom dice bags for cheap, though, and they're usually high-quality crochet.

got like 15 sets for 20 bucks on amazon a bit ago. 1.33 per set https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KN7REWQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is my go to shop for dice buyers
https://www.thediceshoponline.com/default.asp


These are the dice I personally use
https://store.gravitydice.com/


If you're on a budget or need LOTS OF DICE
https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Bag-Devouring-Role-Playing/dp/B01KP4T6TQ/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=wiz+bag+of+dice&qid=1566198403&s=gateway&sr=8-3


https://www.amazon.com/Wiz-Dice-Halflings-Haversack-Polyhedral/dp/B07BWK7HVB/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=wiz+bag+of+dice&qid=1566198403&s=gateway&sr=8-4

They look like the Wiz Dice from the Bag of Devouring set.

Link for Amazon USA.

I saw the other style in the pictures when I found it on Amazon.

If you want some bulk sets with some cool dice bags then check these out. Comes with more colors than you mentioned, but you might get a kick out of them. I always give duplicate dice sets away as gifts to my players, and they seem to appreciate them because who doesn't enjoy getting dice as presents?


Halflings Haversack which is 140 mini dice




Bag of Holding which again 140 dice which includes some solid opaque and translucent dice


Bag of Devouring 140 dice with some more cool styles including some blue and black colored dice.



And the Bag of Tricks. Another 140 dice

Here :)

What do you think of these? https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-Distressed/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1518459901&sr=8-18&keywords=dnd

And https://www.amazon.com/Fantasy-Creatures-Action-Figure-Playset/dp/B0746TKNSL/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1518460046&sr=8-3&keywords=dnd+minis

(Didn't look on Amazon before)

I have a few flip mats and I am not a big fan. They fold instead of rolling up so they crease really bad. Because they are a laminated they don't ever seem to lay flat and the creases make lumps across the mat. My Favorite are the Battle Mats. They don't always like to lay flat either, but all it takes is something on each corner and they flatten out nice, and there are no creases. I also really like the tan color as its easy on the eyes and everything is easy to see.

We use a battle mat similar to this one and the DM prints out paper mineratures for NPCs. Very cheap and the dry erase gives a ton of flexibility.

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR

I recommend buying [this](Battle Grid Game Mat 36 X 24 -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQHECUR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) as well as looking up a couple very basic dungeon drawing tutorials online.

You could also do theatre of mind (basically where the DM has an idea of where things are in his head and just gives rough descriptions of it to players). If you do do theatre of mind, then you could also draw a super crappy map and use it to keep track of where everything is, only showing it to yourself.

Hope this helps!

Here's a pro-tip. Have any and all maps you think you could possibly need drawn out on graph paper. If a fight breaks out, you can quickly and easily redraw it on a larger blank battle map. Each square of graph paper is a square of battle map.

You can even pass out map keys to players so they know what your simplified icon is for a door or a chest. Get different color markers for water or fire. Maybe diagonal brown lines represent elevated terrain, stuff like that.

You can have pages of interesting, pre-designed maps, ready to go in an instant (or at least really quickly). If you dont use one today, you might use one next time. And because you already designed the dungeon / battlefield, you can describe it as needed, then quickly draw it up when combat ensues, without having to design on the spot or guess distances.

Easypeazy.

1: if you haven't already, invest in a biggish (at least 2ft by 2ft) washable battlemap, like [this one](
https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=asc_df_B01MQHECUR/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312149930626&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=11363641352118596268&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9027793&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-457337712203&psc=1)


2: get some graph paper, like this

And this will probably last you years and years. Just be sure to test any and all markers on small corners to be sure they really clean off before committing to the whole map (do this before the game, of course).

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_L7j7CbQ9RS4K0

This is what I use, comes with a nice scroll case too

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQHECUR?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Buy minis at your local swapmeet or garage sales.

The BEST thing to get him is a good battlemap - this greatly aids in more complex combat and will last you your entire RP career. This one is fantastic as you can draw/erase lines on it using special markers and has both hexes and squares

​

https://www.amazon.com/Battle-Grid-Game-Mat-36/dp/B01MQHECUR/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_21_bs_img_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=G0X27JBHHCX8YGCN8X2F

It's annoying, but it is perfect for what a DM is looking to do. Really makes me happy to draw these out with my crayons.

If you want something a bit more useful in the long run, try looking into dry erase ones. This one is great

Just started DMing myself, here’s my set-up:

— I use this Battle Mat. The pre-made campaigns do come with maps of both the dungeons and the surrounding areas (or at least the starter set does.) For the simpler ones you can copy them onto the mat room by room as the party explores. That can be surprisingly complicated, though, so for the more intricate dungeons I’ve taken to screen-capping them (I work with a PDF), blowing them up to 1” scale, printing them out, and then cutting out the individual rooms so I can lay them down one by one.

— I make my own tokens. They’re not quite as cool as the minis but they’re cheap, have a GREAT feel to them, and I love how perfectly I can customize them.

— Dice are dice. You can buy a big ole bag from Amazon, or if you like nice things you can go somewhere like Die Hard Dice. I bought these, which I like because all the players can claim their color but the whole set feels coordinated.

— In preparation for combat encounters, I screen cap and print the stat blocks of the monsters so I have them as handy reference and don’t have to keep flipping back to them in the book.

Are your players new to the game? If so, I STRONGLY recommend making reference cards for your players to hold on to. I think of myself as someone who knows the rules inside and out, but I was SHOCKED how much time I was spending looking up abilities in our first game. Now I screen-cap each character’s abilities, spells, and potions/magic items. I print them out as individual little cards that I cut out, but you could also put them together as a reference sheet. Saves them having to flip through a PHB every time they need to remember how their spells work.

This listing appears to be fulfilled by Wizards of the Coast

You could use a battlemat as the map itself, and then use medieval army miniatures as peons for the different classes of warriors on the battlefield.