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A Tabletop Roleplaying Game, or TTRPG, is a collaborative storytelling game where players take on the role of fictional characters and role-play their actions in the game world, usually with a complex set of rules and some element of random chance, like dice rolls, to decide uncertain outcomes. These games are typically guided by a Game Master or GM, sometimes called a Dungeon Master or DM, who describes the world, plays the roles of any non-player characters (NPCs), and presents challenges for the player characters to overcome. A scheduled gathering to play a TTRPG together is called a “session”; an adventure that begins and ends in a single session is called a “one-shot,” while an adventure that builds over many sessions is called a “campaign.”
Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) is one of the most popular TTRPGs. However, there are many other TTRPGs to play too! Our Teen Space holds the basic rulebooks for Dungeons & Dragons, Pathfinder, Root, and more, as well as bonus content for Dungeons & Dragons including ready-made stories and extra rules, characters, creatures and ideas for GMs. Almost all of these books can be checked out from the library for your own games at home.
If you like puzzle-solving, wacky hijinks, beating the boss in a video game, making new friends, or if you just like the idea of playing as a mysterious wizard or a powerful fighter, TTRPGs might be for you!
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Why play a TTRPG?
Some players would simply say “because they’re fun!” But TTRPGs also help develop reading and listening, teamwork, decision-making, creativity, and confidence, as well as being a great source of screen-free time.
Is the game age-appropriate for teens? What kind of content is typical for a session?
Parents and players should be aware that most D&D sessions will involve some level of fantasy violence. Players may also encounter descriptions of monsters that might be scary, like giant spiders or ghosts. Players with intense phobias of creatures that may come up in game should talk to their GM.
How long is a TTRPG session?
It varies between GMs, campaigns, and player availability, but typically between 2 and 3 hours. Session start and end times will always be posted on the calendar. Sessions may end slightly early to provide a smooth transition to the next session and avoid ending in the middle of a fight.
Do players need to know the rules ahead of time, or buy special dice?
No! There are plenty of opportunities to learn as you play, and all materials are provided by the library. Players may benefit from looking up the rules of their game if they are freely available online, but it is not necessary.
I’ve heard that some D&D characters are “wizards” and “warlocks”, is there real magic in the game?
No. All “magic” in D&D and other TTRPGs is fictional and part of the story—similar to magic in books or movies. No real-world magic, rituals, or belief systems are involved.
What edition of D&D do you play at the library?
Fifth Edition or 5e, typically with 2014 rules (not the updated 2024 rules).
Can I run a game at the library?
Absolutely! The furthest shelf on the right under the TV in Teen Space holds all the books, maps, dice etc. that you’ll need to play with your friends. These materials are open to patrons of all ages while you’re in the library!
If you’d like to partner with the library to run a game, please reach out to [email protected] — we’re always looking for new volunteers!