Created by Matt, Library Clerk

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Introduction

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year (2024), Dungeons and Dragons has become sort of a cultural touchstone. With millions of players, and new ones picking up the dice all the time, the game has only grown in popularity in recent years due to shows like Stranger Things, and podcasts like Critical Role. This guide will cover some resources that I use as both a Dungeon Master, and as a Player. There will also be some links to other D&D resources as well.

Selection Criteria

The following criteria was considered when choosing sources for this LibGuide:

• Providing sources that would be helpful for new players to Dungeons & Dragons.
• Helping to make gameplay more fun and accessible.
• All material is available either from online sources, or as a physical resource here at Princeton Public Library.

Modes of Playing D&D

Unlike many games that come with a board, pieces, and rules, Dungeons and Dragons is mainly just a set of rules for playing the game. As such, there are multiple ways, or modes, of playing D&D. You can play in-person, just using dice, character sheets, the rule books, and “theatre of the mind”, or you could go all-out with miniatures, terrain pieces, specially built gaming tables, or anywhere in between.

There are also online options which will allow you to play remotely via a “virtual tabletop” (VTT) website or application. These all digital options are completely customizable, down to the maps, character and creature tokens, and even music and sound effects you might use. It all comes down to the amount of time, effort, and frankly, money you’re willing to put into the game.

In-Person Play

VTT Play

The classic mode of play for Dungeons & Dragons involves people sitting around a table and playing “theatre of the mind” style. Here are some helpful resources for that:

Sometimes the people you would like to play D&D with aren’t available for in-person play. Luckily, there are multiple different online/remote options to help people to connect with each other and play Dungeons and Dragons.