Choosing the right game on StartPlaying can feel overwhelming at first, especially if you're new to TTRPGs.
This guide walks you through what to look for in a listing so you can find a game that fits your schedule, experience level, and play style before you sign up.
Step 1: Check the Experience Level
Every game listing on StartPlaying includes an Experience Level tag. This tells you what kind of player the GM is expecting:
Beginner
No experience needed. The GM will teach you the rules as you go. Start here if you've never played a TTRPG before.
Intermediate
You've played a few sessions and have a basic grasp of how your character works. You may still have questions, but you understand the basics of the game.
Advanced
You're comfortable with the rules and can build and play your character with minimal guidance.
When in doubt, start with a Beginner or one-shot game. One-shots are single-session adventures -a low-commitment way to try a new system or a new GM before signing up for a full campaign.
New to D&D? Use the Learn to Play D&D filter on the Find Games page to find one-shots specifically designed for first-timers. See How to Find Beginner Games for steps.
Step 2: Read the Content Warnings
Game listings include content warnings that flag mature or potentially sensitive themes like violence, horror, or dark storylines. Read these carefully before signing up.
If a warning covers something you'd rather not encounter, this probably isn't the right game for you. That's completely okay!
If you're unsure what a warning means in practice, message the GM before signing up (see Step 5 below).
Every game on StartPlaying is required to use safety tools. These are in-session techniques that let anyone at the table pause or redirect the game if something becomes uncomfortable. See Safety Tools to learn how they work.
Step 3: Review the Schedule and Price
Make sure the game fits your life before you commit:
Schedule
Check the day, time, and frequency. For campaigns, sessions typically run weekly or bi-weekly.
Make sure you can make most sessions. Consistent attendance matters for the whole table.
Session length
Most sessions run 2–4 hours. This is listed on the game page.
Price
Each listing shows the per-session price. You are not charged when you sign up. You're charged 1 hour after the session starts.
Seats remaining
If a game is visible on the Find Games page, it still has open spots.
Step 4: Look at the GM's Profile
Click through to the GM's profile before signing up. Here's what to look at:
Reviews and star rating
Read what past players have said. Look for comments about the GM's communication, pacing, and how they handle new players.
Games run
More experience generally means a smoother table, but newer GMs can be excellent too, especially for beginner-friendly games.
GM Badges
Badges like Top GM indicate a consistently high-rated, active GM. See What are GM Badges?
Bio and play style
GMs describe their style and what to expect at their table. If their description resonates with you, that's a good sign.
Response time
Shows how quickly the GM typically responds to messages.
Step 5: Message the GM if you have questions
You don't have to sign up to send a message. If you're unsure whether a game is right for you, reach out to the GM first. Good things to ask:
Is this game suitable for someone with my experience level?
What platform do you use for sessions (Discord, Zoom, etc.)?
Do you run a Session Zero?
What does [content warning] look like in practice at your table?
A GM who responds warmly and clearly to questions before you've even signed up is a good sign for how they'll run the table. See How Do I Message a Game Master? for steps.
What is a Session Zero? Some GMs run a free pre-game meeting to align on rules, tone, and safety tools before the first session. See What is a Session Zero?
Step 6: Ready to join?
Once you've found a game that feels right, signing up takes just a few clicks. See How Do I Join a Game on StartPlaying? for the full walkthrough.
After you're confirmed, check your email for Prep Materials from your GM — these include session links, character creation instructions, and anything else you need before your first session. See What Happens After I Sign Up For a Game?