D&D Table Etiquette for New Players
If you're new to Dungeons & Dragons, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to approach the game, especially when playing with more experienced players.
Your group must establish proper table etiquette to ensure a pleasant and successful game experience.
Here are a few tips for D&D table etiquette for new players!
Listen and Respect Everyone
As with any group activity, it’s important to listen to everyone’s input and respect their ideas.
Even if you don’t agree with something, be thoughtful and courteous in your responses. You can disagree, even passionately, while respecting each other.
Separate the topic from the person and focus on ‘I’ statements rather than ‘you’ statements when dealing with prickly subjects. Here’s an example,
“You jerk! Every time you charge in you cause us to wipe! I can’t stand playing with you!”
Versus
“When Sir Balzac rushes, in it makes it hard for me to heal you and protect the party. This makes me feel like you don’t care about our group. I know that’s not the case, so how can we work through this?”
Use Session Zero
What is appropriate D&D table etiquette at one table might be different at another. The best way to standardize your table is to use Session Zero as a way to establish the “house rules” for the group.
This includes addressing things like how you’ll resolve disputes, what books you’ll be using, party dynamics, and more. Check out our in-depth post on how to run session zero for your games!
Stay on Topic
To keep the game moving, it’s important to stay on topic and avoid getting sidetracked. If the conversation starts to wander, and it will, kindly redirect everyone back to the game.
Don’t Rush Things
Take your time to understand the game and ensure everyone is on the same page. Don’t rush things or force decisions before everyone is comfortable.
Remember, the game can always be “paused” so you can get more information and context or have a discussion before moving forward.
Don’t Aruge
We’re all for advocating for yourself and your group, but draw the line at starting arguments.
If you disagree with a DM’s ruling you’re free to express that, but within the parameters of D&D the DM’s say is final.
Some DM’s can’t handle this responsibility and make bad rulings. Game Masters should never have it “out” for their players (although the occasional hard lesson can be appropriate).
If you feel like your DM is unfairly punishing you, this is a conversation you must bring up with your table. It might be time for a new DM or group if it can't be resolved.
Eliminate Distractions
It can be like herding magically-awakened cats trying to get people at a table to play. So when you’re there, avoid distractions like checking your phone, stacking dice, side conversations, or doodling - your DM does notice!
These activities show that you’re not engaged unless the spotlight is on your character, which is a selfish action. Good table etiquette focuses on the group’s experience, so respect your tablemates by paying attention.
Take Breaks
Everyone needs a break from time to time. It’s important to give everyone a chance to rest and recharge before getting back into the game.
You might need food or bio breaks between longer games, sure. But you might also need a mental break after an intense roleplaying or combat encounter.
You might also need a break from the preparation and act of roleplaying or a break from your table if things get contentious.
Advocate for yourself tactfully, and don’t force yourself to play if you aren’t feeling your best. Those feelings will trickle through to your character in-game and affect your fellow players.
Have Fun!
Most importantly, have fun! D&D is a great way to collaborate with friends. If that’s not the case at your table, you need to have a conversation with your group.
By following these simple etiquette tips, you’ll be sure to have a fun and successful game of Dungeons & Dragons every time.