How to Find the Right Players for Your Dungeons Dragons Campaign
Starting a Dungeons Dragons (DD) campaign is an exciting endeavor, but finding the right players can be challenging. Traditional methods like relying on friend groups may have their limits. Here are various strategies to find dedicated and passionate players for your game.
Exploring Alternative Methods
If your usual approach of forming play groups within your friend circle hasn't been fruitful, consider exploring alternative venues and resources. Different strategies can help you connect with potential players who share a passion for DD.
College/University Clubs and Hobby Shops
Local college or university clubs often cater to specific interest groups, including DD players. Even if you are not a student, these clubs may still be open to welcoming new members. Additionally, hobby shops that sell role-playing games (RPGs) and associated materials are natural gathering points for enthusiasts. Many of these shops host game sessions, sign-up sheets, and frequently advertise upcoming events.
Meetup and Online Communities
The Meetup platform is designed to connect individuals looking to pursue common interests in person. When searching on Meetup, you'll find numerous Dungeons Dragons (DD) meetups that cater to all skill levels. Furthermore, online platforms like Roll 20 and DnDBeyond offer forums and online communities where you can find like-minded players and even run campaigns using digital tools.
Personal Outreach
Asking friends or acquaintances can be a powerful method of recruiting players. Chances are good that other players are actively seeking out new campaigns. For example, I participate in one group almost every week, while others have weekly sessions. Similarly, colleagues and friends often have their own gaming groups, so networking and reaching out to these individuals can be an effective way to gather a core group.
Finding Players on Social Media
Facebook and other social media platforms are rich with communities dedicated to DD. Platforms like Roll 20 and DnDBeyond also have online forums specifically for DD enthusiasts. Engaging with these communities and checking with local game shops can lead you to potential players. Many players also discuss their interest in DD on social media, so monitoring relevant hashtags and groups can help you identify candidates.
Actively Participating in Game Communities
Attending DD-related websites, boards, and servers, such as Discord servers, can also be useful. Simply carrying one of the core DD books around and engaging with people at game stores or conventions can lead to unexpected connections. People will often approach you and express interest in playing if they see you holding a copy of the book.
Inclusivity and Engagement
When recruiting players, it's important to consider the type of people you want to play with. Choose individuals who are consistently supportive and not arrogant. The key is to find players who share a similar level of enthusiasm and can contribute positively to the game. If you move to a new location, it might take time to assemble a group, but persistence pays off!
Remember, the process of finding the right players for your DD campaign might require some creativity and effort. However, with the right approach, you can build a dedicated and passionate play group that enhances your gaming experience.