Are you looking to join a role-playing game (RPG) group but don’t know where to start? Finding the right group can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of effort, you can find a group that suits your interests and playing style. In this article, we will explore some of the best ways to find RPG groups to join. From online forums to social media groups, we will cover all the bases and provide you with the tools you need to find the perfect RPG group for you. So, grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started on this exciting adventure!
There are several ways to find RPG groups to join. One option is to check online gaming communities, such as Reddit or Discord, where you can find groups that are actively looking for new members. Another option is to check local gaming stores or coffee shops, as they may have information about local RPG groups. Additionally, you can try asking friends or coworkers if they know of any groups that are looking for new members. Finally, you can also try attending gaming conventions or events, as these often have RPG groups and events that you can participate in.
Online Platforms for Finding RPG Groups
Websites dedicated to gaming communities
When searching for RPG groups to join, there are several websites dedicated to gaming communities that can be helpful. These websites offer a variety of tools and resources to connect with other gamers and find RPG groups that match your interests. Here are some examples:
- Reddit’s r/RPG community: Reddit is a popular social media platform that has many communities dedicated to different topics, including gaming. The r/RPG community on Reddit is a great place to find other RPG enthusiasts and learn about various RPG groups. You can participate in discussions, ask questions, and even post requests for players to join your group.
- Enworld: Enworld is a website that focuses on tabletop RPGs. It has a section dedicated to finding RPG groups and players, where you can post an ad to find players for your game or search for groups to join. Enworld also has a forum where you can participate in discussions and learn more about different RPG systems.
- RPG.net: RPG.net is a website that provides reviews, news, and forums for RPG enthusiasts. It has a section dedicated to finding players and groups, where you can post an ad to find players or search for groups to join. RPG.net also has a variety of articles and reviews that can help you learn more about different RPG systems and games.
These websites can be great resources for finding RPG groups to join. By participating in discussions and posting ads, you can connect with other gamers and find groups that match your interests.
Online forums
One of the most effective ways to find RPG groups is by utilizing online forums. These platforms offer a vast network of individuals who share the same interests and hobbies, making it easier to connect with like-minded people. Here are some popular online forums that can help you find RPG groups:
- BoardGameGeek: BoardGameGeek is a well-known online community for board game enthusiasts. It has a dedicated section for role-playing games, where users can post about their gaming experiences, seek advice, and find potential group members. The platform offers various tools to help you find suitable groups, such as the “Find a Game” feature, which allows you to search for local or online games based on your preferences.
- Pen & Paper RPG Groups on Meetup.com: Meetup.com is a platform designed to help people organize and attend local events based on their interests. There are several Pen & Paper RPG groups on Meetup.com that you can join to connect with other RPG enthusiasts in your area. These groups often organize regular game sessions, meetups, and other social events for their members. By joining these groups, you can expand your network of fellow RPG players and find potential groups to join.
In addition to these platforms, there are numerous other online forums and social media groups dedicated to RPG enthusiasts. Some popular examples include Reddit’s r/rpg and r/tabletop subreddits, theRPGsite, and EN World. These platforms offer a wealth of information, resources, and opportunities to connect with fellow RPG players and find suitable groups to join.
Local Resources for Finding RPG Groups
Gaming stores
If you’re looking to join an RPG group, your local gaming store may be a great place to start. Many game shops have bulletin boards where gamers can post notices about their groups or events. Here are some ways to take advantage of the resources available at your local gaming store:
- Check the bulletin board: Many game stores have a bulletin board where gamers can post notices about their groups or events. These notices might include information about the type of game being played, the time and location of the session, and contact information for the group leader.
- Attend gaming events: Game stores often host gaming events, such as tournaments, demo days, and release parties. These events are a great way to meet other gamers and learn about local RPG groups. You can also ask the store staff if they know of any RPG groups in the area.
- Ask the staff: The staff at your local game store are a great resource for finding RPG groups. They may know of groups that meet at the store or have information about other local groups. Don’t be afraid to ask for their recommendations or advice.
- Look for group meetings: Some RPG groups meet at the store on a regular basis. Look for tables or areas set aside for group meetings, and see if there are any groups that match your interests. You can also ask the staff if they know of any groups that meet regularly at the store.
Overall, gaming stores can be a valuable resource for finding RPG groups. By checking the bulletin board, attending events, asking the staff, and looking for group meetings, you can increase your chances of finding a group that matches your interests and schedule.
Social media
- Facebook groups
For many gamers, social media is an invaluable resource for finding RPG groups to join. Here’s a closer look at how each platform can be used to find local gaming groups:
Facebook Groups
- Search for local gaming groups in your area using the “Groups” feature.
- Look for groups that are specific to the type of RPG you’re interested in playing.
- Check out group descriptions and rules to make sure the group is a good fit for you.
- Request to join the group and introduce yourself to the members.
- Use the search function to look for gaming-related hashtags, such as #RPG or #tabletop.
- Follow gaming-related accounts, such as game publishers or popular gaming influencers.
- Join in on gaming-related conversations and use relevant hashtags to connect with other gamers.
Overall, social media can be a great way to connect with other gamers and find RPG groups to join. By using these platforms effectively, you can expand your gaming network and find new opportunities to play the games you love.
Meetup.com
Join local RPG meetup groups
- Visit the website Meetup.com
- Enter your location and select “RPG” in the search bar
- Browse through the list of available groups and their descriptions
- Attend a meeting or event to get a feel for the group before committing to joining
Organize your own RPG group meetup
- Create a Meetup group for RPG enthusiasts in your area
- Set the frequency and location of meetings
- Advertise the group to attract potential members
- Plan and facilitate RPG sessions for the group
By utilizing Meetup.com, you can easily find local RPG groups to join or even start your own. This platform provides a convenient way to connect with other RPG enthusiasts in your area and enjoy playing your favorite games together.
Networking and Outreach
Attend gaming conventions
Gaming conventions are a great way to meet and connect with other gamers who share your passion for role-playing games. These events are usually organized around specific genres or themes, and they provide an opportunity to try out new games, learn from experts, and meet potential group members.
Some popular gaming conventions that you might consider attending include:
- Penny Arcade Expo (PAX): PAX is a series of gaming conventions that take place in different cities around the world. It is one of the largest gaming conventions and attracts a wide range of attendees, including gamers, developers, and industry professionals.
- Gen Con: Gen Con is a convention for tabletop gaming, including RPGs, board games, and card games. It is one of the oldest and largest gaming conventions in the world and takes place annually in Indianapolis, Indiana.
- Gary Con: Gary Con is a convention dedicated to the works of Gary Gygax, co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons. It takes place annually in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and attracts fans of classic D&D and other old-school RPGs.
- UK Games Expo: The UK Games Expo is a convention for all types of tabletop games, including RPGs, wargames, and board games. It takes place annually in Birmingham, England and attracts attendees from all over the world.
When attending a gaming convention, be sure to bring your character sheet and any other relevant materials, as you may have the opportunity to play games with other attendees. Additionally, many conventions have a schedule of events and activities, so be sure to check those out and plan your schedule accordingly.
Join local gaming groups
Joining local gaming groups is a great way to meet other role-playing game enthusiasts in your area. Here are some tips on how to find and join these groups:
Attend gaming events and conventions
Attending gaming events and conventions is a great way to meet other RPG players and find groups to join. These events often have game tournaments, workshops, and panels where you can learn more about different RPGs and meet people who share your interests.
Some popular gaming events include:
- PAX (Penny Arcade Expo)
- Gen Con
- Comic-Con
- Origins Game Fair
- GameStorm
Volunteer at gaming events
Volunteering at gaming events is another great way to meet people and get involved in the gaming community. Many events rely on volunteers to help with various tasks, such as running games, manning booths, and providing support.
Volunteering can also provide you with unique opportunities to try out new games and meet other players. It’s a great way to gain experience and make connections in the gaming industry.
In addition to volunteering at larger events, you can also volunteer at smaller local gaming events or conventions. This can be a great way to get involved in the community and make connections with other gamers in your area.
By attending gaming events and conventions and volunteering, you can expand your network and meet other RPG players in your area. This can lead to opportunities to join established groups or even start your own group with like-minded players.
Word of mouth
Ask friends and family
- Reach out to your immediate social circle and ask if they know of any RPG groups or clubs that they can recommend. This can be a great way to find groups that are close to home or work, and to get a sense of what kind of RPG groups are available in your area.
- Your friends and family may also be able to provide valuable insights into the quality of the groups they recommend, which can help you make an informed decision about which group to join.
Ask your gaming store owner
- Many gaming stores have a strong connection to the local RPG community, and may be able to provide you with information about groups that meet at the store or in the surrounding area.
- The owner of the store may also be able to provide recommendations based on their personal experience with different groups, which can be helpful in finding a group that meets your specific needs and interests.
Advantages of word of mouth
- Word of mouth is a powerful tool for finding RPG groups, as it allows you to tap into the experiences and knowledge of people you trust.
- By asking friends and family and your gaming store owner, you can get a sense of the quality and character of different groups, which can help you make an informed decision about which group to join.
- Additionally, by relying on word of mouth, you can avoid the time and effort required to search for groups online or in other sources, and can instead focus on finding a group that is a good fit for you.
Utilize your professional network
One effective way to find RPG groups to join is by utilizing your professional network. This can include colleagues, classmates, or acquaintances who share a common interest in RPGs. Here are some ways to make the most of your professional network:
- Reach out to colleagues who may have an interest in RPGs: You may be surprised to find that some of your colleagues share your passion for RPGs. Consider sending out a group email or message to your workplace or professional organization to see if anyone is interested in joining a group. You can also ask your HR department if they know of any RPG groups in your area.
- Join professional organizations related to gaming and RPGs: There are many professional organizations that cater to gamers and RPG enthusiasts. By joining these organizations, you can network with like-minded individuals and find potential RPG groups to join. Some examples of such organizations include the Game Developers Association, the International Game Developers Association, and the Roleplaying and Strategic Simulation Society.
By leveraging your professional network, you can not only find potential RPG groups to join but also build meaningful connections with others who share your interests.
FAQs
1. What is an RPG group?
An RPG group, or role-playing game group, is a group of people who come together to play a tabletop role-playing game, such as Dungeons & Dragons or Pathfinder. These games typically involve one player taking on the role of the game master (GM), who creates and guides the story, while the other players take on the roles of characters in the story.
2. Why should I join an RPG group?
Joining an RPG group can be a great way to meet new people, have fun, and explore your creativity. RPGs allow you to step into the shoes of a character and explore a fictional world, and playing with a group of like-minded people can be a rewarding and engaging experience.
3. How do I find RPG groups to join?
There are several ways to find RPG groups to join. One option is to ask around at your local gaming store or comic book shop, as they may have information about local groups or upcoming events. Another option is to search online, using websites such as Meetup.com or Reddit’s r/rpg subreddit to find groups in your area. You can also try reaching out to friends or acquaintances who may be interested in playing RPGs.
4. What should I look for when choosing an RPG group to join?
When choosing an RPG group to join, it’s important to consider the group’s size, schedule, and play style. You may want to find a group that meets at a time that works for you, or one that plays a specific type of game that you’re interested in. It’s also a good idea to read reviews or ask for recommendations from other RPG players to get a sense of the group’s quality and reputation.
5. How do I prepare for my first RPG session with a new group?
Before your first RPG session with a new group, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the game system and any specific rules or mechanics that the group will be using. You should also think about the character you’ll be playing and have a basic idea of their backstory and personality. Additionally, it’s a good idea to arrive early and introduce yourself to the other players, and to bring any necessary materials, such as a character sheet or dice.