+Iceapx Oooooh... someone who already knew how to play watched this video... are you... a DUNGEON MASTER!!?!!?? Shut up, I know I'm both as-maybe-well. It was hard going through a character backstory session... with a level 1 B-Bard.
JustJarrett Every one of my group's weekly session is 8 hours. We've been at this campaign for 6 months. Next weekend will be the last session of the campaign. It's been a long, fun ride. Can't wait to set up my next game.
Very well said. I found that everything dictated in this video flowed naturally and didn't even really feel like a tutorial or introductory, but more-so like a _true_ explanation.
I would but I don’t have enough friends *when they ask you if your fine and you just say that your fine but your not really fine but you just can’t get into it because they would never understand*
Bilbo was a 'gentlehobbit'. Probably the equivalent of small town nobility. He had money, and presumably, land. He employed people like 'Gaffer', Samwise's dad, to do things for him like garden. While his exact responsibilities and revenue streams are not explored in the books, I don't think, his family was clearly wealthy. Possibly wealthy enough that Bilbo could live one his parent's money without working, just doing community service - type things instead. His mother had been an adventurer, remember. After he returned from his adventure, he was definitely wealthy enough to live without working, and was even able to support another young hobbit (Frodo) after Frodo's parents died.
I was invited to play D&D by a co-worker, and because I love all things fantasy, I was automatically interested. This video has me extremely excited to get started! Thank you so much!
Bilbo was, as far as Hobbit culture is concerned, part of the landed gentry. Between the reputation of his name, his mother's name (being an old Took, the premier family at that end of the Shire), his relationship with the Brandybucks (an even more influential family), and the size/value of Bag End, he didn't really need to work. His position might even be comparable to a Baron. Probably one of the most amusing parts of him becoming a burglar, in my opinion. Love the video!
My buddy sent me this video in prep for my first session this weekend. I told him the video was great. I was talked at, but more spoken with. Appreciate the intro Good Sir.
Drunkens & Dragons: Play D&D Like a Badass , with you, he could! you could make it simple, not even meeting up at the same location. "The best way to DM is X" *cuts to drunk you* "The best way to DM is Y!" Keep that up for a bit and you have an informative, entertaining showcase of two great ways to DM. moral of the story, there is no best way to DM. Am I making sense?
I remember being 8 and seeing my friend’s brother, who was 12, reading through the 1e PHB. The cover art (stealing the eye gem from the demonic idol) was amazing. I asked him about it and I distinctly remember asking him, “how can it be a game without a Board?” Lol
Coming back to this video after all these years was a treat. This video was my introduction to Dungeons & Dragons. This was it. And I’ve been DMing ever since. It is my favorite hobby, and now I get to share it with even more people. :) Thanks Matt.
RE: end of video (what I'd like to see): - Prep process (not just final notes, but how you start, develop, and finalize them) - Advice on running political plots like we've seen in your campaign - Using Microscope/Kingdom to start a campaign Keep up the great work!
This is another video i'd also like to see, it always seems like city plots when there's a bunch of moving factions are always hard to keep track of all the minutia.
I would love to see advice on political plots, as I want to have them, and my campaign has room for lots of backstabbing and such, but I really have no idea where to go after: This nation is in power and these people all have differing endgames"
So, I've never played this, or know anyone who does. But I love this stuff.. So I wanna get into it, but I feel like this like trying to find a dealer so I can get addicted to a hard drug.
Where are you? If you're in the "Western World" (US, Canada, Central Europe, Australia, New Zealand, parts of Central and South America) i would be willing to bet there's a game near you. Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players. Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
Just wanted to say, I'm almost 30 just getting into d&d and this channel made it easy to learn the game before hand and now I'm DMing my own group. Thanks Matt
60 seconds in. I'm the described viewer you're talking about. (except without friends.) First impressions: You seem like a great host, you have a beautiful beard, and your cat prefers the left hand side of your chair. Edit: Hot damn was I right, I almost never make it through 20+ minute videos... That is one magical beard.
+Stephen thanks! I regularly run games and often introduce a single new player at a time. This will be my first game to have all new players and try to convince them it's a good hobby! Maybe by September.
I'm fairly new to DnD and was introduced by some of my college buddies who are amazing DMs. I'm usually a bit awkward when it comes to improv but I always tried really hard and I think they respected that. One of the DM's showed me your videos and was like "check out this guy he's super informative, I rip him off all the time he's great" I was hooked, I love the content especially the campaign diaries! Recently both of my DM friends are too busy to run another campaign but expressed their interest in playing a campaign since they never get the opportunity to. Normally I would never have even entertained the idea of DMing, but these videos have given me the confidence to try! I've already begun writing my campaign and even though I'm super nervous I'm also super excited! Thanks Matt for doing what you're doing :)
This actually made me want to try and play D&D. But I dont know anybody who plays and I dont think my friends are the kind of people who want to play D&D.
Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place. And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players. Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
Been playing D&D since the 80's and still felt compelled to watch this video. At the end I hit like and subscribe. I really enjoy seeing positive spokesperson for D&D.
Got sent sent to me on Reddit when I asked what was good to know for a beginner, as I've got a game starting some point soon (someone at work set up several campaigns with 3 DMs for beginners) Appreciate this info massively
The first was from A Man for All Seasons: www.amazon.com/Man-All-Seasons-Paul-Scofield/dp/B003TQ1IW6/ref=sr_1_1?s=instant-video&ie=UTF8&qid=1470069689&sr=1-1&keywords=a+man+for+all+seasons
Thank you Sir. My family and I are jumping in today and many member from Reddit sent me your way. I appreciate your open mindedness on everything. Your videos and information are well recieved and put together even better. Again thank you.
You know what I really love about watching your videos? The confidence and showmanship you pour into the content! The way you explain makes the information easy for me to absorb and is slowly give me the confidence to want to try DMing myself! I'm still working on being a player (in my first game no less!) but I definitely would love and get my friends and family together and play D&D! Thanks for the energy you give off and for boosting my confidence! I will certainly have to start studying up some on the DMG!
1.) I've been playing over half my life... and you made such good points, here. You actually made me rethink some old habits. 2.) Subbed halfway thru the video. I think I'm going to watch all your DM videos, now. About to (seriously) run my first campaign (and most the party is 100% new to the game). I've gotten my feet wet with one-offs in the past... but now I'm in "srs bsns" pre-production mode. 3.) As someone that is not excessively thrilled with most facial hair... your beard is perfect. I almost never compliment someone's hair, but, there you go. It's glorious, well-kempt, and I appreciate you sir!
A few of my cousins and immediate family members got introduced through the show Stranger Things on Netflix, I took this as a chance to show them why I enjoy D&D and why i'm sure a lot of people do. It's just cool as shit. Your video helped give some of the older players a much better understanding of what the hell they're doing and as a very novice DM, I thank you.
As a moderately-experienced player & more-often-than-not DM, I want to say that this is the best pre-game introduction I've ever seen. I have a couple brand new players (to tabletop gaming as a whole, not just D&D) joining my next campaign, and I will *absolutely* be sending them a link to this video before we gather. In fact, I'm going to have all of my players watch and will probably continue to do so for games in the future. You're awesome. Thanks for making this!
Matthew Colville. Some days ago a friend of mine proposed to start play D&D, problem is than no one of both me and my friends have ever played. We don't even know someone who plays, and where we live (in the zone of Venice, we are Italians) D&D is praticaly unknown. We have a really hard time figring out the rules and stuff... we might give up soon, some of us already did.
Thank you so much! I have just been invited to play by some of my friends in theater and I didn't really know much and am really glad that your video existed and that you could explain the basics to me.
Thanks a lot for the awesome video! I became very interested in D&D because of Stranger Things and Ready Player One. Can't wait to find a welcoming group in my city :)
i really love playing d&d with my friends!! we don't take it seriously at all though, all our characters are named after swears and "Bitch" keeps shooting goblins in the ass. it's a shit storm but i love it!!
Much appreciated Matt! Bought a very special house about 13 years ago. Without knowing it turned out to be the house where Gary Gygax lived and created D&D. I love the role playing community and will one day soon play D&D for the first time! See my new FB page: Center Street Dungeon: Ground Zero of Role Playing
I played D&D for the first time last night. I was the DM, and HOLY COW, that was a lot to take in! I'm going to learn all I can for the next meet up. Thanks for the encouraging video, Matthew.
First of all, you have an amazing voice. Secondly, I learned a new word today. "Wang Rod" Lastly, thank you for a very informative video. I will have to check out your books as well when I am done with my current read. Thanks!
I have to say thank you! My friend just invited me to play D&D for the first time. I have to say this video has made me feel like i can take this game with an open mind. I have always wanted to play this game! so thank you so much !
Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place. And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players. Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
Matt, you rock my socks! You have the best explanations of D&D and this video is my favorite. I’ve shown this video to countless friends and they have joined my campaigns. Keep doing what you do! I just subscribed!
I almost always share this video to people who want to play but have no idea what to expect, it almost always helps and is awesome for new players to understand the game! Great video, thank you coville
Edit: Is it okay to play online with friends? Like over skype? Does it detract from the game at all versus playing irl together? You are fantastic at speaking and presenting, explaining, etc... I got invited recently, though we won't start playing for a month or two. I was already very excited, but didn't know what to expect at all. This video really helped me a lot and I'll probably check it out at least one more time as a refresher before starting. Thanks for taking the time to do it! PS - I now really want to play DnD with you. You seem like a lot of fun :P
Although it's better to be around friends and feeling the dice rolling on the table, playing online can give you the same experience if everyone is cooperating, there is also "Roll20" a site that gives you all the tools to run the game you want to play wish you luck and have fun!
Hey, thank you so much for the reply. I'm really itching to play it now haha. The next month or so will be tough. But I have time to check it out and learn about it so my first adventure will be a little better. Less slowed down from explaining and such. :)
To elaborate on what Mauricio says, I use roll20 to run a gaming group, but it's also with a group of friends so we use skype, meaning that we still see and hear each other. Roll20 also has a Voice+Video option you can use. The only real loss is the feel of dice in your hands and directional hearing making the party speaking at once all kinds of problematic.
It can with a little work, but like D&D in any setting, what really makes it is the players. You get a good group and you won't mind too much if it's online or in person.
I have shared this video with at least three new and potential players. I feel you put it together really well and hearing it from somebody other than myself, I feel, is incredibly helpful.
This was sooo informative. A group of friends and I want to get a D&D group together, but not one of us has ever played. I will recommend this video to them!
I always tell new players creating a character to think of archetypal characters in pop culture. It's helps solidify most aspects. I had a girl that wanted to be ash from evil dead. I was like he'll yes! She was a ranger with an undead favored class missing one hand but had a sword that detached from her stub. If you look at a specific characters in fiction you can always use this as a base generalization. Even guile from street fighter would be a sick archetype for a fightee
Wow. What a fantastic video. I'm just about to DM for my first time for a group that has never played before. This is everything I wanted them to understand about the idea of the game all rolled into one.
As someone who's literally about to play D'n'D for the first time this weekend, this was the most best intro video I've seen. You've changed my mood from mildly anxious to genuinely excited! Thanks a bunch! Also, took note of "wang-rod", hah!
You should absolutely try it. Or maybe you could sit in on a session to watch before diving in. Depends on what you wanna do. No matter what, i recommend you act.
Ok, so when I was in 5th grade, oh about uh....40 years ago.. the teacher had a hobby day and let some kids play D&D in the classroom. I asked if I could play, they said yes, then I sat down and said "how do I play?". They all looked at me confused and said "we can't teach you... it's too much to explain". Rejected I went home and started painting metal figurines, and collecting D&D books for the artwork, but never found anyone to play with or learned how to play. Now I have kids and I have a D&D player handbook but still no idea how to really play a game other than rolling dice during combat to determine success based on stats. Your video was SO INCREDIBLY HELPFUL! You answered all of my questions about what a game is actually like. I know it's a lot of work to make a video like this, so I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate it. Thank you! Also, you should do some audobook recordings for Librevox, maybe Herman Melville. Your voice is perfect.
This was an absolutely inspiring video. I'm starting my first game with some friends and co-workers next week and I'm soooo excited! I was nervous as well and this helped a lot. Thanks for such a great video!
Three weeks after this video came out, I started my first campaign as a player. Since then I’ve been playing on and off with multiple groups. I didn’t see it at the time, but I wish I had - it really does lay things out perfectly!
I have watched these videos ever since I started playing the game in 2017. Now, in the spring of 2023, I have become a DM for my workplace's D&D group.
Hey, when you steal a magic sword...well, you might as well use it! Especially when you figure out the sword is too cool (and, importantly, famous) to fence.
You have such a great speaking voice. Like when I was little and my teacher used to make us put our heads down and she'd put on a random audiobook you sound like that but in a really good way.
I'm looking into d&d, I've never played it, but, I have played more than my fair share of skyrim, dark souls, ect. do the classes pretty much have the same strengths and weaknesses? thanks, that is, if anyone answers.
Because you've played those RPG's you'll have a better understanding of how the classes work opposed to someone who might not play video games at all. D&D is a vastly open game that can allow you to create a character concept you have in mind. The idea behind knights, warriors, and cavaliers can be summed up very simply to be some kind of Fighter class that all use Strength in some way. Keep in mind though, there is no one true way to play a class or multiple classes "Multi-Class". You could just as easily make a Dexterity oriented Fighter that uses a Bow, or even uses two light weapons (a favorite of my players). Spell casting characters usually have a main ability score they use to cast their spells: Intelligence for Wizards, Wisdom for Clerics, Druids, and Rangers, and Charisma for Bards, Sorcerers, Warlocks, and Paladins. All of the different classes have some sort of saving throw proficiency so they are better against certain effects. In general, your main defense is going to be your Armor Class or "AC" for short. Some melee characters have better armor class because of the sheer amount of armor they wear, and some characters will have a high AC because they have a high Dexterity so they dodge attacks without Heavy Armor. AC and Saving Throws are your defenses in the game.
I'm preparing to DM for the first time in my life. I'm so excited (and absolutely terrified!). The players that I'll have are my husband (our usual DM) and a set of 3 brothers, one of which has played twice before (with me) in one of my husband's games, and two who have never played before. I'm sending them to this video to help get them ready. I found it an excellent introduction to this madness that is D&D. Thank you so much for all your amazing instruction! (OH, I also picked up your 2 books from Amazon so, yeah. Can't wait to start reading!)
This was very informative and so entertaining to hear. We've just started playing but I wanted to get some more insight into the whole thing. I'm going to watch more videos. Thank you.
Maybe I'm the odd one out, but I've really never seen dice borrowing to be an issue if I'm DM. I could see it being annoying if there's only one set, or if their attitude is particularly entitled in some way, but eh... I find it a tad oversensitive. To each their own, though!
It's not about borrowing dice, or borrowing a pencil. It's about showing up with nothing and just expecting everyone else at the table to supply what you need. That's an abusive way to think and behave. It's disrespectful.
+Matthew Colville I agree about not mooching, but I'm fine with players bringing snacks to share while borrowing dice *if* the lender indicated they have dice to spare.
Thank you for your explanation. I thought A while about getting into D&D because I love good storys and Play a lot of RPGs. It Sounds like a lot of fun! It is difficult to know what you need though. Like you said: the rule book and the character sheets, but what about all the other stuff? Like the board games etc?
hey mathew colville ive been watching your videos for about half a year now and its been a long time since i wanted to be a DM but my friends had those great stories and i was afraid they wouldnt like me dming but boy was i wrong they seem to be loving it. also although it takes hours (i havent even finished yet but a 4 rooms dungeon just took me 8 hours to make today) but making your own stuff is really rewarding. i cant express enough how im thankfull to you.
You could also try a local game store. I guarantee there's someplace nearby that sells dnd stuff, comics, mtg cards, etc. If you talk to the people there, you're bound to get in touch with someone.
In 30 years of role playing this is the best explanation for beginner's I have seen. All valid points. Oh, and yes, like everyone else I like your voice.
My friend is a gnome who is very intelligent but lacks common sense but one time the party spotted a pressure plate and he says he steps on it because that's what his character would do and then in combat he didn't attack he said he hides because his character is a coward do I allow this or tell him to stop?
Not sure how into the actual roleplay of it all your group is, but often times I find that things like this can be adressed in character. If your character has a problem with it, engage in that thread of roleplay.
Saying that he does something is in part role-playing. However, if what he's doing is a problem for the party (i.e. the trap set off an alarm or got someone else injured, his attacks in combat could have saved the health of other party members and made the combat shorter) either: Speak to the player out of character and explain that while it might be in-character for the gnome, he is part of a party and D&D is a group experience, so perhaps he could help out more in some way. This could be him having more out-of-combat skills that could come in handy, or perhaps a wizard and such favouring defensive spells if he's a coward, so on and so forth. OR Speak to the character, in-game, during the story. Have the carelessness and cowardice come up in the party and try to coax the character into being more involved in combat or thoughful out of it (or alternatively having the character pay attention to what's going on and ask for plans from the other party members.
+Therix yeh I agree we've. Got a new campaign with new characters but his character still exist in this universe hard to explain and he is now a wizard what school would be besy
+DiceGamer If he still wants to go the route of a non-damaging character then I would recommend illusion, abjuration or conjuration. The former two are good for misdirection and defence, while conjuration can in some cases be used to summon creatures to fight for you.
"D&D, the most fun you can have without risking to be sued for child support. In fact by playing D&D you virtually ensure that nobody will ever sue you for child support, ever."
Wow that was so great - I was searching around UA-cam trying to find a good new players advice and had almost given up when I found yours! I had my first game last weekend, I loved it, but walked away still feeling unsure how to engage in the game more. This made total sense! Thank you!
You had me at "show up with your beautiful self..."
Flattery gets you far.
Lol
roll for flattery 1d20+CHA mod
butt mcnugget nice profile pic
love it. The beholder eye is impressed, and backs off into the darkness of the dungeon
+Iceapx Oooooh... someone who already knew how to play watched this video... are you... a DUNGEON MASTER!!?!!?? Shut up, I know I'm both as-maybe-well. It was hard going through a character backstory session... with a level 1 B-Bard.
"An average session lasts 3 hours" I smiled really widely at this because my first session lasted 7 and a half hours.
JustJarrett my first lasted five hours lol
JustJarrett I play D&D in my school’s D&D club, so we play an hour and a half per week, so we get about 60 hours of playing time per year
JustJarrett Every one of my group's weekly session is 8 hours. We've been at this campaign for 6 months. Next weekend will be the last session of the campaign. It's been a long, fun ride. Can't wait to set up my next game.
Pffft my first session lasted 9 1/2 hours
Call your Dr if your dnd sessions last longer than 3 hrs
One rich Dr
If everyone explained things in life the way this man does, with the same tone, open-mindedness, and fervor, this world would be a much greater place.
Taylor Maines yes
I agree
You mean if everyone was that way?
Idk, I think its usually better when people stick to their lane.
Matt Colvile has that affect
"...you agree not to be an annoying shit." I wish more players took this to heart.
You're very well spoken and convincing. You really sell it. Gonna give this game a whirl.
Very well said. I found that everything dictated in this video flowed naturally and didn't even really feel like a tutorial or introductory, but more-so like a _true_ explanation.
I would but I don’t have enough friends
*when they ask you if your fine and you just say that your fine but your not really fine but you just can’t get into it because they would never understand*
D.J. It’s been two years. How’d it go?
@@narwhallys Try Roll20.net or some similar site.
Yea, how did it go?
Your voice is oddly calming. 10/10. Would play D&D with.
Bilbo was a 'gentlehobbit'. Probably the equivalent of small town nobility. He had money, and presumably, land. He employed people like 'Gaffer', Samwise's dad, to do things for him like garden. While his exact responsibilities and revenue streams are not explored in the books, I don't think, his family was clearly wealthy. Possibly wealthy enough that Bilbo could live one his parent's money without working, just doing community service - type things instead. His mother had been an adventurer, remember. After he returned from his adventure, he was definitely wealthy enough to live without working, and was even able to support another young hobbit (Frodo) after Frodo's parents died.
Both the Bagginses and the Tooks are widely known to be very wealthy
I was invited to play D&D by a co-worker, and because I love all things fantasy, I was automatically interested. This video has me extremely excited to get started! Thank you so much!
I basically made this video for you!
How did it go?
Five years later, I am curious about how it went
Bilbo was, as far as Hobbit culture is concerned, part of the landed gentry. Between the reputation of his name, his mother's name (being an old Took, the premier family at that end of the Shire), his relationship with the Brandybucks (an even more influential family), and the size/value of Bag End, he didn't really need to work. His position might even be comparable to a Baron. Probably one of the most amusing parts of him becoming a burglar, in my opinion. Love the video!
My buddy sent me this video in prep for my first session this weekend. I told him the video was great. I was talked at, but more spoken with. Appreciate the intro Good Sir.
your hair is inspiring. jus sayin.
The only hair on UA-cam that can compete is Smooth McGroove.
Hey man, you should do a vid with Colville!
does he do stuff besides closeup head?
Drunkens & Dragons: Play D&D Like a Badass , with you, he could!
you could make it simple, not even meeting up at the same location. "The best way to DM is X" *cuts to drunk you* "The best way to DM is Y!"
Keep that up for a bit and you have an informative, entertaining showcase of two great ways to DM. moral of the story, there is no best way to DM. Am I making sense?
yeah...twould b fun...some actual encounter design collabs are teh best imho
Came here for D&D. Stayed for his amazing radio voice
I remember being 8 and seeing my friend’s brother, who was 12, reading through the 1e PHB. The cover art (stealing the eye gem from the demonic idol) was amazing. I asked him about it and I distinctly remember asking him, “how can it be a game without a Board?” Lol
Coming back to this video after all these years was a treat. This video was my introduction to Dungeons & Dragons. This was it.
And I’ve been DMing ever since. It is my favorite hobby, and now I get to share it with even more people. :) Thanks Matt.
RE: end of video (what I'd like to see):
- Prep process (not just final notes, but how you start, develop, and finalize them)
- Advice on running political plots like we've seen in your campaign
- Using Microscope/Kingdom to start a campaign
Keep up the great work!
This is another video i'd also like to see, it always seems like city plots when there's a bunch of moving factions are always hard to keep track of all the minutia.
I would love to see advice on political plots, as I want to have them, and my campaign has room for lots of backstabbing and such, but I really have no idea where to go after: This nation is in power and these people all have differing endgames"
Very good video. I'm definitely more intrigued now than I was before.
This is what Aslan would look like in human form.
James Field are you saying matt colville is god
Or a member of a Traveller RPG race?
Or a haunted War Horse model made of wood and dentists
@@moredetonation3755 "This isn't a religion and we are not a church"
@@oljo0527 everyone laugh
So, I've never played this, or know anyone who does. But I love this stuff.. So I wanna get into it, but I feel like this like trying to find a dealer so I can get addicted to a hard drug.
Lexa noooooo honestly, ask rabdom people at work and youll find people who would either be up for it or already have an idea of how to play,
If you can't find anyone just Google it or make a Reddit post and I'm sure you'll find a few people who wanna give it a try
Hey. I would advice you to try Roll20.net. There you can find people to play with online :) I hope you find someone to play with :)
They are all wrong, it is a ridiculously addictive, fun and GREAT drug bahahahaha
Lexa, I was scrolling past and I thought you said you were addicted to a hard drug, lol.
I feel inspired. Nobody around me plays this game, but it sounds really fun. Maybe i should invite some friends over...
i'd come lol
Me too
Where are you? If you're in the "Western World" (US, Canada, Central Europe, Australia, New Zealand, parts of Central and South America) i would be willing to bet there's a game near you. Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place
And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players.
Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
Watch the rest of his videos. Start at the beginning.
Update: I no longer have any friends, and no, I did not get to play since then. But I still want to.
The movie clip at 14:10 is from A Man For All Seasons, for those wondering.
And 23:38 is Shakespeare in Love.
Just wanted to say, I'm almost 30 just getting into d&d and this channel made it easy to learn the game before hand and now I'm DMing my own group. Thanks Matt
If D&D had a preservation society, this would qualify for admission. One of the most important D&D videos on UA-cam.
Just wanted to say that your videos have helped me out a lot as a new DM. Thank you for all of the tips, keep up the great content.
60 seconds in. I'm the described viewer you're talking about. (except without friends.)
First impressions: You seem like a great host, you have a beautiful beard, and your cat prefers the left hand side of your chair.
Edit: Hot damn was I right, I almost never make it through 20+ minute videos... That is one magical beard.
thought i'd be the only one to notice the claw marks lol
Trying to get a game started with all new players and this might help them decide. Thanks!
Good luck with that!
+Stephen thanks! I regularly run games and often introduce a single new player at a time. This will be my first game to have all new players and try to convince them it's a good hobby! Maybe by September.
these are the best kind of games as a DM, new players always try crazy unexpected stuff which gets me excited to explorer those unknowns with them.
I'm fairly new to DnD and was introduced by some of my college buddies who are amazing DMs. I'm usually a bit awkward when it comes to improv but I always tried really hard and I think they respected that. One of the DM's showed me your videos and was like "check out this guy he's super informative, I rip him off all the time he's great"
I was hooked, I love the content especially the campaign diaries! Recently both of my DM friends are too busy to run another campaign but expressed their interest in playing a campaign since they never get the opportunity to. Normally I would never have even entertained the idea of DMing, but these videos have given me the confidence to try! I've already begun writing my campaign and even though I'm super nervous I'm also super excited! Thanks Matt for doing what you're doing :)
This actually made me want to try and play D&D. But I dont know anybody who plays and I dont think my friends are the kind of people who want to play D&D.
TheKevinSinger no one knows until you try. You could be the DM they're waiting for!
Singer117 roll20.com is a good place to find games. it's an online service that if you make a free acount on you can play with people from all over
So did you ever get a game going?
You would be surprised.
Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place. And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players.
Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
22:19 Is it wrong that I want to create a combination D&D group/bowling league called "Bowling and Bugbears"?
Do it.
Orcs and Goblins and Bugbears! Oh my!
It’s AWESOME!
I remember playing this game in the 70's.Yes I am a bit older than some.Enjoyed it immensely.Maybe I can find some folks in the Home to play with.
Been playing D&D since the 80's and still felt compelled to watch this video. At the end I hit like and subscribe. I really enjoy seeing positive spokesperson for D&D.
Thank you for an excellent intro to Dungeons and Dragons. I'm encouraging all my players to watch.
Got sent sent to me on Reddit when I asked what was good to know for a beginner, as I've got a game starting some point soon (someone at work set up several campaigns with 3 DMs for beginners)
Appreciate this info massively
As it seems, my DM has managed to get a fairly balanced 4 person team (fighter, rogue, cleric & Sorcerer)
Before being a thief, Bilbo was a lazy rich dude.
He then became a politician
I think typically hobbits are farmers and brewers.
This guys beard and voice are outstanding
Could you cite the movie clips you use? I think it'd be cool to go explore some of these references you make with them.
The first was from A Man for All Seasons: www.amazon.com/Man-All-Seasons-Paul-Scofield/dp/B003TQ1IW6/ref=sr_1_1?s=instant-video&ie=UTF8&qid=1470069689&sr=1-1&keywords=a+man+for+all+seasons
Yeah, I've always kinda wanted him to include the names of the movies in the dooblidoo
Second was Shakespeare in Love I believe.
Thank you Sir. My family and I are jumping in today and many member from Reddit sent me your way. I appreciate your open mindedness on everything. Your videos and information are well recieved and put together even better. Again thank you.
"Screw them, they don't have to play your character, you do!"
You know what I really love about watching your videos? The confidence and showmanship you pour into the content! The way you explain makes the information easy for me to absorb and is slowly give me the confidence to want to try DMing myself! I'm still working on being a player (in my first game no less!) but I definitely would love and get my friends and family together and play D&D! Thanks for the energy you give off and for boosting my confidence! I will certainly have to start studying up some on the DMG!
1.) I've been playing over half my life... and you made such good points, here. You actually made me rethink some old habits.
2.) Subbed halfway thru the video. I think I'm going to watch all your DM videos, now. About to (seriously) run my first campaign (and most the party is 100% new to the game). I've gotten my feet wet with one-offs in the past... but now I'm in "srs bsns" pre-production mode.
3.) As someone that is not excessively thrilled with most facial hair... your beard is perfect. I almost never compliment someone's hair, but, there you go. It's glorious, well-kempt, and I appreciate you sir!
I absolutely love how you explained this short simple and easy to understand. Definitely subscribing.
"How long will it take?" "The rest of your life."
A few of my cousins and immediate family members got introduced through the show Stranger Things on Netflix, I took this as a chance to show them why I enjoy D&D and why i'm sure a lot of people do. It's just cool as shit. Your video helped give some of the older players a much better understanding of what the hell they're doing and as a very novice DM, I thank you.
I could listen to this man read an audio book for me :P
As a moderately-experienced player & more-often-than-not DM, I want to say that this is the best pre-game introduction I've ever seen. I have a couple brand new players (to tabletop gaming as a whole, not just D&D) joining my next campaign, and I will *absolutely* be sending them a link to this video before we gather. In fact, I'm going to have all of my players watch and will probably continue to do so for games in the future. You're awesome. Thanks for making this!
lol I came here because my friend invited me to play
The system works! :D
king wappa me 2!! 😀
Matthew Colville. Some days ago a friend of mine proposed to start play D&D, problem is than no one of both me and my friends have ever played. We don't even know someone who plays, and where we live (in the zone of Venice, we are Italians) D&D is praticaly unknown. We have a really hard time figring out the rules and stuff... we might give up soon, some of us already did.
And now everybody just gave up the idea.
king wappa same
Thank you so much! I have just been invited to play by some of my friends in theater and I didn't really know much and am really glad that your video existed and that you could explain the basics to me.
Thanks a lot for the awesome video! I became very interested in D&D because of Stranger Things and Ready Player One. Can't wait to find a welcoming group in my city :)
Also take a look at the online resource roll20 if finding a local group presents an issue.
Yes that got me into this too
I've been invited by a classmate and while I'm still nervous about meeting all his friends this video has me exited for the game. Thank you :)
I need friends :(
lol same
I’ll accept you as a friend come play dnd with me
Internet Explorer 2.0 same
Happi Fix same :(
Where u stay homie i got no friends either
I just picked up a starter pack and I appreciate how welcoming you are. It's very intimidating but I'm very excited to play now. Thanks again.
i really love playing d&d with my friends!! we don't take it seriously at all though, all our characters are named after swears and "Bitch" keeps shooting goblins in the ass. it's a shit storm but i love it!!
Shit must have been the spellcaster then
Kudos sir, i've been playing since 1977, and even I learned something here. I've shared your words of wisdom.
Much appreciated Matt! Bought a very special house about 13 years ago. Without knowing it turned out to be the house where Gary Gygax lived and created D&D. I love the role playing community and will one day soon play D&D for the first time! See my new FB page: Center Street Dungeon: Ground Zero of Role Playing
I played D&D for the first time last night. I was the DM, and HOLY COW, that was a lot to take in!
I'm going to learn all I can for the next meet up. Thanks for the encouraging video, Matthew.
First of all, you have an amazing voice.
Secondly, I learned a new word today. "Wang Rod"
Lastly, thank you for a very informative video. I will have to check out your books as well when I am done with my current read. Thanks!
I have to say thank you! My friend just invited me to play D&D for the first time. I have to say this video has made me feel like i can take this game with an open mind. I have always wanted to play this game! so thank you so much !
I'm here from The Adventure Zone,
man I want friends who play this game.
Look up gaming stores nearby on Google and stop in at one. Talk with the people there. If they just have shelves and videos, they probably won;t be able to help much. If they have a space set aside with tables, that's the place. And if you don't have any luck with stores or friends look up Roll20.net. That's an online gaming service where you can find D&D, Pathfinder, and many other games. You can find D&D (based on several different editions), Star Wars, Star Trek, and lots of others. I run a game there based on the Arduin Grimoires (if interested i can explain in more detail). The first adventure in my campaign is called Rescue at Poenari and i have room for several more players. Wherever you look i'm sure you'll be able to find a game and most are willing to take in new players who are interested and excited.
Matt, you rock my socks! You have the best explanations of D&D and this video is my favorite. I’ve shown this video to countless friends and they have joined my campaigns. Keep doing what you do! I just subscribed!
This is the best video for starters I've ever seen.
I almost always share this video to people who want to play but have no idea what to expect, it almost always helps and is awesome for new players to understand the game! Great video, thank you coville
Edit: Is it okay to play online with friends? Like over skype? Does it detract from the game at all versus playing irl together?
You are fantastic at speaking and presenting, explaining, etc... I got invited recently, though we won't start playing for a month or two. I was already very excited, but didn't know what to expect at all. This video really helped me a lot and I'll probably check it out at least one more time as a refresher before starting. Thanks for taking the time to do it!
PS - I now really want to play DnD with you. You seem like a lot of fun :P
Although it's better to be around friends and feeling the dice rolling on the table, playing online can give you the same experience if everyone is cooperating, there is also "Roll20" a site that gives you all the tools to run the game you want to play
wish you luck and have fun!
Hey, thank you so much for the reply. I'm really itching to play it now haha. The next month or so will be tough. But I have time to check it out and learn about it so my first adventure will be a little better. Less slowed down from explaining and such. :)
To elaborate on what Mauricio says, I use roll20 to run a gaming group, but it's also with a group of friends so we use skype, meaning that we still see and hear each other. Roll20 also has a Voice+Video option you can use. The only real loss is the feel of dice in your hands and directional hearing making the party speaking at once all kinds of problematic.
Thank you! I just learned about roll20, so was wondering if it stacks up to the real thing. I'm excited :)
It can with a little work, but like D&D in any setting, what really makes it is the players. You get a good group and you won't mind too much if it's online or in person.
I have shared this video with at least three new and potential players. I feel you put it together really well and hearing it from somebody other than myself, I feel, is incredibly helpful.
Best player academy in the world: toilet
Runner up for best player academy in the world: Matt Coleville’s UA-cam channel
This was sooo informative. A group of friends and I want to get a D&D group together, but not one of us has ever played. I will recommend this video to them!
I’m pretty sure wangrod is my new favorite word.
This is honestly the best comprehensive explanation of D&D I've ever heard in 4 decades.
I always tell new players creating a character to think of archetypal characters in pop culture. It's helps solidify most aspects. I had a girl that wanted to be ash from evil dead. I was like he'll yes! She was a ranger with an undead favored class missing one hand but had a sword that detached from her stub. If you look at a specific characters in fiction you can always use this as a base generalization. Even guile from street fighter would be a sick archetype for a fightee
Wow. What a fantastic video. I'm just about to DM for my first time for a group that has never played before. This is everything I wanted them to understand about the idea of the game all rolled into one.
Fantastic video. I bet you are a great DM.
As someone who's literally about to play D'n'D for the first time this weekend, this was the most best intro video I've seen. You've changed my mood from mildly anxious to genuinely excited! Thanks a bunch! Also, took note of "wang-rod", hah!
Hobbits farm that dank pipeweed, son!
I've been playing D&D for quite a while, but everything you say is always a useful reminder. Thank you for making videos!
I'm watching this becuase I heard of d and d and want to try it
Blazingwolf124 me too
You should absolutely try it. Or maybe you could sit in on a session to watch before diving in. Depends on what you wanna do. No matter what, i recommend you act.
Ok, so when I was in 5th grade, oh about uh....40 years ago.. the teacher had a hobby day and let some kids play D&D in the classroom. I asked if I could play, they said yes, then I sat down and said "how do I play?". They all looked at me confused and said "we can't teach you... it's too much to explain". Rejected I went home and started painting metal figurines, and collecting D&D books for the artwork, but never found anyone to play with or learned how to play. Now I have kids and I have a D&D player handbook but still no idea how to really play a game other than rolling dice during combat to determine success based on stats. Your video was SO INCREDIBLY HELPFUL! You answered all of my questions about what a game is actually like. I know it's a lot of work to make a video like this, so I wanted to let you know how much I appreciate it. Thank you! Also, you should do some audobook recordings for Librevox, maybe Herman Melville. Your voice is perfect.
Great video...... btw you look like Hagrid
well I'm glad we sorted that out.
Matthew Colville HAHAH
Cheyenne Zeamer omg he does 😂😂
You're a wizard harry.
I keep thinking he looks like a bearded Bruce Campbell. I think it's the hair.
This was an absolutely inspiring video. I'm starting my first game with some friends and co-workers next week and I'm soooo excited! I was nervous as well and this helped a lot. Thanks for such a great video!
dude you are so awesome
No you're awesome!
Three weeks after this video came out, I started my first campaign as a player. Since then I’ve been playing on and off with multiple groups. I didn’t see it at the time, but I wish I had - it really does lay things out perfectly!
I already play mtg, and after watching this video I will start playing d&d too.
I have watched these videos ever since I started playing the game in 2017. Now, in the spring of 2023, I have become a DM for my workplace's D&D group.
"Overwatch team of all junkrats"
Ayye throwback to when Overwatch wasn't garbage.
Wonderful. I will be using this as an introduction for all of my new players. Well done
Now I want to make a thief with a greatsword
lol
Gobul The Gobbler Kinda strange for a thief......but I made a Tiefling Rogue last night, so I'm one to talk! XD
Hey, when you steal a magic sword...well, you might as well use it! Especially when you figure out the sword is too cool (and, importantly, famous) to fence.
You have such a great speaking voice. Like when I was little and my teacher used to make us put our heads down and she'd put on a random audiobook you sound like that but in a really good way.
I'm looking into d&d, I've never played it, but, I have played more than my fair share of skyrim, dark souls, ect. do the classes pretty much have the same strengths and weaknesses? thanks, that is, if anyone answers.
Yeak kinda
Because you've played those RPG's you'll have a better understanding of how the classes work opposed to someone who might not play video games at all. D&D is a vastly open game that can allow you to create a character concept you have in mind. The idea behind knights, warriors, and cavaliers can be summed up very simply to be some kind of Fighter class that all use Strength in some way. Keep in mind though, there is no one true way to play a class or multiple classes "Multi-Class". You could just as easily make a Dexterity oriented Fighter that uses a Bow, or even uses two light weapons (a favorite of my players).
Spell casting characters usually have a main ability score they use to cast their spells: Intelligence for Wizards, Wisdom for Clerics, Druids, and Rangers, and Charisma for Bards, Sorcerers, Warlocks, and Paladins. All of the different classes have some sort of saving throw proficiency so they are better against certain effects.
In general, your main defense is going to be your Armor Class or "AC" for short. Some melee characters have better armor class because of the sheer amount of armor they wear, and some characters will have a high AC because they have a high Dexterity so they dodge attacks without Heavy Armor. AC and Saving Throws are your defenses in the game.
+Derryl Castle thanks, you don't know how much this has helped, especially since I can't afford the rulebook.
Look up the rules
I'm preparing to DM for the first time in my life. I'm so excited (and absolutely terrified!). The players that I'll have are my husband (our usual DM) and a set of 3 brothers, one of which has played twice before (with me) in one of my husband's games, and two who have never played before. I'm sending them to this video to help get them ready. I found it an excellent introduction to this madness that is D&D. Thank you so much for all your amazing instruction! (OH, I also picked up your 2 books from Amazon so, yeah. Can't wait to start reading!)
I came here from the show Stranger Things.
Yup, same story here.
Same
How did stranger things bring you here? So curious how that went xD Welcome btw!!!
BlackMoridin Thanks! Well, the protagonists played D&D and they seemed to enjoy themselfs. So I was like 'hey, I want to do this too.'
Gabriël Smit
Well have fun, if you can't find people to play with, you can always try Roll20.net (it's a online dnd thing)
This was very informative and so entertaining to hear. We've just started playing but I wanted to get some more insight into the whole thing. I'm going to watch more videos. Thank you.
Maybe I'm the odd one out, but I've really never seen dice borrowing to be an issue if I'm DM. I could see it being annoying if there's only one set, or if their attitude is particularly entitled in some way, but eh... I find it a tad oversensitive. To each their own, though!
It's not about borrowing dice, or borrowing a pencil. It's about showing up with nothing and just expecting everyone else at the table to supply what you need. That's an abusive way to think and behave. It's disrespectful.
+Matthew Colville I agree about not mooching, but I'm fine with players bringing snacks to share while borrowing dice *if* the lender indicated they have dice to spare.
The first couple of times - ok. After that - they really should have their own. (Ditto at least for a Players Handbook)
Did this guy seriously just suggest keeping your PHB in the water closet?
...I like this guy.
Thank you for your explanation. I thought A while about getting into D&D because I love good storys and Play a lot of RPGs. It Sounds like a lot of fun! It is difficult to know what you need though. Like you said: the rule book and the character sheets, but what about all the other stuff? Like the board games etc?
hey mathew colville ive been watching your videos for about half a year now and its been a long time since i wanted to be a DM but my friends had those great stories and i was afraid they wouldnt like me dming but boy was i wrong they seem to be loving it. also although it takes hours (i havent even finished yet but a 4 rooms dungeon just took me 8 hours to make today) but making your own stuff is really rewarding. i cant express enough how im thankfull to you.
where do you find people who play? I don't know anyone.
Isaac Swiftlink try meet up
Isaac Swiftlink Check out roll 20
You could also try a local game store. I guarantee there's someplace nearby that sells dnd stuff, comics, mtg cards, etc. If you talk to the people there, you're bound to get in touch with someone.
In 30 years of role playing this is the best explanation for beginner's I have seen. All valid points. Oh, and yes, like everyone else I like your voice.
My friend is a gnome who is very intelligent but lacks common sense but one time the party spotted a pressure plate and he says he steps on it because that's what his character would do and then in combat he didn't attack he said he hides because his character is a coward do I allow this or tell him to stop?
Not sure how into the actual roleplay of it all your group is, but often times I find that things like this can be adressed in character. If your character has a problem with it, engage in that thread of roleplay.
+elfvendeath thanks he doesn't even role play he just says he does it?
Saying that he does something is in part role-playing. However, if what he's doing is a problem for the party (i.e. the trap set off an alarm or got someone else injured, his attacks in combat could have saved the health of other party members and made the combat shorter) either:
Speak to the player out of character and explain that while it might be in-character for the gnome, he is part of a party and D&D is a group experience, so perhaps he could help out more in some way. This could be him having more out-of-combat skills that could come in handy, or perhaps a wizard and such favouring defensive spells if he's a coward, so on and so forth.
OR
Speak to the character, in-game, during the story. Have the carelessness and cowardice come up in the party and try to coax the character into being more involved in combat or thoughful out of it (or alternatively having the character pay attention to what's going on and ask for plans from the other party members.
+Therix yeh I agree we've. Got a new campaign with new characters but his character still exist in this universe hard to explain and he is now a wizard what school would be besy
+DiceGamer If he still wants to go the route of a non-damaging character then I would recommend illusion, abjuration or conjuration. The former two are good for misdirection and defence, while conjuration can in some cases be used to summon creatures to fight for you.
This has been the best intro video to D&D I've seen so far. Thanks for taking the time. I may just give it a go now.
"D&D, the most fun you can have without risking to be sued for child support. In fact by playing D&D you virtually ensure that nobody will ever sue you for child support, ever."
Wow that was so great - I was searching around UA-cam trying to find a good new players advice and had almost given up when I found yours!
I had my first game last weekend, I loved it, but walked away still feeling unsure how to engage in the game more. This made total sense! Thank you!
I was told about it and my dad played so I got interested and found dis.
Sent this to a prospective player, thank you so much for this. This is an amazing resource to give people!