By , a Strategist writer covering décor, gardening, and garment care. They previously worked as an editor at Garage magazine.Output: By , a Strategist writer who specializes in décor, gardening, and clothing maintenance. They formerly worked as an editor at Garage magazine.
Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Images: Merchants.
Over the past few years, my little corner of the world has undergone a remarkable transformation, all thanks to the influence of mysterious and enchanting powers: an increasing number of my companions have delved into the captivating realm of Dungeons & Dragons. Initially, my knowledge of D&D was limited to its reputation as a mathematically intricate tabletop game, originating in 1974, with a fanbase predominantly consisting of white, male, and nerdy individuals. While I was not entirely disinterested, I never anticipated becoming captivated or finding it instinctively appealing. However, as I listened to countless tales of mythical creatures and divine realms, my curiosity eventually got the better of me. Just after a single session, I found myself utterly enthralled. Admittedly, it took me quite some time to fully grasp and internalize all the rules—I have only recently mastered the proper utilization of my rogue’s unique abilities. Nevertheless, amidst the lengthy and isolating winter imposed by the COVID pandemic, engaging in this imaginative world provided a well-deserved excuse to create a character, don a wig (although not mandatory, it certainly added an element of enjoyment), roll some dice, and uncover astonishing facets of my companions’ personalities.
If you’re in search of a gift for a D&D player (or even for yourself), here’s some exciting news: the game actually requires less equipment than anticipated, although there’s always room for additions. While some players may lug around a “backpack filled with role-playing gear,” as mentioned by Anthony Burch, co-host of the popular Dungeons and Daddies podcast, the game’s allure lies in its concise list of essentials. According to Brennan Lee Mulligan, the mastermind behind the show Dimension 20 and the dungeon master (often abbreviated as “DM”), all you truly need to enjoy D&D is a means to record character information and a set of dice. “With just dice, a pencil, and some paper, you can dive into this game.”
Our team had the pleasure of interviewing a diverse group of 16 passionate D&D enthusiasts. This exceptional group included podcasters, skilled tabletop role-players, talented actors, and even the close friends who introduced me to this captivating game. During our discussions, we delved into the realm of gift recommendations suitable for individuals ranging from novice level-one bards to the mighty level-20 multi-class sorcerer-barbarians.
The guidebook and a beginner package they will need to begin (if they do not have a friend who serves as the Dungeon Master).
Photo: Retailer.
Almost everyone we interviewed highly recommended acquiring a physical copy of the Player’s Handbook (PHB), which is the beautifully illustrated rule book for players in the game. (Additional core books like the Dungeon Master’s Guide and the Monster Manual are essential for DMs.) According to professional DM Satine Phoenix, it serves as not only a guide to the rules of the game and creating your first character, but also as a crucial reference for spells, combat, skills, and equipment. Ally Beardsley, a member of the Dimension 20 cast, values its tactile nature, stating that it’s a wonderful feeling to play D&D without the distraction of phones or electronics, and the PHB greatly enhances that experience. James Melo, who has served as the DM for most of the campaigns I’ve participated in, fondly recalls the nostalgic memories of playing Dungeons & Dragons in the basement of a hobby shop in his neighborhood, sometimes battling orcs until the early hours of the morning. Mulligan specifically recommends the PHB for younger players, as it provides them with captivating books to immerse themselves in.
The book’s background information proves valuable even to seasoned players. Lou Wilson, a member of the Dimension 20 cast, credits the PHB for enhancing his skills as a DM, enabling him to improvise by comprehending the essence of paladins and seamlessly incorporating players’ character choices into the game. While a digital version of the handbook is available on D&D Beyond, the physical copy adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Wilson also highlights the charming aspect of flipping through pages to find answers, which aligns perfectly with the D&D experience. “It truly captures the essence of the game, as if saying, ‘Ah, a question arises? Let us consult the sacred tomes!'”
If you find yourself engaged in a game with fellow novices, Melo suggests opting for the D&D Essentials Kit. According to him, this all-inclusive package provides all the necessary rules for a prolonged stretch of gameplay, eliminating the need for additional materials or the presence of an experienced dungeon master.
“Dice, the ultimate treasure of the D&D realm, hold an unparalleled allure,” muses Mulligan. With an unwavering conviction, he unveils his four commanding principles for identifying exceptional dice: clarity, visual delight, the enigmatic “rollfeel” (a novel term akin to the sensory experience of wine), and an impeccable track record of performance. Inquiring with fervor, he ponders, “Shall these dice prove their loyalty, or shall they betray us in our quest?”
Photo: Retailer.
You can easily discover pocket-friendly Chessex dice at almost every game store in the United States — this brand has been producing dice since the 1980s. Beardsley, a self-proclaimed “Chessex-head,” shares, “While some may opt for extravagantly expensive dice to amplify their joy, I personally lean towards the economical dice.” Beardsley has generously gifted these mesmerizing pink dice with delightful swirl patterns to numerous acquaintances, aiming to spark their interest in Dungeons & Dragons. Describing them as “the epitome of beauty, surpassing anything I have ever laid my eyes upon.”
Krystina Arielle, a skilled player of tabletop role-playing games, highly recommends the dice offered by Dice Envy. Among their impressive collection, she has a special fondness for their exquisite pink-and-gold set. When it comes to dice, she values their substantial weight as it adds to the excitement of her rolls. Flimsy dice are simply not her cup of tea, and fortunately, Dice Envy does not disappoint in this regard.
Photo: Retailer.
According to Meghan Kelly, the remarkable individual who initially introduced me to the captivating world of Dungeons & Dragons and proudly possesses an impressive collection of approximately four pounds of dice, this opalite set offers a delightful combination of visual appeal and readability. “I genuinely value their crystal-clear clarity when it comes to reading,” they express.
According to Phoenix, it would be wise to invest in a gaming set that can endure your legendary gaming marathons while also impressing others at the gaming table.
Photo: Retailer.
“We’re a group of grown-ups, so naturally, we take pride in our elegant dining tables that we want to keep in pristine condition,” suggests actor Ify Nwadiwe. He enthusiastically endorses Wyrmwood’s dice trays, which are like luxurious runways for your dice rolls, with their exquisite felt or leather lining. Wyrmwood is widely recognized as the Le Creuset of D&D accessories, a renowned brand that everyone we interviewed couldn’t stop raving about. Mulligan, for instance, has delighted his family with thoughtful gifts from Wyrmwood, while Beardsley can’t help but gush about their rolling tray, dubbing it as the epitome of sophistication.”
Photo: Retailer.
Kelly suggests that before diving into a luxurious dice tray, newcomers should consider getting a dice bag as a practical and budget-friendly option “while you’re still exploring your preferences and setting.” A dice bag may not be as fancy as other dice accessories, but it is portable, cost-effective, and can serve as a secondary storage solution once you upgrade to a dice vault. Kelly particularly recommends the versatile eight-pocket bag from WanderingHare, which can be expanded and has a convenient rolling space at its center.
There exists a plethora of vintage D&D presents that exude an old-school charm, ranging from a gateway to the wondrous realm of miniature-painting to a specialized notebook tailored for documenting crucial details of your epic campaign.
“Nwadiwe advises that as you embark on your campaign, an abundance of information will be hurled at you and your comrades. To ensure that you have all this valuable knowledge readily available, proper documentation is crucial,” suggests Nwadiwe. He suggests maintaining a record in a notebook, emphasizing that it not only helps you remain engrossed in the narrative, detached from your phone, but also prevents drowsiness from creeping in as your wizard painstakingly deliberates which spell to employ.”
Field Notes, the creator of our beloved planners, also offers specialized gaming journals tailored specifically for D&D enthusiasts. The player edition boasts dedicated sections for character statistics, an intricate spell-casting table, and a comprehensive log to document your exhilarating gaming sessions. “This remarkable tool not only elevates your role-playing prowess but also ensures that you seize every meticulously crafted clue expertly planted by the DM,” exclaimed Jasper William Cartwright, esteemed co-host of the renowned Three Black Halflings podcast.
Immersed in the realm of D&D fandom, painting minis (adorable miniature figurines embodying characters) holds a monumental significance. To embark on this artistic journey, indulge in the wonders of this all-inclusive introductory set. Within its confines lie ten vibrant paints and a blank canvas of a mini yearning for life. WizKids, the esteemed games company, graciously orchestrates enchanting paint nights, both in-person and virtual, centered around this very kit. Here, you can find solace in the camaraderie of fellow hobbyists, as they join you in painting this miniature masterpiece, guiding you every step of the way, as recounted by the esteemed Melo.
Melo adores Counterspell Miniatures by 1985 Games, a brand that captures his heart with its exquisite resin and captivating sculpts. However, Mulligan advises caution and suggests consulting your DM before splurging on a multitude of minis. Some dungeon masters prefer the theater of the mind approach, rendering them unnecessary. Nevertheless, possessing a mini can be an incredible experience, as it becomes a cherished totem for the owner.
If you lack minis, Melo suggests using a bag of gummy bears as stand-ins for characters. “That’s the marvelous aspect of Dungeons & Dragons: You have the option to delve into intricate, highly realistic physical representations if you desire. However, it’s just as enjoyable to say, ‘You stumble upon a group of goblins who are tormenting a merchant,'” he explains. The crimson gummy bears signify the goblins, the verdant one represents the merchant, and these five azure ones symbolize all of you.” An added bonus is that “when you vanquish the villains, you are rewarded with the pleasure of devouring a gummy bear.”
Wilson’s childhood memories of playing D&D are intertwined with this remarkable vinyl battle map. A versatile masterpiece, it can be flipped over and adorned with a wet-erase marker, transforming it into a canvas for countless captivating combat scenarios.
In my very first IRL Dungeons & Dragons game, Melo surprised us all by revealing these enchanting rings gifted by Kelly. I instantly fell in love with them, as they not only added a vibrant touch but also served as a useful tool to keep track of various conditions affecting our characters. From blessings to poison, or even intense spell concentration, these rings served as a constant visual reminder, sparing us the struggle of remembering every detail.
According to Beardsley, spell cards are a “marvelous discovery that came to my attention much later than it should have.” For those engaging in traditional pen-and-paper D&D, acquiring a set of spell cards proves to be a time-saving marvel, simplifying the task of spell preparation and facilitating the decision-making process. It is crucial, however, to select the pack that aligns with the character’s specific class. (Even though D&D Beyond offers the same information for those playing on a computer or tablet, there is an undeniable satisfaction in physically handing a card to the Dungeon Master while vividly describing how your fireball obliterates their icy elemental.)
“I won’t be the one dictating how you should lead your life, but imagine this: without a whimsical, hat that perfectly reflects your personality, how will others truly perceive your commitment?” Questioned Justin McElroy, the co-host of The Adventure Zone podcast alongside his brothers and father. (He sported a hat resembling a “conservative futuristic country star named Pepsi Liberty” during one of their entertaining sessions.)
Dungeons & Dragons can be a tabletop game, but many players claim that the proper technology can truly enhance a gaming session.
Burch explains that in ancient times, individuals relied on the traditional method of paper and pencils to monitor their character sheets. However, he now suggests embracing modern technology by utilizing a form-fillable PDF and a tablet. He acknowledges that some may taunt you for not using physical dice, but he dismisses their opinions, suggesting that they are simply envious of your futuristic cyberpunk lifestyle, while they remain stuck inhaling eraser fumes.
Many of the D&D players who serve as game masters emphasized the significance of music in crafting a captivating experience for novice players. Mulligan and Wilson suggest utilizing a portable Bluetooth speaker, with Wilson particularly praising the Wonderboom as an exceptional choice. Additionally, he highlights that Zoom and the D&D platform Roll20 enable the seamless streaming of music to players, proving to be advantageous for games during the pandemic. According to Wilson, “When individuals are physically apart, the inclusion of music aids in constructing the ambiance and realm.”
Inspired by Dimension 20, Beardsley suggests incorporating Phillips Hue bulbs into your home D&D game to enhance the experience. “Imagine the moment when you declare ‘Roll initiative’ and all the lights instantly transform into a vibrant shade of red. It’s absolutely captivating and exhilarating.”
Cartwright excitedly shared with us the wonders of Hero Forge, a remarkable company specializing in the creation of 3-D-printed miniatures. According to him, this innovative company grants you the power to transform your wildest imagination into tangible reality, manifested as a delightful 3-D-printable miniature. If you possess a 3-D printer of your own, you have the option to download the necessary code. Alternatively, Hero Forge graciously offers to print and deliver your masterpiece to your doorstep. Wilson, too, expressed his admiration for this company by presenting Hero Forge minis as enchanting Christmas gifts to the players in his Dungeon Master’s game.
Online, a treasure trove of Dungeons & Dragons awaits, beckoning adventurers with its vast array of content. To navigate this vast expanse and find exactly what you seek – be it intricate maps, elusive Druid classes, or a seamless solution to unite players from afar – a subscription is your expedited key.
Photo: Retailer.
According to the majority of D&D players we interviewed, D&D Beyond is highly recommended as the official online platform for the game. Personally, I utilize the free version that allows me to create up to six characters and access game content online without any cost. However, for only $3 per month, a subscription offers unlimited character slots, additional content, and features such as home-brewed systems created by fellow players. Phoenix reveals that she uses D&D Beyond on a daily basis, multiple times throughout the day, while Cartwright describes it as the ultimate tool for running a campaign. Arielle appreciates the site’s remarkably user-friendly character builder, a sentiment I share as a newcomer. Jake Hurwitz, a co-host of Not Another D&D Podcast, praises its ability to streamline the process of keeping track of everything.
Roll20, the beloved choice by consensus, is an innovative online platform designed for the seamless facilitation of D&D games from a distance. According to McElroy, if you find yourself engaging in virtual gameplay with friends from different locales or even different neighborhoods, Roll20 proves itself as an invaluable tool in effortlessly managing every aspect of your game, regardless of the geographical divide. Cartwright praises the platform for its multitude of features such as dice rollers, character sheets, chat capabilities, and a unique mapping system called Fog of War, which enables players to conceal certain areas of the map from others. Although the initial array of features on Roll20 may seem overwhelming, Wilson assures that once you immerse yourself in its functionalities, the experience becomes truly awe-inspiring.
Photo: Retailer.
Wilson expresses that his passion for D&D revolves around engagement and immersion. To enhance his campaigns, he relies on the mapmaking platform called Inkarnate. According to Wilson, having a meticulously crafted map adds a tangible element to the game, which he believes greatly benefits the players. While a subscription to Inkarnate starts at $5 per month or $25 per year, Wilson also praises the free service for its quality.
D&D serves as a gateway into the vast realm of tabletop RPGs, brimming with immersive and inventive game mechanics that are often easier to grasp.
Photo: Retailer.
Burch claims that Fate is an incredibly versatile RPG system that can be applied to any conceivable setting and narrative. As an example, they recall a successful Space Jam campaign that they personally ran using the Fate system. Meanwhile, Kelly suggests an accessibility toolkit specifically tailored for Fate, which addresses the needs of both disabled players and disabled characters. This invaluable resource is highly recommended, regardless of the RPG system being utilized.
In the realm of gaming, McElroy highlights The Quiet Year, an immersive gaming system that delves into the aftermath of a collapse or cataclysm, allowing players to shape the destiny of a community. This captivating system served as the foundation for crafting an enthralling backstory in the ongoing season of The Adventure Zone. For those intrigued, this remarkable experience awaits in the form of a downloadable PDF priced at $8 or an enchanting and evocative set valued at $51.
[Editor’s note: The physical collection is currently unavailable until January, but the PDF version is still accessible.]
If combat-focused systems such as D&D represent a foundational aspect of the role-playing community, dating simulators stand as another integral component. Kelly brought up Monsterhearts 2, an intriguing blend of eerie teenage romance and supernatural transformation, where one’s identity intertwines with that of a werewolf. In this game, the simple act of sharing a kiss with your friends takes center stage, mirroring Kelly’s personal aspirations within the realm of D&D. For those interested, Monsterhearts 2 can be acquired as a PDF starting at $10 or as a physical book starting at $25.
Photo: Retailer.
Beardsley is an ardent admirer of Kids on Bikes, a gaming system that employs the majority of polyhedral dice found in D&D but customizes rolls to align more precisely with the abilities and vulnerabilities of characters. “I am truly captivated by the entire game structure, and the book has been crafted in such a remarkable and effortlessly intuitive manner for character creation,” they express.
Photo: Retailer.
Mulligan characterizes Wickedness as an “astonishingly profound game,” where a tarot deck replaces dice. In this immersive experience, players embody a coven of witches, confronting the trials of a wondrous realm they collectively shape. Unlike D&D, it boasts a lighter rule system, making it ideal for those who desire a tabletop role-playing encounter that fosters a deep connection with their character while granting greater influence over the game’s universe and backdrop.
Daniel Varghese provided the report.
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