From Joystick to Dice
Play Skyrim or Baldur's Gate? This is RPG without programming limits.
Why Video Gamers Love TTRPGs
| Aspect | Video Game RPG | Tabletop Game |
|---|---|---|
| Dialogue Options | Predefined dialogue options | Say ANYTHING you want |
| Actions | Limited action buttons | Describe EXACTLY how you fight |
| NPCs | NPCs with programmed responses | DM adapts NPCs to YOUR actions |
| Limitations | Limited by code | Limited only by imagination |
| Story Paths | Predefined paths | DM adapts story to YOUR decisions |
| Team Play | Solo or co-op with fixed roles | True collaboration and group strategy |
It's like Baldur's Gate 3, but the DM can do what no programmer can: surprise you infinitely.
Your Skills Already Apply
- ✅Character builds: Same concepts (STR, DEX, INT, etc.). If you understand stats, you know the basics.
- ✅Tactical thinking: Essential in combat. Using terrain, combos, positioning matters MORE here.
- ✅Quest logic: "Talk to NPC, get objective, reward" works the same.
- ✅Exploration: Search for secrets, traps, loot. Same, but more creative (you can try ANYTHING).
- ✅Boss fights: More dynamic. DM responds to YOUR tactics in real time, not fixed code.
Your RPG experience is an ADVANTAGE. You understand mechanics that complete beginners take time to learn.
Combat Explained
| Skyrim/Baldur's Gate | Tabletop Game | |
|---|---|---|
| Click "Attack" | Roll die (d20) + attack modifier | |
| Equip better sword | Declare how you attack: "I strike his legs to knock him down" | |
| Enemy AI reacts | DM narrates enemy reaction: "He staggers, tries to counterattack" | |
| Use special ability | Describe your ability: "I cast fireball at the group of enemies" | |
| Damage calculated automatically | Roll damage dice (example: 2d6+3), sum total |
Your tactical decisions matter MORE because you're not limited by programmed options.
DM: "Three goblins surround you in a narrow cave. What do you do?"
In video game: Click enemy → Attack → Repeat
At the table: You can say things like:
- "I throw a torch at the oil puddle between them to create fire"
- "I try to intimidate them by shouting as if I have reinforcements coming"
- "I attack the leader first to scare the others"
- "I hide behind a rock and wait for them to approach"
The DM can say "yes, try it" to ANY of these ideas.
Roleplay is Optional
Many players do minimal roleplay: "I convince the guard" (no acting required).
Tactical focus is valid: "I attack the weakest enemy" (perfectly acceptable).
Roleplay emerges naturally over time (no pressure).
DMs accommodate different playstyles.
Minimum RP ←―――――――――――――――――→ Maximum RP "I attack" "I charge and attack" [Voice] "For my honor!" ALL VALID. Choose where you feel comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find Tactical Sessions
Look for sessions with strategic combat, dungeon exploration, and DMs who welcome beginners.
View Sessions with Strategic Combat