Tabletop RPGs have been around for decades and although it can be daunting for new players, there are many beginner-friendly options available. Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition) is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly versions yet, with a streamlined rule system and pre-made character sheets. Pathfinder 2nd Edition has a more complex rule system, but it has a beginner box with everything you need to get started. Other beginner-friendly RPGs include Savage Worlds, Star Wars: Edge of the Empire, FATE Core, Apocalypse World, Monster of the Week, Call of Cthulhu, Blades in the Dark, and Kids on Bikes.
The Top 10 Best Tabletop RPGs for Beginners
Tabletop role-playing games (RPGs) have been around for decades, but it can be daunting to start playing if you’re new to the hobby. Luckily, there are many beginner-friendly RPGs on the market that are easy to learn and play. Here are the top 10 best tabletop RPGs for beginners.
1. Dungeons & Dragons (5th Edition)
No list of tabletop RPGs would be complete without mentioning Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), the granddaddy of all RPGs. The latest edition, 5th Edition, is one of the most beginner-friendly versions yet. It has a streamlined rule system, pre-made character sheets, and a plethora of resources for new DMs (Dungeon Masters).
2. Pathfinder 2nd Edition
Pathfinder 2nd Edition is another popular RPG that’s perfect for beginners. It has a more complex rule system than D&D, but it has a beginner box that includes everything you need to get started. It also has a vast amount of content, including pre-made adventures and character options.
3. Savage Worlds
Savage Worlds is a generic RPG system that can be used for any genre, from fantasy to sci-fi to horror. It’s simple to learn and uses a unique dice system that adds an element of unpredictability to the game. It also has a large community and plenty of pre-made content available.
4. Star Wars: Edge of the Empire
If you’re a fan of Star Wars, then Edge of the Empire is the RPG for you. It’s set in the Star Wars universe and uses its unique setting and mechanics to create a fun and immersive experience. It has a beginner box that includes everything you need to get started, including pre-made characters and adventures.
5. FATE Core
FATE Core is a narrative-focused RPG that emphasizes storytelling and character development. It has a unique mechanic that allows players to use their character’s aspects to influence the game. The rule system is simple to learn, and there are many pre-made settings and adventures available.
6. Apocalypse World
Apocalypse World is a post-apocalyptic RPG that’s designed to be easy to learn and play. It has a unique mechanic that allows players to shape the world as they play, making each game unique. It also has a strong focus on character development, with each player having their own set of unique abilities and skills.
7. Monster of the Week
Monster of the Week is an RPG that’s perfect for fans of supernatural and horror genres. It uses the Powered by the Apocalypse system and has a simple rule system that’s easy to learn. It also has a strong focus on investigation, with players taking on the role of hunters tasked with defeating monsters.
8. Call of Cthulhu
Call of Cthulhu is a horror RPG that’s based on the works of H.P. Lovecraft. It has a unique mechanic that measures a player’s sanity as they encounter cosmic horrors. It’s a more complex system than some of the others on this list, but it has a strong focus on player choice and exploration.
9. Blades in the Dark
Blades in the Dark is a unique RPG that’s set in a fantasy world with a Victorian-era aesthetic. It has a strong focus on heists and criminal activity, with players taking on the role of thieves and scoundrels. It has a simple rule system and a unique mechanic that measures each character’s stress level.
10. Kids on Bikes
Kids on Bikes is an RPG designed for younger players, but it’s also a great choice for beginners. It’s set in the 1980s and has a strong focus on nostalgia and exploration. It has a simple rule system and a unique mechanic that allows players to influence the story using a character’s relationships.
Conclusion
These are the top 10 best tabletop RPGs for beginners. Each one has a unique setting and rule system, but all are easy to learn and play. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, sci-fi, or horror, there’s an RPG on this list for you. So grab your friends, roll some dice, and start your adventure!