5 Tips for Finding Tabletop Communities Online
Looking to join a tabletop gaming community online? Here’s how you can find the perfect group to share your passion for games, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player.
Quick Tips:
- Use Social Media: Check out Reddit, Discord, Facebook, and Twitter for active gaming groups and discussions.
- Explore Online Platforms: Try Board Game Arena, Tabletopia, or Happy Meeple to connect and play with others.
- Visit Gaming Forums: Dive into BoardGameGeek or RPG forums for in-depth conversations and group matches.
- Join Online Events: Participate in digital conventions or Meetup groups for live gaming sessions.
- Check Game Store Communities: Many online game stores host forums and events to connect players.
These strategies make it easy to find like-minded players and enjoy tabletop games anytime, anywhere. Ready to roll the dice? Let’s get started!
How to Find a D&D Group to Play With
1. Use Social Media to Find Players
Social media is a powerful tool for connecting tabletop gamers and discovering new opportunities to play.
1.1 Reddit Groups
Reddit is home to thriving tabletop gaming communities. For instance, r/boardgames is a go-to hub for discussions, game suggestions, and event updates. Meanwhile, r/BoardGameExchange focuses on buying, selling, and trading games.
Reddit Features | What You’ll Find |
---|---|
Discussion Threads | Game reviews, strategies, and polls |
Weekly Megathreads | Posts on topics like game recommendations |
Local Meetup Posts | Find players near you |
Trade Discussions | Buy, sell, or trade games with others |
1.2 Discord Channels
Discord simplifies connecting with players through real-time chat and voice tools. The BoardGameGeek Discord server is particularly useful, offering dedicated channels for various games and interests.
Here’s what makes Discord great for gaming:
- Real-time voice and video chat
- Automated dice rollers for gameplay
- Event scheduling to organize sessions
- Channels tailored to specific game genres
1.3 Facebook and Twitter Communities
Facebook and Twitter are also excellent platforms for finding players. For instance, the Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition Facebook group boasts over 180,000 members, making it a rich resource for enthusiasts.
On Twitter, hashtags like #tabletopgaming and #boardgames keep you updated on events and discussions, helping you connect with like-minded players.
When diving into these communities:
- Follow group rules, participate in discussions, and share your experiences.
Social media is a great starting point before moving on to specialized gaming platforms.
2. Try Online Gaming Platforms
Online gaming platforms make it easy for tabletop fans to connect, find players, and start games quickly. Here’s a look at three popular platforms, each offering something different for players.
2.1 Board Game Arena
Board Game Arena is packed with options. With a library of over 698 licensed board games and a massive community of 9+ million players, you’ll never struggle to find someone to play with. Popular games like Ark Nova, Wingspan, and Ticket to Ride are just a few clicks away.
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Game Library | 698+ licensed board games |
Player Base | 9+ million active users |
Popular Games | Ark Nova, Wingspan, Ticket to Ride |
Social Options | Chat, matchmaking, events |
2.2 Tabletopia
Tabletopia works seamlessly across platforms. You can play directly in your web browser or download apps from Steam, the App Store, or Google Play. Its design ensures smooth gameplay no matter how you choose to access it.
2.3 Happy Meeple
Happy Meeple is perfect for beginners. It eases new players into online tabletop gaming with a step-by-step system. Before diving into live matches, players must complete tutorials and face off against computer opponents.
Here’s what makes Happy Meeple beginner-friendly:
- Tutorials for every game are required.
- You start by playing against computer opponents.
- A community forum is available for discussions and tips.
Whether you’re looking for a large game library, cross-platform play, or a beginner-friendly experience, these platforms offer great ways to enjoy tabletop games online.
3. Check Gaming Forums
Gaming forums are treasure troves for detailed discussions and a great way to connect with fellow tabletop gaming enthusiasts. Unlike social media, these platforms focus on in-depth conversations and niche topics, making them perfect for diving deeper into the world of tabletop games.
3.1 BoardGameGeek Community
BoardGameGeek (BGG) is a massive hub for board game fans, boasting over 4 million members. Its database includes information on more than 100,000 games, and each game has its own dedicated page for discussions. Whether you're looking for game rules, strategies, or just a chat, BGG has something for everyone.
Forum Category | What You’ll Find |
---|---|
Game Forums | Discussions on rules and strategies |
Regional Forums | Connect with local players |
Trading Zone | Swap and trade games with others |
General Gaming | Broader conversations and casual chats |
If you're into role-playing games (RPGs), there are forums specially designed for those as well.
3.2 RPG Discussion Boards
RPG forums are excellent for finding groups, sharing campaign ideas, and organizing sessions. Platforms like Roll20 have hosted millions of games, making it a go-to for virtual tabletop gaming.
Here are some popular RPG forums:
Platform | Focus Area | Active Users |
---|---|---|
Roll20 Forums | Virtual tabletop gaming | 150,000+ |
RPGMatch | Group matching via surveys | 50,000+ |
r/LFG (Reddit) | Forming and finding groups | 150,000+ |
RPGMatch is particularly handy for finding players who share your interests, thanks to its survey-based matching system. Just remember to respect the community rules - building good connections starts with being a considerate participant.
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4. Join Online Events
Online events are a fantastic way to meet fellow tabletop gaming enthusiasts. From casual game nights to large-scale digital conventions, these events can help you connect with players from around the world.
4.1 Meetup Groups
Meetup.com is a great place to discover tabletop gaming communities. You can search for groups that match your interests, whether you're into local meetups that have shifted online or international groups with a variety of gaming styles. For instance, the "London On Board" group, boasting over 16,993 members, thrives by organizing regular online gaming sessions.
4.2 Digital Gaming Conventions
Digital gaming conventions bring tabletop gamers together in exciting new ways. These events often include game demos, tournaments, panels, and even social hangouts. Platforms like Tabletopia, Board Game Arena, and Discord are commonly used to host these conventions.
Before attending, make sure to check the tech requirements, browse the schedule, and join the event's online channels. Actively participating in sessions and Q&A discussions is a great way to meet other players and even connect with game designers.
5. Browse Game Store Communities
After diving into social media, gaming platforms, and forums, game store communities bring together shopping and meaningful conversations about games. They’re a great way to discover new titles while connecting with others who share your interests.
5.1 Brain Games
Brain Games specializes in board, tabletop, and strategy games, offering award-winning options for enthusiasts. While it’s primarily an online store, it stands out with perks like a 2-week exchange policy and lifetime replacement for components of its published games. These guarantees make trying out new games less of a gamble.
Many game stores also go beyond selling products by fostering a sense of community through forums and other interactive features.
5.2 Game Store Forums
Game store forums are designed to bring players together for discussions, reviews, and updates on events. Here’s what you’ll typically find:
Forum Feature | Community Benefits |
---|---|
Game-specific sections | Dive deep into discussions about specific titles |
Event Calendars | Stay informed about tournaments and conventions |
User Profiles | Connect with like-minded players |
When choosing a game store community, look for forums that offer:
- Active Moderation: Keeps conversations positive and productive.
- Regular Events: Virtual game nights, tournaments, and other activities.
- Gaming Platform Integration: Partnerships with online gaming services for a seamless experience.
- Strong Social Media Presence: Extends the community beyond the forum itself.
These forums offer a more focused experience than general social platforms, making it easier to connect with players, stay updated on events, and find your ideal tabletop gaming community.
Wrapping It Up
Connecting with a tabletop gaming community online has never been simpler. Platforms like Reddit, Board Game Arena, and Brain Games offer countless ways to meet and interact with fellow enthusiasts.
Online forums provide a great space for learning, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills. Dive into these forums or attend virtual events to find advice, share strategies, and enjoy engaging discussions with like-minded players.
Game stores also play a huge role in bringing tabletop gamers together. Beyond selling games, they foster a sense of community by hosting events, sharing updates, and helping players connect. These spaces are a treasure trove of resources for both beginners and seasoned players.
The key to making the most of these opportunities? Get involved. Start by joining one community, actively participate, and branch out as your confidence grows. The online gaming world keeps expanding, offering endless chances to form meaningful connections. Whatever your gaming style, your next great adventure is just a few clicks away.
Ready to roll the dice? Dive in and start connecting!
FAQs
Where can I meet people to play board games?
If you're looking to connect with others for board games, there are plenty of options available. StartPlaying, for instance, links over 20,000 players with professional Game Masters for structured roleplaying. Beyond that, here are some popular platforms and communities:
Platform Type | Examples | What They Offer |
---|---|---|
Social Media | Board Game Revolution Community, THE BOARDGAME GROUP | Find local players, discover events |
Gaming Forums | BoardGameGeek, r/boardgames, r/PrintedMinis | Game discussions, reviews, and advice |
Digital Platforms | Board Game Arena, Tabletopia, Happy Meeple | Play games online, meet new players |
Event Sites | London On Board, Singapore International Boardgames Meetup | Join local meetups and tournaments |
For in-person connections, check out local game stores or cafés. Many host regular game nights and tournaments, with schedules often shared on their social media pages.
No matter your preference - online or face-to-face - there’s a community out there that matches your play style!