Interested in learning to play Dungeons & Dragons? Or perhaps you played back in the '80s and would like to jump back into the hobby?
There are numerous places around Lancaster County where you can learn to play D&D or join a game if you're already familiar with the rules.
And if you're interested in the idea of tabletop role-playing games, but fantasy isn't your jam, there are plenty of other options.
Almost immediately after D&D was published, it spawned countless other RPGs in a wide variety of settings. From traditional fantasy to horror, science fiction to noir-ish mystery, grim darkness to slapstick comedy - there's an RPG out there for everyone.
Though you can start playing D&D with the basic set of rulebooks - which can be bought most places where books are sold - if you'd like to learn by joining a group or watching the game in action, your best bet is a local game shop.
Ask about in-store games for beginners, or if games for experienced players allow spectators. If there's a bulletin board, check it for games that might be happening at other locations, such as libraries or bookstores.
Jared Hans, of Lampeter, places mini-figures on to the table while the rest of the group prepares for the campaign inside the soon-to-be open The Midnight Oil, located on North Christian Street, on Friday, March 15, 2024.
There are plenty of digital options, too. Though gathering around a table is best, D&D can be played virtually, either over video-chat apps such as Zoom or through special "virtual tabletop" (VTT) sites such as Roll20.net.
Here are a few Lancaster County spots that can help you get started:
Farbo Co. and The Midnight Oil. Game shop and "general nerdary" Farbo Co. is a friendly, inclusive space with a gaming room and a regular schedule of D&D games for beginners and experts alike. Opening soon, boardgame cafe The Midnight Oil promises more of the same from owner Evan Farbo, along with late-night hours and a cozy atmosphere. (Farbo Co., 9 W. Grant St., Lancaster; 717-466-3487; farboco.com. The Midnight Oil, 44 N. Christian St., Ste. 100, Lancaster; instagram.com/themidnightoil.lancaster/.)
Lancaster Troll Market. This big shop isn't focused on games per se - the wares offered range from art to clothing to incense to vintage collectibles - but the whole place has a distinct D&D-adjacent vibe, and there's a large, medieval-decorated gaming room in the back that can be rented. There's also a regular schedule of D&D and other role-playing games you can join as a player. Beginners are welcome. (Lancaster Troll Market, 44 N. Queen St., suite 1004A, Lancaster; 717-945-7324; lancastertrollmarket.com.)
Six Feet Under Games. Unless you live in eastern Lancaster County, this gaming super-store is a bit of a hike - but it's worth it. Six Feet Under has all the latest D&D books and accessories as well as collectible items dating all the way back to the game's first edition. With 7,100 square feet of space, they sell literally hundreds of other games, too. Plus there are numerous gaming tables available for free play. (Six Feet Under Games, 5360 Lincoln Highway, Gap; 717-351-0359; sixfeetundergames.com.)
Pocket Books. Tucked away in Lancaster's West End, this eclectic, feminist bookshop hosts ongoing D&D campaigns as well as "one-shot" single session games. Experienced players and newcomers are welcome. (Pocket Books, 903 Wheatland Ave., Lancaster; 717-517-7990; pocketbooksshop.com.)
Your local library. At any given time, it's likely that several of Lancaster County's public libraries are running D&D games for adults and/or teens. Currently, the Manheim Township, Quarryville and Ephrata branches are offering games, though others have in the past. Check availability at calendar.lancasterlibraries.org.
