Alright, I apologize in advance for how long this post is going to be.

I am new to OpenRPG and am still acclimating. On that same note I would be considered 'new' to D&D as well. I had played in my youth (fond memories of Magic and D&D with my uncle around age ten or so) and recently discussed with a friend the possibility of putting together a local group.

Having not played in a very, very long time, I got on the internet and gave it all a google. I plan on purchasing the red box here within the next few days, so I would have all the documentation needed for a vanilla style game experience (rule books, character sheets all that.)

I'm hoping to find a group on here that I can either play with (knowing that I'm green), or at least observe play so that when the time comes to form my group in my town, I'll have at least some mild experience with the rules and general flow of a game.

I realize that there are different versions of Dungeons and Dragons, and frankly I don't know any of the differences, which ones are the most 'new player friendly', or even which are the most enjoyable to play. Forgive me if that's a hugely important thing that I'm blatantly unfamiliar with.

So, right, to close, I guess I'm looking for a group that wouldn't mind me sitting in on a session and observing player interactions and whatnot. I'm typically available between 11 P.M and 6 A.M. Eastern time. I realize that conflicts with most people's schedules, but I'm willing to make a point to be around during a particular time if I know for certain I can sit in on a group.

Thanks for reading this behemoth of a post, and on a final, unattached note, I would appreciate any guidance anyone has to offer. And I flat out mean anything from 'You suck and shouldn't play D&D' to first time DMing advice or any just helpful tips you can offer to a new player. I appreciate all input.

Thanks. I

The Red Box is a nice intro, especially for small groups unfamiliar with the game, but it's quite lacking in terms of letting you progress past 2nd level. If you're going the "Essentials" route (which is 4th edition but some tweaked rules and kits designed to exist somewhat independantly from the standard Player's Handbook, DM's Guide and Monster's Manual) and you just want to be a player, you can pick up either of the player books "Heroes of the Fallen Lands" or "Heroes of the Forgotten Kingdoms" and those are probably better primers and include combat rules and such. You'll want to pick up the "Rules Compendium" eventually for more details on other rules and such. If you're looking to DM, you'll also want the Dungeon Master's Kit or whatever it's called. The Heroes books and Compendium are pretty cheap on Amazon ($12-14 or so), so I'd recommend coupling those together for free shipping. Or you could couple one of those with the Red Box if you still want that starter kit with the map and counters and stuff.

Aside from all that, I'm running a 4e Campaign and I'd be glad to help you along. We're planning some week night at 8:30 PM EST onward if that works for you. You can see my announcement for more details. Hope all this helps.

Regards,
Bakonon

I have acquired all 'essential' literature, that is, I have the DnD35 core books, DM guide, Monster Manual, Player handbook (and the addendums, IE: Players Handbook 2). To be frank, I have more literature on my person than... I've read since highschool.

I'm currently reading through the players guide as well as taking pieces from the DM guide, trying to better understand gameplay. Like I said, I would prefer to observe a game, if at all possible. If you're willing to walk me through some things, then I'm up for gaming as well.

I plan to roll a character tonight, just to get a first hand experience with the skill system and modifiers and such. Probably run through the 'solo adventure' thing that came with the red box.

Sorry if that seems scatter-brained, I have a lot of fantasy material in my hands and I'm a bit overwhelmed.

EDIT: Sorry, to revise in a more coherent way-- I have all the 3.5 related books. I do not have anything pertaining to 4.0, which I noticed your game was. I'm not sure what sort of difference that would make.

Ah, so you've got the 3.5 materials. The Red Box may be a little different as it's based on the 4e rules but I think the flow is basically the same. You'd still be welcome to lurk and such if you like in my game, maybe hop in as well depending on your comfort level.

I think I'd prefer to lurk if it's all the same. I'm decent conversation, but I'm not aware enough of how things work to play at this juncture, though I did roll a character (Which took me like... 40 minutes. I don't care much for the brief explanation they give).

What program do you use and how would I get to your game?

Ah... and, you know... day and time would be good too, heh.