Tips and tricks on gathering the troops
If you don't know where to begin, we'll cover some tips and ideas on finding players for your gaming group. Though, personally, I find the best source of players is in your social group. Ask your friends if they would like to play. Offer food and fun. Though if they are too busy or just aren't interested, then read on …
When looking for someone to game with the best place is to bug my coworkers or head down to the local gaming store. Here in Spokane, I prefer Merlyn’s. I’ve been going there for years; the attendants are awesome and most are gamers themselves. If you’re outside of the Spokane area just Google for hobby/gaming stores and collect a list of locations. Should you be unsure if the store sells gaming stuff, give them a call or check out their site.
Another idea: post LFG (Looking For Group) signs in appropriate stores. Put a secondary email (make one up) on tear-off tabs. Above that, describe which game you are looking for, the number of players, and anything else that is pertinent. Be ready to check the email often and respond. Most gaming stores also have a Facebook page. Ask the owners if it would be okay to post there. Check those out as well.
Disclaimer/Warning/Best Practice: When meeting people, ALWAYS MEET THEM IN AN OPEN PUBLIC PLACE. Preferably bring a friend or family member with you. Good places to meet are coffee shops, restaurants or gaming stores. All of which they give you a neutral place to meet and talk, so that you can get to know the other person. From there it’s up to your own judgment, but I would still suggest you game in a neutral location like a gaming store with a couple tables.
If all else fails, try RPG’s via forums (I used to). When I was younger, I sometimes used Neopets’ forums or RPG Forum. On these forums you can play whatever game you wish from the comfort and safety of your own home. If you are starting out on a forum, look for the rules of the forum and have fun. You can meet people from all over the world. In forums, you start your own thread or join one that’s looking for people. I would also recommend reading through one that is already going and seeing how they roll dice, role-play characters, etc…
It can be a strange thing to have to step out of your typical social circle and find other people to hang out with and game. I know from a personal experience that it can be a bit weird and in rare occasions unpleasant. Regardless of how your expedition pans out, remember there are always other places and people, someone out there will want to play!
“Example: Hi there, my name is _______ I am interested in playing/DMing, _________. Are you or anyone you know interested in joining my group?” – Asking game store attendant, other gamers in a store or even posting on facebook.