For new players looking into Dungeons & Dragons, there are several resources to help get a campaign underway. Whether starting as the new player in a seasoned group or embarking with friends who also haven't played before, Wizards of the Coast has created options to help players learn the ropes without becoming overwhelmed by the knowledge required when setting up an campaign. These include the D&D Starter Set and D&D Essentials Kit, each of which has its own advantages for beginners.
D&D's Starter Set was published in 2014 as a foundation for new players, while the Essentials Kit was released in 2019 with similar intentions but different options. Both kits have similarities and differences new D&D players will need to weigh before purchasing in order to pick the right set to help them learn the game.
The D&D Starter Set outfits players with a set of basic tools that allow them to immediately start playing with a group of friends. The kit includes five pre-built character sheets, featuring different classes, races and skills; a set of six D&D dice; the Lost Mine of Phandelver adventure, which includes DM guidance for those getting started running a campaign; a 32-page rulebook covering player-side specifics for levels one to five; and blank character sheets for platers who want to try creating their own characters.
D&D's Starter Set Is Better For Beginners Than The Essentials Kit
The D&D Essentials Kit is similar to the Starter Set, but it offers a slightly different array of items. Inside, players will find a rulebook, the Dragon of Icespire Peak adventure, six empty character sheets, 11 D&D dice, a DM screen to shield the DM's workspace, a set of 81 game cards, and a large poster map. While this kit can also be used to get players set up for a D&D campaign, it doesn't offer the same foundation-building elements as the Starter Set.
Players looking to learn the basics of Dungeons & Dragons may want to try the D&D Starter Set before picking up the Essentials Kit, as the Starter Set helps guide players into the game with pre-built character sheets to use as examples and a simple and easy-to-follow adventure (both for new DMs and new players). Becoming familiar with the mechanics of Dungeons & Dragons can take time and practice, but with help from kits like these and guidance from those who have already played, learning can be just as fun as the adventure players choose to embark on.