Dimension 20 is a tabletop RPG show on Dropout.tv where players tell stories using different game systems. Each season uses a different game, so the rules and settings change.
Dimension 20 is a tabletop RPG show on Dropout.tv where players tell stories using different game systems. Each season uses a different game, so the rules and settings change. This guide explains what games they play, recommends where to start, and tells you what to buy to play those games yourself.
What Game Does Dimension 20 Play? (It Changes by Season)
Dimension 20 uses different tabletop RPG systems depending on the season. A “system” is the set of rules that govern how the game is played. Each system creates a different kind of story and experience. For example, some seasons focus on fantasy adventures, while others focus on solving mysteries or exploring a strange world.
The most common system used in Dimension 20 is Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). This is a popular fantasy RPG where players create characters like wizards, fighters, and rogues to go on adventures. Seasons like Fantasy High and The Unsleeping City use D&D.
Other seasons use simpler systems like Kids on Brooms or Kids on Bikes. These games are designed for telling stories about teens solving mysteries or going on magical adventures. Mentopolis is one example of a season that uses Kids on Bikes. These systems are easier to learn than D&D, making them a good choice for beginners who want a simpler game.
It’s important to note that Dimension 20 also creates custom settings for their seasons. For example, Fantasy High takes place in a magical high school, while Mentopolis is set in a city where emotions are people. The game system determines the rules, but the setting is created by the show’s creators.
The Best Season to Start With
If you’re new to Dimension 20 or tabletop RPGs in general, Fantasy High is the best season to start with. It uses Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), which is the most popular tabletop RPG system. While D&D has a lot of rules, Fantasy High introduces them in a way that’s easy to follow.
In Fantasy High, the characters are students at a magical high school. The setting is fun and relatable, mixing fantasy elements with everyday high school drama. The story focuses on a group of misfit teens who become heroes, which makes it easy to get invested in the characters and their journey.
Another reason Fantasy High is a good starting point is that it’s one of the first seasons of Dimension 20. The show’s production quality improves over time, but Fantasy High has a charm and simplicity that makes it accessible for beginners. Plus, the humor and creativity in this season are a great introduction to the tone of Dimension 20.
If you’re not into fantasy or want something simpler than D&D, consider starting with Mentopolis. This season uses Kids on Bikes, a system that’s easier to learn and focuses on storytelling rather than complex rules. The setting is a city where emotions are people, and the story revolves around solving a mystery. It’s shorter than Fantasy High, so it’s less of a commitment.
What to Buy Based on Your Favorite Season
Fantasy High — D&D Starter Set
If you enjoyed Fantasy High and want to play Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), the best place to start is the D&D Starter Set. This box includes everything you need to play your first game: a rulebook, pre-made characters, and an adventure called The Lost Mine of Phandelver.
The rulebook in the Starter Set is shorter and simpler than the full Player’s Handbook, making it easier for beginners to learn. It explains the basics of how to create characters, roll dice, and play the game. The pre-made characters are ready to use, so you can start playing right away without worrying about creating your own.
The adventure, The Lost Mine of Phandelver, is designed for beginners. It’s a classic fantasy story where players explore a dungeon, fight monsters, and solve puzzles. While it’s not set in the magical high school of Fantasy High, it’s a great way to learn the rules before creating your own adventures.
If you enjoy the Starter Set and want to dive deeper, the next step is to buy the Player’s Handbook. This book has all the rules for creating characters, casting spells, and running the game. You might also want the Dungeon Master’s Guide and Monster Manual if you’re interested in creating your own adventures.
Mentopolis / Kids on Brooms Seasons
If you liked Mentopolis or other seasons that use Kids on Bikes or Kids on Brooms, you’ll need the core rulebook for those systems. These games are simpler than D&D and focus on storytelling rather than complex rules.
For Mentopolis, you’ll need Kids on Bikes. This game is about a group of friends solving mysteries in a small town. The rulebook explains how to create characters, set up a mystery, and resolve conflicts. It’s designed to be easy to learn, so you can start playing quickly.
If you’re interested in magical adventures like Kids on Brooms, you’ll need the Kids on Brooms rulebook. This game is similar to Kids on Bikes but focuses on students at a magical school. The rules are simple, and the game encourages creativity and collaboration.
Both Kids on Bikes and Kids on Brooms are lightweight systems, meaning they don’t require a lot of prep work or materials. You’ll need a set of dice (a standard set of polyhedral dice works fine) and some paper to keep track of your characters and story. You can also download free character sheets from the publisher’s website.
After Dimension 20 — What’s Similar
If you’ve watched Dimension 20 and want to explore more tabletop RPG shows, there are plenty of options. One popular show is Critical Role, which also uses Dungeons & Dragons. However, Critical Role focuses on long, epic campaigns with a more serious tone compared to Dimension 20’s shorter, more comedic seasons.
Another option is The Adventure Zone, a podcast where a family plays different RPG systems. Like Dimension 20, they mix humor and storytelling, and they’ve played games like Dungeons & Dragons, Monster of the Week, and Blades in the Dark. The Adventure Zone is a good choice if you enjoy the comedy and creativity of Dimension 20.
For shorter, experimental RPGs, check out Roll20 Presents or One Shot Podcast. These shows feature different game systems and settings, giving you a taste of the variety in tabletop RPGs. They’re a great way to discover new games and see how different systems work.
If you’re interested in creating your own stories like Dimension 20, consider trying a storytelling-focused RPG like Fiasco or Microscope. These games don’t require a Game Master (the person who runs the game) and focus on collaborative storytelling. They’re a good choice if you want to focus on creativity rather than rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I watch Dimension 20 for free?
No, Dimension 20 is only available on Dropout.tv, which requires a paid subscription. However, they offer a free trial period so you can try before committing.
Q: Do I need to know how to play RPGs to enjoy Dimension 20?
No! The show explains rules as they come up, and the focus is on storytelling and humor rather than strict gameplay. Many fans learn RPGs by watching.
Q: Are Dimension 20 seasons connected?
Most seasons are standalone stories with different settings and characters. Some have sequels (like Fantasy High seasons), but you can watch them in any order.