There seem to be a lot of people asking for help getting started. I'm
too pressed for time to really write something up, and I'm not an
expert. Still, here is a quick attempt to help. Maybe someone can
volunteer to polish this up and post it in the Files or as an
auto-send to new members.

Like so many techie things, the responsibility really falls on the
individual to learn the software and do the leg work. Seldom will you
find that people will pursue you to offer you a seat at a gaming table.

So, here's what you want to do:

1) For LFR games, learn 4E and LFR
This isn't the place for people to help you learn 4E or the Living
Forgotten Realms campaign. If you have questions, the WotC Gleemax
boards are probably the best place (there are some rude Yahoo groups,
if you dare or have a thick skin...)

2) Download and install the software
For any questions, check the Forums for each software, as well as the
installation guides.

3) Practice before a game
Both OpenRPG and MapTools work with writing out things like "I use
Name of Power on Name of Enemy, [1d20+4] for [1d4+4] if it hits and
they are pushed 1". (Substitute the correct name of the power, the
name of the enemy, and the to hit and damage bonuses.

That's all you really need to know. Someone asks you to roll a saving
throw, you type "[1d20]" and press the enter key. Using a power? Name
the power and the target, type in a roll for d20 plus your bonus plus
the damage and effects should you hit.

In both MapTools and OpenRPG, you can practice this easily on your own
without connecting to a server. The software works just as if you were
in a game, just without background maps, other players, a GM, and
enemies. Perfect for practice.

3A) Advanced macros
You can take step 3 as far as you want. You should achieve competence,
asking here for questions (though the software's forums really are
more appropriate)

4) Find a game
Finding a game is simple, but requires effort. You do the following,
until you land a game:

- Check this board for notification that someone is starting up a
game. Follow the instructions to sign up to play. Make sure you have a
PC of the appropriate level.

- Check the Warhorn site for games and sign up

- Check the forums of the software sites for games and sign up

- Organize your own game, proposing a date and time, software
platform, and working to recruit a DM and players. This guarantees you
a spot and creates more gaming for everyone!

- DM a game. When you DM, people are usually glad to reward you with a
seat at a future table, especially if you let everyone know up front
you are looking to DM in exchange for more playing time.



If you follow the above steps, you will be up and playing before too
long. The amount of time and effort you put in will directly lead to
how often you play. Please be flexible and mindful of the needs of
others, especially organizers and DMs. You should not expect people to
hand out opportunities to you. Playing space is limited and there are
lots of people that work very hard to get the available spaces. If you
feel you are beaten to the punch too often, organize your own game,
recruiting a DM. This always ensures a seat plus a time of day you
will like!