Papers GPT
StartPlaying: Find D&D Groups & Pro Game Masters Online
StartPlaying is the largest online marketplace connecting tabletop RPG players with professional Game Masters for D&D, Pathfinder, and virtually any system.
Overview
StartPlaying solves one of the biggest hurdles in tabletop gaming: finding a reliable group and a great Game Master. As the largest online platform of its kind, it connects players with vetted, professional GMs running campaigns across virtually every system and virtual tabletop platform imaginable, from classic Dungeons & Dragons to niche indie RPGs. Whether you're a newcomer looking for your first campaign or a veteran player seeking a specific playstyle, StartPlaying makes discovery simple and scheduling painless. Beyond just matchmaking, the platform handles the logistics of running a game—session booking, scheduling, and ongoing campaign management—so both players and GMs can focus on the story instead of the spreadsheet. It's built to serve the entire tabletop ecosystem, giving Dungeon Masters a way to build an audience and monetize their craft while giving players a trustworthy pipeline to consistent, high-quality games that fit their calendar and interests.
Capabilities & Features
- Tabletop RPG
- D&D
- Pathfinder
- Game Master
- Virtual Tabletop
- Online Gaming
- Roleplaying Games
Core Features
- Search and discover tabletop RPG games across countless systems
- Connect directly with vetted, professional Game Masters
- Book and manage game sessions from within the platform
- Filter games by virtual tabletop tool and scheduling preferences
- Support for both one-shots and long-term campaign commitments
Use Cases
- Finding an ongoing D&D Online group with open seats
- Locating a virtual Pathfinder 2e campaign that fits your schedule
- Hiring a professional dungeon master for a custom one-shot or campaign
- Discovering new tabletop RPG systems to try with an experienced GM
- Building a recurring player base as a professional Game Master
Best For
- Tabletop RPG players seeking new groups
- Dungeon Masters looking to monetize their games
- Professional and aspiring Game Masters
- Remote and online gaming communities
- Players new to tabletop RPGs seeking guided experiences
Pros
- •Massive selection of games spanning nearly every system and virtual tabletop
- •Direct access to experienced, professional GMs rather than random pickup groups
- •Built-in booking and session management removes scheduling friction
- •Useful for both casual one-shots and long-term campaign commitments
- •Empowers GMs to build a sustainable audience for their games
Cons
- •Quality and style can vary significantly between individual GMs
- •Paid professional GM sessions may not appeal to players seeking free casual groups
- •Popular GMs and time slots may fill up quickly, limiting availability
- •No detailed public pricing structure provided, requiring users to check individual listings
How to Use
1. Visit the StartPlaying website and browse available games or Game Masters. 2. Filter by game system, virtual tabletop platform, schedule, or GM specialty to narrow your search. 3. Review GM profiles and game listings to find a good fit for your interests. 4. Book a session directly through the platform. 5. Manage upcoming sessions and communicate with your GM or group through the site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pricing
Specific pricing details are not publicly listed; costs vary by individual Game Master and session, as many GMs on the platform charge per-session fees for professionally run games.
Pricing data is provided as a summary. Visit the vendor website for full tier details.