Frequently asked questions

StartPlaying is an online marketplace that connects players with professional Game Masters (GMs) running paid tabletop roleplaying games. Browse GMs, read reviews, and book a seat in a live session for systems like D&D 5e, Pathfinder 2e, and Call of Cthulhu.

Not at all. Many of our GMs specialize in beginner-friendly tables and will teach you the rules as you go. Filter for the “Beginner-friendly” play style to find a game built for first-timers — bring nothing but curiosity and your GM handles the rest.

Each GM sets their own price per seat, typically between $15 and $35 per session. The exact price is shown on every session listing before you book, so there are never any surprises. Many GMs offer lower-cost intro one-shots so you can try a table before committing to a campaign.

A computer or tablet with a stable internet connection, a webcam and microphone (optional but encouraged for roleplay), and a quiet space. Your GM will share which virtual tabletop and voice tools they use — no software purchases are required to get started.

A one-shot is a complete, self-contained adventure that wraps up in a single session — perfect for trying a system or a GM. A campaign is an ongoing story told across many sessions with the same group, where your characters grow and your choices shape the world over time.

Yes. You can cancel from your bookings page, and most sessions are eligible for a full refund when cancelled at least 24 hours before the start time. Cancellation and refund windows are set per GM and are shown at checkout before you confirm payment.

Every GM has a public profile with verified player reviews, ratings, the systems they run, and their play styles. Ratings come only from players who have completed a session, so the feedback you read reflects real games at that table.

Yes. We expect every table to use safety tools and to be inclusive of players of all backgrounds and experience levels. Many GMs explicitly run safety-tools-first, LGBTQ+ friendly tables — look for it in their bio and play styles.

If you love running games, you can apply to list your own sessions, set your schedule and pricing, and build a player base. Create a GM profile describing the systems you run and your style, and start accepting bookings once you're approved.