In today’s geek culture, tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) are more than just a hobby; they are a gateway into building lasting friendships, fostering creativity, and even connecting families. Mitchell, aka Mod Brew, is a seasoned TTRPG player, father, and community leader, sharing his incredible journey into role-playing games. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s something special about playing these games with loved ones and fellow enthusiasts, and Mod Brew is here to share the magic.
From Video Games to TTRPGs: A Nostalgic Journey
Mod Brew’s love for games started way back in the day with the Sega Mega Drive and classics like Golden Axe and Battletoads. The simplicity of side-scrolling games and the camaraderie of playing with friends and family sparked his love for gaming, which later evolved into a passion for TTRPGs like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). If you’re a fan of classic games, you know the thrill of teaming up with friends to tackle challenges. It’s that sense of teamwork and shared adventure that TTRPGs capture so well.
The Transition to TTRPGs: Finding Creativity in Role-Playing
Mod Brew didn’t discover TTRPGs until later in life, despite being an active gamer, sports enthusiast, and all-around social guy. His friends, who spent time playing D&D, eventually convinced him to join, and it was love at first roll. The creative freedom and personal expression through character development pulled him into the world of TTRPGs.
This shift from video games to TTRPGs provided something deeper: an opportunity to build and explore imaginary worlds with others, fostering connections in ways other forms of entertainment couldn’t match.
Building Communities Through Games
One of the standout elements of Mod Brew’s journey is how gaming became a community-building tool. He started with Among Us, forming strong bonds with other players, developers, and even gaming personalities like Corpse. But it was the shift to TTRPGs that truly allowed him to cultivate long-lasting friendships and create a welcoming space for others to join in on the fun. Through platforms like Discord and Twitch, Mod Brew has found and nurtured communities, helping others find their place in the ever-expanding world of geek culture.
Introducing Kids to TTRPGs: Fostering Imagination in a Safe Space
For parents who want to share their love of gaming with their kids, Mod Brew has great advice. He recommends starting small—no need to introduce complex rules or overwhelming character sheets. Instead, he suggests tapping into your child’s existing interests. In his case, his daughter loved Frozen, so he created a simple adventure where she played an ice sorceress, and his son played a dinosaur-loving druid.
Finding the Right Gaming Community: Tips for Gamers
If you’re searching for a D&D or TTRPG community, finding the right fit can make all the difference. Mod Brew recommends checking out Twitch streams or Discord groups to connect with people who share your interests. Many communities are open to beginners, offering safe spaces to express creativity and make friends.
Things to Look for in a Community:
- Clear communication and inclusive rules: Look for groups that have guidelines on inclusivity and safety.
- Open-minded players: A welcoming attitude is key. You should feel comfortable sharing your ideas and playing without judgment.
- Session zero discussions: This is where players discuss boundaries, expectations, and themes to ensure everyone is comfortable.
From video games to tabletop role-playing games, Mod Brew’s journey highlights the power of gaming to bring people together, foster creativity, and build lasting relationships. Whether you’re introducing TTRPGs to your kids or finding a new community of players, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting for you in these imaginative worlds.
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