I've been thinking about these #TTRPG polls, in particular the number of responses. I know a lot of folks who only play #DnD out there (a game that I also play), but there's a big resistance to even checking out a new game because of the perception of a time investment.

Before I get going, I have an interest in people playing #DnD. I write/edit/produce content for the game as a job. I've also made products for other games and profit off my own game, #BurnBryte, so I've got a personal interest in people playing everything they can.

If you've tried a bunch of other games and just want to stick to D&D because you've found one game you love above all others, then I'm happy for you. This thread isn't really an appeal for you, and thanks for giving other games a try. This is also not a thread criticizing D&D.

I rather like the game! But if you're someone who doesn't have the time to check out other games, this is an appeal to you. There's a whole world of options out there, and not everything takes the time to learn like D&D does.

D&D is a big game with a lot of moving parts. It takes a while to learn and rewards system mastery. That's part of the fun for many folks! Some RPGs are similar. But a LOT of RPGs out there are quiet different!

They have smaller rules sets, take 5 minutes or less to learn, and they focus on other aspects of storytelling and gameplay. I have a better time with D&D because I play other games honestly. They make me more confident in roleplaying, as an improviser, and as a tactician!

There are also universal systems that may take more than 5 minutes to learn, but once you do there are all sorts of games available to you. If you learn one GUMSHOE, PBtA, AGE, or FATE game, you have a whole world of genres and stories open up.

I know we're all limited on time. I try to get my rules comprehension for new games in a lot of ways. Reading or watch/listen to an AP or How to Play during a workout or commute or chores helps me personally multitask and learn a new game.

Also, there's a LOT of support for some other games. If you want modules, character options, and more, games outside of D&D have them too! Burn Bryte came out this summer and already has three official adventures and a monster/equipment expansion.

The other thing I'd say is that it does seem that people find the time to always read the latest D&D releases. We find time to watch 4-hour streams. If you want to try something new and your group is resistant, talk to them about what you want to try and why.

They're your friends! Odds are they will make the time to learn a new thing you want to try, especially if they're already gaming. Especially if it means they get to spend more time hanging with you.

Pick a game with a free version/starter/basic version (of which there are many) to keep the financial and time cost low. You might NOT like it, but at some point you took that risk with D&D and it paid off, so you likely will.

As a game designer, it really helps me to play lots of games. If you can swing it and are interested in design, I recommend checking out all the games that interest you even a little, and saying yes when someone asks you to play something new.