New Player... Kinda Intimidated

Ok so I played D&D back in 3rd ed but only with a couple buddies onboard my ship and havn't really played at all since. After discovering Roll20 I started looking for a game but am kinda intimidated by the games.  I don't have any idea how to even start here, are the games assuming you've already created a character?  Are there pick up games for same day?  I'm ok with voice, and video but am really ok with just txt as well.  How long do games tend to last here?  Are there 'time frames' for instance we start at 6pm and end at midnight or it is more free form we'll stop whenever.  Do I need dice? is there online dice i'm supposed to use to the dm can see what i rolled?  I dunno, i wanna play but am kinda feeling outta the loop (probably cause i'm 50 and trying to get back into something i enjoyed in my 20's) Thanks for any info / help you can give.

Most games will assume you do not have a character and you will create one specifically for that adventure.  There are pick up games for the same day, but I have no experience playing in any of those.  If you go to "Join a game" you will see any pick up games starting soon on the top right.  I don't know the average length of session, but in my experience it's 3-5 hours.  Time frame is going to be on a case by case basis.  You don't need dice, almost any campaign you join will use Roll20's dice roller. I would suggest running the tutorial game to just get a basic idea of how Roll20 works.

Hey Robert, to answer some of your questions: Most of the game statistics, such as the schedule and what characters you play, are decided on a group by group basis. There are pick up games, one shots, and those looking to join long term groups. In the Looking for Group and Join a Game forums people post what type of game they are looking for. Usually it will be a GM posting what they are looking to run along with when they're hoping to meet and for how long. Players will normally post what system they want to play, their available playtime, and what they look for in terms of story or play style.  As for what you need, the Roll20 software provides virtual dice, character sheets, tokens, maps, etc. They even sell pre-made RPG content to use; usually as PDF's. Under the 'Game' tab there is a tutorial; along with many on Youtube. If you're looking to play just post what system and preferred playtime (usually people will include their age, play style, etc.) and someone should find you. Hope this helps.

Hey Robert C. If your looking to get back into the game my group meets on Sundays at 11am CST. We are currently looking for a new player. We are really patient with new players and don't take things to seriously. If you have any questions about the group or just in general about roll20 or 5e(the edition we play) let me know. Happy to help a fellow player with whatever.  P.S. awesome name Robert K.

Robert K I'd love to see if I fit into your group.  I'm open most sundays and almost all evenings (pst) 4pm onwards.  How can I contact you to see how things go? PS We Roberts are all over the place, it's only a matter of time before we get the word and TAKE OVER THE WORLD PINKY erm i mean yea! :) Robert C

Hey young man,  My buddies and I stood once where you now stand. If it is a mentor to Roll20 and 5e you're looking for, look no further! I can run a one-shot to help get you acquainted with Roll20. My friends would be happy to join the party and help as well!