Basic kit

Hi all, newbie here. Like, I'm sure, many other DMs I'm thinking of switching my real-life game to virtual. But I'm not tech savvy; could somebody possibly give me a rundown of what basic hardware and software I and my players will need to get started? I assume a headset and webcam are the basic minimum, anything else? Product recommendations also appreciated (UK availability).

Only hardware you need is you and each player will need an average level PC/Mac that can run chrome or firefox. (Any midrange PC/laptop/mac from the last 5 years or so should be just fine). Software you need none, its all done in the browser here. Any you do want is totally optional and not needed by any means. And Headset and Cam are 'optional' to a degree. You COULD do all text chat if you wished..but I'd recommend a headset for each player at least. Webcam is more optional. We have played for 5+ years on here and never used webcams. But its personal preference more than if required.

Thank you, that's helpful and reassuring. I'll see what my players think of this idea tomorrow.

If you communicate through a robust Server-based service, such as Skype, you may not even need headsets, as their echo cancellation is fairly good.

Google Chrome browser, or Firefox browser. Keyboard to type. Screen larger than a phone, possibly a tablet, preferably a laptop. That's the minimum!  As a potential GM, new to Roll20, the 2 best places to start are: (1) Press the button Create New Game. Give your game a title. No one is in this game except for you alone. Press "Launch Game". Test the features hands-on. It's so much more than the first piece of graph paper that you ever drew on. (2) If you need guidance try the Roll20 Tutorial.

Can you play Rifts on Roll20?

Nashua M. said: Can you play Rifts on Roll20? That really should be its own thread instead of buried in a thread on the D&D basic kit. Short answer: yes, create a game and choose the Rifts character sheet. If you have any questions, start a new thread with "Rifts" somewhere in the subject line to catch the attention of other Rifts players who will be more knowledgeable.