Dice are more than just tools for determining outcomes—they’re part of the magic of Dungeons & Dragons. Every clatter across the table carries suspense, excitement, and sometimes heartbreak. And while any set of polyhedrals will technically get the job done, the dice you choose (and how you carry them) can say a lot about your style as a player.
Materials Matter
Not all dice are created equal. Different materials change the look, feel, and even the sound of a roll:
- Acrylic & Resin – Affordable, lightweight, and available in endless colors and designs. Great for building your collection without breaking the bank.
- Metal – Hefty, satisfying to roll, and often beautifully finished. They command attention at the table but can dent or scratch soft surfaces if you don’t use a tray.
- Gemstone & Specialty Dice – Luxurious, often handmade, and ideal for showing off. These dice can be fragile, so they’re best reserved for special rolls (like that critical persuasion check).
Readability Counts
Fancy swirls and sparkles are fun, but dice are only useful if you can actually read them. High-contrast numbering (light ink on dark dice or vice versa) makes gameplay smoother. If you’ve ever squinted at a translucent die under dim light, you know what we mean.
Caring for Your Dice: Bags and Trays
The way you store and roll your dice is just as important as the dice themselves.
- Dice Bags – The classic way to transport dice. Fabric bags are common, but if you want something sturdier and unique, chainmaille dice bags combine durability with a geeky medieval aesthetic. They protect your dice while looking like something a dwarf cleric might carry into battle.
- Dice Trays – A must-have for protecting both your dice and your table. Trays keep rolls contained, prevent dice from bouncing into drinks or miniatures, and are especially important if you use heavy metal dice. Some trays fold flat for easy transport, while others are built into dice towers for extra flair.
Building Your Dice Personality
Whether you’re rolling glittery acrylics, thunderous metal dice, or carefully guarded gemstone sets, your choice of dice and accessories reflects your character at the table. Are you the player with one faithful set you always use, or the collector with a bag heavy enough to double as an improvised weapon?
Whatever your style, investing in the right dice—and the right way to carry and roll them—adds another layer of fun to your D&D experience. After all, every legendary story starts with a single roll.
