To get a better idea of how to play Realms of Despair, we highly recommend that you take 20 minutes to read the New Player's Guide. A copy of it is given to you when you enter the Realms. To read it, simply hold the book in your hand, or in your inventory, type LOOK BOOK and follow the instructions given.

You can also find answers to many of your questions in the myriad of help files available. To read help files, type HELP <SUBJECT>. HELP NEWBIE has a list of these files that are especially useful for new players.

If you find it difficult to read with all of the scrolling going on on your screen, we suggest several options. You can go to a room called "Guidance" in the academy. This room is east, northeast from the robed figure.  This room is a silent room, where channels are silenced to minimize screen scroll. You can also reduce screen scroll by selecting which channels you wish to listen to. Typing CHANNEL shows you the number and status of channels available to your character. To turn a channel on, type CHAN +<CHANNEL>. To turn one off, type CHAN -<CHANNEL>. The Adventurer's Guide or help files will give you greater detail on what each channel's purpose is.

Also remember that the Newbie Council is around to answer your questions and assist you.

*Information as of July 28, 2005