Since its launch, Lancer has taken the TTRPG community by storm. From the game's techno-futurist setting to riding full-on battle-mechs, people have been raving about this game for years. However, many tabletop roleplayers have yet to play this incredible sci-fi battle strategy game because finding game masters can be difficult. There are often more Lancer players than game masters, leaving most players with very few options.
So, where do both new and experienced players find Lancer groups?
While finding a game can be tricky if you do not have a designated group, it is not impossible. Below, I have listed a series of resources you can search to find your next big mech battle!
4. R/LFG Or R/LFG_Europe
One of the best resources for finding available game tables online, r/lfg and r/lfg_europe provide players around the world with the opportunity to host and play various TTRPGs. Posts will include information regarding the game system, the host time zone, game time, and everything else that a player needs to get started. New games are announced almost daily, so there are always new games to sign up for.
The one downside for r/lfg and r/lfg_europe is that you never know what you will get when you jump into the subreddit. While the server allows any system and any experience level, it may take time for you to find Lancer-specific postings. As with many public TTRPG servers, most games offered are D&D 5e related. However, Lancer sessions are offered— you just need to be amongst the first people to jump on a listing to ensure you get a spot.
3. Interpoint Station And HEARTH-7
Like Pilot NET down in the #2 spot, Interpoint Station and HEARTH-7 are Discord servers dedicated to running Lancer adventures. Unlike Pilot NET, which usually promotes more long-term campaigns, Interpoint Station and HEARTH-7 run west march-style adventures. West march games allow players of all skill levels to jump into a different mini-adventure every week. Adventures are fully self-contained, meaning anyone can join without worrying about missing key story beats. This style is best for players who may have inconsistent schedules.
However, similar to Pilot NET, games are restricted by game master availability. While there are more open seats in Interpoint and HEARTH-7, getting access to seats before games fill up can still be a hassle if you do not plan ahead. Additionally, some players find west-marches style unsatisfying, relying less on player character backstory and involvement and more on episodic storytelling. Make sure to consider if you are looking for more of a free-for-all adventure or a more personalized campaign before diving in.
2. Pilot NET
Pilot NET is considered one of the go-to locations for finding a Lancer campaign online. This Discord server is filled with Lancer gamers, fans, and game masters alike. Meet up with Lancer players from around the world, check out the numerous campaigns running on the server, and even join in on the fun directly. This server is a great place to get started, whether you are a Lancer newbie or a respected mech-tech in your own right.
While Pilot NET is best known for offering games, things may take a while to get started. There are a lot of players on this server ready to jump in on any available adventure, so spots will be limited. Depending on your luck, you may wait a while before you can join an adventure properly.
1. StartPlaying
StartPlaying is a great place to get started looking for Lancer adventures. StartPlaying has thousands of game masters ready to throw you into an adventure of a lifetime. Find the perfect game for you by consulting game master reviews, checking in on available weekly games, and even reaching out to game masters directly if you cannot find what you are looking for.
With these options, you are more than ready to jump into some metal mayhem! If you do not succeed at first, make sure to try, try again. One of the best ways to achieve success is to use multiple tactics simultaneously, searching through subreddits and Discord servers alike to find something that best fits your tastes and schedule. Use all available options and you are bound to be successful.
Want to see what is available right now? When you are ready to get started on your adventure, check out available Lancer sessions on StartPlaying!
Tyson Fraleigh is a professional dungeon master, writer, playwright, and voice actor based in Tiohtià:ke/Mooniyang/Montreal.
