Anyone play dungeons and dragons before or a game like it? actual D&D, not video game version.

[kanageddaamen]

I have been playing D&D for like 20 years, still do.

All you really need is the core rule books (Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, Monster Manual) and a set of dice.

Doing combat with minis makes it a lot more tactical and (in my opinion) fun, but its not needed (though I suggest it...)

You will need 4-5 other people ideally, but at least 1 other. Pick who ever is the best storyteller/most imaginative to be the DM. The 4th edition Dungeon Master's Guide does a great job of teaching you to DM.

Once you get beyond that, there are a TON of supplements. If you really get into it, I suggest D&D insider because it has a great character builder, and a searchable compendium of items, monsters and everything else