Hosting a D&D Onslaught Game Night: Scheduling, Tables, and Player Onboarding

Quick answer

Host a D&D Onslaught game night by choosing a 2–3 hour block, setting up one 3x3 play area per match, and teaching new players with a short demo round before the main event. Keep the first session small—two to four players—so you can give each person attention. With a little planning, your event runs smoothly and everyone leaves wanting a rematch.

D&D Onslaught is a fast, tactical skirmish game, and a good game night makes it shine. Whether you're a store owner running a weekly event or a host inviting friends over, the difference between a chaotic evening and a great one comes down to scheduling, table setup, and how you bring new players in.

This guide answers the questions hosts ask most: how long a session should run, how many players fit at a table, what you need on hand, and how to teach the rules without overwhelming anyone. Use it as a checklist for your first event or a tune-up for your regular game night.

How long should a D&D Onslaught game night run?

Plan for two to three hours from first dice roll to final cleanup. A standard Onslaught match plays in about 60–90 minutes once everyone knows the flow, but new players add time for rules explanations and decision-making. If you're hosting at a store, a three-hour window gives you a buffer for late arrivals and a second short match if the group is eager.

Don't schedule a marathon for your first event. A tight, well-paced evening leaves people wanting more, while a four-hour slog can scare off newcomers. If you want a longer event, break it into two rounds with a snack break in between.

• Reserve the space for 30 minutes before and after your play window for setup and teardown.
• Announce a hard end time so players can plan their evening.

How many players can join an Onslaught game night?

Onslaught is designed for two players per match, so your player count determines how many tables you need. For a casual game night, two to four players is ideal—you can run one match and rotate players in, or set up two tables if you have the space. For a store event, plan one table per two players and add a judge or experienced player to float between tables.

If you have an odd number, don't panic. A three-player evening works if you run a round-robin: one person plays the winner, or you use the time for a teaching game. The key is to keep everyone engaged, not just the two people rolling dice.

• One 3x3 play area per match; a standard folding table fits one game comfortably.
• For larger events, assign a dedicated demo table for new players.

What do you need for an Onslaught table setup?

Each match needs a flat 3x3 play area, the miniatures and cards for each player's warband, dice, and any tokens or markers the scenario requires. A neoprene mat or a marked battlemat helps define the play space and keeps miniatures from sliding. Keep the table clear of drinks and snacks—or use a side table for food—so nothing gets knocked over mid-game.

For a store event, set up tables with enough elbow room for two players plus a spectator. Have a spare set of dice and a measuring tool on hand. If you're running multiple rounds, pre-sort the warband components into trays or bags so players can reset quickly between matches.

• Use a 3x3 mat or tape off the area on a larger table.
• Keep a rules reference sheet at each table for quick lookups.

How do you teach D&D Onslaught to new players?

Start with a five-minute overview: explain the goal, the turn order, and the three actions a figure can take. Then run a demo round with two players using simplified warbands—no special abilities at first. Let them move, attack, and see how the dice work. Once they've played one round, add the faction abilities and scenario objectives.

Resist the urge to explain every rule upfront. New players learn faster by doing. Pair each newcomer with an experienced player who can answer questions quietly during the match. After the game, point out one or two tactical choices they made well—that positive feedback keeps them coming back.

• Prepare two identical starter warbands for teaching games.
• Use a timer for turns if the group is large, but keep it friendly.

How do you run Onslaught at a game store?

Store events need a bit more structure. Advertise the start time clearly, and have a sign-in sheet so you know who's playing. Set up tables before doors open, and designate one staff member or volunteer as the organizer. That person handles pairings, answers rules questions, and keeps rounds on schedule.

Offer a beginner-friendly table alongside the main event. New players can watch a demo, then join a casual game without pressure. If you're running a tournament, publish the round time and stick to it—players appreciate consistency. Keep a small prize or promo item for participants to make the event feel special.

• Post the event schedule online and in-store at least a week ahead.
• Have a copy of the rules and a FAQ sheet at the organizer's station.

Onslaught game night quick-reference FAQ

How long does a game night last?

Plan for 2–3 hours total, including setup and teaching time. A standard match runs 60–90 minutes once players know the rules. Block 30 minutes before and after for setup and cleanup.

How many players should I invite?

Two to four players is ideal for a casual night. For store events, one table per two players plus a floating judge. Keep the first event small so you can help everyone.

What do I need on the table?

A 3x3 play area, each player's warband, dice, tokens, and a rules reference. Use a mat to define the space. Pre-sort components into trays for faster resets.

How do I teach new players fast?

Run a five-minute overview, then a demo round with simplified warbands. Add abilities after they've played one turn. Pair newcomers with experienced players during the match.

How do I run this at a store?

Advertise the start time, set up tables early, and assign an organizer to handle pairings and rules questions. Offer a beginner table alongside the main event.

Onslaught-friendly products for your game night

• Dungeons & Dragons: Tomb of Annihilation Adventure System Board Game - Standard Edition: The death curse grows and the souls of the world are in peril! In the Tomb of Annihilation Adventure System Board Game, you play a heroic adventurer exploring the jungle of Chult and the Tomb of the Nine Gods. If your group enjoys Onslaught's tactical combat but wants a cooperative dungeon crawl between matches, this board game offers a ready-made adventure with miniatures and tiles that can double as terrain for your Onslaught table.
• Pathfinder Battles Deep Cuts Unpainted Miniatures: Dire Wolf: Pathfinder Battles Deep Cuts come with highly-detailed figures, primed and ready to paint out-of-the-box, and are fully compatible with Acrylicos Vallejo paints. A painted dire wolf can stand in as a proxy for an Onslaught creature or add flavor to your table. Since it's primed and ready to paint, you can customize it to match your warband's color scheme in an afternoon.

A successful D&D Onslaught game night comes down to a few simple choices: a realistic schedule, a clean table setup, and a patient approach to teaching. Start small, keep the pace friendly, and let the tactics speak for themselves. Your players will remember the fun, not the rules you forgot to mention.