Plain answers

Ask anything, then come along

The questions newcomers ask most often, answered by the volunteers who hear them every week.

Joining

Before you sign up

Does it cost anything to join or to attend?
No. There is no fee of any kind, now or later, and nothing is sold on club nights. Volunteers keep the room open, and the games, screens and tea are provided for everyone who walks in the door.
How old do I have to be?
You must be 18 or over. The club is for adults only, and a short confirmation appears when you first open this site. The same rule applies in the club room and on the chat server, with no exceptions.
Do I have to be good at games to take part?
Not at all. Many members arrived having not touched a controller for years. Mentors adjust the difficulty, explain the rules as many times as needed and stay beside you until you feel steady.
What if I am very shy?
That is common, and the mentors are used to it. You can sit at the edge of the room, watch for the whole first evening, and join in only when and if you feel like it.
Can I bring a friend with me?
Yes, as long as your friend is 18 or over. A friend can come along without signing up first, though a quick message through the form means a mentor can expect you both and set aside a couch.
Playing

At the screens and tables

What kind of games will I be playing?
Mostly cooperative video games on the big screens and light board games at the tables. We describe games by genre, and mentors choose whatever suits the group in the room on the night.
Do I need my own controller, console or computer?
No. The club room has controllers, screens and a few gaming PCs, all free to use. If you have a headset or a favourite controller you are welcome to bring it, but nothing is required.
How long does a board game take?
Most of our gateway games finish in half an hour or less, and every box has a card inside the lid that states the time. If a game runs long, you are free to step out and return later.
Is there a league I have to enter?
No. The league runs on Saturday evenings during the season for those who enjoy a little structure. On every other night there are no scores, no rankings and no obligation to take part.
What happens if I make a mistake in a game?
Someone will explain the rule and the game will carry on. Mistakes are treated as the most ordinary thing in the world, and most of the club's best stories began with one.
Practicalities

Getting here and staying in touch

Where is the club room, and where do I park?
The club room is at 38 Hutchinson Street, Mount Barker. Street parking is available along Hutchinson Street and the nearby side streets; please keep to the signed limits and leave driveways clear for the neighbours.
When is the club room open?
It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm, and closed on Sunday and Monday. In severe fire weather the room may close, and the chat server will say so before the evening begins.
Is there food and drink on club nights?
There is a tea corner with hot tea, coffee, lemonade and sparkling water, available to everybody. Members often bring a plate of biscuits to share, though that is a custom rather than a rule.
How do I reach someone before I come?
Write to hello@dropbearsquad.com or telephone +61 8 8391 5247 during club hours. Cassandra replies to messages within a day or two and will happily answer any question, however small it seems.
Can I take part from home?
Partly. The chat server is open to all members, and some cooperative sessions are played over the network between nights. The main business of the club, however, is a Tuesday in the room.