Realm VTT revolutionizes virtual tabletops by providing a comprehensive platform that connects Game Masters (GMs) with players through our Looking for Games (LFG) system, while also enabling GMs to monetize their time and expertise through paid games. This guide covers everything you need to know about finding games, running paid sessions, and managing payments on our platform.
Looking for Games (LFG) System
What is LFG?
The Looking for Games system is Realm VTT's marketplace for tabletop RPG sessions. It serves as a central hub where:
Players can discover and apply to join games that match their interests, schedule, and experience level
Game Masters can advertise their campaigns and find committed players
Key Features for Players
Game Discovery
Browse Active Games: View all available games with detailed information including:
Game system (D&D 5e, Cyberpunk RED, etc.)
Schedule and timezone information
Session frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or one-shot)
Language requirements
Audio/visual requirements (text-only, voice, or video)
Content ratings and mature content warnings
New player friendliness indicators
Smart Filtering
Filter games by:
Price (free or paid)
System/ruleset
Schedule compatibility
Language
Available spots
Tags and genres
Application System
Submit tailored applications to games with optional survey questions (requires a minimum of 1 question, and allows up to 10.)
Track application status (pending, approved, denied)
Allows GMs to send reasons for denial and welcome messages for approval. It is highly recommended to send a message on approval with detailed information about how to reach out to the GM such as via Discord or Email.
Receive notifications about application updates
Key Features for Game Masters
Game Listing Management
Create detailed game listings with rich text descriptions
Upload game portraits
Set player requirements and expectations
Create custom application surveys to screen players
Manage game visibility (active/inactive status)
Player Management
Review player applications with their responses
Approve or deny applications with feedback
Send messages to prospective and current players
Remove players from games when necessary
Track player attendance and participation
Scheduling Tools
Set recurring or one-time sessions
Manage session cancellations
Allow players to opt-out of specific sessions
Automatic timezone conversion for global players
Session reminders and notifications
Paid Games for Game Masters
Why Offer Paid Games?
Running quality tabletop RPG sessions requires significant time and effort:
Preparation Time: Creating encounters, maps, and storylines
Session Management: Facilitating gameplay and managing group dynamics
Technical Setup: Configuring VTT tools, managing assets, and troubleshooting
Ongoing Commitment: Maintaining campaign continuity and player engagement
Realm VTT's paid games system allows GMs to be compensated for this investment while ensuring players receive high-quality, committed game experiences.
Benefits of Running Paid Games
Committed Players: Paid games attract serious, dedicated players
Professional Development: Build a reputation as a professional GM
Flexible Pricing: Set your own rates based on your experience and game quality
Automated Payments: Focus on running games while we handle the payment logistics
Payment Processing & Fees
How Payments Work
Session-Based Charging: Players are charged per session, not as a subscription
Automatic Processing: Payments are processed 1 hour before each scheduled session
Smart Cancellation Handling:
If a GM cancels a session, no charges occur
If a player opts out of a session, they aren't charged
Inactive games suspend all charges automatically
Failed Charges
If a player's charge fails, it will retry 2 more times
After each failure, both the Player and the GM are notified
After three failures, the Player is removed from the Game and the GM will need to either have them re-apply or contact Support
Platform Fees
Realm VTT charges a 10% platform fee on all game payments. If GMs are subscribed to the Standard or Pro tier, the platform only charges a 7.5% platform fee. This fee covers:
Payment processing infrastructure
Platform maintenance and development
Customer support
Dispute resolution
Server costs and technical infrastructure
Fee Example
If you charge $20 per player per session
Player pays: $20.00
Platform fee: $2.00 (10%)
You receive: $18.00
Payment Schedule
Charge Timing: 1 hour before session start
Payout Schedule: Funds are transferred to your connected bank account according to Stripe's standard payout schedule (typically 2-7 business days)
Failed Payments: Players with failed payments are notified and given opportunity to update payment methods
Getting Started as a GM
Step 1: Create Your Game
Navigate to the "Looking for Games" section
Click "Create New Game"
Fill in game details:
Game name and description
System and ruleset
Schedule and session length
Number of players needed
Language and communication requirements
Step 2: Set Up Paid Games (Optional)
If you want to charge for your sessions:
Enable Paid Game Option
Toggle "Paid Game" in game settings
Set your price per player per session (minimum $5.00)
Note: Prices cannot be changed after game creation
Create Stripe Connect Account
If you have not yet configured Stripe Connect you must first do this before being able to post your game
Click "Create Stripe Payment Account" button
You'll be redirected to Stripe's secure onboarding
Provide required information:
Business type (individual or company)
Tax information
Bank account for payouts
Identity verification
Complete Stripe Onboarding
Verify your email
Confirm your bank account
Review and accept Stripe's terms of service
Wait for account approval (usually instant, sometimes 1-2 business days)
Access Payment Dashboard
Once approved, access your payment dashboard, and create your LFG post
View earnings and pending payouts
Download tax documents
Manage banking information
Step 3: Manage Your Game
Review Applications
Check player applications regularly
Use survey responses to find compatible players
Communicate expectations clearly
Start Running Sessions
Sessions begin according to your schedule
Payments process automatically
Focus on delivering great game experiences
For Players: Joining Paid Games
Finding Paid Games
Browse the LFG listings
Look for the yellow pricing badge showing cost per session, or filter to show Free games only in the Advanced Filters
Review game details and GM profiles
Submit your application
Payment Setup
Once approved for a paid game:
Initial Setup
You'll receive an approval notification
Click "Set Up Payment Method"
Enter credit/debit card information
Confirm your first session
Automatic Charging
Charged 1 hour before each session
Receive email receipts
Manage payment methods through customer portal
Avoiding Charges
Opt-out of sessions you can't attend (before the 1-hour window)
Leave the game if no longer interested
Update payment methods if cards expire
Remember to communicate with your GM before leaving the game or opt-ing out of a session!
Payment Protection
Secure payment processing through Stripe
No charges for cancelled sessions
To dispute charges if issues arise, please contact Support
Payment method information never shared with GMs
Frequently Asked Questions
For Game Masters
Q: Can I change my game's price after creation? A: No, prices are locked once a game is created to protect players from unexpected price changes.
Q: What if a player's payment fails? A: The player is notified and given time to update their payment method. They may be temporarily unable to join sessions until resolved.
Q: Can I run both free and paid games? A: Yes! You can run multiple games with different pricing models.
Q: How do I handle refunds? A: Refunds can be issued through your Stripe dashboard for exceptional circumstances, or by contacting Support.
Q: Are there any upfront costs? A: No, the platform fee is only deducted from successful payments.
For Players
Q: When exactly am I charged? A: You're charged 1 hour before each scheduled session starts.
Q: What if I need to miss a session? A: Use the opt-out feature before the 1-hour charge window to avoid being charged.
Q: Can I get a refund if a session was poor quality? A: Contact support with specific concerns. Refunds are handled case-by-case.
Q: Is my payment information secure? A: Yes, all payments are processed through Stripe's PCI-compliant infrastructure.
Q: What if the GM doesn't show up? A: Report no-shows to support. Charges can be reversed for GM no-shows.
General
Q: Why does Realm VTT charge a 10% fee? A: This fee covers payment processing, platform development, customer support, and infrastructure costs while keeping the platform sustainable.
Q: Are prices in USD only? A: Currently, all prices are in USD. International cards are accepted with automatic currency conversion.
Q: How are timezones handled? A: All session times are displayed in your local timezone with clear indicators when times differ from the game's primary timezone.
Best Practices
For Successful Paid Games
Set a Player Profile
All GMs and Players can set a Profile by clicking "View and Edit Profile" on the Looking for Games page
It is very important for the GM to set their own profile so that Players can view details about the GM before applying to join!
If a player leaves a review on your profile, those reviews will show up here as well as your average rating
Set Clear Expectations
Define session 0 requirements
Communicate house rules upfront
Establish attendance policies
Price Appropriately
Research comparable games
Consider your experience level
Factor in prep time and materials
Deliver Consistent Quality
Prepare thoroughly for each session
Start and end on time
Maintain professional communication
Build Your Reputation
Encourage players to leave reviews
Maintain high attendance rates
Develop a unique GM style
For Players in Paid Games
Commit to Attendance
Paid games rely on consistent player participation
Communicate scheduling conflicts early
Use opt-out features responsibly
Respect the Investment
Arrive prepared and on time
Engage actively in sessions
Support fellow players
Provide Feedback
Leave reviews for GMs! Reviews help Game Masters grow their reputation with the community and allow others to see what your experience was with a particular GM. All reviews are viewed publicly. If you'd like to give private feedback to your Game Master you can use the "Send Message to Game Master" function.
Communicate concerns constructively
Help build the community
Conclusion
Realm VTT's Looking for Games system combined with paid game functionality creates a thriving ecosystem where GMs can be fairly compensated for their efforts while players gain access to high-quality, committed gaming experiences. The 10% platform fee (or 7.5% for subscribers) ensures we can continue providing robust features, reliable payment processing, and ongoing platform improvements.
Whether you're a GM looking to monetize your skills or a player seeking quality games, our LFG and payment systems provide the tools and security you need for successful online tabletop gaming.
For additional support or questions not covered in this guide, please contact our support team or visit our help center.