Dungeons & Dragons Starting Level

What starting level do you prefer - 1, 3 or 5?

Personally, I believe that the minimum starting level is 3, where you get your subclass. It makes no sense to study for years in a temple, but only after killing 20 goblins can you wear a heavy armor, because you only get your proffencie there.

At level 5, you shift into tier 2 game and now your character is competent.

In the end, its all about the game you are playing.
Are you playing kids? Start at level 1
Have you just graduated? Start at level 3
Have you just returned from the war? Start at level 5

I’m fine starting with any level, but given how rare it is to hit higher levels, I’d say I’d prefer starting at 5. Second choice is 3.

depends on the game length. long campaign level 1. one shot level 3 and up.

It may depend on the version. For D&D 5+, runekyndig has a point. For AD&D 1ed/2ed (my poisons of choice), 1st is the way to go, IMO.

I get people wanting to experience higher levels wanting to start higher level, and one shots starting at higher level so you can maybe have cooler encounters that are still survivable for the characters.

But if the thought is that the narrative of the character doesn't work with "logic" or the narrative of the story, if you start where the game mechanics start (Lvl 1)?

Then it seems to me like it's either the wrong system for the story or there's something inherently wrong with the system, if you can't start at the mechanical beginning.

I think runekyndig nailed it. The system allows for a story to start with youngsters starting out, well trained people, or experienced adventurers. Pick the starting level to fit the story line.

I find unlocking things to be part of the experience. It's both easing you into the mechanics by having less at the start, but also gives you something to look forward to. Won't be the end of the world if you start later, but starting later skips that early milestone.

Like PBPgameOn, it depends on the situation. For an extended campaign, start at level 1. For a one-shot or a con game, level 3 is the minimum I would consider, and I'd more likely go with level 5 or even 7.

Not to be repetitive but I feel it depends on the adventure, I have participated in many different games with a variety of starting levels and all have been fun.