From the Introduction:
Welcome to a special introductory edition of the Out of the Abyss adventure, designed specifically for D&D Encounters (an official in-store play program) and the D&D Adventurers League (the official D&D organized play system).
This edition of the adventure is designed for 1st- through 4th-level characters, and is divided up into three chapters, each of which contains a number of potential adventure scenarios. Characters who finish all three parts of the adventure should reach 5th level at the end. Characters of 5th level and above cannot play in this D&D Encounters edition of the adventure, though they can play the full adventure of Out of the Abyss. Each part of the adventure should be played over multiple sessions of play. For D&D Encounters, the recommended session length is two hours. The full adventure contains additional play beyond this edition.
Playing this adventure in store as a part of D&D Encounters is fun and offers additional benefits to enhance the experience. Folios connecting characters to different factions in the world of the Forgotten Realms are provided for players, containing information and accessories, along with exclusive rewards. Dungeon Masters (DMs) receive a folio as well, themed to the storyline season (for this season, Rage of Demons). Check with your store for more details. If you received this adventure and aren’t currently associated with a store, you can find a nearby store by heading to our Store and Event Locator.