How to Set Up Reaction Roles in Discord (3 Methods)

Answer: Reaction roles (and modern role menus) let members self-assign roles by clicking a button or selecting from a dropdown. The safest setup uses a dedicated #roles channel, a clear mapping of options to roles, and correct role hierarchy so the bot can assign the roles.

TL;DR

• Use select menus for “pick one” or “pick many” role groups.
• Keep self-assign roles below your bot role in the hierarchy.
• Use a dedicated #roles channel and pin the role menu message.

Buttons vs select menus

Step-by-step setup

1. Create the roles (Server Settings → Roles).
2. Create #roles channel and restrict chat if you want it clean.
3. Configure a role menu mapping options to roles.
4. Test with an alt account.
5. Pin the role menu message and link it from #rules.

Common gotchas

• Role hierarchy: bot role must be above any roles it assigns.
• Channel permissions: bot must be able to read and send messages in #roles.

If you’re stuck, start with permissions errors.

Create a custom role menu bot

Need role menus that match your server’s rules? Build a custom bot with VibeCord and specify button vs menu behavior, “pick one” groups, and logging.