Can I use the players guide 3.5 for the 4.0 edition of DnD?

Question

I also need help on how to get startedwith the game and how to learn the rules.

Answer 1

3.5 and 4th edition are actually quite different.  4.0 characters are MUCH tougher than their 3.5 counterparts and have different actions they can preform.  So in answer to your question, no you can't use a 3.5 Players Handbook to play 4th edition.

As far as the basics, head to the forums at http://www.wizards.com/  there are threads there that cover some of the basics.  (Unfortunately, there isn't one site with all the 4th edition basics available.)

The core rule is simple though.  Whenever the outcome of any action is in doubt, roll a twenty-sided die, add any bonuses while subtracting any penalties and compare your result to your target number.  If you get the same number or better, you succeed; roll worse, and you fail.

Answer 2

Sadly, no.  They have made many changes to the Dungeons & Dragons game, so buying the new 4th ed Player's Handbook is almost a necessity if you want to play the new game (and modules that they will be releasing).

Of course, Paizo is coming out with their Pathfinder series of adventures, so if you still want to play in the 3.5 universe, you can still use your old materials.

As for how to learn the new rules, I would recommend going onto the Wizards forums and reading what is being said there.  Otherwise, I would recommend going to your local game store.  I am certain that, with WotC's desire to expand the new game, they will be offering new materials to stores to advertise the new 4.0   Of course, I'd wait until after this weekend's GenCon to see how the new adventures are panned.