Dungeons & Dragonshas always been something of a phenomenon since its release in 1974. What started as a simple project between two creative minds - Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson - became much more. Despite its massivesuccess and popularity, few fans know much about the history ofDungeons & Dragons.
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The fantasy tabletop RPG’s past is brimming with unusual details and oddities unknown to most. Even those around during the creation of the OriginalDungeons & Dragonsmay not know of particular instances. While it is not of the utmost importance, it is fascinating to learn of this beloved tabletop RPG’s remarkable history.
10It Was Originally A Wargame Add-On
WhileDungeons & Dragonsis now its own system, it originally was a wargame add-on. Gary Gygax and Dave Anderson marketed it as a fantasy variation of the widely popularChainmailwargame. Despite not being an independent game, OriginalDungeons & Dragonsamassed a large fanbase and immense popularity.
So much so that its creators abandonedChainmailto create an entirely new game, unlike any other. Even though it shifted away from its wargame roots,Dungeons & Dragonsretained some elements of its past. Thus, is why combat remains a notable - and alluring - adventuring pillar of the franchise.
Dungeons & Dragonsis among the highest-grossing tabletop RPGs of all time. This fact alone is surprising considering the funding behind the creation of the OriginalDungeons & Dragons. In truth, it is remarkable that such a renowned franchise was able to ascend beyond such humble beginnings.
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The production budget for the OriginalDungeons & Dragonswas a measly $2000. Moreover, only $100 was allocated towards artwork while the rest went into production. Even so, the OriginalDungeons & Dragonssold over 1000 copies in the first year and thousands more in the years to come - thus ensuring its success.
8It Was The First Of Its Kind
During the year 1974, tabletop RPGs were nonexistent, but wargames reigned supreme. This tabletop genre valued strategy and combat above all else, essentially mimicking warfare. While the OriginalDungeons & Dragonspresented itself as a wargame add-on, it offered something much different, individuality and creativity.
Instead of leading military formations or entire armies, players created and controlled characters of their design. The unique experience that the OriginalDungeons & Dragonsprovided developed into the tabletop RPG genre. This never-before-seen creation is what garnered the franchise much fame and influence.
7Numerous Tabletop RPGs Followed D&D
After a year of unprecedented success, the OriginalDungeons & Dragonsinspired the creation ofnumerous tabletop RPGs. While many attempted to recreateDungeons & Dragon’ssuccess, most failed in their pursuit, likeTunnels & Trolls. However, a noteworthy few maintained popularity even to this day, such asPathfinder.
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In truth, the OriginalDungeons & Dragonslaid the groundwork for countless tabletop RPGs. Even though most differ in playstyle and system, each can attribute their creation toDungeons & Dragons, as it took the first step. Hence is why one cannot appreciate other tabletop RPGs without giving credit toDungeons & Dragons.
6It Endured Many Controversies
Throughout its humble beginnings,Dungeons & Dragonsendured a significantnumber of controversies, especially involving religious groups. Its numerous fantastical themes and emphasis on immersion were subject to criticism. Thus, leading to countless controversial issues regardingDungeons & Dragonsand its fanbase.
The most critical and pressing claims were thatDungeons & Dragonspromoted Satanism, insanity, and insensitive thought. These controversies threatened the franchise constantly and nearly resulted in its downfall. Fortunately,Dungeons & Dragonsrose above adversity, proving to be a harmless and positive tabletop RPG.
5There Wasn’t Consistency Until 3rd Edition
Despite its success, earlier editions ofDungeons & Dragonslacked any semblance of consistency. Essentially, it was the wild west of tabletop RPGs and, as such, loosely followed any structure. So, much of the rules and styles of play were determined entirely by the players. Thus, making earlier editions ofDungeons & Dragonscustomizable yet confusing.
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There was not any noticeable consistency until the release ofDungeons & Dragons3rd Edtion. This version implemented a more modern system that possessed better-developed rules and structure, thus providing a more unified basis of play that still maintained a degree of customization. From then on,Dungeons & Dragonshas remained more or less consistent.
4There Was A D&D TV Show
Dungeons & Dragonsgarnered enough popularity to influence the production ofa TV show set in its universe. It ran from 1983 to 1985 on the CBS network, completing three seasons until its abrupt cancellation. While older fans may remember this televised rendition of the franchise, it is largely unknown to the modern masses.
TheDungeons & DragonsTV show follows the adventures of a group of friends in the franchise’s fantastical universe. With the guidance of the Dungeon Master, they carry out adventurers while searching for a way home. Despite its popularity, theDungeons & DragonsTV show ended prematurely due to various complications.
3There Was A D&D Movie Trilogy
With the creation of aDungeons & DragonsTV show, a movie was essentially a guarantee. What was not expected, however, was the release of an entire trilogy. From the year 2000 to 2012, a total of threeDungeons & Dragonsfilms appeared in theaters. Despite the franchise’s popularity, none were even remotely successful.
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The failure of theDungeons & Dragonstrilogy is due to numerous shortcomings. Chiefly, a lack of seriousness and depth made it more akin to a parody film more than anything. Hopefully, the upcomingDungeons & Dragons(2023) movie will not repeat the same mistakes, thus producing arespectful film adaptation.
2It Inspired A Thriller Movie
Just as the popularity ofDungeons & Dragonsinspired TV shows and movies, so did its controversies. The year 1982 saw the release of the filmMazes & Monsters, a social commentary against the famous tabletop RPG. During this time, the masses believedDungeons & Dragonsevoked loneliness, depression, and violence in adolescents. Therefore, grantingMazes & Monsterssome faulty credence.
While now it seems ridiculous, at the time,Mazes & Monsterswas a significant threat to tabletop RPG fans. Chiefly, it was due to a disappearance investigation involving aDungeons & Dragonsplayer, fueling hysteria. Fortunately, with controversial claims thwarted, tabletop RPG fans were able to play in peace. While the film itself was terrible, it provided Tom Hanks his first leading role, thus granting him more status.
1There Is A National D&D Day
Surprisingly, not manyDungeons & Dragonsfans know that there is a National D&D Day. On November 5th, fans and newcomers alike come together to appreciate the venerable tabletop RPG. While most who celebrate areDungeons & Dragonsfans, all who have engrossed themselves in tabletops or video games should take time to revere the tabletop RPG.
In truth, many popular games - tabletop or otherwise - can accredit numerous elements toDungeons & Dragons. Hence, is why Wizards of the Coast has marked November 5th as aday of commemoration. Not only to celebrateDungeons & Dragonsbut all that followed as well. So, all should mark November 5th on their calendars and set aside time to honor the tabletop RPG.
