If there’s one thing for certain about Dungeons and Dragons, it’s this: the game has a storied history. Our community is currently experiencing the games most popular era in 5th edition and we stand on the precipice of a new age in the form of One D&D, releasing later this year. Seems like a great time to reflect on where the game started, right?
Role-playing games allow [us] to experience the fantastical, and even though it’s make-believe, the catharsis is real. My life isn’t wanting for magic because I’ve got Dungeons and Dragons.
David M. Ewalt, authority on the intersection of gaming with technology and 15th level cleric, does exactly this in his award-winning history of the game “Of Dice and Men.” Recently updated, this genuine, fun-to-read work of narrative journalism explores the ancient history of board games–from their beginnings in The Bronze Age to their evolution into modern video games and TTRPGs, the nature of collaborative storytelling as an artform and the cultural impact D&D had on an entire generation. Breaking up the emotional and informative rollercoaster are first-hand recollections of Ewalt’s game experiences–many of which every one of us nerds will feel deeply connected to.
No matter which version of the game you champion, “Of Dice and Men” is a hopeful read that reminds fans of D&D what the game teaches every player to love: the magic of storytelling.
With camaraderie and communication as her core values, Dovah seeks out gaming experiences that allow her to escape the vice grip of reality and sink into a more fantastical setting. Games that encourage players to craft whimsical narratives through collaborative storytelling and creative problem-solving techniques hold a special place in her heart. Well, that and cat games… there’s really no in-between.