As Dungeons & Dragons celebrates its 50th anniversary, fans are eagerly anticipating new core books from Wizards of the Coast that will take them into the future of the game. However, before looking ahead, it’s important to reflect on the early history of D&D. Historian Jon Peterson has collaborated with Wizards of the Coast to release a new book titled The Making of Original D&D: 1970 – 1977, which delves into the origins of the game.
Peterson and co-author Jason Tondro were granted access to original documents from archivists and collectors, allowing readers to see the development of the game in the creators’ own handwriting. One of the highlights of the book is a reproduction of the original draft of Dungeons & Dragons, typed on Gary Gygax’s typewriter in Lake Geneva, with handwritten notes from Gygax and co-creator Dave Arneson.
Arneson, a member of the Midwest Military Simulation Association, ran scenarios like Braunstein that shifted players into specific roles on the battlefield, laying the groundwork for the unique gameplay of D&D. He later developed Blackmoor, a fantasy setting inspired by various sources, including Chainmail, a miniatures game published by Gygax and Jeff Perrin in 1971.
The book also includes correspondence between Arneson and Gygax, showcasing the development of mechanics like hit points, armor class, and character development over time. Additionally, readers can explore the correspondence that Gygax had with early fans, showing how player feedback shaped the game. These discussions often took place in The Dragon, the first official D&D magazine.
For fans interested in a deeper dive into the history of D&D, The Making of Original D&D: 1970 – 1977 will be available in retailers starting on June 18th, 2024. This book provides a rare glimpse into the early days of the game and the creative processes of its creators, shedding light on the evolution of D&D from its inception to become the iconic and beloved game it is today.
