Dungeons & Dragons is gearing up for a significant year in 2024, as revealed by Wizards of the Coast at PAX Unplugged, outlining an exciting TTRPG product lineup. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of D&D, this lineup includes a substantial tome that encompasses the Original D&D rules set and the inaugural One D&D Core rulebook.

Reflecting on the events of 2023, which brought both successes, such as the collaboration with Larian Studios for Baldur's Gate 3, and setbacks, notably the controversial Open Gaming License (OGL), Wizards of the Coast (WotC) and its parent company Hasbro have managed to maintain a positive momentum in the realm of Dungeons & Dragons.

Based on the recent revelations at PAX Unplugged, it appears that Wizards of the Coast is strategically positioning 2024 to be a banner year for Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts, aiming to make it the best year yet for the world's most beloved TTRPG.

The first major announcement centers around "The Making of Dungeons & Dragons: 1970 - 1976," a comprehensive tome spotlighting the Original Dungeons & Dragons rulebooks from 1974 and their developmental journey. Encompassing over 500 pages, this tome meticulously covers the very first iteration of D&D, extending from its inception to subsequent printings packaged in an all-white box.

Beyond faithfully reproducing the Original D&D rulebooks, "The Making of Dungeons & Dragons: 1970 – 1976" incorporates insightful commentary on the evolution of the rules under the stewardship of its creators, E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. For instance, it delves into the initial character class options, featuring only the Fighting-Man (later known as the Fighter), Magic-User, and the Cleric.

The second major unveiling is the new Dungeons & Dragons Player's Handbook. Unlike previous editions, this edition, dubbed "One D&D," aspires to be the definitive version of the rules, serving as the official standard rules for the game. While designed to be compatible with D&D Fifth Edition, this edition is positioned as the game's ultimate set of rules.

Traditionally, Dungeons & Dragons comprises three core rulebooks, with the Player's Handbook typically being the first to launch, providing foundational rules for character creation, classes and races, spells, equipment, and actions. Although specific details about the 2024 D&D Player's Handbook are yet to be disclosed, fans can catch a glimpse of what's in store by participating in the Unearthed Arcana playtests through D&D Beyond.

In addition to these major releases, Wizards of the Coast has planned several significant supplements to accompany One D&D. "Vecna: Eve of Ruin" emerges as the inaugural adventure embracing the One D&D rules, featuring Vecna as the antagonist—a venerable villain deeply ingrained in Dungeons & Dragons lore and even making appearances in video games like Dungeons & Dragons Online.

Simultaneously, "Quests from the Infinite Staircase" appears to be a reimagining of older adventures, reminiscent of the approach taken in "Tales from the Yawning Portal." This supplement revisits modules from earlier D&D editions, aligning them with the One D&D rules.

While the PAX Unplugged 2023 panel offered only a brief glimpse into each product, the future of Dungeons & Dragons seems exceptionally promising. The overarching theme revolves around honoring the past while boldly charting a course toward the future of this iconic tabletop roleplaying game.

PAX Unplugged returns Dec 6-8, 2024 in Philly. We can't wait to roll again with you~

This program highlights BIPOC game devs and content creators who are rising luminaries and influencers in the gaming industry. In partnership with Games Unbound & subsidized by I Need Diverse Games.

Taking place on Friday, Dec 1st at 8:30 PM.

Check it out at PAXUnplugged23.com/Guests. Stay tuned as more will be added soon!