Dungeons and Dragons is a role-playing game that’s been around for close to fifty years. It has been enjoyed by teenagers and adults alike – perhaps because it relies on each player’s imagination as it draws people into a magnificent fantasy world with intriguing characters, adventures and storylines. 

Philip Galliford, spokesperson for Solarpop says: “Dungeons and Dragons is where heroes battle monsters, find treasures and overcome quests. All you need is a group of people, a starter kit and your imagination. It’s a game that can be played as a family, amongst friends and even amongst strangers.”

“The beauty is that the storylines are infinite, immersing the players into a wonderful fantasy world that can last for hours and can be played over a number of days, weeks even. It’s a great way to socialize and use your imagination. The additions to the game ensure that playing is always fresh and exciting. There is no lack of novelty in Dungeons and Dragons!”

For those unfamiliar with the game, it was inspired by miniature wargames with their small soldiers, military formations and military paraphernalia. Dungeons and Dragons, or D&D as it is also called, drew upon the concept and turned it into a fantasy game, to the point that it is widely recognised as the beginning of modern role-playing games and the role-playing game industry.

D&D is different from traditional wargaming as it allows each player to create their own character instead of using a military formation. These characters go on imaginary adventures within an exciting fantasy setting. A Dungeon Master, or DM, acts as the game referee and storyteller whilst managing the setting in which the adventure unfolds. The better the DM, the better the game.

The characters interact with the inhabitants and each other to solve problems, engage in battle, go exploring and collect treasure and knowledge. In order to rise in levels, the characters earn experience points as they play. A large part of the enjoyment of playing D&D, apart from the fun social aspect, is that players build a universe and storyline that can extend over many sessions.

South African fantasy author and influencer; Enricoh Alfonzo’, has been playing D&D since high school and continues to be a huge fan of the D&D universe and products. “D&D is the highest of fantasy experiences out there and I love it. The imaginative plotlines and character arcs you can create are endless and so much fun. I’ve been to gaming sessions where people come dressed as their characters, which adds to the fantasy experience. If you want to start playing, think about who you would like to invite and get an Essentials Kit,” he says.

D&D Essentials Kit is all you need to get started – it’s a great introduction to the world’s greatest roleplaying game. Distributed in South Africa by Solarpop and available from these retailers:

Takealot.comLootRaru.co.zaToy KingdomComic WarehouseAnd all good hobby stores

The Search is on for new Dungeon Masters

This year we’re looking to assist players to become the best Dungeon Master they can be. The better the DM, the better the storyline, the adventures and the experience of the game. Through a series of events in various parts of the country, Solarpop will be training new DMs who will then be the story tellers and guides to their gaming groups.

“We’re very excited to see players grow as DMs, seeing their imaginations take flight and storytelling abilities grow,” says Philip Galliford, spokesperson for Solarpop.

Info on wave 1 of event. Wave 2 details to be confirmed shortly: https://www.unplugyourself.co.za/2022/03/dm-bootcamp-phase-1/