What's Happening?
Wizards of the Coast, the company behind Dungeons & Dragons, has brought together the original creators of the Dragonlance setting, Margaret Weis and Laura and Tracy Hickman, along with actor and D&D enthusiast Joe Manganiello. This reunion was shared
by Dan Ayoub, the new head of the D&D franchise, who expressed excitement about welcoming these creators back to the fold. Although no specific announcements were made, the gathering suggests potential new developments for the Dragonlance setting, which has been a staple of D&D since its introduction in 1984. The setting has primarily thrived through novels rather than as an officially supported tabletop setting in recent years.
Why It's Important?
The potential revival of the Dragonlance setting could have significant implications for the D&D franchise and its community. Dragonlance has been a beloved part of the D&D universe, and its return could attract both longtime fans and new players to the tabletop game. This move may also signal a broader strategy by Wizards of the Coast to leverage popular settings to enhance the appeal of D&D in its latest iteration. The involvement of Joe Manganiello, a well-known D&D enthusiast, could further boost interest and visibility for any upcoming projects related to Dragonlance.
What's Next?
While specific plans have not been disclosed, the reunion of the original Dragonlance creators suggests that Wizards of the Coast may be preparing to reintroduce the setting in some form. This could involve new tabletop modules, tie-in projects, or other creative endeavors that expand the Dragonlance universe. Fans and stakeholders in the D&D community will likely be watching closely for any announcements or updates regarding the future of Dragonlance and its role within the broader D&D franchise.
Beyond the Headlines
The potential revival of Dragonlance could also reflect a broader trend in the tabletop gaming industry, where nostalgia and established intellectual properties are leveraged to drive engagement and sales. This strategy may influence how other gaming companies approach their own legacy settings and franchises, potentially leading to a resurgence of classic gaming worlds in modern formats.
