…And so passes a gaming pioneer
Source: WikipediaI’ve read a lot of blog posts these last day or so, each putting their own thoughts to the same topic: the passing of Gary Gygax, co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons.
The two posts I think put it best were Wil Wheaton’s and Penny Arcade’s. Both had similar things to say, in that this creation of Gary’s was an early influence on them during their youth (much to the chagrin of their respective parents and teachers). I’m quite certain Gary was often vilified for his works, with many thinking he was preaching a sort of anarchy.
However, many who had those same influences immediately point back to them as an important part of shaping them into what they are today. Unless I am somehow misinformed, none are deranged lunatics with murderous intentions. For many, their derangement comes in the form of creative genius. Of course, we all know how dangerous that can be.
This particular topic has some resonance at this particular moment. In the current bid for presidential power their is a potential candidate who thinks, speaks, and acts much like the alarmists of two decades ago when faced with D&D. While Hillary Clinton’s ire is not specifically aimed at role playing games, her voice is carried over the entire landscape of gaming with sinister intent; if the wind could speak her voice, it would say “Beware, I’m coming to get you”.
Wheaton was once quoted in a keynote at PAX that people like Hillary like to score “cheap political points” by demonizing games and those who play them. D&D didn’t make demons out those who played them in yesteryear, so I doubt games like Halo is going to do any worse today. As both a gamer and a parent,I know where the pitfalls are (pun intended), and more importantly, I know how to guide my children through them, without hiding the fact that they exist. Ignorance is not education, nor is it protection.
I came to the D&D scene very late in life, and while I can’t say that it had the profound effect on my youth that it did for others, I am certain it would have had I paid it more attention. I can remember my father trying to get me interested in it, but unfortunately it didn’t take. I find myself wishing more and more that it had. However, my condensed time with it produced some of my more favorite memories that I keep fresh in my mind to this day. There is nothing in this world that will ever convince me that is a bad thing.
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