A nice article here on how not only has D&D (etc.) evolved into something that grown-ups play, but successful adults play, too.
Who’d’a thunk it?
Role-playing games aren’t just for teenage misfits anymore. D&D, with its medieval fantasy world of swords and sorcery, is shedding its geeky image, emerging from family recreation rooms and middle school study halls into the cultural mainstream. These days, you’ll find adult gamers playing enthusiastically in shops such as Danger Planet or, more often, gathered in the living room of a city condo or suburban Colonial owned by one of the players — not his parents.
The article notes that one thing that has legitimated D&D and other RPGs among grups are … just what some thought would kill the RPG industry:
But gaming experts say the biggest factor behind the destigmatization of D&D and other role-playing games has been the proliferation of home video game systems.
“Computer games have allowed people to think that playing games is a socially acceptable thing to do as an adult,” said Anthony Gallela, 34, operations director for the Game Manufacturers Association, a Colorado-based trade association for game companies. “If I can sit and play a game on a console in my 20s with my friends, why can’t I play a role-playing game? It’s a reasonable next step.”
That’s made RPGs — and other social games — a lot more popular in recent years, certainly something I’ve noticed.
And it may extend into the next generation, too.
Adult D&D enthusiasts say they encourage their children to embrace role playing, hoping it will spur creativity and accomplishment.
Dean Hollembaek, 46, of Needham and his brother Earl, 43, play Legend of the Five Rings, a samurai fantasy game, and 7th Sea, a pirate-themed role-playing game. Sunday is game night at the Hollembaek house, and Dean says he encourages his teenage children to join in. “I like the mental challenge of pretending to be somebody you are not,” he said. The kids “have learned that they can be anything they want to be.”
Certainly Kitten will grow up with gaming going on around her, and Justin is (when his grades and behavior permit) a semi-regular at the table.
All in all, a nice, if the slightest bit patronizing and surprisingly male-oriented, article, and certainly one you could pass on to your parents if they’re still confused about the whole thing. 🙂
(via 20×20)