Okay… maybe not everyone. But Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) – along with all other table-top roleplaying games (TTRPGs) – are more beneficial than you might think. D&D is a role-playing game that allows a group of people to create their own characters and go on adventures in a world designed by a “game master”, who plays the game along with you as they describe scenes and fill in dialogue as a variety of characters. These games can be fantastical with literal dragons and dungeons, or they can take place in realistic locations like highs schools or beach towns. The only limit is your creativity!

While there are dozens of different types of TTRPGs, D&D is certainly the most popular (you can see it being played in the classic film E.T.). First published in 1974, the game has been historically associated with antisocial nerds, but over the past decade it has gained a lot more mainstream popularity, to the point that there is a live-action D&D film set to release in 2023 starring big-ticket celebrities like Chris Pine and Bridgerton heartthrob Regé-Jean Page.

But it’s not just a fun little game – it actually has a lot of benefits! For example:

It brings people together, whether in-person or virtually

The #1 goal for TTRPGs is to bring people together. There isn’t really a limit to the number of people that can play together, and thanks to digital platforms like Discord and Roll20, it’s easy to play together virtually, no matter the distance! This was a lifesaver at the beginning of the pandemic, because I was able to have fun with my friends safely and play this cool game together.

It provides and outlet for creative expression

Have you ever wanted to get into improv or acting, but been too scared to get on stage! D&D allows you to create your own character and take on a whole new persona as you role-play with friends, so it’s a great way to express yourself in a creative way! And if you want to be the game master, you basically get to write the story, design the setting, and even paint little figurines if you want to!

It sharpens your problem-solving and teamwork skills

No matter the setting, D&D presents you with some kind of challenge, puzzle, or mystery to solve as a team. It can be fighting a giant monster, solving a murder, or just answering a troll’s riddle – but you have to figure it out together. Each character has their own unique skills and abilities, so its crucial for your group to communicate and play to each others strengths in order to win the day.

Have you been convinced? Go find a group of friends and see if they’re interested! You’ll be surprised where the adventure can take you.