Old Priest (Warlock)

cults3d

The text you provided is a comprehensive overview of the history and impact of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), a popular tabletop role-playing game. Here's a summary of the key points: **History** * D&D was first published in 1974 by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson. * The game gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s, but faced controversy and criticism from some Christian groups. * In the 2000s, there was a trend towards reviving older editions of D&D, known as the Old School Revival. **Copyright Law** * Wizards of the Coast, the current publisher of D&D, does not allow third-party usage due to copyright law. * However, the company has established a two-pronged licensing approach: the Open Game License (OGL) allows creators to use certain materials under a permissive license, while the DM's Guild program offers licensed content for Dungeons & Dragons and associated properties. **Controversy and Notoriety** * D&D has faced negative publicity over the years, including accusations of promoting devil worship, witchcraft, and other occult practices. * The game has also been blamed for social problems, such as psychotic episodes and murder, although research has shown no harmful effects related to playing D&D. **Commercial Success** * D&D's commercial success led to lawsuits over royalties between original creators Gygax and Arneson. * The game has inspired a wide range of related products, including computer games, novels, and animated television series. **In Popular Culture** * D&D has become a cultural phenomenon, with numerous references in films, TV shows, and literature. * Players are often portrayed as stereotypical "geeks" or "nerds," but the game has also been celebrated for its positive effects on social skills and problem-solving abilities. Overall, the text provides a detailed history of D&D's development, controversies, and impact on popular culture. It highlights the game's enduring popularity and influence on modern gaming and entertainment.