Celebrating 50 Years of Dungeons & Dragons at The Strong National Museum of Play

This fall, The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, is unveiling a special exhibit, Dungeons & Dragons: 50 Years of Storytelling, to honor the iconic roleplaying game's milestone anniversary. Running from September 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025, this exhibit promises a far richer experience than the recent, somewhat jaded “The Making of the Original Dungeons & Dragons” put out by Wizards of the Coast.

Visitors will journey through a comprehensive timeline of D&D’s development, marvel at rare artifacts like the first-edition Dungeons & Dragons set and the original Dragon magazine sent to co-creator Gary Gygax, and explore the profound influence D&D has had on both tabletop and video game design. Interactive elements, such as character creation, a character class quiz, and hands-on opportunities to craft your own monsters, ensure an immersive experience that brings the magic of D&D to life.

Founded in 1968 by Margaret Woodbury Strong, The Strong National Museum of Play has always aimed to study and explore play to illuminate the American experience. Over the years, the museum has grown to become a national treasure, particularly renowned for its World Video Game Hall of Fame and National Toy Hall of Fame. This D&D exhibit is yet another testament to the museum's commitment to celebrating the diverse ways in which play shapes our culture.

However, despite the excitement surrounding this exhibit, I doubt I’ll be able to attend due to its location in New York City. While the museum itself is in Rochester, NY, the distance, coupled with the challenges of navigating NYC, makes it an inaccessible and unfriendly destination for me. It’s a shame, as this exhibit seems to be a far more fitting tribute to D&D's legacy than what Wizards of the Coast has offered. If you’re nearby or willing to brave the journey, it’s likely an experience well worth your time.