D&D Reunites Legendary Storytellers for Exciting New Adventures
In a franchise that has spanned five decades, it’s natural for creators to come and go. In the realm of Dungeons & Dragons, certain names have become legendary due to their significant contributions to the game and its expansive lore. Fans continue to express a desire to see these figures return, regardless of the time that has elapsed. This sentiment is at the heart of a new initiative unveiled during the D&D Vision Keynote 2027 at Gen Con.
D&D Icons is an exciting new project that unites some of the most influential creators in D&D’s history to craft fresh narratives. Among the talented authors involved are Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, R.A. Salvatore, and Luke Gygax. Joe Manganiello, an actor, producer, writer, and passionate D&D player, will take on the role of chief creative officer for the D&D Icons line. He is also working on his own setting, titled Death Saves.
Weis and Hickman are set to collaborate on a Dragonlance tabletop RPG product for the first time in over two decades, which has been described as “the most ambitious Dragonlance volume ever.” R.A. Salvatore will return to the Icons program to revive his beloved character, the drow ranger Drizzt Do’Urden from The Legend of Drizzt series. Additionally, Luke Gygax will be developing a Greyhawk project based on his father’s unfinished content and unreleased notes, offering an adventure seen through Gary Gygax’s perspective, expected to launch as early as 2027.
While this initiative is steeped in nostalgia, it is also positioned as a forward-looking endeavor. The keynote emphasized the aim for these legendary creators to collaborate with the current design team to influence future content. The cherished campaign settings of Dragonlance, Greyhawk, and the Forgotten Realms will continue to evolve, honoring their rich histories while integrating the vision of those who originally shaped them.
Dan Ayoub, who leads the D&D franchise, made it clear upon taking the role just over a year ago that revitalizing the involvement of these iconic creators was a top priority. He reiterated this commitment in a post from last October featuring Manganiello, Weis, and Laura and Tracy Hickman, hinting at upcoming projects. The participation of Weis and Hickman is particularly noteworthy given their complicated history with the franchise, including a lawsuit in 2020. Luke Gygax’s involvement is also significant, as his father’s foundational role in the game has been somewhat overshadowed by recent cultural discussions.
Ayoub’s vision for the franchise, encapsulated in the motto “A new dawn for D&D,” is clear: to advance by building upon the game’s remarkable legacy. The inclusion of beloved creators who resonate positively with the community is a crucial step in this direction, and the promise of D&D Icons to help shape the future of the game adds an intriguing layer to this initiative.
