Most people have heard of what Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is, whether from Stranger Things, Community, or some other means altogether; however, people tend to not understand how it works, or the effort and creativity that goes into every game. Most students do not even realize that there is a D&D club here at school, let alone how it functions.

The game is much more than a ridiculous number of dice and yelling fantastical things. It is coming up with and building worlds, it is strategizing with other teammates, and it is a form of storytelling. But yes, there is yelling too. And lots of dice.

One of the most important elements of the club, however, is the togetherness that the games bring to the teams playing. 

“It’s a large group of people in one place, enjoying the same thing for the same reasons. And even if that happens elsewhere, it’s always nice to have that,” said junior Izaya Choice.

Not to say that the game can’t be intense. 

“It depends on who you’re playing with, but if you have a really dedicated storyteller, it can get pretty intense,” said junior Thorn Rockel. “But if you’ve got someone who’s goofing off, it’s not going to get very intense.”

Dungeons & Dragons is a game of planning, creativity, heat-of-the-moment improvisation, and luck. Players memorize countless stats, effects, and spells if the character allows. It is almost a language of its own. 

The room is lively and filled with chatter from every table. 

“It’s a welcoming, well, nerdy environment. Everyone is willing to make a little bit of a fool themselves, which makes it very laid-back and fun,” said senior Nicholas Petry. “It’s also a learning environment. I’m with a new group, and DMing for the first time, and they’re letting me learn at my own pace.”

Not everyone in the room is a pro at the game, however, as anyone is welcome. Some carry rulebooks and more dice than necessary to be able to help others, and every member is willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need of assistance.

“There are a lot of resources you can use for D&D,” said Choice. “But all you really need is paper, a pencil, and some dice.”

Overall, it is a welcoming, open, imaginative space for anyone who may be interested and is willing to dedicate time and effort to a close-knit community. D&D club meets in Mrs. Richburg’s room on Wednesdays after school.