International D+D Games Day

Saturday 7th June 2008 was a big day for gamers, possibly the most important day of the year, why? I hear you ask, well good fellow, let me tell you, Saturday was this year's annual D&D day and this year was special for 4th Edition D&D was finally let out of it's cage and allowed to run rampant, to froth, thrash, mash and bash player characters at will.

This year's extravanganza was as ever hosted by those genial folks at ORC Edinburgh (Open Roleplaying Community) with the support of both Edinburgh's own "Black Lion Games" and (as far as I believe) Wizards of the Coast themselves (there was certainly a plethora of free goodies to be had and for which we are all most grateful.)

It was a slow start to the day to be fair,just a few regular ORCISTS gathered with hushed reverance around the magnificent presence of several copies (and a special slipcase edition) of the new 4th Edition Dungeons and Dragons core books (and what fantastic books they are, truly splendid!!). But the crowds were soon to gather and several full blown games were quickly underway and in full effect, many complete with battle mats and a wide array of miniatures, (It was a pleasure to behold I tell you, especially the white dragon.)

For myself it was touching to see that there was a real continuity and respect for what had gone before in the new books, the dedication to Gary Gygax was just and proper and I was glad to see them state that they were building on the work of earlier editions and mention the authors by name, there's even a history of D&D in there, it's enough to bring a tear to your eye I tell you.

I think if the response of the crowd of ORCISTS gathered is anything to go by 4th Edition is a going to be BIG!!

There was a fair few folk involved by the end of play and everyone, I repeat, EVERYONE, was a winner as Liam at Black Lion had organised things with the folks at Wizards and there was goodies aplenty, free D20's, complete sets of polyhedrons and minis were the order of the day (and very abundant they were too:.)

It must be mentioned however that, for some it was to be their last day at ORC, you must forgive me as I am no good with names, but, cool brazillian girl, we dip our swords and salute you!

Alan Hume