If you’re a fan of Critical Role and Dungeons & Dragons, there’s some exciting news on the horizon. The actual-play streaming phenomenon has expanded its empire beyond just gaming, breaking into animated series and even creating its tabletop games. Now, it’s made another major move by bringing on board two powerhouse figures in the world of D&D design.
This morning, Critical Role officially announced that Jeremy Crawford, the former principal rules designer at Wizards of the Coast, and Chris Perkins, the former senior story designer, have joined its in-house publishing arm, Darrington Press. Their mission? To enhance storytelling and create shared experiences that resonate with fans.
For years, Crawford and Perkins have been the iconic faces of D&D at Wizards of the Coast. These two have played pivotal roles in shaping the game, from the launch of its fifth edition in 2014 to the 50th-anniversary update released this year. Their departures from Wizards were big news, with Perkins announcing his move in April, followed closely by Crawford.
Travis Willingham, co-founder and CEO of Critical Role, expressed excitement about their arrival, stating, “Jeremy and Chris are visionaries. They’ve guided much of this golden age of TTRPG design and philosophy, helping shape the way we play, connect, and imagine together.” He believes their involvement will elevate the quality of storytelling at Darrington Press, benefiting fans and ‘Critters’ alike.
While specific roles for Crawford and Perkins at Darrington Press haven’t been revealed, their entrance signifies an exciting shift. This could potentially change the landscape for D&D as Critical Role continues its impressive trajectory. It’s a classic example of one of the most significant growth stories in tabletop gaming challenging its origins directly.
What implications might this have for future D&D campaigns and storytelling experiences? Here’s a look at what you might want to know:
How will Jeremy Crawford and Chris Perkins influence Critical Role’s storytelling approach?
Given their extensive backgrounds in D&D design, we can expect innovative narratives and gaming mechanics that align with modern players’ preferences.
What are the current initiatives at Darrington Press?
While details remain scarce, we can anticipate well-crafted games and possibly new expansions that capitalize on what makes Critical Role so beloved.
What does this mean for the future of Dungeons & Dragons as a whole?
This change suggests an evolution in tabletop RPGs that could lead to enriched gameplay experiences, fostering community interactions in new and exciting ways.
Are there other notable designers following Crawford and Perkins to Darrington Press?
As of now, these two are the main attractions, but the industry is always abuzz with potential surprises.
In entertaining and redefining storytelling, Critical Role continues to lead the charge in the gaming world. Keep an eye on how these changes unfold, and if you’re curious about more developments in the realms of gaming and storytelling, don’t hesitate to check out more related content at Moyens I/O.