Researcher(s)
- Riley Coates, Anthropology, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Kedron Thomas, Anthropology, University of Delaware
Abstract
Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is a popular tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) which can be played using a variety of computer-based and material means. In addition to gameplay, players have D&D-related hobbies and create and consume D&D-related media. D&D and other TTRPGs have been explored as creative and social activities and emotional outlets. The D&D community intertwines digital and material culture in many aspects of the hobby, notably gameplay, fandom, and creativity. I primarily focus on social media activity, the use of computer-based and material tools for gameplay, and the creation of digital media and material objects by members of the D&D community who are active online. I use an interdisciplinary approach to examine the relationship between these aspects of the D&D culture, exploring the topic through media analysis, material culture analysis, and ethnographic methods. Through observation and interaction with the D&D community, I find that creativity in- and out-of-game is an essential part of D&D for members of the community and that both the digital and material aspects of the game and community are integral to the D&D culture.