Dungeons & Dragons gets woke makeover that axes key term and introduces trigger warnings
Critics have criticized the latest installment of the Dungeons and Dragons rulebook for being “woke.”
In the 2024 Player’s Handbook, “races” are now “species” and some character traits are separated from biological identity, according to The New York Times.
“A mountain dwarf is no longer inherently muscular and durable, a high elf is no longer inherently intelligent and agile,” the paper explained.
Wizards of the Coast, Hasbro’s Dungeons and Dragons publisher, has implemented a trend that allows players to quit the game if they feel uncomfortable.
Players are encouraged to make a gesture such as crossing their arms in an X or raising their palm to pause the game, according to a section of the handbook shared on social media.
“The signal should not provoke debate or discussion: thank the player for being honest about his needs, set the right tone and move on,” the book says.
The foreword of the book shared online said the original game excluded and disrespected women, and depicted slavery “not as a human tragedy but as a commercial transaction.”
Robert J. Kuntz, a game designer who regularly worked with Dungeons and Dragons co-creator Gary Gygax, told the Times he didn’t like the changes.
In the 2024 Player’s Handbook, ‘races’ are now ‘species’ and some character traits are separated from biological identity
Players are encouraged to use a gesture such as crossing their arms in an X or raising their palm to pause the game
“It’s unnecessary,” he said. “It’s trying to tap into something that I’m not sure is worth addressing, like the word ‘race’ is bad.”
Dungeons and Dragons enthusiasts and social media users have slammed the company for changing the rules, claiming it is an insult to the creators.
‘Wokeism personified. The player indicates what he “wants changed” but “does not have to explain why the content is objectionable.” All feelings of any kind should be validated at all times, without question or discussion,” one person said.
‘Imagine needing a safe word to play a game with your ‘friends’. The infantilization continues,” said another.
Even Elon Musk said, “No one, and I mean no one, should screw up E. Gary Gygax and the geniuses who created Dungeons & Dragons. What the hell is wrong with Hasbro and WoTC?? May they burn in hell.’
Others have embraced the changes, claiming they make the game more inclusive for players.
“What they’re trying to do here is send a message not only to current players, but also to potential future players, that this game is a safe, inclusive, thoughtful and sensitive approach to fantasy storytelling,” said Ryan Lessard, a writer and the frequent Dungeons & Dragons dungeon master told the Times.
“Wanting all your players to feel comfortable and have fun is actually a good thing,” said one social media user.