The Rise and Fall (and Acquisition) of Dungeons & Dragons

2025-02-21

This article details the tumultuous history of TSR, Inc., and its flagship game, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). Once a dominant force, TSR's mismanaged marketing, internal power struggles, and the rise of Magic: The Gathering led to its financial ruin and eventual acquisition by Wizards of the Coast. The piece explores TSR's successes and failures, highlighting the cutthroat nature of the gaming industry and offering reflections on company management, market shifts, and gaming culture.