Dungeons & Dragons and the Evolution of “Race”: A New Era for Species in the Realms

Yes, it’s true. Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) will no longer use the word “race” in its game materials. This change is being implemented in an effort to move away from the problematic historical connotations associated with the term and towards a more inclusive and respectful representation of the diverse peoples within its fantasy worlds. The operative term moving forward is “species.” This shift reflects a broader cultural conversation about language and representation, and how they impact our understanding of identity and difference.

Understanding the Change: From “Race” to “Species”

For decades, D&D has used the term “race” to describe the various playable groups, such as elves, dwarves, humans, and orcs. However, the word “race” carries heavy historical baggage, linked to real-world discrimination and prejudice. While D&D intended to use it in a purely descriptive, fantastical context, the potential for misinterpretation and harm was undeniable.

Therefore, Wizards of the Coast (WoTC), the publishers of D&D, decided to replace “race” with “species”. This change is part of a larger initiative to address concerns about representation and inclusivity in the game. This isn’t simply a cosmetic alteration, but a commitment to re-evaluating how D&D portrays different groups and their relationships to each other.

The Rationale Behind the Shift

The decision to retire “race” stems from a recognition that language evolves and that D&D, as a cultural product, has a responsibility to be mindful of the impact of its language. By adopting the term “species,” WoTC aims to:

• Reduce the potential for harm: The term “species” lacks the loaded historical context of “race,” making it less likely to perpetuate harmful stereotypes or reinforce real-world prejudices.
• Promote inclusivity: This change signals a commitment to creating a more welcoming and inclusive gaming community for players from all backgrounds.
• Align with modern sensibilities: As societal understanding of race and identity evolves, D&D must adapt to remain relevant and responsible.
• Focus on Cultural Diversity instead of Genetic Predisposition: The changes will allow WoTC to create deeper and more nuanced cultures for the various groups within the game without relying on potentially harmful biological determinism.

Impact on Gameplay and Worldbuilding

The change from “race” to “species” is primarily semantic, but it may lead to subtle shifts in how D&D handles character creation and worldbuilding.

• Character Creation: The core mechanics of character creation, such as stat bonuses and special abilities, will likely remain similar, but the descriptions and flavor text will be updated to reflect the new terminology.
• Worldbuilding: The shift also encourages a re-evaluation of how different groups interact within the game world. It prompts creators to consider the cultural and social factors that shape these interactions, rather than relying on essentialist notions of inherent racial traits.

Broader Context: D&D, Controversy, and Cultural Evolution

The decision to move away from “race” is just one part of D&D’s ongoing journey to address historical criticisms and embrace greater inclusivity.

Past Controversies

D&D has faced criticism over the years for its portrayal of certain groups, including:

• Stereotypical Representations: Some monsters and cultures in D&D have been criticized for reinforcing harmful stereotypes about real-world ethnic groups. Orcs, for example, have been interpreted as caricatures of marginalized communities.
• Moral Alignment: The assignment of inherent moral alignments to entire groups (e.g., “orcs are inherently evil”) has been criticized as problematic.
• Lack of Diversity: Early editions of D&D featured a limited range of playable characters, primarily drawing on European-centric fantasy tropes.

WoTC has taken steps to address these criticisms, including:

• Retconning Lore: Revising the lore of certain monsters and cultures to remove or mitigate problematic elements.
• Promoting Diversity: Introducing a wider range of playable species and backgrounds.
• Encouraging Player Agency: Emphasizing that individuals are not defined by their “species” or cultural background and that players have the freedom to create characters with diverse motivations and personalities.
• Updating the Open Game License (OGL): While controversial, these updates aimed to balance the interests of WoTC with the needs of the D&D community. This has been one of the main reasons for the D&D boycott.

The Future of D&D

The evolution of D&D is an ongoing process. As societal values and understandings change, the game will continue to adapt to reflect those changes. This includes not only the language used but also the stories told and the values promoted.

WoTC’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond terminology to encompass:

• Diverse Storytelling: Creating adventures and campaigns that explore a wider range of themes and perspectives.
• Representation: Featuring characters from diverse backgrounds in official artwork and publications.
• Community Engagement: Actively soliciting feedback from players and incorporating their suggestions into the game.

By embracing change and actively listening to its community, D&D can continue to be a vibrant and engaging game for players of all backgrounds. You can learn more about tabletop game design and its societal impacts at the Games Learning Society, online at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide additional valuable information for the readers.

1. What is the new term for “race” in D&D?

The new term for “race” in D&D is “species.”

2. Why did D&D decide to remove the word “race”?

D&D decided to remove the word “race” due to its problematic historical connotations and its potential to perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

3. What species are being affected by this change?

All previously designated “races” are now referred to as “species,” including elves, dwarves, dragonborn, gnomes, halflings, humans, and others.

4. Will this change affect gameplay mechanics?

The change is primarily semantic. While some flavor text and descriptions may be updated, the core gameplay mechanics associated with each species are likely to remain similar.

5. What is One D&D?

One D&D is the codename for the next evolution of the D&D game system, which will be backward compatible with the 5th edition rules. There won’t be a 6th edition of D&D.

6. What was the D&D controversy in 2023?

The D&D controversy in 2023 primarily revolved around Wizards of the Coast’s (WoTC) proposed changes to the Open Game License (OGL), which would have restricted the ability of third-party creators to create and sell D&D-related content. There was also controversy about portraying Caucasians, Asians, and Africans in racist ways.

7. What is the OGL and why is it important?

The OGL (Open Game License) is a license that allows third-party creators to create and distribute content based on the D&D system. It’s important because it has fostered a vibrant and creative community around the game.

8. Is D&D being boycotted?

Yes, D&D has been boycotted due to concerns over WoTC’s proposed changes to the OGL and its potential impact on the D&D community.

9. Is 5th Edition D&D becoming obsolete?

No, 5th Edition D&D is not becoming obsolete. One D&D is designed to be backward compatible with 5th Edition, meaning that existing 5th Edition materials will still be usable.

10. What is the rarest species in D&D?

According to current data, some of the rarer species in D&D include Half Eladrin, Aarakocra, and Genasi.

11. What is the most popular species in D&D?

The most popular species in D&D is human.

12. What is the average lifespan of a human in D&D?

Humans in D&D typically live less than a century, with an average lifespan of around 60-80 years.

13. What is the best age to start playing D&D?

Many recommend starting D&D around the age of 12, as the rules can be complex and require abstract thinking skills.

14. Can Christians play D&D?

Yes, Christians can play D&D. The game’s content and themes may vary depending on the campaign, but it is ultimately a form of entertainment and personal choice.

15. Is D&D still popular?

Yes, D&D is more popular than ever, with millions of players worldwide. Wizards of the Coast estimates that over 50 million people have interacted with D&D since its creation.