The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons (1991) Board Game

The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons board game was released in 1991 by Borras Plana S.A. It was designed by Timothy B. Brown and Troy Denning, featuring artwork by Gerald Brom, Timothy B. Brown, Clyde Caldwell, and Troy Denning. The game is set in a fantasy world of adventure and exploration, where players take on the roles of heroes battling monsters and completing quests.

Game Components of The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons

Rulebook: A 96-page book containing the basic rules, organized by topic such as character generation, combat, and magic.

Dragon Cards: 51 large cards that explain the D&D rules step-by-step through a simplified sample adventure. These cards double as a DM screen when stored in a pocket folder.

Maps and Posters: A large heavy-duty paper poster map of “Zanzer’s Dungeon” and a poster of the box cover art.

Miniatures: 48 cardstock fold-up punch-out miniatures of characters and monsters.

Dice: A set of 6 pre-inked dice.

How To Setup The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons

Setting up the game is designed to be straightforward and user-friendly. Players start by creating characters using the rules outlined in the rulebook. The Dragon Cards guide new players through the rules and theories behind role-playing, using vignette scenarios to teach mechanics such as ability checks, combat, experience, spell casting, and saving throws. The cards are color-coded to introduce new facets of the game as players progress through an ever-widening “dungeon” scenario.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Simplified Rules: The game uses simple rules mechanics, including class and level systems, Hit Points (HP), and THAC0 (To Hit Armor Class 0).

Step-by-Step Learning: The Dragon Cards provide a structured learning experience, breaking down the game into small, self-contained steps.

Character Progression: Players can advance their characters up to the fifth level using the rules provided in the boxed set. For further advancement, players are directed to the Rules Cyclopedia.

Adventure Modules: The game includes a final expanded scenario, and additional adventure packs were released in 1992, such as *The Dragon’s Den*, *The Goblin’s Lair*, and *The Haunted Tower*.

Player Experience

The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons Game is tailored for new players, making it an ideal introduction to the world of role-playing games. The game’s design ensures that players can quickly grasp the basic concepts of role-playing, including controlling an alter ego and improving skills through experience. The Dragon Cards and simplified rules make the game accessible and fun, allowing new players to set up characters and start an adventure within a short period.

Pros

User-Friendly: Designed specifically for beginners, the game is easy to learn and play.

Structured Learning: The Dragon Cards provide a clear, step-by-step introduction to the game’s mechanics.

Simplified Rules: The game avoids the complexity of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, making it less intimidating for new players.

Attractive Components: The game includes mapsheets, stand-up counters, and colorful artwork, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Cons

Limited Scope: The game only covers levels 1 to 5, requiring players to transition to other rule sets for further advancement.

Simplistic Components: Some components, such as the stand-up markers, are noted for being flimsy and of small size.

Not for Veterans: The simplified rules and mechanics might be too basic for experienced players, who may find the game too simplistic.

Personal Thoughts on The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons

This game is perfect for those new to Dungeons & Dragons or role-playing games in general. It was a driving force behind introducing many players to the hobby, thanks to its innovative use of Dragon Cards and simplified rules. Lorraine Williams, the driving force behind this set, successfully adapted educational methods to make the game more accessible. For anyone looking for a gentle and engaging introduction to D&D, The New Easy to Master Dungeons & Dragons Game is an excellent choice.

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