A Player’s Memorial to Gary Gygax

After the traumatic news of Gary Gygax’s death this week, I know many of us are remembering fondly back to our early days of roleplaying and realizing that we have seen the end of an era. Jeff Reints posted a great article reminding us to celebrate Gygax’s life, and he has some great idea on this list.

However, if you’re still looking for a fitting memorial, I encourage you to play something new and expand your roleplaying repertoire; after all, if he hadn’t tried something new, we wouldn’t be the people we are today.

Break Your Stereotype

I’ve noticed that players tend to stick to a certain type of character; I’m guilty of it myself, just ask anyone! But instead of playing the same old character, try playing someone new.

• Play a different class – and I don’t mean playing a wizard instead of a sorcerer. Try something drastically different. There are plenty of options to explore.
• Play a different race – Many of us stick to the same race; personally, I’m very comfortable playing an elf. I think we all tend to gravitate toward races that suit our own personalities. However, there is something to be said for shedding your preferred race in favor of a new race. If you really are having a hard time picking a new race to try, pick one at random!
• Play a different personality – this can be closely tied to the race you pick, but try a new personality for your characters… especially for you quiet-types out there. Break out of your comfort zone and change your participation level in the group.

It may be tough, but trying something new will definitely build your character as a player. Challenge yourself to break away from your stereotype and be someone different for awhile. And when you do, remember Gygax, who gave us the tools to let our imaginations run wild.

P.S. If you haven’t see it yet, Phil has collected a list of several of the tributes. Thanks, Phil, I hadn’t seen some of these.