It’s post-GenCon, so that can mean only one thing. I bought a new system and I’m going to try it out on the players. This time it’s an old system made new again – the next edition of Dungeons and Dragons. OK, so this isn’t really a new system, I’ve playing D&D since 1979, but it does feel like a new campaign.

Like so many others our group gave up on 4th Ed after a hearty try and mostly settled on Savage Worlds. I have played a lot of other systems including all the various editions of Star Wars RPGs, and Dungeon World (the system for my last long term campaign) and they have all been great. But seeing a new edition of the great old game is like having the Mothership land in your backyard to call you home – you have to go.

I tried out the Beginner Set with my boys and played in a one shot with another group. I downloaded the Basic and GM rules from the web site. It all looked good. More importantly, it all felt like D&D.

The emails have gone out, and the characters are starting to be created. I’ve been adapting a published module (Hoard of the Dragon Queen) for my own nefarious purposes. I’m even making my boys pickup their LEGOs so we have room to play!

Here are my hopes:

• Fun – it’s a game, have fun
• Adventure – duh.
• Immersion – always the trickiest one.
• Memories – both creating and bringing back from the “old days”.

Wish me luck, wish us adventure, wish everyone inspiration.