Mechanical Storytelling In D&D: Strahd In Relation To The Gothic
Mechanical Storytelling In D&D: Strahd In Relation To The Gothic
Mechanical Storytelling In D&D: Strahd In Relation To The Gothic
Meghan Hewitt
December, 15, 2024
Summary
This paper explores how Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) integrates the vampire tradition, particularly through the character of Strahd von Zarovich, while challenging its own mechanics. It examines how D&D’s alignment system, morality, and agency interact with and complicate the portrayal of vampires, specifically Strahd, in comparison to literary figures like Dracula. Strahd’s shifting alignment in various editions of D&D exposes the limitations of strict moral categories. The paper also highlights the role of player agency in shaping the narrative, the gothic atmosphere of Barovia, and how the Tarokka deck influences gameplay, ultimately contributing to a unique adaptation of the vampire tradition in D&D.
Reference
Hewitt, M. (2024, December 15). Mechanical storytelling in D&D: Strahd in relation to the gothic. Analog Game Studies. https://analoggamestudies.org/2024/12/mechanical-storytelling-in-dungeons-and-dragons-strahd-in-relation-to-the-gothic/