This year, the PLAY – Game Festival is hosting a special celebration to mark the fiftieth anniversary of Dungeons & Dragons, the world’s most renowned role-playing game. Pavilion B will be dedicated entirely to this universe, with guest of honor David “Zeb” Cook, a revered figure in the realm of role-playing games since the 1980s. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with Cook during the “Survive the Dungeon” event and at the Mondiversi stand, where they can play and discuss his works.
In addition to honoring role-playing games, the PLAY Festival del Gioco will feature a significant scientific presence, with an entire pavilion devoted to exploring the cultural and educational aspects of gaming. Collaborations with institutions like INAF and INFN, as well as Italian universities, will enhance the program by offering workshops, conferences, and interactive experiences that highlight the relationship between games and science. Must-see events include “Pixels – who wants to be an astrophysicist?” and “Physics Gets Played,” both of which provide engaging ways to learn about astrophysics and physics through gameplay.
The festival will not only cater to old-school fans but also provide newcomers with insights into the rich history and evolution of Dungeons & Dragons. Special events like the “Grand Multi-Epoch Multi-Table” will allow participants to experience scenarios that blend past and future narratives, demonstrating how player actions can shape overall storylines.
An exhibition titled “D&D: 50 years of adventures and art,” curated by Alessio Mazzacani, will showcase the D&D universe in a multimedia narrative set within a fantasy tavern environment. The exhibit will feature historical artifacts such as manuals and original game boxes as well as artwork from Katerina Ladon and Francesca Baerald. Fans will have numerous opportunities to meet esteemed guests during the festival.
Overall, the PLAY Festival offers an immersive experience for gaming enthusiasts, blending artistry, history
