Local actor Mark Meer, a beloved Dungeon Master for the international event D&D in a Castle, says role-playing games are about collaborative storytelling with some math. Edmonton has embraced this journey for years, influencing the wider world of tabletop gaming.
Edmonton's Role in Global D&D
Meer first encountered Dungeons & Dragons in elementary school in Sedgwick, Alberta. He was gifted books by older players who moved on, forcing him to run his own games. This led to his first acting, improv, and writing experiences. In 1987, his parents took him to Gen Con in Milwaukee, the convention started by D&D co-creator Gary Gygax. That was his first larger look at the world of role-playing.
Meer later voiced characters in BioWare games like Baldur's Gate and Mass Effect, partly because his D&D background gave him an edge. He now DMs professionally for D&D in a Castle, an event co-founded by Edmonton event planner Tara Rout. Rout's brother Cameron had a cathartic reunion game with old friends, inspiring them to share the experience. The first castle event in France attracted big names like Satine Phoenix and official D&D designers. The motto is "eat, sleep, roll dice," with guests paying around $3,400 plus lodging for a three-day immersive adventure.
Local Games and Community
Artist Adam Waldron-Blain runs weekly DIY role-playing games at the Black Dog pub, part of his long-running art practice. His game, Sſtabhmontown, simplifies corporate D&D rules and is part of the Old School Renaissance movement. He hosts free drop-in sessions every second Monday, welcoming newcomers. "Don't get too attached to your characters. I will hurt you," he warns with a grin. His three jobs include being a good host, a referee, and an evil Dungeon Master trying to kill players with monsters.
Janis Galloway, a local communications specialist, tried role-playing for the first time despite being scared of the rules. She found the game welcoming and nuanced, with conversation as important as combat. Her character Snagus accidentally started a fight with an ogress after yelling "Repent or die!" Galloway recommends finding a beginner group like Waldron-Blain's.
Live Improv and Events
YEGDND, produced by Sorry Not Sorry Improv, offers live fantasy improv shows inspired by D&D. Cast members use foam weapons for stage combat and improvise stories from audience suggestions. At the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, they run eight-plus shows with larger story arcs, taking characters from level one to level 20. They recently performed at GameCon Canada and plan a BYOV at Queen Alexandra Hall.
IntrigueCon, running October 16-18 at Meadowlark Mall, offers a chance to try various games for about $30. Authentic Dungeons provides themed rooms for rent at $69 for six hours. For those seeking a castle experience, D&D in a Castle continues to host events in the U.K. and U.S., with Meer returning yearly as a DM.
The article recounts a personal adventure where the author's halfling character Icky Steelhead faced 13 skeletons in a snowstorm. After a desperate fight, the party survived but had no treasure. The author rolled a 13, the same number as the skeletons, but felt at home with his dog and friends.
