The landscape of Dungeons & Dragons is experiencing a significant transition as Chris Perkins and Jeremy Crawford, two pivotal figures at Wizards of the Coast, prepare to depart from the company. Both have played integral roles in the development of the current Fifth Edition ruleset, which has achieved unparalleled popularity within the franchise’s extensive history. Recently, Perkins took on the role of Creative Director, directing the narrative arcs of the game and its associated media, while Crawford served as Game Director, responsible for the game’s ruleset.
After their efforts culminating in a revised Fifth Edition alongside new core rulebooks, both Perkins and Crawford have decided to step away from Wizards of the Coast. Perkins publicized his exit last week, and Screen Rant reports that Crawford will conclude his tenure later this month. Their exits represent a monumental shift for Dungeons & Dragons, given their long-standing influence over the past decade and their roles as principal spokespersons for the brand in various official promotional content.
Significance of Their Departure
A Successful Transition on Their Own Terms
In a discussion with Screen Rant, Jess Lanzillo, the Vice President of Franchise and Product for Dungeons & Dragons, clarified that the company had anticipated their departures. “Both have dedicated a substantial portion of their careers to Dungeons & Dragons,”Lanzillo noted. Their decision to leave followed the successful launch of the new core rulebooks. “They wanted to ensure the core rulebooks were successful, laying the groundwork for future leaders,”she stated. This foresight has allowed the company to transition smoothly into the next chapter of D&D’s development.
Importantly, both Perkins and Crawford’s exits are voluntary and not the result of corporate restructuring. “Completing a major creative project prompts reflection on future endeavors,”Lanzillo explained, emphasizing that this common creative sentiment informed their decisions to move on.
Future Leadership on the D&D Team
In the immediate aftermath of their departures, no direct replacements for Crawford and Perkins will be appointed. However, Lanzillo indicated that James Wyatt and Wes Schneider, both seasoned designers, will assume larger roles within the team. Additionally, designers such as Justice Arman will take on significant leadership responsibilities moving forward.
Despite losing over 40 years of combined experience, other team members have already demonstrated leadership in recent projects. Beyond the new core rulebooks, various designers have spearheaded all recent D&D publications over the past two years, ensuring continuity and innovation in the creative process.
Lanzillo remarked on the strategic realignment of the D&D team: “We’re focusing on leveraging the strengths of our existing team members,”she said. The objective is to better align roles with individual expertise, fostering a dynamic environment that encourages collaboration and creativity.
Impact on D&D’s Roadmap
The Roadmap Remains Unchanged
Recently, the Dungeons & Dragons team unveiled a five-year roadmap for future releases during a press event. Lanzillo assured fans that this strategic plan will remain intact despite the ongoing leadership changes. “The roadmap remains the same,”she confirmed. Both Perkins and Crawford have played pivotal roles in laying out this plan over the past year and have ensured a solid foundation for the future.
Concluding her statements, Lanzillo expressed her gratitude for Perkins and Crawford’s contributions to the franchise. “Working alongside Jeremy and Chris has been an incredible honor,”she said. “They’ve shared their wealth of knowledge with us, allowing the team to embrace fresh ideas while honoring the legacy they created.”This sentiment signals the optimistic direction in which Dungeons & Dragons is headed as it evolves into its next era.