STUFF STONERS LIKE

Seriously, each illustration is a masterpiece. There are dragons that look like they could breathe fire right off the page, alien landscapes that are straight out of the best sci-fi trips, and mystical creatures that make you question reality. If you’ve ever found yourself zoning out to the patterns in your popcorn ceiling, you’re going to love the way this book pulls you into its world. The art isn’t just background fluff—it tells stories, sparks your imagination, and makes you want to roll up a new character right on the spot.

The Ultimate RPG History Lesson

So, back in 1974, these dudes Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson dropped Dungeons & Dragons on the world, and boom—the first roleplaying game was born. Monsters, Aliens, and Holes in the Ground dives deep into how this whole RPG craze started and blew up into a massive industry. From D&D to over 300 other RPGs, Horvath covers it all in this massive, illustrated guide.

Horvath doesn’t just stop at the basics; he digs into the nitty-gritty details of how these games evolved, the cultural impact they had, and how they went from niche hobby to mainstream phenomenon. It’s like reading the secret history of our favorite pastime, packed with anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that make you appreciate the games even more. Plus, it’s written in a way that’s super engaging—even when you’re baked, you’ll find yourself turning page after page, soaking in all the cool facts.

More Than Just Dungeons & Dragons

This book isn’t just about Dungeons & Dragons, though. It’s packed with info on tons of other wild RPGs. Think bunnies, ghostbusters, soap operas, criminal bears, space monsters, political intrigue, vampires, and romance. It’s like the ultimate munchies spread but for your imagination. Horvath showcases a mind-blowing variety of games that have popped up over the years, each with its own unique flavor and fanbase.

For instance, ever heard of a game where you play as bunnies in a world of giant predators? Or one where you’re a space-faring ghostbuster hunting down spectral beings across the galaxy? This book covers them all. It’s a testament to the creativity and diversity in the RPG world, showing that there’s a game out there for everyone, no matter what bizarre combination of genres you’re into. Whether you’re into high fantasy, gritty sci-fi, or quirky indie games, you’ll find something that tickles your fancy.

A Decade-by-Decade Breakdown

Horvath takes us through the evolution of RPGs decade by decade. From the groovy 70s to the digital 2010s, you’ll get a solid understanding of how these games evolved and why they’re so damn addictive. It’s a trip down memory lane for long-time players and a rad history lesson for newbies. Each chapter is like a time capsule, capturing the essence of each era and showing how the games we love today were shaped by the times they were created in.

In the 70s, it was all about the birth of the genre, with D&D setting the stage for everything that came after. The 80s saw an explosion of creativity, with tons of new games and settings emerging. The 90s brought in more complexity and storytelling, while the 2000s and 2010s embraced technology and digital platforms, making RPGs more accessible than ever. Horvath’s detailed exploration makes you appreciate the rich tapestry of RPG history and how each era brought something new to the table.

About Stu Horvath

Stu Horvath is a celebrated writer and cultural critic from New Jersey, renowned for his deep passion for tabletop roleplaying games and extensive knowledge of gaming history. As the founder of Unwinnable, an independent outlet for cultural criticism. It’s a super dope platform for insightful commentary and in-depth analysis on a broad range of topics, including video games, tabletop games, movies, comics, and other facets of popular culture. Unwinnable is distinguished by its commitment to thoughtful and often unconventional perspectives, aiming to push beyond the standard narratives found in mainstream media.

Horvath has also carved a niche in gaming journalism. He manages the popular Vintage RPG Instagram account and cohosts the Vintage RPG Podcast, both dedicated to exploring the history and impact of RPGs.

Why We Love It

Like one of our other favorite RPG titles Playing at the World, 2E—Volume 1: The Invention of Dungeons & Dragons also by MIT Press—this book is a stoner’s dream. It’s got everything we love: epic art, fascinating history, and endless RPG lore.

Whether you’re a seasoned dungeon master or just getting into tabletop games, Monsters, Aliens, and Holes in the Ground is a must-have for your collection. Light up, crack open this book, and let your imagination run wild. It’s perfect for those lazy afternoons when you just want to chill with some friends, roll some dice, and embark on fantastical adventures. It’s also great when you’re alone at home, bored as hell, super stoned—and have nothing to stare it.

Plus, it’s not just a book—it’s an experience. You can flip through it casually, dive deep into its detailed sections, or like we said before—just sit there and stare at the art for hours. It’s versatile, engaging, and endlessly entertaining. Horvath’s passion for RPGs shines through every page, making it a joy to read whether you’re stone-cold sober or high as a kite. So, grab your favorite strain, gather your gaming group, and get ready to explore the incredible world of tabletop RPGs with Monsters, Aliens, and Holes in the Ground. You hella won’t regret it, dude!