In Slaying the Dragon: A Secret History of Dungeons and Dragons, Ben Riggs offers readers a captivating and meticulously researched exploration of the rise and fall of TSR, the company that brought Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) to life. Riggs dives deep into the behind-the-scenes stories that shaped the beloved tabletop RPG, uncovering a mix of visionary creativity, poor business decisions, and interpersonal dramas that would ultimately lead to TSR’s downfall.

Riggs’ evident passion for the subject makes this book stand out. He weaves together interviews, internal documents, and firsthand accounts from some of the key players who helped shape D&D. The book paints a vivid picture of the personalities, egos, and ambitions at work, giving us a sense of the creative genius—and sometimes chaos—that went into building the first major role-playing game empire.

The book excels in its detailed account of TSR’s inner workings, from the early days of Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson creating the game to the later years when management shifts, financial troubles, and corporate infighting nearly doomed Dungeons & Dragons. For long-time fans of the game, this is a treasure trove of trivia, backstories, and little-known facts, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the legacy of D&D.

Riggs’ writing is accessible and engaging, balancing a love for the subject with a critical eye. He doesn’t shy away from highlighting the mistakes that led to TSR’s collapse, but he also gives credit where it’s due—particularly in showcasing the cultural impact that D&D had (and continues to have) on gaming and storytelling.

While Riggs does an excellent job of uncovering the internal politics and mismanagement within TSR, the book sometimes leans heavily on these corporate dramas, potentially alienating readers who are more interested in the creative side of Dungeons & Dragons. Some sections, particularly those focused on financial and legal dealings, can feel overly detailed and may slow down the narrative for readers who aren’t as invested in the business aspects.

Additionally, the book occasionally glosses over certain cultural shifts that helped D&D thrive in the 2000s after Wizards of the Coast acquired the game. While Slaying the Dragon provides an exhaustive history of TSR’s rise and fall, it doesn’t fully capture how D&D evolved after that pivotal moment.

Slaying the Dragon is an insightful and well-researched account of the history of Dungeons & Dragons and the company that created it. For fans of the game or those interested in the history of tabletop RPGs, this book is a fascinating and revealing look at the highs and lows of TSR’s journey. While it may focus a bit too much on the corporate side for some, the rich history and personal stories make it a worthwhile read for anyone curious about the forces that shaped one of the most influential games ever.