Dungeons and Dragons Clarifies Support for Third-Party Content for One D&D
Wizards of the Coast has finally dropped an official state pertaining to the future of One D&D and its Open Gaming License.
One D&D Image Compliments of Wizards of the Coast
As a Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Party content creator, we’ve certainly been paying close attention to growing rumors that the next edition of the world’s greatest roleplaying game wouldn’t have an Open Gaming License (OGL). Currently, much of the content that is published for 5th Edition can be found on sites such as DMsguild or DrivethruRPG. This allows writers, graphic designers, artists, and more to lend their skills to the game in a monetary way. The rumor appears to have reportedly originated from a reliable source of Indestructoboy, a popular D&D Youtuber. Of course, there was no clear documentation, this set the internet ablaze with rumors.
Much of the rumors and speculations were as to whether small publishers such as ourselves would be able to legally write and publish content into One D&D. Fortunately, the team over at Wizards of the Coast (WoTC) has heard the rumors and wanted to share some information to clear up any concerns. While there isn’t a full System References Document (SRD) like what we have for 5e, it gives us a clear idea of what WoTC has in mind, and it has put many of my concerns to rest.
On 12/21/22 an official blog dropped from WoTC on dndbeyond forums. Getting right down to it, they make it clear that they intend to release a new version of the OGL 1.1 in early 2023. Their core focus is to ensure that it is clear and concise what is and isn’t allowed under the license. This is especially important with the rise of NFT minting. In short, the OGL will cover mostly printed media and electronic documents such as pdfs.
Another concern is how the VTT platforms will be affected. The WoTC team doesn’t believe there should be an impact on these platforms as they’ve already entered into special agreements with WotC. It does seem that content creators that make material available for free vs those who make them for profit will have different details. Most notable is that if you as a publisher make more than $50,000 per year, you will have to report OGL-related revenue annually. Additionally, it seems like they will require a special creator badge. This might be just to ensure there is no confusion between official WoTC-released content and third-party material. Any creators that really pull in the big bucks, more than $750,000 annually will require an added royalty starting in 2024.
The reality of it, the OGL isn’t going away. We will still be able to create content for our favorite roleplaying game. It seems WoTC does understand that 3rd party content creation is a vital aspect of their business. We of course hope to continue publishing fantastic Dungeons & Dragons content under their new OGL in the hopes of making it a living. While there are still some concerns, and a few are unsure and confused what the future will hold for creators.
If you want to support our small business, consider taking a peek at our work here. I promise, we have something for everyone.
Twenty-Sided Tavern Heroes Start Their Journey! Click to Learn More.
“A new family-friendly franchise that celebrates fantasy gaming. The audience has a total blast. Clearly authentic and fun.” – Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune
Embark on a journey that might involve dungeons, might involve dragons, and is guaranteed to be unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. It’s a unique, unpredictable adventure that’s never the same quest twice. Dive into this raucous comedic explosion full of riddles, puzzles, combat, and more — the story’s in your hands and YOU must decide our heroes’ fate. Laugh along and choose between over thirty playable characters as they explore dozens of different rooms and race toward an incredible, one-of-a-kind ending based on your actions and decisions. At THE TWENTY-SIDED TAVERN, you are not merely an audience member; you are an adventurer ready to change the fate of the world around you, and the story will never be the same again.
Live at the Broadway Playhouse until January 15 2023. Learn More!
Thank you for reading our blog. If you enjoy the content and want to support us, visit our store or follow us on social media, join us on discord, youtube, and leave us a review.
Keep your blades sharp and spells prepared heroes!
If you're interested in advertising with us, click here to learn more.
