Dragonlance Returns: Weis, Hickman, and Manganiello Unite on New Project

Fans of the beloved Dragonlance setting can look forward to an exciting revival, as Wizards of the Coast has announced the return of its original creators, Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman, along with actor and avid Dungeons & Dragons player Joe Manganiello. This collaboration, revealed by Dan Ayoub, the newly appointed head of the D&D franchise, is generating significant anticipation within the gaming community.

Ayoub shared a photograph featuring himself, Manganiello, Weis, Hickman, and Laura Hickman, who co-created the popular character Strahd von Zarovich and the Ravenloft setting. His caption reflected his excitement: “When I took over D&D, I had some very specific folks I wanted to bring back to The Table. Today, I had the honor of welcoming these folks back home. Amazing things ahead.”

Reviving a Classic

The involvement of Weis and Hickman, who co-created the Krynn setting for TSR in 1984, signals a promising future for Dragonlance. Considering the notable Dragonlance T-shirt worn by Manganiello in the announcement, it is likely that this new project will be deeply rooted in the rich lore of the franchise. Previously, Manganiello and the authors had been working on a Dragonlance television series, but that project was canceled last year.

Despite the cancellation, Ayoub’s comments suggest that this new undertaking may encompass a wider variety of media beyond just a show or movie. Manganiello, known for his role as a Dungeon Master, has participated in numerous actual play shows, showcasing his character Arkhan, a follower of Tiamat/Takhisis. His enthusiasm for Dragonlance adds a unique layer of passion to the project.

Potential for New Products

The announcement has sparked speculation about new products for Dungeons & Dragons players. After the mixed reception of Dragonlance: Shadow of the Dragon Queen in 2022, which featured only 20 pages of background material, the community is eager for more comprehensive content. Ayoub has been actively working to steer D&D in a new direction, especially following the departure of key figures such as creative director Chris Perkins and game director Jeremy Crawford to Darrington Press.

The future looks bright for Dragonlance enthusiasts, with hopes for both new media adaptations and expanded gaming materials. As this project develops, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how the collaboration between Weis, Hickman, and Manganiello unfolds.