The man who helped so many of us through our awkward teenage years, gave us a creative outlet where we might not have had one, and gave us a chance to enjoy something fun and rewarding with like-minded friends and family, passed away at the age of 69.

If you were affected by this, you already know who I mean. If you weren’t, then the name E. Gary Gygax probably doesn’t mean much to you either.

He didn’t invent a new biomedical process; he didn’t develop a more efficient internal combustion engine; he didn’t help squeeze more transistors onto a silicon wafer. E. Gary Gygax invented Dungeons and Dragons. I don’t want to go on and on about it; either you get what I’m saying already or you aren’t the slightest bit interested. What can’t be denied is that geek culture would not be recognizible today without his contributions.

Rest in Peace, O Grand Dungeon Master.

Both Wired and the New York Times have published great pieces on Gygax’s legacy.

Oh, and if you think I’m not cool because I like Dungeons and Dragons, you couldn’t be more wrong. I’m one of the coolest guys out there - just ask my Mom!