Joe Manganiello, the driving force behind the ambitious D&D Icons initiative, has hinted at a bold expansion for the tabletop RPG. While the project currently celebrates classic D&D settings and creators like R.A. Salvatore’s The Legend of Drizzt, Manganiello teased that modern-day adventures could also be part of the future.
Modern Settings on the Horizon?
Speaking with GameSpot’s Jessica Cogswell at Gen Con 2026, Manganiello emphasized the potential for contemporary settings within the Icons program. “There are also lots of other things that I want for Icons in the future,” he revealed. “I think that there’s a great present-day game that pushes genetics and military. We’re moving at such a rapid pace, but I think there could be a game that takes place in our modern world.” This opens up exciting possibilities for D&D fans who crave adventures beyond the traditional fantasy realms.
Manganiello, holding the title of chief creative officer, is understandably keeping specific details under wraps. However, his comments suggest that players might soon be able to experience D&D in settings inspired by franchises like Halo or Horizon: Zero Dawn. This could significantly broaden the appeal of D&D, attracting new players who are drawn to more contemporary and action-oriented narratives.
Wizards of the Coast has experimented with more modern content in the past, so this isn’t entirely uncharted territory. The potential for a D&D game set in our own world is incredibly exciting, offering opportunities to explore themes of technology, social issues, and real-world conflicts through the familiar lens of tabletop roleplaying.
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