Fond memories of the 'Dungeon'

Iwas so young when I started playing "Dungeons & Dragons" that I assumed Gary Gygax, the game's creator, wasn't real -- just as I figured there'd never been a Walt Disney or burger chefs named McDonald. When I finally realized Gygax indeed lived in Lake Geneva, Wis., near the post office box address listed on every "D&D" book, I pictured him in a mansion filled with piles of gold and women in metal bikinis. More insane, I deeply believed these outfits would be practical for swimming.

Joel Stein

March 7, 2008