The Adventure Zone: A Masterclass in TTRPG Adaptation

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The Adventure Zone comics, an adaptation of the beloved D&D podcast by the McElroy family, brilliantly captures the essence of TTRPGs with remarkable accuracy and flair. This review explores why these graphic novels excel in portraying tabletop role-playing game elements, making them a must-read for TTRPG enthusiasts.

Why the comics from The Adventure Zone are a perfect example of an adaptation

The cover of "The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins" features three main characters around a table filled with gold coins and a map. On the left is Taako, an elf wizard with pale blue skin and long blond hair, wearing a purple hat and robe, holding a martini glass. In the middle is Magnus, a burly human warrior with red hair and beard, wearing orange armor and holding a large battle-axe. On the right is Merle, a dwarf cleric with white hair and beard, wearing brown robes and holding a mug of ale. Above them, a large twenty-sided die is prominently featured. In the top left corner, a character resembling Griffin McElroy is depicted with glasses and a surprised expression. The title "The Adventure Zone" is in bold yellow letters with a wooden texture, and the subtitle "Here There Be Gerblins" is in smaller white text. The names Clint McElroy, Griffin McElroy, Justin McElroy, Travis McElroy, and Carey Pietsch are listed at the bottom. — *“The Adventure Zone”* Comic Cover

Authentic TTRPG Spirit from The Adventure Zone

The Adventure Zone comics beautifully capture the chaotic and unpredictable nature of TTRPGs. The narrative is filled with spontaneous events, critical failures, and unexpected successes, all driven by the characters’ decisions and the dice rolls. This authenticity mirrors the actual experience of playing a TTRPG, where anything can happen, and the story evolves dynamically.

The McElroy brothers, along with their father Clint, expertly translate the spontaneous energy of their podcast into the comic format. The comics retain the improvisational humor and genuine camaraderie that have made their podcast a sensation. Readers can almost hear the roll of the dice and the laughter around the table as they follow the adventures of Taako, Merle, and Magnus.

Rich Character Development

Central to the series are Taako the elf wizard, Merle the dwarf cleric, and Magnus the human warrior. Each character is meticulously developed, embodying unique personalities and growth arcs. Their interactions and individual backstories are written seamlessly into the plot, providing depth and engagement akin to a well-run TTRPG campaign.

Taako, with his flamboyant style and mysterious past, brings a layer of humor. Merle’s spiritual journey and often unorthodox approach to clerical duties add depth and heart. Magnus, driven by his quest for heroism and justice, rounds out the trio with a perfect blend of bravery and humor. The character dynamics are rich and engaging, keeping readers invested in their journey.

The comic page from "The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins" features three main characters interacting while traveling in a wagon. The top panel shows a scenic view of a winding road with rocky hills and trees. Magnus, a burly human fighter, is seen driving the wagon, while Taako, an elf wizard, and Merle, a dwarf cleric, are seated inside. Dialogue bubbles: Magnus says, "Why are YOU driving? Why not me?" Taako responds, "I have a proficiency in vehicles." Merle asks, "What does that even MEAN?" Magnus replies, "It's the road to Haverdale! You're not gonna hit a fuckin' ramp!" The middle panels feature close-ups of each character with their respective character sheets: Magnus's sheet lists "Race: Human, Class: Fighter, Proficiencies: Battle, Carpentry, Everything Else... Apparently." Taako's sheet lists "Race: Elf, Class: Wizard, Proficiencies: Spell-casting, Transmutation, Gastronomy." Merle's sheet lists "Race: Dwarf, Class: Cleric, Proficiencies: Healing, Supplication, Religion, Still Bleeding." Magnus says, "Trust me, if the law hassles us, I'm the guy you want at the front of the wagon. But look, if you want to drive so bad, I might let you spell me the next time 'the dwarf' has to stop for a 'pee break'." Taako says, "Hell, no! I've got stuff to do. I've read the books. Adventurers are supposed to, like, forage for food and shit." Merle responds, "Bor-r-r-ring! No, thank you. Not for Taako." Taako says, "I agree, F that S!" The bottom panels show: Taako asking Merle, "What are you doing, Merle?" Merle responding, "I'm studying my cantrips!" Taako retorting, "Just say masturbating. We get it." Merle replying, "I happen to be deep in thought!" Magnus adding, "Don't come in, Mom! I'm studying my cantrips!"

The comic page from "The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins" continues with the trio in their wagon. The top panel shows Merle looking conflicted and saying, "I'm very conflicted! I don't trust this bogard guy!" Magnus replies, "He HIRED us for this job! And he's your cousin!" Merle responds, "Exactly! I know him pretty well!" Magnus adds, "If it weren't for me, he'd be the biggest asshole in our family." The last speech bubble in the top panel states, "And that so-called 'bodyguard,' Barry, ain't no day at the beach, either." In the middle left panel, Merle says, "Why didn't they just take all this with them instead of having us haul it?" Taako is seen looking through the supplies and replies, "I can't find anything edible, that's for sure." The middle right panel has Magnus saying, "A bunch of mining stuff, shit to blow up other shit." Taako adds, "The only mine in these parts was lost a decade ago." In the bottom left panel, Taako comments, "And the way your cousin kept saying 'this is the last job you'll ever need! The last job you'll ever need.' I get the whole 'wink-wink you're gonna be rich' vibe, but it came across as kind of murder-y." In the bottom middle panel, Taako states, "I am... uneasy." Magnus responds, "Then you are just gonna LOVE this." The final bottom right panel shows Magnus looking ahead with a concerned expression, saying, "It's kind of tough to see... but I think the shit has gone south."

Immersive World-Building of The Adventure Zone

The comics excel in world-building, a critical aspect of TTRPGs. Each location, from mystical forests to bustling cities, is vividly illustrated and rich with detail. The settings provide a backdrop that enhances the narrative, much like a Dungeon Master’s descriptive world-building in a game session. The inclusion of magical artifacts, mythical creatures, and intricate plots further immerses readers in the fantastical universe.

The world of The Adventure Zone is expansive and meticulously crafted. Every dungeon, town, and wilderness area is brimming with life and detail, creating a vivid tapestry that readers can lose themselves in. The lore and history of the world are gradually revealed, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the story.

Humor and Heart

The Adventure Zone comics strike a perfect balance between humor and emotional depth. The witty banter and comedic situations reflect the fun and friendship typical of a TTRPG session with friends. Simultaneously, the narrative does not shy away from exploring serious themes and heartfelt moments, adding layers of emotional resonance that engage readers on multiple levels.

The humor in The Adventure Zone is sharp and endearing, with each character bringing their unique brand of comedy to the table. Yet, amidst the laughter, the story also tackles themes of loss, friendship, and redemption. These emotional beats are handled with care, ensuring that the humor never undermines the depth of the story.

Dynamic Art Style of The Adventure Zone

Carey Pietsch’s art brings the world of The Adventure Zone to life with vibrant and expressive illustrations. The characters’ emotions and actions are depicted with great detail, enhancing the storytelling. The dynamic art style captures the energy and excitement of TTRPGs, making each scene visually engaging and enjoyable.

The comic page from "The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins" shows the adventurers making observations from their wagon. The top panel features Magnus, Merle, and Taako sitting in their wagon. Magnus, looking around, says, "All right, I'm percepting!" The middle panel shows a scene in the forest with two dead horses lying on the ground, surrounded by some bags and a lot of blood. Magnus describes, "I see a couple of dead horses... some bags... a lot of blood... and that's about it." The bottom panel depicts the three characters reacting to the scene. Merle asks, "Where are Bogard and his bodyguard?" Taako, looking unimpressed, points to the dead horses and says, "We could ask those two guys." This page highlights the trio's typical mix of humor and grim situations as they navigate their adventure.

Pietsch’s art perfectly complements the McElroy’s storytelling, capturing the whimsy and excitement of their world. The characters are brought to life with expressive faces and dynamic poses, making every page just so much fun. The action scenes are particularly well-executed, conveying the thrill and chaos of combat in a TTRPG.

The Adventure Zone Reader Interaction

Much like a TTRPG, the comics invite reader interaction and imagination. The open-ended nature of the story and the characters’ development allow readers to envision their own scenarios and outcomes. This engagement mirrors the participatory aspect of TTRPGs, where players actively shape the narrative.

The interactive nature of The Adventure Zone comics is a testament to their roots in TTRPGs. Readers are encouraged to engage with the story, speculating on plot twists and character developments. This sense of participation adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making the reading experience feel like a collaborative adventure.

The comic page from "The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins" features an encounter with goblins, known as "Gerblins." The top panel shows the adventurers in their wagon, with Magnus, Merle, and Taako looking surprised as a goblin shouts, "GERBLINS, ATTACK!!" The goblin is seen charging with a sword. In the middle panels: Taako, looking unimpressed, says, "Their war cry isn't very creative." Merle, looking confused, asks, "Oh, man! What's that thing I can do that's a flame and is real holy?" Magnus responds, "...you mean 'HOLY FLAME'?" In the bottom panels: Merle, realizing, says, "That would be it!" The final panel shows Merle casting a spell from a book labeled "EXTREME TEENS," with a "FOOSH!" sound effect as a bright flame appears. The goblins in the background are taken aback by the sudden holy flame. This page captures the humorous and action-packed nature of the comic, showcasing the characters' quick thinking and banter during battle.

Praise and Recognition

The Adventure Zone series has garnered significant acclaim, topping bestseller lists and receiving praise from notable figures in the entertainment industry. This recognition underscores the series’ impact and its successful adaptation of TTRPG elements into the graphic novel format.

**Final Thoughts on The Adventure Zone Comics**

The Adventure Zone comics masterfully translate the essence of tabletop role-playing games into a visual and narrative experience. Through authentic storytelling, rich character development, immersive world-building, and dynamic art, the series captures the heart of what makes TTRPGs so beloved. For fans of D&D, Critical Role, and Dimension 20, these graphic novels offer an engaging and faithful homage to the TTRPG genre.

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The Adventure Zone: A Masterclass in TTRPG Adaptation

Why the comics from The Adventure Zone are a perfect example of an adaptation