Side Quest - by Samuel Sattin (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A Mary Sue Best YA Graphic Novel Runner-Up!

For fans of dungeon crawls and dice rolls--and anyone wanting to know more about them--Side Quest is a stand-alone graphic novel history of roleplaying games (RPGs), from ancient games to those played today, with personal stories from creators throughout!

With a meld of history, fantasy, and memoir, Side Quest: A Visual History of Roleplaying Games gives existing fans of tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs) insight into the history of the medium--and provides a gateway for anyone new to the phenomenon.

The creators, Steenz and Samuel Sattin, narrate the book, switching between personal stories about their RPG experiences and concrete information that reveals the fascinating and often little-known history of these games. (Did you know that H. G. Wells created an RPG in the early 1900s? You will soon, along with so much more!)

This is an inviting introduction to what TTRPGs are, why they matter, and how readers can get involved. And like any popular guide to arcana, this book is geared toward an audience of gamers, non-gamers, and general readers alike. Equal parts enlightening, adventurous, and approachable, this appealing graphic nonfiction book is one that everyone can enjoy!

Review Quotes

"Anyone who enjoys board games, tabletop RPGs, or just fascinating history absolutely shouldn't miss Side Quest! Steenz and Sam Sattin are the perfect guides through a fun, funny, and compelling history of games and gaming." - Ivy Noelle Weir, author of Anne of West Philly and The Secret Garden on 81st Street

"A foundational precursor graphic novel to gain knowledge on tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs), accessible for anyone to learn! Incredibly immersive, fun, and community focused. A must-have book for anyone looking to learn about or dip their toe in the TTRPG world!" - Liana Kangas, artist for Star Wars Adventures and Welcome to Riverdale

"Side Quest is really a main quest on an adventure that thoroughly explains the history of tabletop games. Great for beginners and pros alike." - Brian "Box" Brown, creator of Tetris: The Games People Play and The He-Man Effect

"Conversationally narrated. The information is well organized and appealingly illustrated, divided into six parts that each focus on a different aspect of TTRPGs. Steenz and Sattin also highlight the work of gamers from marginalized backgrounds who are increasing inclusion and accessibility. The concluding miniadventure offers an exciting, conflict-filled setting... Engaging, informative, and comprehensive." - Kirkus Reviews

"A foundational graphic novel that deserves space on any Dungeon Master's shelf. Offering glimpses of tabletop role-playing game beginnings in Asia, its growth through Europe and the Americas, and, naturally, the emergence of Dungeons & Dragons and live-action role-playing (LARPing), the [book] covers a lot of ground. Back matter features an original, playable Dungeons & Dragons adventure. Side Quest is a great place to begin for history fans, gaming fans, and graphic novel readers, alike." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"A feast of information and just a fun and engaging read. The bright colors and varying visuals will keep you interested throughout. Side Quest demonstrates why comics are such an effective tool for education. You'll want to be sure everyone in your adventuring party gets a chance to enjoy." - Geek Girl Authority

"This illustrated history of the TTRPG genre goes far beyond the humble beginnings of Dungeons & Dragons. Side Quest takes readers on Magic School Bus-style rides to Han dynasty China, 6th century India, ancient Rome, and more. It blends lessons, memoir, and adventures into the past into one seamless narrative." - St. Louis Magazine