Is the Demogorgon from D&D?
The Demogorgon, a terrifying monster from the Netflix series Stranger Things, has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. But have you ever wondered where this beast came from? The answer lies in the world of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D). In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Demogorgon and its connections to the popular tabletop game.
Direct Origins: Eldritch Wizardry (1976)
The Demogorgon first appeared in the original edition of Dungeons & Dragons in 1976, in the Eldritch Wizardry supplement. This game was created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, and it has since become a cultural phenomenon. The Demogorgon is a powerful and feared monster, known as a Prince of Demons.
Characteristics
In the world of D&D, the Demogorgon is a demonic lord who serves as a symbol of chaos and evil. He is often depicted as a massive, terrifying creature with a pair of grotesque, glowing red eyes. His appearance can vary, but he is usually described as a monstrous humanoid with a twisted, evil face.
Lore
According to the lore of D&D, the Demogorgon is one of the most powerful and feared demons in the Nine Hells. He is said to rule over a vast army of demons and is known for his incredible strength, ferocity, and cunning. His true name is not spoken aloud, as it is said to be forbidden and would summon his wrath upon the speaker.
Inspiration for Stranger Things
The creators of Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers, have confirmed that they drew inspiration from Dungeons & Dragons and the world of D&D. In particular, they were inspired by the Demogorgon’s terrifying appearance and backstory. The show’s protagonist, Will Byers, becomes trapped in the Upside Down, a dark and twisted version of the world, where the Demogorgon serves as the primary antagonist.
How the Demogorgon was Portrayed in Stranger Things
In the show, the Demogorgon is portrayed as a monstrous creature that appears in the real world through a portal to the Upside Down. It is said to have the power to manipulate its body, allowing it to fit through small spaces and emerge from the shadows to attack its victims. Its eyes glow with an eerie red light, and its very presence seems to drain the life force from those around it.
Worshipers and Allies
According to D&D lore, the Demogorgon has a small but dedicated following of worshippers, known as Demogorgonites. These cultists believe in the power of the Prince of Demons and often sacrifice innocent lives to summon him. The Demogorgon is also known to ally himself with other powerful demons and monsters to achieve his goals.
Fearsome Abilities
The Demogorgon possesses a range of terrifying abilities, including:
- Chaos: The ability to manipulate reality itself, causing chaos and destruction on a massive scale.
- Fear Aura: The power to inspire terror in those around him, making them more susceptible to his attacks.
- Sword of Chaos: A weapon that can imbue the wielder with chaos energy, allowing them to wield the power of the Prince of Demons.
Conclusion
The Demogorgon from Stranger Things is a clear inspiration from the world of Dungeons & Dragons. With its terrifying appearance, monstrous abilities, and dark lore, the Demogorgon has become a legendary monster in the world of tabletop gaming. Whether you’re a fan of Stranger Things or D&D, the Demogorgon is a creature that commands respect and inspires fear.