Dungeons & Dragons may have once been considered for nerds, but since its beginnings in the 1970s, it has survived and thrived. It has spawned imitations, spin-offs, a TV cartoon, merchandise, books, video games, movies inspired by or making reference to the game, and propelled the whole role-playing industry.

It became an influential pop cultural force, finding popularity particularly among teenage boys and university students with its sophisticated rules and scenarios.

Although the traditional version was popular in the '80s (at which time debate arose about the negative effects it had on kids), it has since been adapted to computer and video game versions.

Its creator, Gary Gygax, died this morning at age 69.

Gygax may be gone, but the game, with its legions of fans, may never end.