The origins of role-playing games The origins of role-playing games can be traced back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, with the publication of the first modern role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) in 1974. D&D was created by Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson, who was inspired by miniature wargames and fantasy literature. The game was a breakthrough success and quickly sparked a new hobby and industry.