The ENNIE Awards are pleased to announce Traveller as the November Hall of Fame inductee!  Crafted by visionary Marc Miller and first published by Game Designers’ Workshop in 1977, Traveller stands as one of the earliest and most influential science fiction role-playing games ever created. With its groundbreaking mechanics, such as the renowned lifepath character generation system, Traveller introduced players to a universe brimming with opportunities for exploration, danger, and discovery. It was a game that dared to embrace realism and complexity, presenting a galaxy where success depended on strategy, ingenuity, and teamwork.

Traveller revolutionized how RPGs approached storytelling. Unlike other games of its era, it offered players an open-ended sandbox, where they could become interstellar merchants, daring explorers, or formidable soldiers. This flexibility inspired creativity and gave players the freedom to carve their paths among the stars. Its enduring appeal has led to numerous editions and adaptations, with each version building upon the original’s groundbreaking ideas while keeping its essential charm intact.

The game’s influence is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on tabletop gaming and beyond. Its DNA can be seen in modern RPGs like The Expanse, Stars Without Number, and even video game classics such as Mass Effect. By providing a realistic yet endlessly imaginative framework, Traveller has cemented itself as a cornerstone of the science fiction genre, inspiring players and creators alike to dream big and aim for the stars. By inducting Traveller into the ENNIE Awards Hall of Fame, we honor a game that has shaped the role-playing landscape for nearly five decades. Its timeless appeal and boundless imagination continue to captivate, offering endless journeys to those willing to traverse the final frontier.

As the ENNIE Awards is celebrating its 25th year, we want to acknowledge the products that contributed to the amazing world of Role Playing Games from the beginning through the ENNIE Awards Hall of Fame.  Starting with September, a new inductee will be announced on the 25th of every month leading into the  25th Award ceremony in August 2025.

The ENNIEs are pleased to induct Dungeon and Dragons into the ENNIE Award Hall of Fame!

Dungeons & Dragons is more than just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that has sparked imaginations and created a community of storytellers, adventurers, and dreamers for nearly half a century. From its humble beginnings in Gary Gygax’s basement to its place as a global icon, D&D has inspired countless players to embark on epic quests, face their fears, and become heroes in worlds of their own making. Its impact on the world of tabletop gaming is immeasurable, having birthed an entire industry and forever altering the landscape of fantasy entertainment.

The vision of luminaries like Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson set the foundation for a game with J. Eric Holmes and Tom Moldvay expanding the game that would evolve through the decades, embracing new generations of players while staying true to its core: creativity, collaboration, and the thrill of the unknown. Whether it’s the original “Red Box,” the intricate rules of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons, or the streamlined elegance of Fifth Edition, D&D has continually adapted, reflecting the diversity and vibrancy of the community it serves.

D&D’s influence extends far beyond the gaming table, inspiring writers, artists, filmmakers, and creators across all media. It has brought together people of all ages and backgrounds, fostering friendships and communities that span the globe. For many, D&D is more than a pastime; it’s a source of inspiration, a way to connect, and a canvas for the imagination.

As the first inductee into the ENNIE Awards Hall of Fame, Dungeons & Dragons is celebrated not just as a game, but as a living legacy. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of a well-crafted adventure. Here’s to the past, present, and future of D&D, a beacon for all who dare to dream.

The winners of the 2023 ENNIE Awards were announced Friday, August 4th, live at Gen Con.  “Vaesen: Mythic Britain and Ireland” took home the coveted  Gold ENNIE for “Best Product”, while “Fabula Ultima” grabbed the Silver ENNIE.  A full list of the winners and nominees can be found at https://ennie-awards.com/2023-nominees/.  The 2024 Judges were also announced.  The awards ceremony was held at the Grand Hall at Historic Union Station in Indianapolis, and streamed live on the ENNIES YouTube Channel.