After a very eventful 2020, the final few Dungeons and Dragons books of this calendar year are right around the corner. Tabletop adventurers will be heading north to Icewind Dale when Rime of the Frostmaiden releases in September and then the 2020 DnD catalogue will close out with Tasha's Guide to Everything come November. The new book is an optional rules expansion, similar to Xanathar's Guide to Everything, and will offer a ton of new tools for both players and dungeon masters.
For tabletop fans who may be newer to the expanded universe of Dungeons and Dragons or who just don't pay attention to the game's lore very often, there may be some questions about who this Tasha is... The character is obviously important enough to the world of DnD to get her name at the top of a book, much like Xanathar or Mordenkainen, and similar to those two she has earned a critical level of important in the game's history. There are very few wizards who get their name in front of a spell in the DnD Player's Handbook, but if you're a fan of the game you've likely been at a table when Tasha's Hideous Laughter was cast.
For fans who feel a little out of the loop, don't worry, there's plenty of time to get caught up. We'll break down some of the most important things about Tasha and outline how her voice and attitude will come through for players as they read the Cauldron of Everything this holiday season...
Who is Tasha?
Tasha, also known as Iggwilv, was created by Gary Gygax. She is an amazingly powerful wizard who always puts her own interests and pursuits first. As far as alignment goes, Tasha will align with whichever morality gets her closer to her current goals. Notably, Tasha was also raised by Baba Yaga.
Is Tasha from The Forgotten Realms?
No, not originally. Tasha is actually a character from the Greyhawk setting. She is one of the most storied characters in the DnD multiverse. She is also a longtime frienenemy of Mordenkainen.
Did Tasha create the Demonomicon?
Yes! Tasha is often associated with the demonomicons and Tasha's Cauldron of Everything will include a new version of the magic item.
Is Tasha a villain?
Although Tasha was closely associated with the Company of Seven for a period of time, she is definitely more associated with the villains of the universe in the grand scheme of things. She went on to become a Witch Queen and a demigod-like figure over the years. She was even named one of the greatest villains in the history of the game in the final issue of Dragon.
How will Tasha be featured in the book?
Similar to Xanathar's Guide to Everything, this book is all about introducing new rules options for players and DMs. Throughout the sourcebook, Tasha's thoughts and perspective will appear as footnotes in the margins. According to the book's author, her perspective is delightful and should add a lot of flavor and additional entertainment along the way.
There are going to be a lot of other details about Tasha's Cauldron of Everything and other upcoming D&D products dropping throughout the rest of the summer and early fall, so be sure to stay tuned and check back for additional news. Be sure to check back in the near future for more Dungeons and Dragons news, updates, and strategy guides. Until then, roll well, adventurers!
Dungeons and Dragons: Tasha's Cauldron of Everything releases on November 17, 2020. Existing Dungeons and Dragons products are available now at game stores or digitally through DnD Beyond.