Celebrating Wizardry Day: 44 Years of a Legendary RPG and Special Initiatives

Wizardry Day: Honoring 44 Years of a Timeless RPG

On September 15, we celebrate Wizardry Day, a special occasion marking the 44th anniversary of the iconic RPG 'Wizardry', officially recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association. This day not only commemorates the birth of a beloved gaming franchise but also kicks off a series of exciting events that promise to enhance the adventures of fans worldwide.

A Message from Robert Woodhead

In celebration of Wizardry Day, Robert Woodhead, one of the original developers, has shared a heartfelt message. He reflected on the early days of gaming in 1981, when 'Wizardry' was launched without a concept of a pre-announced release date. Back then, software publishers managed production themselves, often overseeing nights filled with the sounds of floppy disks being inserted and ejected from computers as the game was duplicated. He stated, "Congratulations on the establishment of Wizardry Day! I am truly grateful and amazed that everyone has continued to love this game for 44 years. I wish you good fortune as you savor the risk!"

The Beginning of Wizardry

'Wizardry', first shipped in early September 1981, likely graced store shelves by mid-month. Given its significance, September 15 serves as a fitting date to celebrate its inception. Acknowledging the deep appreciation for fans that have supported the game, the establishment of Wizardry Day solidifies its legacy in gaming history.

Special Initiatives for the Anniversary

As part of the anniversary celebration, various initiatives are set to unfold:
1. Limited Edition Art Prints: Signed reproductions of artwork by renowned artist Jun Suemi are up for pre-order starting September 15. These high-quality prints are perfect for collectors and feature a limited signature edition.
- Price:
- Limited Edition: ￥38,500 (tax included)
- Regular Edition: ￥27,500 (tax included)
- Order Deadline: Until October 15, 2025, at 23:59.

2. Art Book Release: A comprehensive art book featuring Suemi's works will release on October 31, 2025. This edition will include previously unpublished pieces, making it a must-have for fans.
- Price: ￥7,150 (tax included)

3. Special Book with Merchandise: Launching on September 20, 2025, is a special book that includes a pouch featuring familiar Wizardry designs, alongside interviews with notable writers in the industry.
- Price: ￥4,378 (tax included)

4. Tokyo Game Show 2025: The highly anticipated event will host 'Wizardry Variants Daphne' for its debut, with an array of new merchandise available at the dedicated Wizardry Shop.
- Event Dates: September 25-28, 2025.

5. Anniversary Celebrations for 'Wizardry Variants Daphne': Marking its first anniversary on October 15, 2025, players will receive a gift of 915 gems commemorating the special day. Additional merchandise and pop-up shops will be featured, displaying new goods inspired by characters and monsters from Wizardry.

6. Comic Series Launch: The dark fantasy comic adaptation of 'Wizardry Variants Daphne' will begin serialization on October 15, featuring a gripping narrative that explores the depths of the game's universe.

Given the rich history and profound influence of 'Wizardry' since its inception, fans can eagerly anticipate a plethora of diverse offerings as part of the celebration. The game's enduring popularity, coupled with these unique events, ensures that the spirit of adventure continues beyond the screens.

For updates and additional event details, keep an eye on the official Wizardry social media channels.

About Wizardry

'Wizardry' is a groundbreaking RPG released in 1981, credited as one of the forebearers of modern role-playing games. It introduced essential gameplay elements such as party formation, dungeon exploration, and character progression that have influenced countless titles in the genre. With a legacy that spans over four decades, 'Wizardry' continues to hold a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide.

With the establishment of Wizardry Day and all the engaging activities planned, September 15 not only honors the past but also paves the way for a bright future in the realm of gaming. Don't miss out on the extraordinary events lined up over the coming months!