Join Rediscovered Realms as we explore this incredible 1984 issue of the short-lived British fantasy magazine dedicated to the 1st edition of Advanced Dungeons & Dragons!
Hey, thanks for reading Rediscovered Realms! Join 3,000+ other adventurers for FREE (but Consider Pledging) to receive weekly fun fantasy posts and Keep the Adventure Going Strong!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.
With a short run of 31 issues from 1983 - 1985, IMAGINE: Adventure Games Magazine went head-to-head with the UK’s leading fantasy magazine, White Dwarf.
Gary Gygax (co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons) cited that TSR UK Limited’s IMAGINE usually operated at a loss, but he kept it around mainly to market D&D and other TSR products to the British audience.
With original material that was harvested and used in Unearthed Arcana, spinoffs like the Pelinore gaming world, as well as several film reviews by Neil Gaiman, this magazine packed a lot of punch.
I was thrilled to get a hold of several of these recently from across the pond from one of the best eBay sellers I have ever had the pleasure of doing business with.
Nigel from Three-Sixty-Allsorts is amazingly kind, conscientious, and provides amazing deals on his eclectic merchandise mix.
He worked with me on figuring out affordable shipping (no small feat), and cocooned my precious mags in a way that would make a weaving spider proud (if spiders wove plastic, cardboard and packaging tape).
I will be featuring more of the fantasy items I purchased from Nigel’s store in upcoming editions of Rediscovered Realms.
And today, with cover art I adore, I’m excited to share with you a visual tour of issue #12. (You did already take time to admire that cover by Rodney Matthews above, right?)
Like re-exploring old school fantasy magazines? Ever heard of “Fantasy Gamer” Magazine?:
The Sword of Alabron - Now the artwork in this comic looks amazing!
Thank Gehenna, indeed. You know, “Satanic Panic” devotees could have really capitalized on that TSR statement!
So, what did you think about this IMAGINE magazine, Valorous Adventurer? Did you get to read them as a kid? Did this old school exploration unlock any memories or ignite your own Imagination? Make sure to comment below!
“I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”
― Albert Einstein
Your next piece of fantasy fun is calling.
Remember to check out the new Rediscovered Realms Amazon Storefront for the most epic gift-giving ideas for those important adventurers in your life (including yourself 🗡)
(As an Amazon2Associate I earn from qualifying purchases)
You are not only brave, but a Generous Adventurer whose love of Discovery, Imagination & Fun transcends our mere mortal coils . . .
Spread Adventure Awesomeness! Don’t just Stare - SHARE! If you know other Adventurers who would enjoy this newsletter, please share it with them directly or on social media.
The Winter Quest [Verse] In forests deep where shadows play Where ancient trees know what you say A hero strides on paths unknown With dreams of legends carved in stone [Verse 2] Through misty woods with whispering leaves In twilight's glow the spirits grieve He finds a hidden Secret door That leads to dungeons lost in lore [Chorus] Underneath the snow so bright Magic sparkles in the night Winter's wonder guides his way To the dawn of a festive day [Verse 3] In caverns dark with echoes wide He braves the depths where secrets hide With every step the cold grows near Yet fearless he with heart sincere [Bridge] The winter winds they sing his name A melody of hope and flame The stars align to light his quest To find the treasures of the blessed [Verse 4] At last he sees the crystal light A beacon in the endless night With courage bold he claims the prize To share the magic none denies
The song is perfect. I can just see a group of adventurers listening to the local bard, while they try to keep warm at their favorite tavern. The artwork in the magazine was something else and I completely agree the art for The Sword of Alabron is amazing. Looked up the artist, Ian Williamson, and he was only 21 when he did the comic. That looks to be only art he did professionally till he started again in his 40s.
I started with Dragon in the mid 30s of published magazines, I would grab White Dwarf here and there, completely missed out on Imagine though, 83-85 I was in the Army
The song is perfect. I can just see a group of adventurers listening to the local bard, while they try to keep warm at their favorite tavern. The artwork in the magazine was something else and I completely agree the art for The Sword of Alabron is amazing. Looked up the artist, Ian Williamson, and he was only 21 when he did the comic. That looks to be only art he did professionally till he started again in his 40s.
I started with Dragon in the mid 30s of published magazines, I would grab White Dwarf here and there, completely missed out on Imagine though, 83-85 I was in the Army