On the first page, readers are introduced to an ad for Thane Tostig-the ultimate fighting man! The ad promises upcoming rules for the Tostig game (from the makers of Heroes & Horrors) and points you in the direction of Minot’s Miniature Armoury for rules and miniatures. Originally published by the Pentagon Printing Group, the first issue of the magazine covers miniatures and role-playing games. Hot off the heels of the Games Workshop newsletter, Owl and Weasel, the magazine evolved to become something with a wider reach. This is a very different White Dwarf to the one you know and love, but as a piece of wargaming history it’s fascinating.The first issue of White Dwarf magazine is short, at a scant 24 pages (including front and back covers). There’s a further review of another game called ‘The Warlord’ which is comparable in style to Diplomacy. Open Box gives ratings out of ten to games currently on the market. I actually enjoyed this, but I would assume for many that it would be a bit dry. There is a very long article (which includes algebra) on how to calculate the effectiveness of monsters in D&D. There are also segments about the inaugural UK D&D society and how to become a member. You can still buy Metamorphosis Alpha today on PDF via. Metamorphosis Alpha takes place on a gigantic generational space ship whose inhabitants have undergone a series of mutations and every day turns into a challenge to survive as the survivors explore the ship to find supplies. Ian starts the issue by reviewing Metamorphosis Alpha a game by TSR that is a science fiction setting for a roleplay game.
The magazine is targeted to the older generation with a comic strip included about Dungeons and Dragons that is distinctly adult in its theme. In the editorial, Ian Livingstone mentions that he hopes White Dwarf will be a vehicle to bring the readers news of all the best science fiction and fantasy games on the market. Out of the nine articles inside the magazine, four are about Dungeons and Dragons. There are a number of drawings that are used throughout the magazine. There are no photographs and nothing in the way of graphics to make elements stand out. The first thing that is noticeable (and to be expected, considering the age) is the whole magazine including the cover is in black and white.
Therefore I thought it would be interesting to have a read and to review the first ever issue.
After writing about the History of Games Workshop and doing research into A Life in Wargames, I’ve been able to get my grubby little hands on to electronic copies of the first White Dwarf.
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