If you’re an old-school role-playing game (OSR) enthusiast, you’ve encountered Moldvay Basic D&D at some point. No… Not the red box, That’s Frank Mentzer. The Pink box! But if you’re a newer player, someone who discovered D&D through Fifth Edition, chances are you you’ve never even heard of it. If you haven’t, well—you’re in for a treat. This isn’t just a book of rules; it’s a time capsule, a love letter to classic dungeon-crawling, and arguably one of the most influential RPG books ever written.

Let’s be real—there have been a lot of versions of Dungeons & Dragons over the years. From the earliest days of OD&D (the original three booklets) to AD&D’s crunchy rulesets, to the modern fifth edition that dominates gaming tables today, the game has evolved significantly.

But in 1981, TSR did something truly special: they handed the reins to Tom Moldvay, who took the scattered, sometimes arcane rulebooks of the 1970s (specificlly the Holmes Basic Set) and transformed them into something structured, accessible, and endlessly playable.

Moldvay Basic D&D Is A Perfect Starting Point for New and Old Players Alike

Before we dive into the book itself, let’s talk about what makes this edition special. The Dungeons & Dragons Basic Set, edited by Moldvay and published in 1981, was designed as a complete introduction to the game. It wasn’t just a book of mechanics; it was a complete experience, carefully designed to guide both players and Dungeon Masters through the magical world of fantasy adventure.

If you were brand new to RPGs, this set was the best possible place to start. It took the foundation laid by Original D&D (OD&D) and the Holmes Basic Set and refined it into something that actually made sense to someone who had never rolled a d20 before. It was clear, well-structured, and—most importantly—fun to read.

At the same time, it didn’t alienate experienced players. The rules might have been streamlined, but they weren’t dumbed down. Moldvay’s version of D&D had depth, challenge, and enough modular flexibility to allow homebrew elements and improvisation. In short, it was a system that encouraged playing the game, not just building characters or memorizing mechanics.

The Moldvay Basic Difference: Streamlined, Structured, and Playable

So, what exactly did Moldvay change? Well, for starters, he introduced a level of clarity that earlier versions lacked. Original D&D—while brilliant—was a bit of a mess when it came to organization. The rules were scattered across multiple booklets, often assuming that readers were already familiar with wargaming mechanics. The Holmes Basic Set (1977) took steps toward refining the system, but it still felt like a stepping stone rather than a fully realized game.

Moldvay’s Basic Set, on the other hand, was a complete package. It covered levels 1 to 3, giving players a solid foundation before they moved on to the Expert Set (written by David “Zeb” Cook), which expanded the game up to level 14. Everything was laid out in a logical order, with explanations that were actually easy to understand.

Some of the key improvements included:

• A clear, structured approach to character creation – No more flipping between pages to figure out how to roll up a character. The process was streamlined and intuitive.

• The introduction of race-as-class – Instead of picking a race and a class separately, demi-human characters like Dwarves, Elves, and Halflings had their own built-in abilities and level progressions. This simplified things dramatically while still keeping the game balanced.

• A straightforward alignment system – Just three options: Lawful, Neutral, or Chaotic. No endless debates over whether a character is Lawful Good or Neutral Evil.

• Tightly written combat rules – No unnecessary complexity, just fast and deadly fights that encouraged tactical play.

• A beginner-friendly dungeon crawl – Moldvay included a simple, ready-to-run adventure, complete with maps and tips for the Dungeon Master. It was a brilliant way to introduce new players to the game’s mechanics and storytelling potential.

The result? A D&D set that wasn’t just a rulebook, but an invitation to adventure.

Why Moldvay Basic D&D Still Matters Today

We live in an age where Dungeons & Dragons is more popular than ever. Fifth Edition and the new D&D 2024, or D&D 5.24, or whatever the hell they’re calling it is everywhere, with polished rulebooks, massive online communities, pop-culture and streams making RPGs a mainstream phenomenon. And yet, the Moldvay Basic Set continues to hold a special place in the hearts of OSR fans.

Why? Because it embodies the best parts of classic role-playing.

• It’s fast and easy to learn.

• It emphasizes exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.

• It doesn’t get bogged down in endless character optimization.

• It keeps the focus on playing the game, rather than character builds.

If you’ve never played an older edition of D&D, I can’t recommend Moldvay Basic enough. It strips the game down to its core essentials, reminding us that D&D isn’t just about stats and mechanics—it’s about adventure.

Why Moldvay Basic Still Holds Up

The Moldvay Basic Set is, in my opinion, one of the best versions of Dungeons & Dragons ever written. It distilled the essence of role-playing into a digestible, easy-to-use format while keeping the wonder, danger, and creativity of fantasy adventure at the forefront.

It’s a game that respects the intelligence of its players, providing a framework for adventure without drowning them in mechanics. It encourages Dungeon Masters to be referees rather than rulebook slaves, making judgment calls based on the needs of the game rather than rigid formulas. And, most importantly, it’s fun.

So, with that in mind, let’s dig into the book itself and explore each section in detail. There’s a dungeon to delve, monsters to slay, and treasure to loot. Let’s roll some stats and see where the adventure takes us.

Diving into the Rulebook: A Section-by-Section Breakdown

Moldvay’s Basic D&D rulebook is an absolute masterclass in clarity, structure, and usability. Unlike some modern RPG books that feel more like encyclopedias than games, this one keeps things concise while delivering just enough depth to inspire creativity. Every section is there for a reason, and each one builds upon the last, creating a natural progression from “What is D&D?” to “Okay, let’s go fight some goblins.”

So, let’s take a deep dive, starting with the foundation: the Introduction.

1. Introduction – Welcome to the World of Moldvay Basic D&D

Before you even roll a die or pick a class, Moldvay makes one thing clear: Dungeons & Dragons is more than just a game—it’s an experience. The introduction isn’t just a technical explanation of mechanics; it’s an invitation into a world of adventure, creativity, and storytelling.

For new players, this section is pure gold. It explains what role-playing is, how D&D differs from board games, and—most importantly—why it’s fun. Unlike a lot of games that focus on winning or beating the system, D&D is about shared storytelling. The Dungeon Master (DM) sets the scene, the players make decisions, and the dice determine how the world reacts. Success isn’t just about rolling high; it’s about thinking creatively, working as a team, and embracing the unpredictable twists of fate.

Experience Points and the Role of Treasure in Moldvay Basic D&D

One of the first mechanical concepts introduced is experience points (XP), and this is where old-school D&D diverges hard from later editions. In modern games, XP is usually tied to combat—kill monsters, get stronger. But here? XP comes primarily from treasure.

That’s right. Gold = XP.

At first, this might seem odd. Shouldn’t warriors get better at fighting by, you know, fighting? But this rule serves a key purpose: it shifts the focus from combat to exploration and strategy.

Instead of charging headfirst into every fight, players are encouraged to be clever, avoid unnecessary battles, and think like actual adventurers. After all, in a medieval-fantasy world, would you rather risk your life battling a basilisk or sneak past it and grab the chest full of gold?

This single mechanic shapes how classic D&D is played. Dungeons become puzzles to solve rather than just combat arenas, and players start looking for creative ways to achieve their goals instead of just stabbing everything that moves.

The Role of Dice in Moldvay Basic D&D – A Crash Course in Probability

Next up, the book introduces the polyhedral dice—those beautiful, weird-shaped things that make RPGs so unique. Unlike standard board games that only use d6s, D&D employs an entire arsenal of dice:

• d4 – Used mainly for damage on small weapons like daggers. Also known as the “Caltrop of Doom” if you step on one barefoot.

• d6 – The workhorse die. Used for common damage rolls, random encounter checks, and determining starting gold.

• d8 – Mostly for bigger weapons and monster hit dice.

• d10 – Sometimes used for determining percentages or monster hit points.

• d12 – Exists mainly so barbarians can roll it in later editions.

• d20 – The big one. The die that determines attack rolls, saving throws, and most of the important game decisions.

Moldvay explains how to use these dice in a way that’s refreshingly clear. Attack rolls, saving throws, and ability checks all rely on these dice, and the book provides just enough guidance to make things intuitive. There’s no unnecessary complexity—just simple, effective mechanics that let the game move quickly.

Winning, Losing, and the Spirit of Moldvay Basic D&D

One of my favorite parts of this section is how Moldvay emphasizes the cooperative nature of role-playing games. Unlike competitive board games where someone wins and someone loses, Dungeons & Dragons is about creating an experience.

He outright states that D&D has no winners or losers—which might sound strange if you’re used to video games and strategy games where the goal is to beat something. But here, the only true objective is to have fun.

That’s a mindset shift for a lot of new players. Instead of focusing on winning, the game encourages you to embrace the unknown. Maybe your character gets tricked by a goblin, or the party triggers a trap and gets separated in a crumbling dungeon. These aren’t failures—they’re opportunities for great storytelling.

The game is at its best when players go with the flow, roll with the punches (sometimes literally), and let the dice shape the adventure. Whether your party is negotiating with a dragon, running from an angry mob, or trying to convince the town guard that they totally didn’t start that bar fight, the real goal is to create a memorable experience together.

My Thoughts on the Introduction

The introduction of Moldvay Basic is a fantastic piece of game design. It’s short, but it sets the tone for the entire book—this is a game about adventure, creativity, and problem-solving. It’s about thinking like an adventurer, not just rolling dice and adding modifiers.

By the time you finish this section, you don’t just know what D&D is—you want to play it. And that, in my book, is exactly what a great RPG introduction should do.

Now that we’ve got the basics down, it’s time to move on to character creation—where characters (and sometimes complete disasters) are born.

Part 2: Player Character Information in Moldvay Basic D&D

One of the biggest hurdles for new players in any Dungeons & Dragons edition is character creation. Some versions make it a sprawling process—picking race, class, backgrounds, feats, skills, and then calculating a bunch of bonuses and modifiers before you even start playing. But Moldvay Basic? It keeps things clean and simple, giving you everything you need to roll up a character and start adventuring within minutes.

This streamlined process doesn’t just make the game more accessible; it also captures the spirit of old-school play. You don’t spend an hour optimizing stats and planning your build ten levels down the road. You roll some dice, make a few quick decisions, and jump straight into the adventure. Your character grows organically, shaped by the dangers they face rather than a min-maxed spreadsheet.

So, how does it work?

Rolling Up a Character in Moldvay Basic D&D – The Quick and Dirty Method

Character creation in Moldvay Basic is an intuitive, no-frills process that takes about five minutes. Here’s how it goes:

• Roll 3d6 for six abilities – Strength, Intelligence, Wisdom, Dexterity, Constitution, and Charisma. You roll them in order, no rearranging. That’s right, you don’t get to pick where your best score goes. Your stats determine who you are, rather than the other way around. Got a high Strength? You’re probably going to be a Fighter. Rolled low across the board? Well, you might end up as a Thief or a hopeless Magic-User. It’s all part of the charm.

• Choose a class based on your rolls – In Moldvay Basic, your ability scores largely dictate what class is best for you. The game encourages players to go with the flow, rather than cherry-picking an optimized build.

• Adjust your prime requisite (if necessary) – If you’re close to a good score for your class, you can lower one ability to raise your prime requisite. This helps if you rolled a 12 in Strength but really want to be a Fighter.

• Roll for hit points – Hit Dice are brutal in this game. A first-level Magic-User might start with a single hit point if they roll poorly, while a Fighter could get as many as 8. There are no rerolls, no second chances. You just have to hope you get lucky—or be very, very careful.

• Pick an alignment – You’re either Lawful, Neutral, or Chaotic—that’s it. No nine-point moral grid to worry about. Your alignment gives a general idea of how your character behaves, but it’s loose enough to allow flexibility.

• Roll for gold and buy your gear – You get 3d6 x 10 gold pieces to buy weapons, armor, and adventuring equipment. This can be the most important decision in the game. Do you buy a sword and chainmail for better combat odds? Or save money for torches, rope, and rations? You can only carry so much, and equipment management is critical in old-school play.

• Record saving throws and attack values – These numbers are set by class and don’t require a ton of calculations. A Fighter hits better than a Magic-User, but they both follow a simple attack table rather than complex formulas.

That’s it. You’re done. No skill trees, no fiddly bonuses, no overwhelming options—just a character ready to explore a dungeon and face some goblins.

Race-as-Class in Moldvay Basic D&D: A Different Kind of Choice

One of the most divisive aspects of Moldvay Basic—at least for players coming from later editions—is the race-as-class system. Unlike AD&D and later versions, where race and class are separate choices, Moldvay Basic bundles them together. You’re not just a Dwarf Fighter—you’re a Dwarf, and that’s it.

Some players see this as restrictive, but in practice, it works brilliantly for the kind of game Basic D&D is trying to be. It simplifies choices and helps define each race as a distinct archetype rather than just another layer of mechanical bonuses.

A Dwarf isn’t just a short Fighter—he’s a tough, underground-dwelling warrior with better saving throws and an innate knack for detecting dungeon features.

An Elf is a mystical warrior-mage, not just a Fighter with spell slots.

Each class feels unique and serves a clear role in the party:

• Cleric – Your holy warrior, tough and resilient, but without spells at level 1. They eventually get divine magic, turning them into a mix of healer and frontline fighter.

• Dwarf – A sturdy warrior with great saving throws and underground knowledge. The toughest of the tough.

• Elf – A hybrid Fighter/Magic-User, able to use both spells and swords, but advancing more slowly than other classes.

• Fighter – The classic warrior, excelling in melee combat. Simple and effective.

• Halfling – Small, quick, and hard to hit. Halflings get bonuses to stealth and missile attacks, making them great scouts.

• Magic-User – Fragile but powerful, with only one spell per day at level 1. Use it wisely.

• Thief – The only class with traditional thief skills, but fragile in combat. A high-risk, high-reward character.

Each class is a clear and distinct archetype, making party composition an essential part of the game. There’s no “everybody can do everything” mentality here—everyone has their niche, and working together is key to survival.

Alignment in Moldvay Basic D&D: Simple, Not Restrictive

Forget Lawful Good vs. Chaotic Neutral vs. Neutral Evil. In Moldvay Basic, you’re either Lawful, Neutral, or Chaotic—and that’s all you need.

• Lawful characters believe in order, fairness, and protecting the group.

• Neutral characters prioritize self-preservation and balance.

• Chaotic characters are unpredictable and self-serving, sometimes even villainous.

This stripped-down system makes alignment feel more like a guiding philosophy than a set of behavioral restrictions. It also means that you don’t have to worry about rigid moral debates or deep philosophical discussions—alignment is a broad stroke, not a rulebook for behavior.

Why This Works So Well

Moldvay’s approach to character creation is one of the best I’ve ever seen in a role-playing game. It doesn’t bog you down in endless choices, but it still gives you enough options to make a character feel personal and unique. It’s fast, intuitive, and gets you straight into the action.

But the real magic of this system is how it shapes gameplay. Because stats are rolled in order, you often end up with unexpected characters. Maybe you wanted to be a Fighter, but your best roll was in Intelligence—so now you’re a Magic-User instead. Maybe your rolls were terrible, and you’re playing a scrawny, weak-willed Thief who has to survive on cunning and luck alone.

Rather than letting you carefully sculpt a hero, the game gives you a character to work with, and that sense of randomness makes for some of the most memorable characters you’ll ever play.

Basic D&D isn’t about carefully optimized builds—it’s about adventuring, taking risks, and rolling with whatever fate (and the dice) throw your way. And in that spirit, Moldvay’s character creation system is an absolute masterpiece.

Part 3: Spells – The Arcane Mysteries of the Magic System

Magic in Moldvay Basic is delightfully simple, wonderfully deadly, and—most importantly—limited. If you’re coming from modern editions where spellcasters can sling cantrips all day and prepare an entire library of spells, you might find the old-school approach a bit shocking.

No “casting on the fly,” no cantrips that can be cast round after round—just cold, hard magical resource management. If you’re a Magic-User or Elf, you start with exactly one spell per day at level 1. That’s it. One shot. Make it count.

And you know what? That’s what makes it fun.

The Burden and Power of a Low-Level Magic-User in Moldvay Basic D&D

Let’s be real: low-level Magic-Users in Basic D&D are fragile as hell. You start with a d4 for hit points, you can’t wear armor, and your best weapon is either a dagger or a staff—both of which mean you’re one bad round away from death.

But despite being physically frail, you hold immense power—if you’re smart about it.

In later editions, spellcasters become gods-in-training, blasting fireballs and teleporting across planes like it’s nothing. But here? A Magic-User is more of a glass cannon, carefully choosing when to unleash their one spell. A well-timed spell can turn an entire battle in your party’s favor—but if you waste it? Welp. Time to grab a sling and start hiding behind the Fighter.

And then there’s the Elf, who gets the best of both worlds. Elves can both cast spells and wear armor, which makes them significantly sturdier than their Magic-User counterparts. The trade-off? They level much slower. In a race to power, the Magic-User will eventually surpass the Elf in magical might—but that doesn’t help much when you’re getting murdered by goblins at level 1.

Spell Lists in Moldvay Basic D&D – Small but Mighty

The spell system is elegant in its brevity. There are no bloated lists of situational spells that you’ll never use. Instead, every spell is punchy, evocative, and useful.

Here is the list of Magic-user and Elf spells from Basic D&D:

Magic-User & Elf Spells

• Magic Missile – This one’s legendary. It requires no attack roll, it always hits, and it deals 1d6+1 damage. In a world where every hit matters, this spell is reliable, which makes it one of the best picks at low levels.

• Sleep – The undisputed king of 1st-level spells. This bad boy doesn’t require a saving throw and can put 1d4 Hit Dice worth of enemies straight to sleep—no questions asked. Goblins, kobolds, bandits? Gone. Even some bigger threats (like ogres) can be affected.

• Charm Person – Ever wanted a free bodyguard? This spell lets you turn a humanoid into your best friend, and in old-school D&D, the effect lasts indefinitely. The only way they break free is with a successful save (and they only get to try it again every few weeks or months). Used creatively, this spell is a campaign-changer.

• Light – More useful than you’d think. Dungeons are dark, and unless you want to be juggling torches, this spell is a lifesaver. Bonus points for the meaner application: blinding an enemy by casting it on their face.

• Shield – Most people overlook this one, but it’s fantastic. It makes the caster nearly untouchable for one full combat (AC 2 vs. melee, AC immune vs. missiles). If you’re expecting trouble, this is your magical suit of armor.

Cleric Spells in Moldvay Basic D&D (Starting at Level 2)

Clerics don’t get spells at level 1 (which, honestly, is brutal), but once they hit level 2, they gain access to some of the best utility magic in the game:

• Cure Light Wounds – The only healing spell at this level, restoring 1d6+1 hit points. When death is always knocking at your door, this spell is essential.

• Detect Evil – It won’t stop evil things, but at least you’ll know they’re evil. Fun for paranoia!

• Light – Same as the Magic-User version. Always handy.

• Protection from Evil – A must-have if you’re fighting enchanted or summoned creatures.

• Purify Food and Water – Might sound boring, but when you’re starving in the wilderness, suddenly it’s the MVP spell of the day.

What Makes the Moldvay Basic Magic System Work?

• Simplicity – There are no redundant spells. Every spell is distinct, useful, and flavorful. You won’t find a bunch of niche situational spells here.

• Scarcity = Meaningful Choices – Because spell slots are so limited, every spell cast matters. Unlike later editions where spellcasters throw out magic constantly, here they think about when and how to use their power.

• Vancian Magic Keeps Things Mysterious – Since spells have to be memorized ahead of time, you’re never completely prepared. This means spellcasters often have to rely on wits, scrolls, or even magic items to compensate.

• Balance – Magic is powerful, but it’s not unlimited. You’re not chucking fireballs every turn—you’re using spells strategically.

The Arcane Struggles of Low-Level Casters in Moldvay Basic D&D

Playing a spellcaster in Moldvay Basic is equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

On one hand, you wield ancient magical power. On the other hand, once you’ve cast your one spell, you’re just some nerd in a robe with a stick. If the adventure continues past that one big moment, you better hope the party has a solid frontline or a good escape plan.

This dynamic creates a wonderful tension in play. You’re not an unstoppable powerhouse yet—you’re a fragile, brilliant strategist with the potential to become something truly legendary.

That’s what I love about magic in Moldvay Basic. It makes you earn your power. Every spell matters, every decision has weight, and when you finally do reach those higher levels and start throwing around Fireballs and Lightning Bolts? You feel like you’ve actually become a master of the arcane.

So, whether you’re hypnotizing guards with Charm Person, knocking out an entire goblin warband with Sleep, or just desperately hiding behind the Fighter because you ran out of spells, one thing is certain—magic in Moldvay Basic is as thrilling as it is dangerous.

And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Part 4: The Adventure – Exploring the Unknown

If there’s one thing that Moldvay Basic absolutely nails, it’s the sense of adventure.

Unlike modern editions that often assume the game is about balanced encounters, grand narratives, and heroic destinies, Basic D&D reminds us that adventuring is dangerous work. You’re not an all-powerful hero (at least, not yet). You’re a desperate explorer, crawling through ancient ruins and monster-infested tombs in search of wealth and glory—and the odds are stacked against you.

This section of the rulebook is where the game really comes alive. It’s not just about swinging swords and slinging spells—it’s about cautiously inching down dark corridors, avoiding deadly traps, and hoping your torch doesn’t burn out before you find an exit.

So, let’s break it down.

The Importance of a Balanced Party in Moldvay Basic D&D

Modern games like Fifth Edition let you get away with a party full of wizards or rogues, but in Moldvay Basic? You need a balanced group. If your party is missing a key role—say, a Cleric or a Fighter—you’re in big trouble.

Each class fills a crucial niche in an adventuring party:

• Fighter – Takes the hits and dishes out damage. Your front-line defense against skeletons, goblins, and whatever eldritch horrors the DM throws at you.

• Magic-User – Blows their one spell early and then spends the rest of the adventure hoping they don’t get killed.

• Cleric – The party’s only real defense against undead and a much-needed source of healing (once they hit level 2).

• Thief – Your best chance at avoiding traps—assuming they don’t roll terribly and get impaled by spikes instead.

• Dwarf/Elf/Halfling – Demi-humans bring useful abilities that can help the party survive, whether it’s darkvision (Dwarves), magic (Elves), or sheer luck (Halflings).

Without a well-rounded group, your odds of survival drop fast.

Movement & Time – The Reality of Dungeon Crawling

Moldvay Basic uses turn-based exploration, and this is one of the biggest differences between old-school play and modern RPGs. In newer editions, players tend to free-roam through dungeons, only tracking movement when combat starts. But here? Every. Single. Move. Matters.

• Dungeon turns are 10 minutes long (in-game). In that time, a party can move 120 feet if they’re being careful.

• Time matters because light sources burn out—a torch lasts 6 turns, a lantern lasts 24 turns. If your light goes out? You’re blind. And in Basic D&D, the darkness isn’t just a nuisance—it’s deadly.

• Random encounters are constantly lurking. Every two turns, the DM rolls a d6. On a roll of 1, something is out there—and it’s coming for you.

This makes dungeon exploration a game of resource management. It forces players to plan ahead, because wasting time means burning through torches, rations, and hit points. And let me tell you—when you’re deep in a dungeon, your last torch is flickering, and the DM rolls for an encounter? That’s the kind of tension modern games struggle to replicate.

Traps & Puzzles – Think or Die

One of the best parts of old-school dungeon crawling is that traps don’t just exist to punish you—they exist to challenge you.

Modern editions tend to handle traps with a simple Perception roll or a Dexterity save. But in Moldvay Basic, traps are puzzles to solve, and if you don’t actively look for them, you won’t find them.

Here’s the thing: there’s no passive Perception check in this game. You don’t just “roll to notice” a pit trap. You have to ask the DM, “I tap the floor with my 10-foot pole” or “I check the walls for holes where arrows might come out.” If you don’t? Enjoy your poison darts to the face.

This encourages player ingenuity over character stats. You’re not relying on numbers—you’re relying on thinking like an adventurer.

Some of my favorite old-school dungeon moments involve players figuring out a trap rather than just rolling a d20 to detect it. Things like:

• Pouring water on the floor to see if it drains into a pit.

• Dropping a coin down a hallway to see if anything reacts.

• Using a mirror to peek around a suspicious corner.

It’s interactive, and it makes dungeons feel like actual places, rather than just collections of rooms with monsters.

Retainers – Why You Need More Meat Shields

One of the biggest differences between Basic D&D and modern editions is the importance of hirelings and retainers.

Modern players often assume, “We’re the heroes—we don’t need backup!”

But in Moldvay Basic? Retainers are essential.

• Why? Because you will die.

• Why? Because extra swords mean extra chances to survive.

• Why? Because hauling treasure out of a dungeon is a pain in the ass.

Retainers (aka hirelings, mercenaries, and torchbearers) act as additional muscle, trap detectors, and—when things go south—disposable bait. They don’t just help in combat; they help carry supplies, hold torches, and drag your unconscious body out of the dungeon when you inevitably fall into a pit.

But here’s the catch: Retainers don’t fight to the death. They have morale scores, meaning they might run away mid-fight if things look grim. You have to keep them paid, keep them happy, and—most importantly—not get them killed.

Encounters – More Than Just Fighting

One of the best things about Moldvay Basic is that encounters aren’t just about combat.

Unlike modern games where every encounter is balanced for “fair fights,” Basic D&D expects you to run away if things look too tough. There are no challenge ratings here—just monsters that want to kill you.

But here’s the trick: you don’t have to fight everything. In fact, you shouldn’t.

• You can parley with monsters. Maybe those goblins don’t actually want to fight—maybe they just want food or gold.

• You can set traps or lure monsters into hazards.

• You can distract enemies and sneak past them.

The game encourages you to think beyond combat. It’s not about winning battles—it’s about surviving the dungeon.

The Heart of Old-School Adventure

The Moldvay Basic approach to adventuring is brutal, immersive, and exhilarating. Every step forward is a risk. Every encounter is a decision. Every torch that flickers low is a reminder that you are not safe.

This is dungeon-crawling at its finest.

So light your torches, keep your hirelings close, and don’t touch anything suspicious unless you’re absolutely sure it won’t kill you.

Part 5: The Encounter – Combat and Chaos

Combat in Moldvay Basic is fast, brutal, and unforgiving—exactly how it should be in an old-school dungeon crawl.

There are no second chances, no generous death saves, and absolutely no guarantee that you’ll make it out of a fight in one piece. Hit points are low, damage is high, and if you wade into battle without a plan? You’re probably going to die.

And you know what? That’s what makes it so damn exciting.

Unlike modern editions of D&D, which tend to treat combat like a balanced tactical mini-game, Moldvay Basic strips combat down to its bare essentials. There’s no fluff, no unnecessary complexity—just initiative, attacks, damage, and death. Every round is quick and decisive, forcing players to think fast, take risks, and pray to whatever gods they worship that they don’t roll a 1.

So, let’s break down the mayhem.

Initiative – Simple, Brutal, and Efficient

Forget fancy individual initiative rolls. In Moldvay Basic, initiative is handled as a group.

• Each side rolls a single d6 at the start of the round.

• Whoever rolls higher goes first.

• If it’s a tie, everything happens simultaneously—which means a dying enemy might still get in one last hit before they keel over.

This system is fast. No need to track separate initiative numbers for every single combatant—just roll, see who goes first, and get on with the fight. It also adds a bit of chaos to combat, since you never know if the goblins are going to get the drop on you first.

And believe me, when you’re low on HP and the DM rolls a 6 for the monsters? That’s the moment you start sweating.

Attack Rolls – Swing, Hope, and Pray

Attacking in Moldvay Basic is straightforward:

• Roll a d20 and add any relevant modifiers.

• Compare it to the attack chart to see if you hit. (Alternatively, you could use the THAC0 system, but that’s a discussion for another day… It tends to scare the n00bs)

• If you hit, roll damage and watch your enemy suffer (or, more likely, watch them do the same to you).

There are no bloated attack bonuses—just a single d20 roll, a modifier or 2, and a bit of luck.

One thing you’ll notice right away? Hitting is not guaranteed. In modern D&D, characters often start with a +5 to hit, meaning they land attacks fairly consistently. But here? Your chance to hit at level 1 is not great—especially if you’re fighting an enemy with decent armor.

This means combat is often a gamble. You might swing and miss, and suddenly that goblin gets to stab you back. Or maybe you land a lucky hit and take down an orc in one blow. Every attack roll counts, and that uncertainty makes fights tense.

Damage & Death – One Bad Roll and It’s Over

Let’s talk about how lethal this game is.

In Moldvay Basic, HP is low.

• Fighters roll 1d8 for hit points.

• Magic-Users roll 1d4 (good luck surviving with a single hit point).

• Most monsters do 1d6 damage, regardless of their weapon.

Do the math. If a goblin hits a starting Magic-User, there’s a very real chance they die immediately.

And there are no death saves. No stabilization checks, no lingering at 0 HP. If you drop to 0 hit points, you’re dead. That’s it. Roll up a new character.

This makes every fight incredibly dangerous. It’s not like later editions, where you can tank multiple blows before worrying about dropping. Here, even the weakest monster can kill you in a single round.

As a result, players don’t fight unless they have to. They look for clever ways to avoid combat, because they know that one unlucky roll could mean the end.

Want to fight that ogre? Maybe lure it into a pit instead. Think you can take on a pack of goblins? Try bribing them first. You learn quickly that survival is about playing smart, not hitting hard.

Saving Throws – Your Last, Desperate Chance

In modern D&D, saving throws are tied to your ability scores. Not so in Moldvay Basic. Here, saving throws are pre-set by class and level, and they cover a variety of terrifying dangers:

• Death Ray or Poison – Failing this means instant death. No lingering effects, no slow-acting poison—just boom, dead.

• Magic Wands – Covers all manner of weird magical attacks.

• Paralysis or Turn to Stone – Fail this, and you’re stuck forever.

• Dragon Breath – Because sometimes you just can’t outrun fire.

• Spells – A general catch-all for things that aren’t covered above.

The thing about saving throws in Moldvay Basic? They’re not easy. At level 1, your odds of passing a save are not great, which means if something hits you with poison, petrification, or mind control? You better hope you roll well.

But when you do make that clutch save against a basilisk’s gaze or resist a wizard’s sleep spell? That moment feels amazing.

Morale – Because Not Everyone Fights to the Death

One of the coolest mechanics in Moldvay Basic—and one that modern D&D sorely lacks—is Morale checks.

• Every monster has a Morale score (usually between 6 and 12).

• When things go badly (like their leader dying or taking heavy losses), the DM rolls 2d6.

• If the roll is higher than the monster’s morale, they flee or surrender.

This means that not every fight has to end in a bloodbath. Goblins might run away if half their group dies. Bandits might surrender if they realize they’re outmatched. Even a dragon might flee if it decides the fight isn’t worth it.

Morale makes combat feel dynamic and realistic. Instead of every encounter being a fight to the death, battles can shift, evolve, and sometimes end without total carnage.

The Old-School Combat Mindset – Think or Die

Combat in Moldvay Basic is fast, deadly, and unpredictable. It forces players to think outside the box instead of just rushing in with swords drawn. If you treat every fight like a modern RPG—where you assume every encounter is meant to be “balanced” and winnable—you’re going to die very quickly.

The key to survival? Creativity.

• Use the environment.

• Talk your way out of fights.

• Trick enemies into fighting each other.

• Set ambushes.

• Run away when things go south.

Because let’s be honest—sometimes the best move in combat is not fighting at all.

Chaos, Carnage, and Consequence

I love combat in Moldvay Basic. It’s fast, brutal, and unforgiving—exactly what dungeon-crawling should feel like. Every fight is high-stakes, because you’re never guaranteed to survive. And when you do come out on top? It feels like a real victory.

This is combat with consequences. Every decision matters. Every sword swing could be your last. And that tension? That desperation? That’s what makes it so damn fun.

So the next time you’re in a dungeon, think twice before you draw your weapon. That goblin might have a dozen friends hiding in the shadows—and if they get initiative? Well…

Better roll up a new character.

Part 6: Monsters – The Bestiary of Basic D&D

Moldvay Basic’s bestiary isn’t just a collection of stat blocks. It’s a catalog of nightmares, a rogue’s gallery of iconic creatures that bring a genuine sense of wonder and terror to the game world. Whether you’re facing a horde of goblins, an ancient dragon, or an oozing, acid-filled cube lurking in the hallways, monsters in Basic D&D aren’t just obstacles—they’re the heart of the adventure.

Simple, Effective, and Deadly

One of the best things about the Moldvay Basic monster section is its brevity. Every creature is presented in a concise, easy-to-read stat block that tells you exactly what you need to know—no fluff, no filler, no wasted space.

Each monster entry includes:

• Armor Class (AC) – How hard it is to hit.

• Hit Dice (HD) – Determines how much health it has (and how strong it is).

• Attacks – What it does in a fight.

• Damage – How much pain it dishes out.

• Number Appearing – Because fighting one goblin is never enough.

• Morale – Whether it sticks around in a fight or flees like a coward.

• Treasure Type – The kind of loot it hoards (because let’s be honest, we’re here for the treasure).

That’s it. No bloated ability lists. No unnecessary complexity. Just clear, easy-to-run encounters.

This makes running monsters in Basic D&D an absolute joy. There’s no flipping through 20 pages of abilities, no endless list of resistances—just pure, fast-paced combat and interaction.

And let me tell you—some of these monsters? Absolutely legendary.

The Gelatinous Cube – Dungeon Janitor from Hell

Ah, the Gelatinous Cube. Few monsters in D&D are as instantly recognizable as this massive, oozing block of transparent death.

• It slowly slides through dungeons, cleaning up dead adventurers, discarded weapons, and whatever poor soul was unlucky enough to walk into it.

• It’s completely see-through, meaning unwary players can literally stumble right into its acidic embrace before realizing what happened.

• If it paralyzes you, congratulations—you’re now just another skeleton floating inside its jelly-like body.

This thing is iconic, and for good reason. It’s one of the best examples of Basic D&D’s approach to monster design—simple concept, terrifying execution.

And honestly? The idea that a giant cube of living jelly is just slithering around, keeping the dungeon hallways clean is kind of hilarious.

The Rust Monster – Destroyer of Dreams

You can hear the screams of Fighters everywhere at the mere mention of the fucking Rust Monster.

• It doesn’t want to kill you.

• It doesn’t care about your hit points.

• All it wants is your precious, expensive metal equipment.

One hit from a Rust Monster’s antennae, and your favorite sword? Gone. Your shiny armor? Dusted. It literally eats metal, meaning everything that makes your Fighter useful just got turned into lunch.

This is one of the meanest monsters ever designed, because it doesn’t kill your character—it just ruins their life.

Fighters and Clerics go from badass warriors to sad, unarmed peasants in about three seconds. Meanwhile, the Thief and Magic-User (who never had good armor to begin with) are just laughing their asses off.

Absolutely devastating. Absolutely amazing.

Dragons – The Ultimate Threat

Dragons in Basic D&D are no joke.

In later editions, Dragons tend to be scaled to match the party level, ensuring a “fair fight.” Not here.

• A Red Dragon breathes fire that does its current hit points in damage—which means it can nuke an entire party in one attack.

• Dragons in Moldvay Basic do not care if you’re level 1 or level 10. They will destroy you unless you’re smart about fighting them.

• If you try to fight one head-on? You will die. Horribly.

But here’s the thing—Dragons are smart. They don’t just mindlessly attack; they negotiate, manipulate, and demand tribute. Some might be willing to let you live if you bring them enough treasure. Others might be sleeping, giving you a chance to steal from their hoard and run for your life.

In Moldvay Basic, fighting a Dragon is never the default option. The smarter move? Find a way to avoid the fight, or trick the Dragon into letting you go.

Goblins & Orcs – The Classic Foes

It wouldn’t be D&D without goblins and orcs, and Moldvay Basic treats them exactly how they should be—as dangerous, cunning foes.

• Goblins aren’t just weaklings waiting to die—they’re ambush predators, using numbers, darkness, and dirty tricks to overwhelm adventurers.

• Orcs? They’re brutal, organized, and dangerous in large numbers. A single orc might not be a problem, but an entire tribe? You better have a plan.

And thanks to Moldvay’s Morale system, these guys won’t always fight to the death. If you kill their leader, they might run away. If you bribe them? They might let you pass.

These aren’t just cannon fodder—they’re thinking enemies with their own motivations and fears.

Monsters that Keep You on Your Toes

The Moldvay Basic monster section isn’t just a list of stat blocks—it’s a toolbox for Dungeon Masters to create tension, mystery, and excitement.

• The monsters are simple, but deadly.

• They encourage player creativity—fighting isn’t always the best option.

• Every encounter feels meaningful, whether it’s a lowly goblin ambush or a full-scale dragon standoff.

If you ever want to see what makes a Dungeons & Dragons bestiary truly great, look no further than Moldvay Basic.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go burn every Rust Monster in existence because seriously… Fuck rust monsters!

Part 7: Treasure – The Rewards of Adventure

If there’s one thing that gets adventurers excited—other than not dying in a dungeon—it’s treasure.

But here’s the thing: in Moldvay Basic, treasure isn’t just about getting rich and buying fancy stuff. It’s the main way you gain XP. That’s right—your character doesn’t get stronger by slaying every goblin in sight. You level up by grabbing loot and hauling it out alive.

And you know what? I love this system.

It encourages clever play over brute force, making dungeon exploration feel like a strategic heist rather than just a series of battles. Killing monsters is dangerous. Fighting means risking your life. If you can avoid combat and steal the treasure instead? That’s a win.

So let’s talk about what makes treasure in Moldvay Basic so damn fun.

Gold = XP – The Art of Treasure Hunting

In later editions of D&D, XP is mostly tied to combat. You kill monsters, you gain experience, and eventually, you level up. Simple, right?

Not in Moldvay Basic.

Here, treasure is the primary source of XP. Every gold piece (GP) you recover is worth one experience point. That means a party that avoids fights and focuses on looting will level up faster than a group that charges into battle like reckless lunatics.

This creates a completely different playstyle:

• Instead of grinding XP by killing enemies, players are motivated to find treasure without getting into fights.

• Sneaking past monsters? Smart move.

• Outsmarting a dragon to steal from its hoard? Even better.

• Avoiding a deadly trap while looting a chest? Peak dungeon-crawling.

Gold-as-XP makes every treasure haul exciting. It feels rewarding, not just because you’re getting rich, but because you’re actually progressing your character.

It also makes sense from a roleplaying perspective. Why do adventurers risk their lives in deathtrap-filled dungeons? For fortune and glory. And Moldvay Basic understands that.

Coins & Gems – The Backbone of Wealth

The most common type of treasure is cold, hard cash—gold, silver, electrum, and copper pieces.

• Gold (GP) – The only coin that really matters. It’s the standard currency and what you convert XP from.

• Silver (SP) – Worth 1/10th of a gold piece. Good for small purchases and paying off hirelings.

• Electrum (EP) – Worth 1/2 a gold piece. Annoying, but if you find a stash of it, you’re not complaining.

• Copper (CP) – Worth 1/100th of a gold piece. Basically worthless, but good for throwing at beggars or distracting monsters.

Then there are gems and jewelry, which are amazing because:

• They’re worth a lot more XP than coins.

• They weigh almost nothing (compared to lugging around sacks of gold).

• They’re easy to trade and bribe with.

A single gem can be worth hundreds or even thousands of GP, making it a prime target for thieves and a valuable bargaining tool.

Magic Items – The Real Game Changers

Nothing gets an adventurer’s heart racing like finding a magic item. In Moldvay Basic, magic items are rare, but when you find one? It matters.

Weapons & Armor

A +1 sword in Basic D&D isn’t just another number on your sheet—it’s a big deal. Magic weapons:

• Hit creatures that require magical attacks.

• Make your attacks significantly more reliable in a game where missing is common.

• Sometimes have hidden abilities—a flaming sword might do extra fire damage, or a cursed sword might force you to keep using it (oops).

Magic armor? Same thing. If you find a +1 shield, that’s huge. AC matters a lot in this game, and every point counts.

Scrolls & Potions

Magic-Users don’t get many spells per day, so finding a scroll? That’s like holding a tactical nuke.

Potions are another lifesaver, giving you temporary boosts that could mean the difference between life and death. Healing potions, invisibility potions, potions of giant strength—they all have game-changing potential.

And here’s the kicker: you never know exactly what you’re drinking unless you identify it first. That bottle you just gulped down? Might be a Potion of Speed… or a Potion of Poison.

Hope you brought a Cleric.

Wands, Rings, and Miscellaneous Magic

Then you have the weird and wonderful items—wands that fire lightning bolts, rings that make you invisible, and boots that let you run faster than a cheetah.

Finding one of these completely changes the game. The right magic item can turn a weak adventurer into a legend.

Cursed Items – Because Treasure Should Be Dangerous

Of course, not every shiny sword or glowing amulet is a good thing.

Moldvay Basic loves to mess with greedy adventurers, and cursed items are the perfect way to do that.

• That beautiful +1 sword? Surprise! It’s actually -1 to hit and you can’t get rid of it.

• That ring you just put on? It’s cursed—you can’t take it off, and it attracts undead.

• That Potion of Speed? If you drink too much, you age 10 years instantly (good luck explaining that to your party).

Cursed items add an element of risk to looting. Is that magic sword actually magical, or is it going to ruin your day? You won’t know until you experiment or get it identified.

I love this. It makes treasure feel dangerous. It forces players to be cautious and thoughtful, rather than just scooping up everything shiny without thinking.

The Art of Treasure Distribution

One of the best things about treasure in Moldvay Basic is that it doesn’t inflate power levels too quickly.

Magic items are rare. Gold is hard to get. And XP isn’t just handed out for free.

This keeps the game challenging. Players don’t expect to be fully decked out in magic gear by level 3. Finding one good magic weapon or one powerful artifact feels like a true accomplishment.

It also makes treasure more meaningful. When you do find something amazing, you appreciate it so much more.

My Thoughts on the Thrill of Treasure Hunting

Treasure in Moldvay Basic isn’t just rewarding—it’s the entire point of adventuring.

• Gold = XP, making treasure-hunting more important than combat.

• Magic items are rare but powerful, meaning every discovery feels special.

• Cursed items keep players on their toes, preventing mindless looting.

The best part? Treasure isn’t just about power—it’s about stories.

• The ring you stole from a wizard’s tower? It might have a dark secret.

• The gold you looted from a dungeon? Now bandits are after you.

• The legendary sword you found? Maybe it belonged to an ancient king.

Every piece of treasure feels earned. Every haul tells a story.

And that’s why, in Moldvay Basic, treasure is the best reward of all.

Part 8: Dungeon Master Information – The Art of Running a Game

If there’s one thing that separates Moldvay Basic from earlier versions of Dungeons & Dragons, it’s how much it helps the Dungeon Master.

Let’s be honest—being a DM is hard. You’re not just running the world, you’re balancing combat, storytelling, dungeon design, player decisions, and about a hundred other things all at once. Some RPGs throw a massive rulebook at you and say, “Good luck, figure it out.”

But Moldvay Basic? It teaches you how to be a great Dungeon Master.

This isn’t just a game manual—it’s a crash course in running a fun and engaging campaign. Whether you’re a total newbie or a veteran DM, the advice here is solid gold.

Dungeon Design – The Blueprint for Adventure

The first thing Moldvay does is walk you through designing a dungeon—and I love how accessible it is.

A lot of newer DMs struggle with making dungeons because they think they have to create some epic masterpiece—intricate maps, detailed backstories, perfectly balanced encounters. But Moldvay Basic keeps it simple and practical.

• Start with a map – Sketch out some rooms, corridors, and secret doors. No need to be an artist—just draw something that looks fun to explore.

• Add some traps and obstacles – Not every room needs a fight. Some should have traps, puzzles, or weird magical effects to keep things interesting.

• Place monsters wisely – Not everything should attack on sight. Some creatures should guard treasure, others should be lurking in ambush, and a few might just be minding their own business.

• Sprinkle in treasure – But don’t just dump gold everywhere. Make players work for it—hide it, lock it in chests, or put it behind puzzles.

This step-by-step process makes dungeon design fun, not overwhelming. The focus isn’t on perfection, it’s on creating a place that feels alive and exciting.

And the best part? Once you get comfortable with the basics, you can start getting weird—throw in magical portals, ancient ruins, or cursed tombs to spice things up.

Stocking Dungeons – More Than Just Monsters

One of the coolest things about Moldvay Basic is how much variety it encourages in dungeons. It’s not just, “Put some monsters in a room and call it a day.” No, Moldvay wants you to think deeper.

• Monsters with Purpose – Why are they here? Are they guarding something? Do they have a lair? Will they negotiate? A dungeon full of mindless, aggressive creatures is boring. Give them motivations and behaviors.

• Traps That Make Sense – A spiked pit in the middle of a hallway? Okay, but why? Who put it there? What’s its purpose? Clever traps should feel organic, not just like random gotcha moments.

• Weird Magical Stuff – The best dungeons have strange and mysterious things. Maybe there’s a room where gravity is reversed. Maybe there’s a pool that whispers secrets. These little details make dungeons feel magical and alive.

Moldvay Basic treats dungeons like living, breathing places, not just combat zones. And that’s what makes them so much fun to explore.

Running the Game – The Dungeon Master as a Referee

If there’s one piece of advice Moldvay Basic hammers home, it’s this:

The Dungeon Master is not the players’ enemy.

A lot of early DMs (especially coming from wargaming) used to run D&D like a competition—setting up dungeons specifically to kill players. But Moldvay Basic takes a different approach:

• You’re not trying to kill the players, but you’re also not protecting them. The dice decide their fate. If they make bad choices, they suffer the consequences. If they get lucky, they get lucky.

• Make fair rulings. Not everything has a rule attached to it. If players do something unexpected, make a call that’s logical and fun.

• Encourage creativity. If a player comes up with a clever plan that bypasses your traps or enemies? Let it work. That’s what the game is about.

• Keep the game moving. The rules are guidelines, not chains. If something is slowing the game down, make a ruling and move on.

Moldvay Basic treats the DM like a storyteller and referee, not just a rules lawyer. And that mindset? It’s the key to running a great game.

The Haunted Keep – A Perfect Starter Dungeon

Moldvay Basic doesn’t just tell you how to run a dungeon—it gives you one to start with.

The Haunted Keep is a fantastic example adventure. It’s a small, self-contained dungeon with:

• A mysterious ruined keep full of danger.

• Traps, secret doors, and hidden treasure.

• Monsters that aren’t just there to fight—some can be avoided, tricked, or negotiated with.

• Enough challenge to make players feel accomplished, but not so much that they get steamrolled.

This little adventure example teaches both DMs and players how to play the game. It’s designed to show off what makes Moldvay Basic fun—exploration, problem-solving, and rewarding creativity.

If you’re a first-time DM, reading this example adventure is one of the best ways to learn the game.

Timeless DM Advice – Why Moldvay Still Holds Up

Here’s the thing: Moldvay Basic was written over 40 years ago, and yet? Its DM advice is still some of the best ever written.

• Dungeon design? Still useful today.

• How to run a game fairly? Still essential.

• Stocking a dungeon with traps, monsters, and treasure? Still relevant.

Modern editions of D&D have way more rules, but you know what? You don’t need them to run a great game. The best DMs aren’t the ones who memorize every rule—they’re the ones who know how to create exciting, unpredictable adventures.

Moldvay Basic teaches you how to do that.

The Best DM Guide You Never Knew You Needed

If you’ve ever wanted to run a Dungeons & Dragons game but didn’t know where to start, Moldvay Basic is the best crash course you could ask for.

• It walks you through dungeon design in a way that’s fun and approachable.

• It teaches you how to think like a DM, not just follow rules.

• It encourages creativity—for both players and the DM.

• It makes running a game feel exciting, not overwhelming.

And the best part? You can apply these lessons to ANY edition of D&D.

Moldvay Basic doesn’t just teach you how to run this version of D&D—it teaches you how to be a great Dungeon Master, period.

So whether you’re a seasoned DM looking for inspiration or a total newbie wondering how the hell to start running a game, do yourself a favor:

Read this section of Moldvay Basic.

It’s hands down some of the best DM advice ever written.

Final Thoughts – A Masterpiece of Simplicity and Depth

I’ve played a lot of Dungeons & Dragons over the years—everything from Original D&D to 5th Edition, and plenty of OSR retroclones in between. But no matter how many different versions I try, I always come back to Moldvay Basic.

And that’s because it’s a masterpiece.

This 64 page rulebook strips D&D down to its core essentials—just enough rules to create structure, but never so many that they get in the way of the fun. It’s fast-paced, brutal, and endlessly creative. It doesn’t bog you down with rules-heavy mechanics, yet it somehow manages to feel deeper and more immersive than many modern RPGs.

Seriously—this game is over 40 years old, and it still holds up today.

The Perfect Starting Point for New Players

If you’ve never played classic Dungeons & Dragons, this is the best place to start.

• You don’t need to study hundreds of pages of rules.

• You don’t need to worry about balancing encounters or complex mechanics.

• You don’t need a stack of expansions or supplements to make it work.

You just grab your dice, gather your friends, and start exploring.

And honestly? That’s exactly how D&D was meant to be played.

Moldvay Basic Captures the Magic of Roleplaying

At its core, Dungeons & Dragons isn’t just about stats, dice rolls, or mechanics. It’s about:

• Exploring dark dungeons and unraveling ancient mysteries.

• Outwitting deadly monsters and stealing their treasure.

• Surviving against the odds and telling incredible stories with your friends.

And Moldvay Basic gets that.

It captures the magic of roleplaying in its purest, most distilled form.

So whether you’re a hardcore OSR fan or someone who’s just curious about classic D&D, do yourself a favor—pick up Moldvay Basic and give it a shot.

I promise you—you won’t regret it.

I love this system, but I want to know what you think of it! Hit me up in the comments below. Let me know if you’ve played Moldvay basic before, what do you think about it, what’s best about Moldvay Basic D&D? What are its limitations? Let’s talk through it!

As always, may the dice roll ever in your favor!

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