Introduction to Dimension 20
Launched by CollegeHumor in 2018, Dimension 20 began as a standout offering on the subscription service Dropout. The series quickly garnered attention for its unique approach to the live-play tabletop RPG genre, particularly for its adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons. One of the key features that set Dimension 20 apart was its use of detailed miniature scenery, which brought the fantastical worlds to life in a visually stunning manner.
The show also stood out for its cast, which included a mix of comedians with varying levels of roleplay experience. This blend of humor and storytelling created an engaging and often hilarious viewing experience. Additionally, Dimension 20 was designed with manageability in mind; unlike many tabletop RPG series that can stretch on for hours, episodes of Dimension 20 averaged around 90 minutes, making it more accessible to a wider audience.
The original concept of Dimension 20 was both unique and relatable: it centered around teenage students attending a high school designed for adventurers. This creative setting allowed for a blend of classic RPG elements with the familiar tropes and challenges of high school life, resonating with fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
Evolution of Dimension 20
Over the years, Dimension 20 has taken its audience on a journey through a myriad of settings and story arcs, showcasing the versatility of tabletop RPG storytelling. The series has not only varied its cast but also experimented with different RPG systems, keeping the content fresh and exciting for its viewers.
After its initial success, Dimension 20 expanded beyond its original high school setting to explore new worlds and themes. The show has dabbled in other RPG systems, including Kids on Broomsticks for a season titled “Misfits and Magic,” the Mythic system for “Shriek Week,” and Kids on Bikes for the noir-inspired “Mentopolis.” These forays into different systems allowed the show to flex its creative muscles and offer a diverse range of narratives and gameplay experiences.
Now, Dimension 20 is returning to its roots with a new arc of Fantasy High, set in the world of Spire. This classic fantasy setting is familiar to fans of the series, with a twist that incorporates elements reminiscent of a 1980s teen movie. The list of RPG systems and settings previously explored by Dimension 20 includes:
- Kids on Broomsticks – “Misfits and Magic”
- Mythic system – “Shriek Week”
- Kids on Bikes – “Mentopolis”
The return to Dungeons & Dragons and the beloved Spire setting is a nod to the show’s origins and a testament to its ongoing evolution.
Fantasy High’s New Chapter
The upcoming season of Dimension 20, titled “Fantasy High Junior Year,” picks up where the 2019 sophomore season left off. The characters, affectionately known as the Bad Kids, are now in their penultimate year at the Aguefort Adventuring Academy. At approximately 17 years old and level nine, these students face the dual challenges of saving the world and keeping up with their academic responsibilities. The show humorously hints that even heroes might struggle with school, as the party’s bard seems to have skipped every single bard class.
The trailer for the new season teases the return of the beloved cast, including Emily Axford, Ally Beardsley, Brian Murphy, Zac Oyama, Siobhan Thompson, Lou Wilson, and Dungeon Master Brennan Lee Mulligan. Fans can also look forward to the enhanced filming setup, which now features an upgraded dome. This dome, along with illustrated backdrops, adds a new level of immersion to the series. The dome will display various elements, such as the school’s owlbear football mascot chant, “Hoot, Growl!”
For those eager to catch a glimpse of what’s in store, here’s an embed of the trailer from YouTube:
Why Watch Dimension 20
Whether you’re a seasoned Dungeons & Dragons player or someone who’s never rolled a twenty-sided die, Dimension 20 offers an entertaining and accessible experience. The series, particularly the Fantasy High arc, serves as an excellent entry point for those new to the show. With its blend of humor, adventure, and relatable high school drama, it captures the essence of tabletop RPGs while providing the entertainment value of a scripted comedy.
The earlier seasons of Dimension 20, including the first arcs of Fantasy High, are available on YouTube, allowing newcomers to easily catch up on the story. Here’s an embed of the first episode to get you started:
For fans eager to continue the journey with the Bad Kids, Junior Year will be exclusively released on Dropout, starting January 10. This platform will be the go-to destination for the latest adventures from the Aguefort Adventuring Academy.
Dimension 20’s unique storytelling, engaging characters, and high production values make it a standout series in the actual play genre. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a wild ride through the halls of Fantasy High.
