Londoners come together every weekend to engage in tabletop role-playing games, immersing themselves in shared storytelling experiences like Dungeons & Dragons. Colin Peacock, a London resident, not only enjoys RPGs for entertainment but also uses them as a means to support those in need. Peacock has initiated the Antler River RPG Trade zine, a publication tailored for RPG enthusiasts that provides game-enhancing tips. This 16-page magazine can be obtained at local hobby stores, with proceeds directed to the local United Way through a QR code included in the zine.
The charitable focus of the zine aligns with the values of the local RPG community, emphasizing community-building and assistance. Peacock easily mobilized individuals across southwestern Ontario to contribute to the zine, covering various aspects such as printing, writing, formatting, and art. Jeremy Bolton, responsible for the art in the first issue, shared his love for RPGs and the creative process involved in developing the zine.
Bolton’s cover art for the zine pays homage to the classic illustrations that defined tabletop role-playing games, featuring a knight on horseback wielding a flaming sword. The creators view the zine as a learning opportunity, expressing gratitude for the community’s positive response despite the modest funds raised for charity. Peacock envisions expanding the zine’s reach in future releases, aiming to involve new contributors and provide more diverse perspectives to benefit the community further.
