Dungeons & Dragons’ Art Director Explains Controversial Blue Dragon Redesign

Dungeons & Dragons' Art Director Explains Controversial Blue Dragon Redesign

As a seasoned D&D gamer with over two decades of gaming under my belt, I must say that the redesign of the blue dragon in the upcoming 2024 Core Rulebooks has left me divided. On one hand, I appreciate the effort to give each dragon a unique look and feel that fits their abilities and biomes. However, the change from the chunky, spiky kaiju-like version we’ve grown accustomed to since 3rd edition to this sleek, scythe-like creature feels like a punch in the gut.


The art director for Dungeons & Dragons anticipated that the revised design of the blue dragon in the forthcoming 2024 Core Rulebooks would provoke strong opinions. Over the last few months, Wizards of the Coast has been unveiling updated designs for both chromatic and metallic dragons found in Dungeons & Dragons. Generally, these changes have been met with approval by D&D fans, but the reimagined blue dragon’s design sparked particularly divided opinions. The new dragon boasts a streamlined appearance and scythe-like horns, a stark contrast to the spiky, massive kaiju-like version that has been featured since 3rd edition.

During a chat with ComicBook at GenCon, D&D’s art director Josh Herman discussed the mixed reactions towards the revamped blue dragon. “It’s natural for strong opinions to arise when significant alterations are made,” Herman commented on the divided response to the redesign. ” frankly, I didn’t anticipate everyone loving all ten of the dragons we redesigned. That one in particular was altered to create a distinct feel. I knew people would pine for its ears and spikes. It’s like this: there’s now a new interpretation, but an older version still exists if you prefer to use it. In that case, you can continue to utilize the artwork from the past decade.”

Dungeons & Dragons' Art Director Explains Controversial Blue Dragon Redesign

As a gamer, I observed that the dragon’s redesign was strategically tailored to blend seamlessly with its desert habitat and align with its wild abilities. If I were to critique the older design, it seems like it was influenced by desert dwellers, such as horned toads, which, in my opinion, is spot-on for the biome it inhabits. However, it lacked a link to the lightning element, and it didn’t embody the necessary traits for a creature of its size within that specific ecosystem.

As a captivated admirer, I found an intriguing truth: Deserts are home to only a handful of flying beings, mainly small insects and soaring vultures. The blue dragon redesign was inspired by birds of prey, creatures capable of maintaining flight for extended periods. In essence, the blue dragon can be seen as a specialist in this regard, residing predominantly in two distinct realms.

As an enthusiast, I can’t help but share this exciting news! If you want a closer peek at the stunning new blue dragon, head over to CBR’s website. The grand unveiling of all these dragon redesigns is set for the Monster Manual, slated for release in early 2025.

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2024-08-24 23:40