James Ward (1952 to 2024) has passed on late last night. And I'm still trying to wrap my head around his passing. Personally, I can't even begin to process this passing. Jim was instrumental in the creation of OD&D's "Gods, Demigods, and Heroes" with Robert Kuntz. Mr. Ward's contribution to Dungeons & Dragons was huge. From the updated and expanded "Deities & Demigods," for first edition Advanced Dungeons & Dragona to a boat load of NPC's. Not to mention his contribution to the AD&D first edition campaign setting of Greyhawk 'Greyhawk Adventures'. The impact of this book can't be overstated on the Greyhawk campaign setting.
Jim's contributation to the world was his creation of the amazing "Metamorphosis Alpha" the first science-fantasy role-playing game, and co-created “Gamma World,” which pioneered the post-apocalyptic subgenre in TTRPGs. Back in '08 "Metamorphosis Alpha" hit me right square between the eyes. His promotion of his MA game was key to us communicating and Jim was the guy who really pulled me into Castles & Crusades. Mr.Ward was knowledgable, outgoing, and very vocal about his game design & writing.
We emailed & Facebook messaged back and forth. Jim had no problem answering questions or chatting about games. He was someone who wanted you to play his games. Yes, he was a giant in the hobby but he was a geniunely nice guy. He will be missed. So I'm really trying to process this loss to our hobby, the world, and even the Ward family. James Ward was a geniunely nice guy and a giant of the hobby. His presence in the world made it a better place, his writng and design work made this hobby incredible for some many of us kids, and his passing has been felt by everyone whom had interaction with. My respects & condolences to the Ward family, his many fans, his friends, and collegues.
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