Acquisitions Incorporated, the popular Dungeons & Dragons actual play series, has been entertaining fans for years with its unique blend of humor, adventure, and role-playing. At the heart of the show is its Dungeon Master (DM), Chris Perkins, who has been guiding the players through thrilling quests and hilarious misadventures since the series’ inception. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Acquisitions Incorporated and explore the life and career of its esteemed DM, Chris Perkins.
A Brief History of Acquisitions Incorporated
Acquisitions Incorporated was first introduced in 2007 as a series of podcasts and live shows featuring a group of comedians and celebrities playing Dungeons & Dragons. The show was created by Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik, the founders of Penny Arcade, a popular webcomic and gaming community. The series quickly gained a large following and became known for its witty banter, clever gameplay, and hilarious characters.
Over the years, Acquisitions Incorporated has undergone several changes, including the addition of new players and the introduction of new storylines. However, one constant has remained: Chris Perkins, the show’s DM, who has been guiding the players through their adventures since the beginning.
Who is Chris Perkins?
Chris Perkins is a renowned game designer, author, and Dungeon Master, best known for his work on Dungeons & Dragons. Born in 1968, Perkins grew up in a family of gamers and was introduced to D&D at a young age. He quickly became fascinated with the game and began creating his own adventures and characters.
Perkins’ career in the gaming industry began in the 1990s, when he started working as a freelance writer and game designer for Wizards of the Coast, the company behind Dungeons & Dragons. He quickly made a name for himself as a talented and innovative designer, and his work appeared in numerous D&D publications, including the popular “Forgotten Realms” campaign setting.
Perkins’ Rise to Fame
Perkins’ big break came in 2007, when he was approached by Jerry Holkins and Mike Krahulik to serve as the DM for Acquisitions Incorporated. The show was a huge success, and Perkins’ clever gameplay and witty banter quickly made him a fan favorite.
As the show’s popularity grew, so did Perkins’ reputation as a skilled DM and game designer. He began to appear at gaming conventions and events, where he would run live games and share his expertise with fans. He also started writing articles and blog posts about D&D, offering tips and advice to aspiring DMs and players.
Perkins’ Approach to Dungeon Mastery
So, what makes Chris Perkins such a beloved and respected DM? According to Perkins, the key to his success lies in his ability to balance structure and improvisation.
“I like to think of myself as a ‘prepared improviser,'” Perkins explained in an interview. “I always have a clear idea of where the game is going, but I’m also happy to deviate from the plan if the players come up with something interesting.”
Perkins is also known for his emphasis on storytelling and character development. He believes that the best D&D games are those that focus on the players’ characters and their motivations, rather than just on combat and treasure.
“The players are the stars of the show,” Perkins said. “My job is to create a compelling story and provide them with interesting challenges and opportunities. The rest is up to them.”
Perkins’ Favorite D&D Memories
Over the years, Perkins has accumulated a wealth of fond memories from his time as the DM of Acquisitions Incorporated. One of his favorites is from the show’s early days, when the players encountered a group of goblins who were attempting to steal their treasure.
“The players came up with this hilarious plan to disguise themselves as goblins and infiltrate the goblin camp,” Perkins recalled. “It was just a brilliant moment of improvisation, and it ended up being one of the funniest moments in the show’s history.”
Another favorite memory of Perkins’ is from a more recent episode, in which the players encountered a powerful dragon who was guarding a treasure hoard.
“The players came up with this clever plan to use their skills and abilities to sneak past the dragon and retrieve the treasure,” Perkins said. “It was just a great example of how D&D can be both challenging and rewarding, and it was a lot of fun to watch.”
Perkins’ Impact on the Gaming Community
Chris Perkins’ impact on the gaming community cannot be overstated. As the DM of Acquisitions Incorporated, he has inspired countless fans to take up the game and try their hand at Dungeon Mastery.
“Chris Perkins is a true legend in the world of D&D,” said Jerry Holkins, co-founder of Penny Arcade. “He’s an incredibly talented DM and game designer, and he’s been a huge part of the show’s success.”
Perkins has also been credited with helping to popularize D&D and bring it into the mainstream. His work on Acquisitions Incorporated has helped to introduce the game to a new generation of players, and his enthusiasm and passion for the game have inspired countless fans to try it out.
Perkins’ Advice for Aspiring DMs
So, what advice does Chris Perkins have for aspiring DMs who want to follow in his footsteps? According to Perkins, the key to success lies in being flexible and open-minded.
“Don’t be afraid to try new things and take risks,” Perkins said. “And always be willing to listen to your players and adapt to their ideas.”
Perkins also emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and supportive gaming environment.
“The most important thing is to make sure everyone is having fun,” Perkins said. “If the players are enjoying themselves, then you’re doing something right.”
Conclusion
Chris Perkins is a true master of his craft, and his work on Acquisitions Incorporated has cemented his place as one of the most beloved and respected DMs in the gaming community. With his emphasis on storytelling, character development, and player agency, he has created a unique and engaging gaming experience that has captivated fans around the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting out, Chris Perkins is an inspiration and a role model. His passion and enthusiasm for D&D are infectious, and his advice and guidance are invaluable for anyone looking to improve their gaming skills.
So, if you haven’t already, be sure to check out Acquisitions Incorporated and experience the magic of Chris Perkins’ Dungeon Mastery for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
Who is Chris Perkins and what is his role in Acquisitions Incorporated?
Chris Perkins is a renowned American game designer and dungeon master, best known for his work on the popular Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) franchise. As the mastermind behind Acquisitions Incorporated, Perkins serves as the primary creative force and driving force behind the brand. He is responsible for developing the concept, characters, and storylines that have captivated audiences worldwide.
Perkins’ role in Acquisitions Incorporated extends beyond his creative contributions. He is also the primary Dungeon Master for the live-play series, guiding the players through thrilling adventures and epic quests. His expertise and passion for D&D have been instrumental in shaping the brand into what it is today, and his dedication to the franchise has earned him a loyal following among fans.
What inspired Chris Perkins to create Acquisitions Incorporated?
Chris Perkins’ inspiration for creating Acquisitions Incorporated stems from his love of Dungeons & Dragons and his desire to create a unique and engaging storytelling experience. Perkins wanted to craft a narrative that would appeal to both seasoned D&D players and newcomers alike, and he drew inspiration from various sources, including literature, film, and television.
Perkins’ vision for Acquisitions Incorporated was to create a brand that would showcase the best of D&D, with a focus on humor, adventure, and camaraderie. He assembled a talented team of players, including Jerry Holkins, Mike Krahulik, and Scott Kurtz, and together they brought the world of Acquisitions Incorporated to life. The brand’s success can be attributed to Perkins’ creative vision and his ability to craft compelling stories that resonate with audiences.
What is the concept behind Acquisitions Incorporated?
Acquisitions Incorporated is a live-play Dungeons & Dragons series that follows the adventures of a group of bumbling adventurers as they navigate the world of Faerun. The series is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting and features a unique blend of humor, action, and role-playing. The show’s concept revolves around the misadventures of the Acquisitions Incorporated company, a fictional adventuring firm that takes on various quests and missions.
At its core, Acquisitions Incorporated is a comedy-driven series that pokes fun at traditional D&D tropes while still delivering exciting and unpredictable gameplay. The show’s lighthearted tone and humorous cast of characters have made it a beloved favorite among D&D fans, and its success has helped to introduce the game to a wider audience.
How did Chris Perkins get started in the gaming industry?
Chris Perkins’ career in the gaming industry began in the 1990s, when he started working as a freelance writer and game designer for Wizards of the Coast, the company behind Dungeons & Dragons. Perkins’ early work on various D&D projects, including the “Tomb of Horrors” and “Expedition to the Ruins of Greyhawk,” helped establish him as a rising talent in the industry.
Perkins’ big break came when he was hired as a full-time game designer at Wizards of the Coast, where he worked on numerous high-profile projects, including the “Epic Level Handbook” and “Dungeon Masters Guide II.” His experience and expertise eventually led to his appointment as the primary Dungeon Master for the Acquisitions Incorporated live-play series, cementing his status as one of the most respected and beloved figures in the D&D community.
What sets Chris Perkins apart from other game designers and Dungeon Masters?
Chris Perkins’ unique approach to game design and Dungeon Mastering sets him apart from his peers. His ability to craft engaging stories, memorable characters, and thrilling adventures has earned him a reputation as one of the most skilled and entertaining Dungeon Masters in the industry. Perkins’ passion for D&D is evident in everything he does, and his dedication to the franchise has inspired countless fans around the world.
Perkins’ experience and expertise have also allowed him to develop a distinctive style that blends humor, action, and role-playing. His ability to think on his feet and adapt to the unpredictable nature of live-play D&D has made him a master of improvisation, and his quick wit and clever ideas have become a hallmark of the Acquisitions Incorporated series.
How has Chris Perkins contributed to the growth and popularity of Dungeons & Dragons?
Chris Perkins’ contributions to the growth and popularity of Dungeons & Dragons cannot be overstated. As a game designer, Dungeon Master, and ambassador for the franchise, Perkins has played a significant role in introducing D&D to new audiences and reinvigorating interest in the game among veteran players. His work on Acquisitions Incorporated has helped to showcase the game’s unique blend of storytelling, role-playing, and strategy, making it more accessible and appealing to a wider range of players.
Perkins’ influence extends beyond the world of D&D, as well. His work on Acquisitions Incorporated has helped to popularize the concept of live-play tabletop gaming, inspiring a new generation of gamers and content creators. His dedication to the franchise has also helped to foster a sense of community among D&D fans, who have come together to share their love of the game and celebrate its rich history and culture.
What’s next for Chris Perkins and Acquisitions Incorporated?
As for what’s next for Chris Perkins and Acquisitions Incorporated, fans can expect more exciting adventures and thrilling storylines in the future. Perkins has hinted at plans to explore new campaign settings and introduce new characters to the series, which is sure to delight fans and keep them eagerly anticipating what’s to come.
Perkins is also committed to continuing his work as a game designer and Dungeon Master, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of D&D and inspiring a new generation of gamers and content creators. With his passion, creativity, and dedication to the franchise, there’s no doubt that Chris Perkins will remain a driving force behind the world of Dungeons & Dragons for years to come.