<span class="SFPTagline"> From SCIFIPEDIA </span>

The Order of the Stick is a Web-based comic strip set in a high-fantasy universe, one in which the characters embody the elements of fantasy roleplaying games—specifically, Dungeons & Dragons—and that genre's staples, foibles, in-jokes, and rules, both spoken and unspoken.

What makes The Order of the Stick a standout comic, loved even by those who never found their golden ticket into the land of elves, orcs, and fireballs? The stick-figure artwork is a good part of the charm. But most of the fun lies in the sassy characterization.

The group of adventurers known as The Order of the Stick is led by Roy Greenhilt, a warrior with an MBA. Hampering their operations is Elan the Bard, whose blond locks have won the heart of Haley Starshine, a rogue with a penchant for gold of any description. Durkon Thundershield, a doughty dwarf, provides clerical guidance and directions to the best alehouses in town. Halfling Belkar Bitterleaf combines scorching cynical commentary with impulsive bloodlust. And he's one of the heroes! The final member of the party is the mage Vaarsuvius, a dark elf with mysterious powers. When asked whether Vaarsuvius is male or female, the author swears he will never reveal the truth.

The author of The Order of the Stick is Rich Burlew, who has a degree in illustration and graphic design, and has contributed material to the game that The Order of the Stick so lovingly lampoons: the world of Dungeons & Dragons, published by Wizards of the Coast.

Fans of The Order of the Stick would probably also enjoy the comic strip The Knights of the Dinner Table by Kenzer and Company, which focuses on a group of quirky players and their interactions at the table during fantasy roleplaying game sessions.

External Links

The Order of the Stick