D&D & WWE | Storytelling in TTRPGs & Pro-Wrestling
Today, let’s explore how the world of professional wrestling—especially WWE—shares some striking similarities with the way we tell stories at the tabletop. These two worlds might seem different at first glance, but they actually have a lot in common when it comes to creating engaging narratives, improvising in the moment, and keeping the audience (or players) invested.
In both Dungeons & Dragons and WWE, there’s an ongoing dance between improvisation and planned arcs. A wrestling match might be built around a scripted storyline, but the wrestlers are constantly reading the crowd and adjusting in real time. Similarly, as Dungeon Masters, we plan our sessions and campaigns, but the players’ actions and decisions can always send us in unexpected directions.
One of my favorite parallels is the idea of character kayfabe in wrestling and how it relates to character immersion in D&D. In wrestling, “kayfabe” is the commitment to staying in character at all times—even outside the ring. In D&D, it’s that same devotion to your character’s goals, beliefs, and personality that makes every session feel alive.
Another big similarity is the use of “heels” and “faces”—the villains and heroes of the wrestling world. We see this in our games, too. There’s always a big bad villain or a morally grey figure who challenges the party’s beliefs. And like in wrestling, the best campaigns aren’t just about defeating a monster or an opponent—it’s about the journey of those characters and how their personal stories unfold.
We also can’t ignore the importance of the spectacle. Just like wrestling relies on crowd-pleasing moments—the big entrance, the finishing move—D&D has its epic, cinematic moments, too. Think of that clutch natural 20, or the climactic battle with the villain that’s been teased for sessions. Those are the moments that become legendary in our games.
In both worlds, there’s a sense of collaboration. In wrestling, it’s between the wrestlers and the crowd; in D&D, it’s between the DM and the players. It’s all about crafting a shared story that everyone remembers long after the “session” or “show” is over.
If you’re a fan of wrestling, I encourage you to think about how those lessons of improvisation, commitment, and drama can help you become an even better game master or player. And if you’re already a D&D fan, maybe it’s worth checking out a wrestling show—you might find some unexpected inspiration for your next session!
Cheers,
Brian