A Critical Hit: Reimagining New Student Orientation through the Lens of Dungeons & Dragons

In response to the return to in-person activities following the COVID-19 pandemic, institutions of higher education are exploring innovative methods to re-engage students. This article focuses on the reimagining of an academic library’s New Student Orientation (NSO) event with elements from the world of Dungeons and Dragons (D&D) to enhance student engagement, foster partnerships, and expand outreach efforts. By creating an immersive orientation experience inspired by D&D, this program aimed to promote belonging among incoming students. This article presents insights into the planning, implementation, and outcomes of this case study. By incorporating student-centered activities and opportunities for active learning into their programs, librarians involved in NSO programs can effectively promote library resources while enhancing library visibility among incoming students.