COMING SOON: Old-School Essentials Referee's Book [2026 Printing]

The 2026 printing of the Old-School Essentials Referee's Book, coming soon! Estimated retail date: November 2026.

This book is available to pre-order as part of the Demonic Grimoire BackerKit campaign in May.

Return to the roots of fantasy adventure! Grab your graph paper, prepare your fiendish minions, and prime your traps. Glory, wonder, and doom await!

• This book contains full guidelines for creating adventures and running campaigns, over 330 fearsome monsters, and over 300 wondrous magic items.
• Simple rules let imagination and fast-paced action take the spotlight.
• Clear, modern presentation makes the game easy to learn and quick to reference.
• 100% compatible with the 1980s D&D rules and with decades of classic adventures and supplements.

Core book 2 of 2. Referees also need the Old-School Essentials Player’s Book.

What's new in the 2026 printing? See our FAQ.