Dungeons & Dragons became the target of intense controversy during the 'Satanic Panic' of the early 1980s. Critics accused the game of promoting occultism, witchcraft, and even Satanism. These accusations were largely unfounded but gained significant media attention.

Patricia Pulling, founder of Bothered About Dungeons & Dragons (BADD), was one of the most vocal critics of the game. She blamed D&D for the suicide of her son, although this claim was widely disputed.

The controversies surrounding D&D took a personal toll on Gygax. He actively defended the game against its critics, arguing that it was a harmless form of entertainment and creativity.