Dark Sun, D&D’s most heavy metal setting, will be back in 2027
Wizards of the Coast has announced the return of Dark Sun, a classic Dungeons & Dragons setting that will see new content in 2027. The setting will be part of a new adult-oriented product line from the publisher.
Dark Sun is D&D’s most hardcore setting, depicting a post-apocalyptic world where civilization has collapsed into a hostile desert wasteland. In this brutal world, sorcerer-kings rule through exploitation and slavery, and survival—rather than heroism—is the primary goal. The setting draws inspiration from grimdark fiction like Mad Max and Fist of the North Star, offering a stark contrast to more traditional fantasy narratives where good ultimately triumphs.
The setting was briefly revived during D&D’s 4th edition but has been dormant since. Fans have long anticipated its return for the current 5th edition, particularly following the public playtesting of the Psion class—a psychic warrior archetype that originated in Dark Sun. These tests had fueled community speculation about a potential revival.
The announcement was made at Gen Con’s D&D Vision Keynote 2027, where Wizards of the Coast revealed a broader push to mature the tabletop RPG’s brand. The inclusion of Dark Sun in this initiative signals the publisher’s confidence in returning to the setting’s edgy tone and mature themes—including its portrayal of slavery and moral ambiguity. With a 2027 release date, this revival represents a significant moment for longtime fans of the setting.