None. They all have darkvision.
Joke Poo: How many programmers does it take to change a lightbulb?
None. It’s a hardware problem.
Alright, let’s break down this D&D lightbulb joke and power up some new comedic circuits!
Joke Deconstruction:
- Premise: A classic “how many X does it take to…” setup. This instantly primes the listener for a problem-solving scenario.
- Key Element 1: D&D Players: We’re dealing with individuals stereotypically associated with role-playing games, complex rules, and potentially unique approaches to everyday problems. The humor lies in their “gamer” logic.
- Key Element 2: Changing a Lightbulb: A mundane, universal task. The humor stems from the juxtaposition of this ordinary chore with the extraordinary capabilities of D&D characters.
- Key Element 3: Darkvision: A common ability in D&D, allowing characters to see in complete darkness. The punchline utilizes this special ability to bypass the need for a lightbulb entirely. The joke works because darkvision is a standard tool used within the parameters of the game.
Humor Analysis:
The joke’s humor comes from:
- Subversion of Expectations: We expect a humorous struggle or a complicated solution. Instead, we get a simple, game-mechanic-driven answer.
- Inside Joke/Reference: It resonates with those familiar with D&D, creating a sense of shared understanding and amusement. It’s exclusionary to people who don’t understand the joke.
- Character Stereotyping: It subtly pokes fun at the dedication (and sometimes perceived “oddness”) of D&D players, but in a relatively affectionate way.
Now, Let’s Enrich with Facts and New Humor:
Factoid 1: The Evolution of Darkvision
Darkvision wasn’t always a universal thing in D&D. In earlier editions, it was called “Infravision” and allowed characters to see heat signatures, not actual shapes in darkness. Imagine a D&D party trying to change a lightbulb with infravision; they’d just see a glowing bulb, unable to unscrew it!
New Joke Inspired by Factoid 1:
- How many Old-School D&D players does it take to change a lightbulb?
- They don’t change it. They just keep complaining about how Infravision isn’t the same as Darkvision and how they can’t see the threads to unscrew the blasted thing!
Factoid 2: Darkvision Limitations
Even with Darkvision, D&D rules often specify that it provides vision equivalent to dim light. So, while you can see in the dark, it’s not crystal clear.
New Joke Inspired by Factoid 2:
- How many D&D players does it take to change a lightbulb with Darkvision?
- One to change it, and the rest to argue about whether the flickering shadows are actually hiding a Mimic.
Factoid 3: Magical Solutions
D&D is full of spells that could solve the lightbulb problem in far more dramatic ways.
Witty Observation:
“You know, sometimes I feel like D&D players are just wizards who have forgotten how to cast ‘Continual Flame’ and are stuck with Home Depot.”
Bonus Joke:
- Why did the D&D party fail to change the lightbulb?
- They spent three hours arguing whether “Shatter” was an appropriate spell to remove the old bulb, and then another hour trying to convince the Barbarian not to use his axe.
The key to enhancing the original joke is to either build on the established D&D elements, inject real-world information about the game’s history, or push the absurd possibilities even further.