MILWAUKEE, Wis. —  A co-creator of the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game has died.

Gary Gygax died Tuesday morning at his home in Lake Geneva, Wis. His wife Gail says the 69-year-old had been suffering from health problems for several years.

Gygax and Dave Arneson developed Dungeons & Dragons in 1974 using medieval characters and mythical creatures. The game known for its oddly shaped dice eventually was turned into video games, books and movies.

It is considered the grandfather of fantasy role-playing games and has inspired legions of adoring fans. Gygax's wife says he always enjoyed hearing from them.