infostendile

Infostendile is a term used primarily within the context of *Dungeons & Dragons* (D&D) and other tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs) to describe a specific type of magical artifact or item. The term itself is a blend of "information" and "tendril," referencing its function as a sentient, tendril-like entity that absorbs and stores knowledge.

Infostendiles are often depicted as semi-corporeal, glowing tendrils that drift through the air or attach to surfaces. They are capable of retaining vast amounts of information, including historical events, arcane lore, and even personal memories if exposed to them. Players or characters may interact with an infostendile by speaking to it, allowing it to provide answers to questions, solve puzzles, or offer guidance—though its responses are not always reliable, as it may be biased, incomplete, or even misleading depending on its programming or the nature of the knowledge it has absorbed.

In game lore, infostendiles are sometimes created by powerful mages, scholars, or deities as tools for preserving or disseminating information. They can be bound to objects, enchanted rings, or even worn as amulets. Some infostendiles may have personalities, ranging from neutral and helpful to eccentric or even hostile if their stored knowledge conflicts with their programming. Their origins can vary, from ancient magical experiments to divine gifts, and they may have unique quirks or limitations tied to their creation.

While infostendiles are a staple in fantasy settings, their design has also inspired similar concepts in other media, such as video games and literature, where they serve as sources of lore or narrative devices. Their appeal lies in their ability to enhance world-building by providing characters with access to vast, often cryptic, reservoirs of information.