_Abstract:
Welcome to my first developer log! I'm excited to share my journey of transforming tabletop role-playing games into a mobile format. Since beginning to use RPGs for story generation, I've employed Adobe Illustrator to adapt these games for a more compact platform. However, this project is about more than just downsizing; it’s about crafting a set of portable gaming elements designed to track and manage private campaigns, especially for solo runs.
This entry is the first in a series where I’ll document the progress of my RPG Travel Kit and other games in my lineup. Expect insights into my design process, exploration of both conceptual and realized ideas, and my experiences as an amateur game developer.
_Project Index:
[proj_00]: "RPG Travel Kit"
The RPG Travel Kit is designed more for storytelling purposes than for hosting impromptu game sessions, though it can easily serve both functions. Each RPG in my library will be condensed to fit within a 6" x 9" pouch from 5.11 Tactical. This collection of condensed RPG elements will be completed after thorough revision.
Titles include: Death in Space, Mork Borg, CY_Borg, and Cyberpunk: RED
Challenges: Production and homebrew design have been the main hurdles. Initially, I struggled with zine formats for character sheets due to printer margin issues, resulting in page cutoffs. Additionally, I’m polishing the mechanics for custom homebrews. My Death in Space expansion, titled Necrotrauma, is currently in development hell. We can refer to this as [proj_00.01].
[proj_01]: "First RPG Maker Title"
I purchased RPG Maker MV during a Steam sale with the intent of breaking out as an indie game developer. The engine is intuitive, and I’m focused on creating custom assets. I’m considering several game themes to develop concurrently.
Potential Themes: .01 Zombie Apocalypse, .02 Traditional Fantasy, .03 Survival Horror, .04 Slice of Life Urban Fantasy
The challenge with [proj_01] is mastering the engine to produce something significant and establishing a library of custom assets. While graphics are just one part of game design, the art direction can make a substantial difference.
_Addendum 1:
For now, I will focus on these two projects and use the additional time for necessary skill development in areas such as RPG Maker MV, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, traditional illustration, and creative writing. If my printer continues to cause issues, I'll transition to digital drawing.
_Closing Thoughts:
Although I want to allocate as much time to my projects as possible, prioritizing gainful employment and my living situation is crucial as I aim to start my own home and family. It’s a work/life balance that many game developers face, independent or otherwise.
Inspired by a discussion with dad, who advised, "If there is no time, then make time," I am committed to progressing my projects and skills. I’m excited to see how these entries evolve. Despite my efforts to maintain control over development, some level of progress will invariably grow organically and surprise us all.
_Quote of the Week:
"A man who procrastinates in his choosing will inevitably have his choice made for him by circumstance."
- Hunter S. Thompson