Posted June 28, 2025 by David Garrett
I’m currently working on the pre-pre-pre-alpha, 0.0.1 version, code named “so alpha, it’s omega.” I’ve created a new, much more visually interesting cover, uploaded the playtest version character sheets, and started elaborating on the gameplay rules.
Most mechanics are based on Cairn by Yochai Gal, but adapted slightly to encourage solo heroic exploration. My intent is to make porting Cairn-compatible content to this ruleset something you can do on-the-fly.
The exploration mechanics are based (at this stage) on the depthcrawl mechanics pioneered by Emmy Allen in The Gardens of Ynn. In this case, though, it’ll be castle-crawl, where the procedurally generated locations will become stranger and more deadly the higher in the castle you explore.
I’m also working on mini-boss and boss-fight rules in an attempt to add a puzzle solving element to the encounters. Once I have a playtestable version, I’ll start an itchfunding campaign, and if you’re a fan of metroidvania-type games in TTRPG form, then you can buy in early and get the whole thing at a deep, deep discount.
My goal is to make a game that I find fun to play. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy it, too!