WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Featherune, Veratar
To say I’m not intrigued by the inscription on the athite stone in Arcan’s possession would be an understatement. Arcan, Saycia and I discussed the implications of the inscription at length. Arcan is convinced that Solan knew about the engraving, while Saycia is skeptical.
Me, I tend to agree with Arcan. Before his disappearance, Solan had deciphered another message written in Lokma. It is possible he translated the stones inscription as well, but simply kept this fact to himself.
Did Solan enter the Shrinking Depths simply to explore the strange phenomenon there? Did he have inside knowledge as to some plot involving the place? Was he being blackmailed into going there? I think these questions will be answered in time, only if someone were to risk their own well-being to find Solan.
Most here think Solan is dead. Yet, Arcan is not ready to concede this. In fact, Arcan has suggested I go to Serenity and talk with Rea, Solan’s longtime girlfriend. It’s possible she has information we do not. After almost three years with no news of Solan’s whereabouts, she may be ready to share what she knows.
For now, I’ll remain with Arcan for another week or so before deciding my next road. The mystery of Solan’s disappearance has been a topic of much rumor and myth. It feels like we’re starting to unravel something.
-Eric
Showing posts with label news. Show all posts
Showing posts with label news. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
The Athite Stone
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Featherune, Veratar
Not long after I arrived at Arcan’s house the following morning, Arcan’s sister Saycia showed up as well. Saycia is a member of Dark Dawn, a guild committed to deciphering ancient texts and studying cryptology. (At least that’s their stated mission.) After visiting for a while Arcan invited me to stay with him, rather than at the inn downtown.
Now for those of you familiar with the events of Prelude, you’ll remember that Arcan won a lockbox containing a white stone from Solan in a Ruse match. This was shortly before Solan’s disappearance in the Shrinking Depths. Solan had instructed Arcan to sell the stone. Arcan didn't listen.
A day after I arrived at Arcan’s house, he called me into an empty room of his house. From beneath the floor boards he revealed a secret compartment. Within this compartment, wrapped in a blanket was a lockbox. From the lockbox he produced a pearlescent white stone, taking care not to touch it with his bare hands and placing it into a stone bowl.
“You know what this is, don't you?” Arcan asked.
“The stone given to you by Solan before his disappearance,” I answered.
“Indeed. Yet, we’ve learned much about this stone in recent months. We now suspect this stone to be an Athite specimen. Athite is a banned form of radia so we keep the existence of this stone hidden,” explained Arcan. “But, there is something inscribed on the stone,” said Arcan, motioning to his sister.
Saycia produced a magnification lens from her pocket. Holding it up to the stone Arcan pointed to a series of tiny cryptic markings. This inscription is something which Solan had either missed entirely or did not speak of while the stone had been in his possession.
I asked Arcan, “So, what does it say?”
Saycia interrupted, speaking with a wry smile, “It’s an ancient Sarion language called Lokma. When translated it reads: Effect (property) of Voltaire, Shrinking Depths.”
Voltaire? Who is this in reference to? Why are they connected with the Shrinking Depths?
To quote the great Sherlock Holmes, “the game is afoot.”
-Eric
Featherune, Veratar
Not long after I arrived at Arcan’s house the following morning, Arcan’s sister Saycia showed up as well. Saycia is a member of Dark Dawn, a guild committed to deciphering ancient texts and studying cryptology. (At least that’s their stated mission.) After visiting for a while Arcan invited me to stay with him, rather than at the inn downtown.
Now for those of you familiar with the events of Prelude, you’ll remember that Arcan won a lockbox containing a white stone from Solan in a Ruse match. This was shortly before Solan’s disappearance in the Shrinking Depths. Solan had instructed Arcan to sell the stone. Arcan didn't listen.
A day after I arrived at Arcan’s house, he called me into an empty room of his house. From beneath the floor boards he revealed a secret compartment. Within this compartment, wrapped in a blanket was a lockbox. From the lockbox he produced a pearlescent white stone, taking care not to touch it with his bare hands and placing it into a stone bowl.
“You know what this is, don't you?” Arcan asked.
“The stone given to you by Solan before his disappearance,” I answered.
“Indeed. Yet, we’ve learned much about this stone in recent months. We now suspect this stone to be an Athite specimen. Athite is a banned form of radia so we keep the existence of this stone hidden,” explained Arcan. “But, there is something inscribed on the stone,” said Arcan, motioning to his sister.
Saycia produced a magnification lens from her pocket. Holding it up to the stone Arcan pointed to a series of tiny cryptic markings. This inscription is something which Solan had either missed entirely or did not speak of while the stone had been in his possession.
I asked Arcan, “So, what does it say?”
Saycia interrupted, speaking with a wry smile, “It’s an ancient Sarion language called Lokma. When translated it reads: Effect (property) of Voltaire, Shrinking Depths.”
Voltaire? Who is this in reference to? Why are they connected with the Shrinking Depths?
To quote the great Sherlock Holmes, “the game is afoot.”
-Eric
Monday, August 29, 2011
Arcan Rand
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Featherune, Veratar
It’s not too often that things go according to plan for me, so when they do I try to savor it. I suspected that by spending some time in the local ruse hall I’d be bound run into Arcan, who is a regular ruse player himself. Well, I was right.
While Arcan and I have mutual friends and had been told of each other through Solan, we had never met. While sitting waiting to catch a game, I heard doors closing and a jolly voice say “Hail Arcan, how are you tonight?” Looking up I saw a weathered young man standing with a wry smile, greeting his friends throughout the warmly lit hall. He walked with a confident stride up to the bartender, his hunting bow, krysknife and arrows all in place.
Taking care not to interrupt his conversation with the barkeep, I walked up and introduced myself. To my surprise Arcan shook my shoulder (a common greeting here) vigorously and said “Ah yes Eric, it’s great to finally meet you! Come, let’s have drink and share our travels of late!”
After an hour of talking about political affairs in eastern Veratar and recent affairs in Featherune, the subject of Solan came up. Arcan spoke of traveling with Solan, his accomplishments and their final words before Solan’s disappearance. Then Arcan asked plainly, “So what are your thoughts? Do you think our friend Solan to be dead?” “I don’t know. Yet, it does seem most likely at this point.” I said.
Arcan paused and looked at me intently. “Come to my house tomorrow. There is something I need to show you with regard to Solan. Something which may offer hope for our missing friend.”
-Eric
Featherune, Veratar
It’s not too often that things go according to plan for me, so when they do I try to savor it. I suspected that by spending some time in the local ruse hall I’d be bound run into Arcan, who is a regular ruse player himself. Well, I was right.
While Arcan and I have mutual friends and had been told of each other through Solan, we had never met. While sitting waiting to catch a game, I heard doors closing and a jolly voice say “Hail Arcan, how are you tonight?” Looking up I saw a weathered young man standing with a wry smile, greeting his friends throughout the warmly lit hall. He walked with a confident stride up to the bartender, his hunting bow, krysknife and arrows all in place.
Taking care not to interrupt his conversation with the barkeep, I walked up and introduced myself. To my surprise Arcan shook my shoulder (a common greeting here) vigorously and said “Ah yes Eric, it’s great to finally meet you! Come, let’s have drink and share our travels of late!”
After an hour of talking about political affairs in eastern Veratar and recent affairs in Featherune, the subject of Solan came up. Arcan spoke of traveling with Solan, his accomplishments and their final words before Solan’s disappearance. Then Arcan asked plainly, “So what are your thoughts? Do you think our friend Solan to be dead?” “I don’t know. Yet, it does seem most likely at this point.” I said.
Arcan paused and looked at me intently. “Come to my house tomorrow. There is something I need to show you with regard to Solan. Something which may offer hope for our missing friend.”
-Eric
Monday, August 22, 2011
Featherune
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Featherune, Veratar
Avys, Grimora and I arrived in Featherune yesterday after a grueling trip, made challenging by flooded roads, stray boulders and more rain.
When the locals caught sight of Avys they showered him with welcoming gestures and requests to see what treasures he had for sale. Eager to open his local shop for business, Avys and I parted ways after a final meal together so he could tend to his customers.
Featherune is a beautiful city with much history. It's one of the original Sidrani settlements to reach Veratar and has grown into a thriving metropolis, exporting hunting equipment, rare textiles and it's own locally produced medicines.
Sentinels guard every entrance, exit and fortification, ever alert for signs of trouble. While the days of Sarion incursions into these lands are long gone, there's always the stray wild beast, drunk warrior or band of thieves to deal with.
As for me, I'm going to start my search for Arcan, a local hunter, adventurer and former friend of Solan. My guess is if I hang around the Ruse Hall long enough, he'll show up.
-Eric
Featherune, Veratar
Avys, Grimora and I arrived in Featherune yesterday after a grueling trip, made challenging by flooded roads, stray boulders and more rain.
When the locals caught sight of Avys they showered him with welcoming gestures and requests to see what treasures he had for sale. Eager to open his local shop for business, Avys and I parted ways after a final meal together so he could tend to his customers.
Featherune is a beautiful city with much history. It's one of the original Sidrani settlements to reach Veratar and has grown into a thriving metropolis, exporting hunting equipment, rare textiles and it's own locally produced medicines.
Sentinels guard every entrance, exit and fortification, ever alert for signs of trouble. While the days of Sarion incursions into these lands are long gone, there's always the stray wild beast, drunk warrior or band of thieves to deal with.
As for me, I'm going to start my search for Arcan, a local hunter, adventurer and former friend of Solan. My guess is if I hang around the Ruse Hall long enough, he'll show up.
-Eric
Monday, August 15, 2011
The Vyrgan Merchant
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Road to Featherune City, Veratar
I’m on the road to Featherune after several days held up in Strata due to poor weather. For this next leg of my journey I’m joined by Avys, a Vyrgan pathfinder turned merchant who works in western Veratar this time of year.
I met Avys at the Hearths Hill Inn and after learning we were both on the path to Featherune we decided to join up for the road. Avys works as a bowyer of sorts, dealing mostly in rare carapid shells, barbs and blades from the desert lands for arrow making. With the Bow Maiden academies in Featherune, I’m not surprised he finds lucrative business opportunities there.
I find the Vyrga people to be the most amazing race on this planet. They’re quick to speak, but never long to get to the point. They’re ultra-alert and seem to have a knack for judging character. Their snappy neck movements and flickering dark eyes hint at their keen metabolisms and agility.
So far, Grimora has been a good sport about the amount of trudging through mud and debris we’ve been faced with. Floods came down into the Strata valley and surrounding landscape with quite a fury, making the main roadway to Featherune a chore to traverse.
We’re well-stocked with food and supplies for our trip, yet if the need arises I’m sure Avys’ skill with bows will come in handy at dinner time.
-Eric
Road to Featherune City, Veratar
I’m on the road to Featherune after several days held up in Strata due to poor weather. For this next leg of my journey I’m joined by Avys, a Vyrgan pathfinder turned merchant who works in western Veratar this time of year.
I met Avys at the Hearths Hill Inn and after learning we were both on the path to Featherune we decided to join up for the road. Avys works as a bowyer of sorts, dealing mostly in rare carapid shells, barbs and blades from the desert lands for arrow making. With the Bow Maiden academies in Featherune, I’m not surprised he finds lucrative business opportunities there.
I find the Vyrga people to be the most amazing race on this planet. They’re quick to speak, but never long to get to the point. They’re ultra-alert and seem to have a knack for judging character. Their snappy neck movements and flickering dark eyes hint at their keen metabolisms and agility.
So far, Grimora has been a good sport about the amount of trudging through mud and debris we’ve been faced with. Floods came down into the Strata valley and surrounding landscape with quite a fury, making the main roadway to Featherune a chore to traverse.
We’re well-stocked with food and supplies for our trip, yet if the need arises I’m sure Avys’ skill with bows will come in handy at dinner time.
-Eric
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Here Comes the Rain, Again
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Strata, Veratar
Don't think I forgot about my weekly post. I've been holding out in Strata for a few days now without many messenger options. I thought I'd avoid soggy weather by taking this road over the river road, but it was not to be. Rain, more rain and even some flooding which is a rare thing in this valley.
Grimora's been stabled. I'm sitting waiting for some food at an inn called Hearths Hill. I'm noticing how the rain seems to fall a bit more slowly to the ground here. Coming from Phoenix, AZ, the rain dumps fast and that's it. In some regions throughout Veratar, raindrops seem to hang in the air just before hitting the ground, which I'm told is evidence of underground radia deposits.
My food arrives. Roasted torko, cayl beans and grilled spring root. It's pretty hearty eating. I mean, cayl beans are dense and about the size of your palm, so you only two or three. They taste like potatoes. Spring root is tender like a broccoli stalk and packed with protein.
As for torko, it's a turtle-like creature found in abundance on the ocean shores due west of Strata. Don't get me wrong, it takes some getting used to. A couple of hours after eating a torko fillet, your tongue goes a little numb. (Anthony Bourdain would have field day with this stuff.)
Well, gotta eat now. I'm hoping to be on the road again within the next few days. Safe travels to you.
-Eric
Strata, Veratar
Don't think I forgot about my weekly post. I've been holding out in Strata for a few days now without many messenger options. I thought I'd avoid soggy weather by taking this road over the river road, but it was not to be. Rain, more rain and even some flooding which is a rare thing in this valley.
Grimora's been stabled. I'm sitting waiting for some food at an inn called Hearths Hill. I'm noticing how the rain seems to fall a bit more slowly to the ground here. Coming from Phoenix, AZ, the rain dumps fast and that's it. In some regions throughout Veratar, raindrops seem to hang in the air just before hitting the ground, which I'm told is evidence of underground radia deposits.
My food arrives. Roasted torko, cayl beans and grilled spring root. It's pretty hearty eating. I mean, cayl beans are dense and about the size of your palm, so you only two or three. They taste like potatoes. Spring root is tender like a broccoli stalk and packed with protein.
As for torko, it's a turtle-like creature found in abundance on the ocean shores due west of Strata. Don't get me wrong, it takes some getting used to. A couple of hours after eating a torko fillet, your tongue goes a little numb. (Anthony Bourdain would have field day with this stuff.)
Well, gotta eat now. I'm hoping to be on the road again within the next few days. Safe travels to you.
-Eric
Monday, August 8, 2011
Rynaga.com Launches
It's been a long time coming right? Right. Well, the day has come. We have an official website. Now the real work begins: populating the site with valuable content!
Here are some things you'll notice about our new site:
We Have Our Own Shop
We plan to keep our Etsy site running as well, but there's nothing like having your own custom shopping cart solution.
We will no longer be offering Iconica card singles on our shop, as most people prefer to buy Iconica sets. Single card sales where a option we offered early in Iconica's history while we were producing cards a few at a time. We no longer need to do this.
Note: Please know that if you need to purchase individual cards you can contact us and we'll take care of you!
Iconica Rules Have Been Upgraded
Version 5.0 of the Iconica Rules are our best effort yet.
We're building an encyclopedia for RPG gamers, Iconica players and avid visitors of Rynaga. It's no Websters, but over time it will grow into a very comprehensive collection of lore and interesting facts. Hey, to get where we want to go, we need to capture this kind of information!
Other features of the site include a Resources section which will house general reference material for Iconica and other content for download. You can read about how Rynaga came to be and where we are going in the About section. And our News category will keep you up to date on coming events.
Thanks to all of you for your patience and support over the past months. We hope you're as excited about this milestone in our small history as we are.
-Eric
Here are some things you'll notice about our new site:
We Have Our Own Shop
We plan to keep our Etsy site running as well, but there's nothing like having your own custom shopping cart solution.
We will no longer be offering Iconica card singles on our shop, as most people prefer to buy Iconica sets. Single card sales where a option we offered early in Iconica's history while we were producing cards a few at a time. We no longer need to do this.
Note: Please know that if you need to purchase individual cards you can contact us and we'll take care of you!
Iconica Rules Have Been Upgraded
Version 5.0 of the Iconica Rules are our best effort yet.
- Content has been streamlined, but still remains descriptive.
- We've added more strategy with a new standard rule for Action Rolls. This is a big change that's easy to understand and makes a great game even better. (Testing was very well-received!)
- Clarifications have been made to answer common questions before they're asked!
We're building an encyclopedia for RPG gamers, Iconica players and avid visitors of Rynaga. It's no Websters, but over time it will grow into a very comprehensive collection of lore and interesting facts. Hey, to get where we want to go, we need to capture this kind of information!
Other features of the site include a Resources section which will house general reference material for Iconica and other content for download. You can read about how Rynaga came to be and where we are going in the About section. And our News category will keep you up to date on coming events.
Thanks to all of you for your patience and support over the past months. We hope you're as excited about this milestone in our small history as we are.
-Eric
Monday, August 1, 2011
"The Road Goes Ever On and On"
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Valley Road to Strata, Veratar
There are three main roads leading to Featherune from Phaedra: the valley road (leads to Strata then on to Featherune), the Selwyn River road or the Featherune Netherway (an underground roadway). As it happens, the Netherway was closed due north for seasonal maintenance and the river road makes for a rainy path this time of year. So, I went with the valley road.
"Farewell! Stick to the road traveler," said a dutiful Sentinel as I left the outskirts of Phaedra. "This side of the Selwyn is the safest in Veratar, but don't take chances." So, I stick to the road. If my math is right (most times it isn't) I should be about 20 miles from the township of Strata and 80 miles from Featherune.
Who's with me on this leg of my journey you ask? Just Grimora. Grimora is a Quenan Igwaza mount I aquired from a stable outside of Phaedra. She's a beauty. Sleek, fast and well-tempered. Her calm nature hides a powerful bite and her intelligence rivals that of the smartest animals on Earth.
Traveling this road is no new task for me. When I began surveying the lands of Veratar (6 years ago) this was one of the first regions I visited. The Phaedran gatekeeper is right. This part of Veratar is exceptionally safe. Bandits are unheard of. Wild beasts are harmless. The weather is calm and cool.
With the stars above and a clear path ahead us even the darkest night on this road holds no nightmares for Grimora and I.
-Eric
Valley Road to Strata, Veratar
There are three main roads leading to Featherune from Phaedra: the valley road (leads to Strata then on to Featherune), the Selwyn River road or the Featherune Netherway (an underground roadway). As it happens, the Netherway was closed due north for seasonal maintenance and the river road makes for a rainy path this time of year. So, I went with the valley road.
"Farewell! Stick to the road traveler," said a dutiful Sentinel as I left the outskirts of Phaedra. "This side of the Selwyn is the safest in Veratar, but don't take chances." So, I stick to the road. If my math is right (most times it isn't) I should be about 20 miles from the township of Strata and 80 miles from Featherune.
Who's with me on this leg of my journey you ask? Just Grimora. Grimora is a Quenan Igwaza mount I aquired from a stable outside of Phaedra. She's a beauty. Sleek, fast and well-tempered. Her calm nature hides a powerful bite and her intelligence rivals that of the smartest animals on Earth.
Traveling this road is no new task for me. When I began surveying the lands of Veratar (6 years ago) this was one of the first regions I visited. The Phaedran gatekeeper is right. This part of Veratar is exceptionally safe. Bandits are unheard of. Wild beasts are harmless. The weather is calm and cool.
With the stars above and a clear path ahead us even the darkest night on this road holds no nightmares for Grimora and I.
-Eric
The Missing Man
WORLD OF RYNAGA TRAVELOGUE
Phaedra, Veratar
Every where I go here I'm hailed as "The Human." "Hail Human! Where are you off to today? What news of your world? Where have you been?" The questions are never-ending. I tell them of our struggles on Earth. The beauty of our planet. The horrors mankind exact upon each other. They listen with concerned faces.
"Yes, dark days seem to be a theme on your world and ours," says a Sidrani man as he washes the caryn fruit I'm purchasing at his small store. "Humanity sound as aggressive and internally divided as these Sarion are," referring of course to the Sarion empire in the east. "They would run us all off these lands if they could. Thankfully they cannot. Yet."
The man is right. For now, the Sarion empire is no match for several thousand towering Kirzan fighters and the focused will of the Protectorate. Ahhh. Enough of that talk.
My journeys involve another concern. His name is Solan - also known around here as the "Missing Man." You might remember him from the events of Prelude. It's been about four years since he went missing in the Shrinking Depths. Vanished. Since then a handful of explorers have tried to find him. Three never came back. Another lost his mind before he could start the journey.
Regardless, the Missing Man story is now the number one subject of rumor and myth. (He'd be a "trending topic" here if the people of Rynaga used Twitter.) I have a list of people who traveled with or knew Solan personally. I've made plans to seek out each of these people and see how the events surrounding Solan's disappearance have affected them.
The first road I take is north to Featherune. I'm looking for a man named Arcan, a former aid to Solan on his travels. He's made quite a name for himself as a hunter and news of his adventures has reached the most popular taverns here in Phaedra. I hear he's a skilled Ruse player as well.
Hmmm. A worthy opponent perhaps?
-Eric
Phaedra, Veratar
Every where I go here I'm hailed as "The Human." "Hail Human! Where are you off to today? What news of your world? Where have you been?" The questions are never-ending. I tell them of our struggles on Earth. The beauty of our planet. The horrors mankind exact upon each other. They listen with concerned faces.
"Yes, dark days seem to be a theme on your world and ours," says a Sidrani man as he washes the caryn fruit I'm purchasing at his small store. "Humanity sound as aggressive and internally divided as these Sarion are," referring of course to the Sarion empire in the east. "They would run us all off these lands if they could. Thankfully they cannot. Yet."
The man is right. For now, the Sarion empire is no match for several thousand towering Kirzan fighters and the focused will of the Protectorate. Ahhh. Enough of that talk.
My journeys involve another concern. His name is Solan - also known around here as the "Missing Man." You might remember him from the events of Prelude. It's been about four years since he went missing in the Shrinking Depths. Vanished. Since then a handful of explorers have tried to find him. Three never came back. Another lost his mind before he could start the journey.
Regardless, the Missing Man story is now the number one subject of rumor and myth. (He'd be a "trending topic" here if the people of Rynaga used Twitter.) I have a list of people who traveled with or knew Solan personally. I've made plans to seek out each of these people and see how the events surrounding Solan's disappearance have affected them.
The first road I take is north to Featherune. I'm looking for a man named Arcan, a former aid to Solan on his travels. He's made quite a name for himself as a hunter and news of his adventures has reached the most popular taverns here in Phaedra. I hear he's a skilled Ruse player as well.
Hmmm. A worthy opponent perhaps?
-Eric
World of Rynaga Travelogue
Life between two worlds (Reality and Rynaga) means lots of travel. As many of you know, I've been traveling back and forth between these two worlds for about five years now, bringing back various artifacts to share with fellow readers, gamers and collectors.
In short, this ongoing series of posts will help frame future content set within Rynaga. I'm currently working on book one of an illustrated trilogy of narrated stories. It's a gargantuan project to be sure, but one we think will be very special and well-received because we're really paying attention to doing things right!
In addition to the stories found in our books though, I think ongoing concise posts about these travels are a great way to demonstrate how real Rynaga is to us. I'm committed to posting at least once a week on Mondays, if not on Fridays too. Always feel free to ask questions!
Over time, I hope you'll share your own experiences on Rynaga too. Just remember: When you set foot outside your door, there's no telling where you can end up! Safe travels.
-Eric
Friday, July 15, 2011
Iconica Players Guild Update
We wanted to give you an update on our progress with IPG (Iconica Players Guild). In short, it's gonna be awesome. Since it's start in 2009, Iconica has gained the support of the indie gaming community and received critical acclaim for it's unique art style.
Our approach to table top card gaming has taken many by surprise. Iconica is like nothing many have played. The game is growing methodically, one expansion at a time. Each expansion adds new elements of strategy to the overall experience. We think Iconica has tons of potential due to one main fact: it's different.
If Iconica is different, why create a "fan club" when we can create a guild with purpose. Here are some things we think this guild should accomplish. Feel free to add your voice through comments.
1) IPG should be meaningful - We should have a mission. Guildmates should be part of a movement.
2) IPG should reward members - This means being part of IPG will give guildmates access to exclusive content, opportunities to collaborate on new Iconica characters and chances to increase their rank and priviledges within the guild by completing specific achievements.
3) IPG should not be free - "Free" carries the perception of "low value." Our supporters want great value. This means guild membership will mean an entry fee which will be used towards yearly tournament prizes and awards, guild patches and wearables, exclusive guild cards and other game expanding content.
These are just some of the things we've decided should be part of building a meaningful, active and desirable guild. Launch of IPG is scheduled for Q1 2012.
What are your thoughts? Please feel free to share them.
-Iconica Development Team
Our approach to table top card gaming has taken many by surprise. Iconica is like nothing many have played. The game is growing methodically, one expansion at a time. Each expansion adds new elements of strategy to the overall experience. We think Iconica has tons of potential due to one main fact: it's different.
If Iconica is different, why create a "fan club" when we can create a guild with purpose. Here are some things we think this guild should accomplish. Feel free to add your voice through comments.
1) IPG should be meaningful - We should have a mission. Guildmates should be part of a movement.
2) IPG should reward members - This means being part of IPG will give guildmates access to exclusive content, opportunities to collaborate on new Iconica characters and chances to increase their rank and priviledges within the guild by completing specific achievements.
3) IPG should not be free - "Free" carries the perception of "low value." Our supporters want great value. This means guild membership will mean an entry fee which will be used towards yearly tournament prizes and awards, guild patches and wearables, exclusive guild cards and other game expanding content.
These are just some of the things we've decided should be part of building a meaningful, active and desirable guild. Launch of IPG is scheduled for Q1 2012.
What are your thoughts? Please feel free to share them.
-Iconica Development Team
Monday, May 30, 2011
Phoenix Comicon 2011
This year's Phoenix Comicon was the best show we've ever had. We worked hard, laughed a lot, played Iconica, met new friends and talked with other indie artists such as Daniel Davis and David Petersen.
Each year, my wife Larissa is such a huge help to me. We've been married for 15 years and I'm so proud to be her husband. I want everyone to know that without her support, guidance and critiques, I'd be lost on the high seas of my own fiction with no direction.
Here's a few quick thoughts, images and highlights of our show. (Next year, I promise to have a dedicated photographer taking more pictures! It's something I always forget about as the days fly by.)
Releasing Iconica Series 2
During the four days of the con we held demos of Iconica right at our booth and showed newcomers how to play. With the help of several Iconica development team members (thanks Adrian, Ryan, Josh, Kevin and Kirk), we organized games in the Phoenix Comicon Game Room at the Hyatt for newcomers and pros as well.
We had in reserve several Iconica Series 1 box sets for in-person sales and we brought lots of Iconica starter sets for newcomers. Yet we were not prepared for how well Iconica Series 2 would do. Things went so well with the Iconica Series 2 release, we sold out of our initial stock by Sunday mid-afternoon.
We're so encouraged by the diversity of people who have embraced Iconica's story elements, iconic imagery and gameplay style – children and tweens, Dads and Moms, young couples and yes, even hip grandparents.
Iconica supporters include scientists and military personal, as well as stay-at-home Dads and yoga instructors. We had a great time talking to gamers of all kinds from all different parts of the country!
Meeting David Petersen
For years, I've enjoyed David Petersen's work on MouseGuard, so it was such a pleasure to meet him and his wife Julia. Larissa and I went over to his table on Saturday to get his new book Legends of the Guard (and have him sign my existing collection of his books) and David was kind enough to talk with us for a while and even take a picture with me.
While David is very proud of his work, he's a really cool, down to earth person. I have a lot of respect for artists and authors who remain approachable and wear their success lightly. I'm sure you've met people you feel the same way about too.
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| Our Booth Setup |
Each year, my wife Larissa is such a huge help to me. We've been married for 15 years and I'm so proud to be her husband. I want everyone to know that without her support, guidance and critiques, I'd be lost on the high seas of my own fiction with no direction.
Here's a few quick thoughts, images and highlights of our show. (Next year, I promise to have a dedicated photographer taking more pictures! It's something I always forget about as the days fly by.)
Releasing Iconica Series 2
During the four days of the con we held demos of Iconica right at our booth and showed newcomers how to play. With the help of several Iconica development team members (thanks Adrian, Ryan, Josh, Kevin and Kirk), we organized games in the Phoenix Comicon Game Room at the Hyatt for newcomers and pros as well.
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| Iconica Box Sets |
We're so encouraged by the diversity of people who have embraced Iconica's story elements, iconic imagery and gameplay style – children and tweens, Dads and Moms, young couples and yes, even hip grandparents.
Iconica supporters include scientists and military personal, as well as stay-at-home Dads and yoga instructors. We had a great time talking to gamers of all kinds from all different parts of the country!
Meeting David Petersen
For years, I've enjoyed David Petersen's work on MouseGuard, so it was such a pleasure to meet him and his wife Julia. Larissa and I went over to his table on Saturday to get his new book Legends of the Guard (and have him sign my existing collection of his books) and David was kind enough to talk with us for a while and even take a picture with me.
 |
| Eric Torres (left) and David Petersen (right) |
While David is very proud of his work, he's a really cool, down to earth person. I have a lot of respect for artists and authors who remain approachable and wear their success lightly. I'm sure you've met people you feel the same way about too.
So What's Next?
Well, our Iconica vendor has promised to deliver a new shipment of Iconica Series 2 cards by this week. As soon as we receive it, we'll be releasing it online! Thanks for your patience on this. Hey, I guess this is what happens when you're working with small print runs and fresh content right?
After Iconica Series 2 is released online we'll focus our attention on completing rynaga.com and finalizing our custom shopping cart system. Even after we finish our own shopping cart, we'll still use Etsy. But we think having multiple ways to find our merchandise is probably a good thing!
As a heads up, you might be excited to know more about our next big project, which is a narrated book due for release this winter! Look for a more detailed update on this project within the next couple weeks.
Thanks to everyone who made Phoenix Comicon such a huge success for us! We're so grateful to have your support.
-Safe travels!
After Iconica Series 2 is released online we'll focus our attention on completing rynaga.com and finalizing our custom shopping cart system. Even after we finish our own shopping cart, we'll still use Etsy. But we think having multiple ways to find our merchandise is probably a good thing!
As a heads up, you might be excited to know more about our next big project, which is a narrated book due for release this winter! Look for a more detailed update on this project within the next couple weeks.
Thanks to everyone who made Phoenix Comicon such a huge success for us! We're so grateful to have your support.
-Safe travels!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
World of Rynaga - Explorer's Map
After 5 years, the first continent on Rynaga has been surveyed and captured in this 24x36 print.
Creating the Map
Writing, planning, drawing, more planning - this map has been a study in calculated refinement. It's great to be done, but knowing how we've set ourselves up for telling a meaningful story over the coming years feels just as good.
During it's creation, the Explorer's Map weathered two failed computer systems, survived its own journey on a misplaced USB drive and pushed my new computer to the limits of its processing power.
I can tell you this though: no single part of this project has been more meaningful to accomplish for me. This finished map is now a powerful symbol of our commitment to the Rynaga project and the stories which are yet to come.
The first thing you will notice is detail, tons of detail. The map references 393 different locales and incorporates hundreds of individually placed icons which represent landmarks such as forests, deserts and ruined cities.
There's more. Beyond exploring the locations and iconography, traveler’s will learn more about Rynaga’s powerful sources of energy, amazing forms of wildlife and legendary modes of travel.
Throughout the map are hidden details, such as references to Iconica characters and cards, poetry, cryptic messages and even an all encompassing riddle. The bottom line: this map is a journey in of itself!
In order for Rynaga to be real to our supporters, it must be real to us. This starts by creating a landscape worthy of great quests, like those of Lewis and Clark, Leif Ericson and Ernest Shackleton.
We hope this map will inspire hours of travel-by-imagination! Thanks for your support.
-Safe travels!
Friday, May 6, 2011
The Month of May
It's our favorite month of the year. May means Phoenix Comicon!
Please make plans to visit our booth, which is #613. We plan to have brand new Iconica Series II boxed sets on hand, Iconica Series II Starters, the World of Rynaga Explorer's Map (limited quantities), Prelude books and other goodies.
We've been away from much blogging as we're working away on the new version of rynaga.com, due to launch this month. More details to come.
-Safe travels!
Please make plans to visit our booth, which is #613. We plan to have brand new Iconica Series II boxed sets on hand, Iconica Series II Starters, the World of Rynaga Explorer's Map (limited quantities), Prelude books and other goodies.
We've been away from much blogging as we're working away on the new version of rynaga.com, due to launch this month. More details to come.
-Safe travels!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Iconica Series Two - Updated Character List
On February 11th we released the initial take on the Iconica Series Two lineup. It's changed a bit. Here's the updated list:
#023 - Sanctum Haladron - (Variant 1)
#024 - Marconian Bard
#025 - Karmethian Nervapath
#026 - Sanctum Curic
#027 - Acasian Arc Warden
#028 - Tanglefern Dead Eye
#029 - Sanctum Haladron - (Variant 2)
#030 - Pykonian Dark Trader
#031 - Farpoint Mercenary
#032 - Dragathan Aeronaut
#033 - Sanctum Ranger
#034 - Tanglefern Venomist
#035 - Karkalan Nightstalker
#036 - Sunhold Mercenary
#037 - Acasian Arc Adept
#038 - Varthan Radia Hunter
#039 - Sanctum Lancer
#040 - Algadoni Mercenary
#041 - Sanctum Savant
#042 - Thorvald Anchor
#043 - Galaeon Spicer
#044 - Inkwater Mimic
Numbering System
This Iconica series will continue where it left off with card numbers 23 through 44. The mysterious Iconica X-Cards will be numbered in sequence as well, but will not be part of series two. They will be part of an ongoing "X-Series." (Hey, that makes sense.)
Character Names
Remember, the first name in a character name is where they hail from within the world. It may be little wordy but hey, these characters just want you to know where they're from. Our giant traveling map will help visualize their homelands even further. Be sure to get one when they're released in May.
Phoenix Comicon 2011
Iconica Series Two will be launched at this years Phoenix Comicon. Our booth is # 613. Come say hi. We can't wait to see all of you!
-Safe travels!
Monday, February 14, 2011
Iconica X-Series
To celebrate the launch of the new World of Rynaga Facebook Page, the first 25 people to "Like" us won a unique Iconica X-Series Character Card today.
What's the Iconica X-Series you ask?
Iconica X-Series Characters (or X-Cards for short) are unique characters which cannot be purchased. They are only made available as part of specific promotions and are not part of boxed sets.
Want the best chance to win an X-Card in the coming weeks? Follow @rynaga and @erictorres on Twitter to be kept up to date on future promotions.
-Game on!
What's the Iconica X-Series you ask?
Iconica X-Series Characters (or X-Cards for short) are unique characters which cannot be purchased. They are only made available as part of specific promotions and are not part of boxed sets.
Want the best chance to win an X-Card in the coming weeks? Follow @rynaga and @erictorres on Twitter to be kept up to date on future promotions.
-Game on!
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Iconica Series Two - UPDATE
Over the past several months we've changed some of the direction we're taking for Iconica Series Two, so this post is an update to previous information I've posted here back in May of 2010.
Iconica Series Two - Sanctum
The first Iconica set was named Prelude, after my first book. As announced in May of 2010, the next Iconica series will indeed be named Sanctum.
Those of you familiar with the stories set within Rynaga may be wondering: "Why is this series named Sanctum?" Well, here's some general backstory for you.
Those of you familiar with the stories set within Rynaga may be wondering: "Why is this series named Sanctum?" Well, here's some general backstory for you.
After realizing the dangerous course of action taken by the Sarion government against the native peoples of Rynaga, a large group of Sarion citizens separate themselves from their ruling parties and the Legion agenda. In doing so these rebels are banished and put under penalty of death should they be found roaming Sarion lands.
While resolute in their decision to abandon their governments ideals, the exiles face much hardship. Families are separated, Sarion townships are thrown into chaos and city states suffer economically. As a show of solidarity and rebirth, these former Sarion citizens - made up of farmers, merchants, freelancers, soldiers and even ruling officials - rename themselves Saraja, which loosely translates to "a people remade" in the ancient Dahrian language.
After some time existing as a nomadic people, the Saraja settle within a region of Veratar they come to refer to as Sanctum. Here they cultivate good relationships with the native peoples and gain the trust of their neighbors. Eventually, the lands of Sanctum commit themselves to an alliance with the Protectorate states, putting them on a collision course with the ideals of their former kinsmen.
Development Updates for Series Two
Previously, it was thought that the archetypical Saraja protector might be called a Knight. Yet, after further consideration this approach seemed too plain and too predictable. Where possible, we want to infuse unique sounding characters into our stories. So based on the world lore and back story content, we've decided to create a new archetype called the Haladron.
Haladron are armored fighters which patrol the lands of Sanctum. There are several different types of Haladron and they're comprised of both men and women. While it is possible for anyone to become part of a Haladron fellowship, admittance is granted only after candidates complete three quests. (More about this another time.)
Haladron are armored fighters which patrol the lands of Sanctum. There are several different types of Haladron and they're comprised of both men and women. While it is possible for anyone to become part of a Haladron fellowship, admittance is granted only after candidates complete three quests. (More about this another time.)
Back in May 2010, I had announced that Sanctum would be a new Faction. This direction has also changed. Sanctum affiliated characters will be part of the Protectorate Faction. This is more in line with the world lore and helps maintain a good balance between factions as the game grows.
Release Information
Iconica Series Two is more than halfway done in terms of content creation and I plan to have all of the cards done by the end of Winter.
I plan to release the complete Iconica Series Two at this years Phoenix Comicon in May. Here are the different ways you'll be able to aquire the new characters:
New Iconica Starter Set - A new Iconica Starter Set with six new cards from the Sanctum series will be released. This will give newcomers to the game an opportunity to experience the game on a smaller scale, just like the Prelude Starter did. (The six character cards in the previous Prelude Starter Set will be available for individual purchase once series two is released.)
New Iconica Series Two Boxed Set - A new boxed set for Iconica Series Two will be released. There will be a price break over buying each card individually.
Individual Iconica Cards - Each card in series one and series two will be available for individual purchase. In addition, there will be other cards released which are not part of boxed sets. In fact, they are not numbered as part of a series and are released randomly.
Let me know if you have any questions. Check back again this week for the lineup of series two characters! If you have not yet, consider following Rynaga on Twitter. I send out alerts via Twitter letting followers know when new information is released.
As always, thanks so much for your support!
-Safe travels!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
"Earth to Eric, Are You Out There?"
I am and I'm back to this business of blogging.
Announcements
World of Rynaga Website - This is in the final stages of development and I'm really excited about what's to come! The web developer I'm working with is both thoughtful and skilled and is assisting me with building a framework for the website that not only works great now, but has room to grow into.
The site will launch with a new shop, a personal journal of my travels and a great resource for those of you who are creating RPG's set within Rynaga! Can't wait to share this.
Iconica - Series Two - I'll be announcing the new card lineup this week! Series Two is coming along great and we've spent the last few months improving upon actions, exploring new possibilities for characters and getting feedback from players. It's been valuable time spent. Watch for an update this week on Iconica!
My New Book - I'm going to be announcing more about this as well (title art, premise, more) and taking pre-orders! Stay tuned.
What You Can Do
Many have asked what they can do to help me and I'm very grateful for the support. Here's how to help for now: Tell one person about this project! This helps tremendously. Your friends value your opinion.
If you have not yet, please consider following my Rynaga Twitter profile, which is: @rynaga.
Thanks.
-Safe travels!
Friday, November 19, 2010
What's Going On?
I've been quiet on my blog lately. I know. Well, there's tons going on.
I'm working with a developer on the new rynaga.com website. (Coming in January 2011) We're finishing concepts for the next series of Iconica game cards. I'm also putting the finishing touches on some pre-order packages we're getting ready for 2011.
We want Phoenix Comicon to be our big event for releasing new content each year. In fact, we've secured a larger booth for 2011 to ensure we have enough space for what's to come!
Also, I'm still working on Iconica Scenario cards, which will be free to download. The balancing on these cards is pretty tough to get down, but it's coming together. I hope to have more news on this very soon.
So, I'm still around. I'm just spending a ton of time on big picture projects and with the holidays coming, travel will be involved too. Ok, back to work.
-Safe travels!
I'm working with a developer on the new rynaga.com website. (Coming in January 2011) We're finishing concepts for the next series of Iconica game cards. I'm also putting the finishing touches on some pre-order packages we're getting ready for 2011.
We want Phoenix Comicon to be our big event for releasing new content each year. In fact, we've secured a larger booth for 2011 to ensure we have enough space for what's to come!
Also, I'm still working on Iconica Scenario cards, which will be free to download. The balancing on these cards is pretty tough to get down, but it's coming together. I hope to have more news on this very soon.
So, I'm still around. I'm just spending a ton of time on big picture projects and with the holidays coming, travel will be involved too. Ok, back to work.
-Safe travels!
Monday, October 11, 2010
What We're Working On
I want to give some updates for different projects we're (Specimen) working on around here. A big THANK YOU to everyone who is supporting this project with resources, time and as patrons. I don't take it for granted.
Iconica
Rather than releasing individual cards for Iconica Series Two, I plan to release this as a complete set, all at once during Q1 of 2011. We decided to go this route partly based on feedback from gamers and collectors as well as some research we gathered on buying patterns and merchandising. Shipping costs add up for individual sale items, especially for our overseas friends.
The main driver for this however is that will give us the chance to craft additional content and even reduce paper usage and waste. It's important to me to make sure we're doing what we can to be sustainable.
Does this mean there will be no new Iconica coming up? No! I'll be releasing a set of Iconica Scenario cards as free PDF downloads. Scenario's will be a great way to experience Iconica in an RPG-like setting. More info soon.
The Lost Lamp - Book One
As some of you may know and as mentioned in this Weekly Offworlder post, the main character (Solan) in our first book Prelude, has been missing for some time now. I'm working away on a series of books that will not only solve the mystery of Solan's disappearance, but ultimately set the stage for something grand.
I'll have more information on this project in the coming weeks.
It's important to me for people to know what we're working on, but more importantly how we do it. This project is completely self-funded, so development times will be stretched occasionally. However, having said that, it's full steam ahead.
-Safe travels!
Iconica
Rather than releasing individual cards for Iconica Series Two, I plan to release this as a complete set, all at once during Q1 of 2011. We decided to go this route partly based on feedback from gamers and collectors as well as some research we gathered on buying patterns and merchandising. Shipping costs add up for individual sale items, especially for our overseas friends.
The main driver for this however is that will give us the chance to craft additional content and even reduce paper usage and waste. It's important to me to make sure we're doing what we can to be sustainable.
Does this mean there will be no new Iconica coming up? No! I'll be releasing a set of Iconica Scenario cards as free PDF downloads. Scenario's will be a great way to experience Iconica in an RPG-like setting. More info soon.
The Lost Lamp - Book One
As some of you may know and as mentioned in this Weekly Offworlder post, the main character (Solan) in our first book Prelude, has been missing for some time now. I'm working away on a series of books that will not only solve the mystery of Solan's disappearance, but ultimately set the stage for something grand.
I'll have more information on this project in the coming weeks.
It's important to me for people to know what we're working on, but more importantly how we do it. This project is completely self-funded, so development times will be stretched occasionally. However, having said that, it's full steam ahead.
-Safe travels!
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