I feel bad about how long it’s been since the last update, but it’s probably also going to be a minute before the next one.
What We’ve Been Working On
Since the last update, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to create the best version of the game possible
We were able to demo “Wake Up, Sheeple” at DEXCON in North Jersey back in June. As a new game, the amount of interest was incredible. We were able to conduct a full playtest session and gain player insights from a wider audience than before. In addition, we’ve been able to conduct more playtests to further refine the rules and what makes a good “headline”.
We’ve learned a lot through these experiences, and we’re looking forward to getting more feedback and improving the game as much as possible before cementing a “final” version. The game is still early in development, and your input will be vital in making a game worth owing and playing.
With that said…
We’re changing the “coincidence” card into a “community” card
One take away from recent playtests, was that the “coincidence” (no connection between the headlines) card was basically a cop-out. Choosing coincidence, even if it was logically the most obvious choice, was basically like not playing the game. So, in order to make it so that players have to choose some kind of connection to argue, the “coincidence” card will be changed to “community”.
Community, as opposed to coincidence, will signify a “positive” connection, something that benefits society, or is “human nature”. Hopefully, it provides an equally considerable alternative to “capitalism” or “conspiracy”, while encouraging the player to make an active connection between the headlines. This should make the rounds more engaging and fun to argue.
There are a few more rule changes that we’re working on to try to make the game more engaging. Since it’s still a work in progress, we’re not going to go into the details here, but look out for changes to the website and documents. We’re planning on releasing a “print-at-home” version in the near future, and will provide any further rules updates through “patch-notes”, there.
We’ve also had a few setbacks that have pushed back the schedule
Initially, we were aiming for releasing the game later this fall. However, that timeline was very ambitious. Instead of rushing out an incomplete experience, we want to make sure everything is ready and we can fulfil any obligations before getting into them. So far, we are still working on confirming a game manufacturer, and we’ve had some issues finalizing a supplier for the deluxe edition merch. We’ve also run into delays with some the art and with re-creating the “coincidence/community” card.
All that being said, the game is progressing well and is getting more fun with every iteration.
We’ve got illustrations!
Check this out!
We’ve got these amazing characters by Ai Miyazaki that will be featured throughout the rules book and final box art. Super excited to integrate these into the game assets!
The Digital Version of the game is being created
While the main version of the game is the physical card game, meant to be played in person, we’re also working on an app version of the game. Not exactly sure what the final form will be of the app will be, or whether it’ll be aimed at games platforms like Steam/PS store or the app stores.
Right now, we’re building it as a web-app, because it was easy for us to get started quickly, but when it gets far enough to be playable, we will try to share it in order to get feedback on the game (generally), and the digital version (specifically).
Upcoming Plans
Internal Development over the winter
We’ve been working hard on solidifying the gameplay, and will continue to do so as we complete more playtests and start spreading the game to a wider audience. We will also be looking into presenting/playtesting at more game conventions towards the end of this year, and early next year.
We will try to keep updated on any convention appearances, but expect a very quiet fall.
More updates and Print at home version coming soon
With the upcoming changes in mind, we hope to release a “print at home” version sometime around the winter holidays. It will include the most up to date rule-set and everything needed top start playing with your friends, but it won’t have the graphics and polish of the final version.
We will update the site and send out a link, once that is ready!
We also have a Discord Server now!
For the fastest updates, most relevant news, or to ask anything directly, we have a Discord server. I’m usually active there, even if i don’t post, so feel free to lurk or post, or dm me or whatever.