Monday, March 26, 2012

Set Theme

I think I shall try a top-down approach for designing this set. I've been considering different ideas for an overall theme. Lately I've been considering getting back into Warhammer 40K and I realized just how much I love that IP and how well the fluff lends itself to the game.

I've decided to pull greatly from 40K to help build my world.

Opening thoughts: "The plane of Adentius is one of constant war."

The set should be designed with conflict in mind. Given this, the focus should be on creatures, especially ones that interact with other creatures. Instants and sorceries should, in part, reflect surprise attacks and tactical maneuvers. The "fight" mechanic should be used liberally. Artifacts should represent implements of battle, so equipment should play a prominent role.

Introduction

In just a few short weeks I'll be done with my job and will have a wealth of free time. I'll be taking some time off before starting the job search, and I'm trying to set some goals to use this time productively. One of these goals is to design a full Magic: the Gathering set.

Can I do it? We'll see.

This blog will serve three purposes:

1. To serve as a personal notebook. I'll be keeping a thorough notebook on my computer to actually help my process, but I think having thoughts written in prose format will help as I can go and hear myself re-explain my ideas.

2. To make myself accountable. By publishing this blog publicly, I commit to making progress on this project.

3. To invite input from any readers. I don't know how many people will read this that are interested, but comments are always welcome sources of new concepts and feedback.

I think I shall try to keep separate ideas to separate posts, even if that means several posts per day when I'm being productive. Perhaps tags will help me sort these effectively.

My writing will likely be sub-par. The focus will not be on well-phrased sentences, but rather sharing the raw content and process. I will frequently drift off in the middle of posts to expand in my notebook with design ideas, which may result in some slightly scattered writing. Please forgive me.