First December Update
over 1 year ago
– Wed, Dec 11, 2024 at 06:44:52 PM
Hello everyone!
I wanted to give you all a quick update on how things are going and a timeline for this project.
- First, some of you have asked about backer surveys. I promised early December, but surveys won't be necessary until everything starts to go out to backers. What this means is that I will be sending out surveys at the end of this month, about a week or two before the digital version (PDF) of the book goes out. This will ensure everyone's email is up to date when the PDFs links go out. Expect those PDF links the first or 2nd week of January.
- For VIPs who got the free one-shot module, that will go out along with the digital book.
- The Foundry module should be ready mid-to-late January.
- The creature, spell, and NPC cards should be ready by March. They are not printing in China, so the turnaround will be much quicker than the physical book.
- The files for the physical book are being sent to China in January. Please note that sending the files to the printers is the first step in a long process. Initially I gave a timeline of late April/ early May. Unfortunately I didn't realize that China has a holiday at the end of January which causes a massive backlog in production. Assuming the printer receives the files in mid to late January, it means they won't be able to send me digital proofs and plotters until mid February.
I then have to send corrections, which could take a couple of weeks. Once I approve the proofs I send the OK to print order to the printer.
- F&Gs can take up to 3 weeks, and then it goes to binding. At this point I have the printers send me an advance copy to ensure everything looks good for final printing order. This is expected to take 3-4 weeks after the "OK to bind" order.
- Once I get advances, assuming everything looks good I give the OK to ship after I look it all over, about a week.
- RTS will happen a few days later, with the shipment ready to depart Hong Kong about a week and a half after I give the OK to ship order.
- The freight shipment then takes about 2 months to arrive at port in the U.S, at which point distribution begins.
- This means that if you live in the U.S.A you should expect your physical book around July (!!!!). I know it seems like a long process, but that is because it is a very long process LOL.
I will keep you posted with any updates or unexpected delays and will continue to send information via these Kickstarter updates. If you have any questions whatsoever, the quickest way to get an answer is through our official Discord server. You can join here for free: https://discord.gg/HWKwbVcu
Thank you all again and I can't wait to send you the final product!
Here is some new art from the book!
Vase
We Did It! (Plus Next Steps)
over 1 year ago
– Thu, Nov 21, 2024 at 07:57:13 PM
Hey everyone!
I'm going to keep this update pretty brief.
First of all, thank you all so much for all the love and support during this campaign. You all have been truly amazing and the excitement for the adventure has been electrifying.
At the beginning of December you will get an email asking you to fill out your backer survey. Please do not ignore that email! The survey is intended to collect important information in order to fulfill your items (even digital-only rewards). We will only collect the information necessary to do so and it will only take a minute to fill out.
I will continue to post updates at least once per month here to keep you in the loop with anything regarding fulfillment. If you have questions or concerns, or if you have a pressing matter that needs immediate attention, the quickest and most efficient way to get a hold of me is to message me via our Discord server or to email me at [email protected] or [email protected].
My artists have committed to finishing all of the remaining art by the end of December, and I expect to have the PDF version of the adventure ready for you as soon as the last piece of art is delivered. As of now, our offset printer in China is expecting to deliver the physical copies to our warehouse on time (no later than May 2025) assuming the art is done on time. The decks for monsters, spells and NPCs are being printed in the USA and should be available sometime in January. Expect those before receiving your physical book copy.
And that's it. Keep an eye out for the survey email from Kickstarter, and I will be sending an additional update very soon.
Until then, have a happy holiday!
- Vase
One Week Left!
over 1 year ago
– Tue, Nov 12, 2024 at 08:53:26 PM
We're Almost at the End, Which is Also the Beginning
As we approach the final week of our Kickstarter campaign, we’re working tirelessly behind the scenes to bring everything together. The Foundry VTT module is progressing well, and we’re wrapping up the final pieces of artwork for the creatures and NPCs featured in the book. The book itself is in the final stages of editing, and we’ve also begun editing the "Hilt" module. We’re putting in extra effort this week and would be incredibly grateful if you could help spread the word to friends and family—every bit of support makes a difference!
Once the campaign concludes, we’ll shift into post-campaign mode. I won’t dive into all the details like logistics, post-campaign marketing, quality control, and manufacturing, but I do want you to know that things might go a bit quiet for a few weeks as we focus on this important backend work. Rest assured, we’ll be working hard to get the book and all add-ons to you as quickly as possible.
As always, if you have any questions after the campaign ends, don’t hesitate to reach out to me on Discord (details below).
Discord Server
The Horror at Yishusu Landing Discord server is a great place to stay up to date with what's happening, chat with other backers, and get to know some of the contributors and play-testers of the campaign. If you're interested in joining, click the link below. It's free! https://discord.gg/Z8RUVH3yvk
Beyond the Stars - The Black Seas of Infinity
This adventure is a Lovecraftian horror story at its very core, and while the rich Mesoamerican themes have taken center stage, it’s important to highlight the deep cosmic dread that permeates the tale. Lovecraftian horror captivates with its unique blend of the unknown, pushing characters—and readers—into encounters with forces beyond human comprehension. It’s a reminder that the universe is vast, indifferent, and full of mysteries that can unravel the mind.
What makes cosmic horror so compelling is its exploration of primal, psychological fears that transcend time and culture. The idea that there are ancient, unknowable powers lurking just beyond our perception taps into an existential anxiety that resonates on a deeply human level. This type of horror doesn’t rely on jump scares or gore; instead, it finds its strength in subtle, creeping dread that stays with you long after the story is over.
I’m eager to hear all about your experiences running this campaign. I truly believe we’ve captured the essence of existential dread that defines Lovecraft’s stories, weaving it into a narrative that stands apart with its distinct and immersive theme. This blend of cosmic horror and Mesoamerican mythology offers a fresh take that I hope both challenges and thrills your players, leaving them with the lingering sense of awe and fear that great horror evokes.
What's up with the cards?
For those wondering what the Monster Deck, NPC Cards, and Blood Magic Spell Cards entail, here’s a detailed breakdown:
As a DM, I often found that prepping for encounters was smoother when I had monster and enemy stats readily available on a separate sheet for quick access during gameplay. Random encounter tables, while useful, come with the added challenge of searching for the relevant creature statistics. The Monster Deck streamlines this process by offering ready-to-use cards for each creature, making it easy to dive into encounters without skipping a beat.
Tracking NPC personalities and key information players might learn from them was another challenge I faced. I used to create index cards for each significant NPC, writing down crucial details and adding printed artwork when possible to better visualize and roleplay them. The NPC Deck takes this concept to the next level, providing pre-made, art-adorned cards to help DMs seamlessly manage social interactions and stay in character. This setup allows DMs to focus on storytelling and maintain a smooth, immersive experience.
If you didn’t opt for these decks initially because you weren’t sure what they were, I hope this clears things up. Remember, you can still adjust your pledge before the campaign wraps up. Don’t miss out on locking in these resources at the early backer discount before the Kickstarter ends!
Let's finish big!
This final week is going to be bonkers, but I am thrilled to be part of the ride. You all have exceeded all of my expectations, and I thank you all so much for your support and for joining me on this journey!
-Vase
First Stretch Goal Unlocked!
over 1 year ago
– Thu, Nov 07, 2024 at 10:27:17 PM
Foundry VTT Module Unlocked!
I have some amazing news: The stretch goal unlocking the Foundry VTT module has been reached, and that means that backers who use Foundry will have access to the entire campaign FREE! The Foundry module will include all maps, creature stats with standard, weak, and elite templates, and items for you to use in your games. I am very excited to bring the Foundry module to you and can't wait to get it done. I expect to have the Foundry module ready at the same time as the PDF / digital version of the campaign. If you are a backer, you'll receive a link to the Foundry module automatically, so you don't have to do anything to benefit from this stretch goal!
Let's keep it going -- tell your friends about the campaign so that we can hit the next several milestones!
New Art!
I have some new art to share! The artists are working hard at making the world come to life and I'm always excited to share the wonderful artwork as soon as it is delivered. Below are several creatures and characters you and your players will meet during your visit to Yishusu.
Uncanny Trait for Creatures
In the book, there are several new mechanics to help bring the world to life and to ensure we capture the right tone and feeling of horror and despair. One of the new mechanics introduced in the book is the "Uncanny" trait.
"A creature who has the Uncanny ability is especially fierce in battle. If the Uncanny creature gains the paralyzed, petrified, slowed, or stunned conditions it can choose to end that condition at the beginning of its next turn. It still loses any legendary actions it had before the start of its turn.
If a creature has more than one of the listed conditions and has the Uncanny ability, it can choose to end any number of them at the beginning of its next turn. "
In addition to Uncanny, the adventure introduces a new death mechanic called Lingering Mortality, a new Madness mechanic, a defensive ability called Impenetrable, and creature difficulty adjustment templates for Weak and Elite creatures. More information about these mechanics will be posted in future updates.
Discord Server
The Horror at Yishusu Landing Discord server is a great place to stay up to date with what's happening, chat with other backers, and get to know some of the contributors and play-testers of the campaign. If you're interested in joining, click the link below. It's free! https://discord.gg/Z8RUVH3yvk
More Mesoamerican Facts
As I mentioned in the last update, doing research for this project led to some interesting discoveries of facts and trivia about Mesoamerica.
Aztecs and Cleanliness
Did you know that when Cortez arrived in Tenochtitlan he was shocked at how clean the metropolis of Tenochtitlan was? Cleaning crews were constantly cleaning the streets of animal droppings and trash, and strategically positioned garbage disposals allowed the city to remain clean despite its overwhelming population -- a stark difference from metropolitan cities of Europe at the time.
Mazatec Shamans
Did you know that Mesoamerican shamans were known to use psychedelic mushrooms for rituals and therapeutic treatments?
THE DEITIES HAVE CHOSEN SHAMANS IN MESOAMERICA EITHER THROUGH DREAMS, INITIATION RITES, OR DUE TO AN UNEXPLAINED AND PERSISTENT ILLNESS.
Communication and interaction between the chjota chijne and the “principal beings” or sacred entities occur through various types of ecstatic trance, such as fasting, self-sacrifice, or the use of plants, mushrooms, and animals with psychoactive properties.
A similar ritual occurs in the campaign, and is a pivotal moment that provides a revelation necessary for finding a resolution to the conflict in the campaign.
What cool facts have you discovered?
Paying it Forward:
I want to shine a spotlight on projects that look interesting and I think you guys might love. One of those projects is "Quick Bites". I think having a thematic cookbook is a really cool idea, and the fact that it includes monsters, items, and adventures makes a really cool and unique project! Check them out and support them if you can.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/talesandtastes/tales-and-tastes-quick-bites-for-adventurers?ref=9w4je8
Quick Bites for Adventurers
"Quick Bites for Adventurers" is more than just a cookbook; it's an adventure. Each page transports you to different realms, presenting carefully crafted and tested recipes designed to align perfectly with D&D and any fantasy TTRPG.
What’s Inside:
50+ Thematic Recipes (with illustrations): Discover meals that are perfect for adventurers and inns, presented with thematic flair to enhance your gameplay.
5e-Compatible Content: New monsters, items and potions to enhance your campaign.
Battle Maps and STL Files: Print your own monsters and battlemaps for dynamic gameplay experiences!
Culinary Player Class: Explore the culinary arts with a detailed player class featuring two unique subclasses that represent different aspects of cooking and gastronomy.
Adventure Hooks: Culinary-themed quests and encounters.
Thank you all again for being so awesome! The finish line is less than 2 weeks away
-Vase
One week in, 300% funded!
over 1 year ago
– Tue, Oct 29, 2024 at 07:58:15 AM
Still Going Strong!
Hey everyone! We are officially one week into the Kickstarter campaign and we still have some great momentum! Thank you all again for such a wonderful show of support. Based on some expert analysis, we are trending to finish 400-500% to goal, and we couldn't have done it without such a supportive group of friends.
Discord Server
The Horror at Yishusu Landing Discord server is a great place to stay up to date with what's happening, chat with other backers, and get to know some of the contributors and play-testers of the campaign. If you're interested in joining, click the link below. It's free! https://discord.gg/bjNGmB5M
Aztec Death Whistle
A lot of the magic items found within the campaign are heavily inspired by historical artifacts from Mesoamerica. One of my favorite artifacts is the Aztec Death Whistle. This skull-shaped decorative instrument is thought to have been used in battle to strike fear into the enemies of the Aztecs. If you ever heard its horrifying sounds on a battlefield, you probably would turn white with fear. A quick search on YouTube presents you with dozens of results with videos featuring this incredible instrument of war. Take a quick listen and I think you'll agree it's absolutely terrifying!
Naturally, we added a similar device in the adventure. It is a magic item that your players will love to use! Wait until you see it in action in the adventure.
What's Your Favorite Mesoamerican Fact?
As I researched all things Mesoamerican history while working on this project I learned some amazing facts that inspired some events and Easter eggs that can be found in the campaign. For example, did you know that the Aztecs became self-sufficient by creating "floating gardens" around the city of Tenochtitlan?
The city was built on an island, which allowed it to be protected from attacks. The floating gardens (called Chinampa) existed before the Aztecs, but they are the first known civilization to have used them in such a large scale. The crops they harvested could keep the city fed without the need to go find food.
What is your favorite fact or trivia question related to these ancient civilizations? Let me know in the comments, I'd love to hear about it!
Keep Telling Your Friends
Thank you all again for everything. The campaign momentum is still strong and getting the word out to friends and family is one of the best ways to get to those stretch goals. I am going to do a livestream at some point next week on my YouTube channel, Twisted Tentacle Inn, to answer questions and hang out with you all. I'll post more information about it on the Discord server (where all of the up-to-date news and info will be communicated).
All the best!
- Vase
