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Markustay
Great Reader
USA
9874 Posts |
 Posted - 06 Jun 2008 : 22:19:26
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It is we who should be thanking you. Your hard work and creativity is what brought the Realms alive for us (along with several others), and we wouldn't be enjoying this world our hobby is based in half so much without your contributions.
Thanks for the answers as well - that works for me. 
BTW, I was just wondering where you hail from - the only other person who I know that used the word 'shekles' was my Dad, and he was born and raised in NYC.
*I would have responded sooner to this, but after NINE tries to post a response yesterday I finally gave up - this site is getting worse.  |
"Before you speak, ask yourself: Is it kind, is it true, is it necessary, does it improve upon the silence?" - Shirdi Sai Baba
"Maps I'll find for you both old and rare.
Maps will I seek for you of lands both dark and fair."
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2008 : 21:34:27
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quote:
Originally posted by Brimstone
-No problem Steven. Blackstaff was the best Realms novel I have ever read. PERIOD! I would like to see you work on some Pathfinder stuff in the near future!  I have a theory that Frostrune will be in charge of Undermountain in the 4E Realms. Just from reading that book (Blackstaff) and the ending of it. 
BRIMSTONE 
Thank you kindly; I'm very glad you enjoyed the book that much.
As for working on Pathfinder stuff, I'm toiling away on my own time tinkering with the priesthoods of Nethys for my own use in the playtest (playing a cleric of Nethys/sorcerer); the fact that we're so far from the seat of Nethys' worship (and the fact that we've got so little information with which to work save the Gazetteer which I don't have) helps me make some assumptions and changes to the faith for the local flavor/campaign. I'm enjoying this a lot, but I don't expect to ever use this work beyond our own campaign. Still, thanks for the vote of confidence, and we'll see how that goes.
And what a deliciously evil theory with regards to Priamon, Brimstone!
Steven
who'll forewarn folks to reread Blackstaff before diving into Blackstaff Tower, if only to refresh their memories of various and sundry esoteric bits of lore that have some crossovers in the new novel... |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Edited by - Steven Schend on 08 Jun 2008 21:41:46 |
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2008 : 21:37:13
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quote:
Originally posted by Markustay
It is we who should be thanking you. Your hard work and creativity is what brought the Realms alive for us (along with several others), and we wouldn't be enjoying this world our hobby is based in half so much without your contributions.
Thanks for the answers as well - that works for me.
BTW, I was just wondering where you hail from - the only other person who I know that used the word 'shekles' was my Dad, and he was born and raised in NYC.
*I would have responded sooner to this, but after NINE tries to post a response yesterday I finally gave up - this site is getting worse.
Born and raised in Wisconsin by folk of German-English heritage. No real ethnic reason for using the term other than a love of alliteration; in person, I'm influenced enough by ILLUMINATI that I often refer to my pay stubs as "filthy lucre" as well. 
Steven |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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The Sage
Procrastinator Most High
Australia
30304 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 02:01:01
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quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
who'll forewarn folks to reread Blackstaff before diving into Blackstaff Tower, if only to refresh their memories of various and sundry esoteric bits of lore that have some crossovers in the new novel...
I had a feeling you'd say something like this.  Not that I needed a reason to re-read Blackstaff, but are there any particular bits that you feel we should specifically concentrate on? |
Candlekeep Forums Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium -- Volume IX now available (Oct 2007)
"So Saith Ed" -- the collected Candlekeep replies of Ed Greenwood
Zhoth'ilam Folio -- The Electronic Misadventures of a Rambling Sage |
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Brimstone
Great Reader
USA
2545 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 02:50:01
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-Yeah, I am thinking about making "Frostrune" MASTER OF UNDERMOUNTAIN, even if WotC doesn't!
- Just checked out Nethys. An ancient Osirian God-King that went mad, and now has a split personality. He wants to destroy and protect at the same time. Very Pheonix/Dark Pheonix to me! One church will follow his destoryer side, while another church will try to protcet. A very cool sounding True Neutral God of Magic if you ask me. 
BRIMSTONE |
"These things also I have observed: that knowledge of our world is
to be nurtured like a precious flower, for it is the most precious
thing we have. Wherefore guard the word written and heed
words unwritten and set them down ere they fade . . . Learn
then, well, the arts of reading, writing, and listening true, and they
will lead you to the greatest art of all: understanding."
Alaundo of Candlekeep |
Edited by - Brimstone on 09 Jun 2008 06:12:28 |
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 03:06:08
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quote:
Originally posted by The Sage
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
who'll forewarn folks to reread Blackstaff before diving into Blackstaff Tower, if only to refresh their memories of various and sundry esoteric bits of lore that have some crossovers in the new novel...
I had a feeling you'd say something like this. Not that I needed a reason to re-read Blackstaff, but are there any particular bits that you feel we should specifically concentrate on?
You'll enjoy the 2nd book more if you have a passing familiarity with how Blackstaff Tower was in the past...and who's lived and worked therein.
Don't want to say too much more lest it get spoilerish.
Steven
who's still working on those trailers and hopes to have something ready soon...
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For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Wooly Rupert
Master of Mischief
USA
24623 Posts |
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Brimstone
Great Reader
USA
2545 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 06:08:39
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-Nevermind. Computer acting up again.
BRIMSTONE
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"These things also I have observed: that knowledge of our world is
to be nurtured like a precious flower, for it is the most precious
thing we have. Wherefore guard the word written and heed
words unwritten and set them down ere they fade . . . Learn
then, well, the arts of reading, writing, and listening true, and they
will lead you to the greatest art of all: understanding."
Alaundo of Candlekeep |
Edited by - Brimstone on 09 Jun 2008 06:12:56 |
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Asgetrion
Master of Realmslore
Finland
1553 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 23:10:26
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quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
Don't give up on the Realms, Asgetrion--I suspect you might like a few more of the "Ed Greenwood Presents" series, which could give you a lot to like about the Waterdeep of 1479DR. I know I'm hoping to write another in that series, as the characters I worked into the first book are bugging me about writing other adventures of theirs already....
Not to put words in Asgetrion's mouth, but I think he hasn't given up on the Realms, so much as given up on this new, 4E incarnation of it. Same with me, really, but I'm still gonna check out your novel, as well as what was done with Waterdeep.
Exactly -- you know me too well, Rino! ;)
Steven, I haven't given up on the Realms -- far from it! I may not like the way 4E (and 4E FR, specifically) is shaping up to be, but that's another matter. You know where I'm running my PF Alpha Playtest Campaign? In FR, of course, and there's still plenty of 2E/3E material to draw from, even though it looks like I'm going to "convert" from 3E into PF RPG when it comes out!
Which brings me to you and Paizo... I was very excited to hear that you, Elaine and Ed and working on PF/Golarion material, and I hope that you'll end up writing a lot of stuff eventually for the RPG I'm growing to love more and more each day. Maybe you could even sell that Shanatar info you worked on for Paizo? Anyway, if Erik can also get mr. Boyd and George "I-Can-Do-The-Best-Fat-Old-Innkeeper-Prestige-Class-Ever" Krashos on the PF boat, I'm going to be very happy, indeed!
(Yes, George probably *could* do the best 'Fat Old Innkeeper' PrC ever... ;)
P.S. If I were Erik Mona, I would hire you to write about elven history and kingdoms in Golarion, and chain you to the desk to design a bunch of elven racial feats, spells and magic! |
"What am I doing today? Ask me tomorrow - I can be sure of giving you the right answer then."
-- Askarran of Selgaunt, Master Sage, speaking to a curious merchant, Year of the Helm |
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Brimstone
Great Reader
USA
2545 Posts |
Posted - 09 Jun 2008 : 23:30:58
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-I totally agree with the above post!
BRIMSTONE |
"These things also I have observed: that knowledge of our world is
to be nurtured like a precious flower, for it is the most precious
thing we have. Wherefore guard the word written and heed
words unwritten and set them down ere they fade . . . Learn
then, well, the arts of reading, writing, and listening true, and they
will lead you to the greatest art of all: understanding."
Alaundo of Candlekeep |
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 12:15:31
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quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
Should we re-read the Catspaw Quartet, as well, since the late Osco Salibuck is apparently mentioned in Blackstaff Tower?
He does more in the novel than he ever did in the comics, Wooly.
Steven |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 12:23:33
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quote:
Originally posted by Asgetrion
quote:
Originally posted by Rinonalyrna Fathomlin
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
Don't give up on the Realms, Asgetrion--I suspect you might like a few more of the "Ed Greenwood Presents" series, which could give you a lot to like about the Waterdeep of 1479DR. I know I'm hoping to write another in that series, as the characters I worked into the first book are bugging me about writing other adventures of theirs already....
Not to put words in Asgetrion's mouth, but I think he hasn't given up on the Realms, so much as given up on this new, 4E incarnation of it. Same with me, really, but I'm still gonna check out your novel, as well as what was done with Waterdeep.
Exactly -- you know me too well, Rino! ;)
Steven, I haven't given up on the Realms -- far from it! I may not like the way 4E (and 4E FR, specifically) is shaping up to be, but that's another matter. You know where I'm running my PF Alpha Playtest Campaign? In FR, of course, and there's still plenty of 2E/3E material to draw from, even though it looks like I'm going to "convert" from 3E into PF RPG when it comes out!
Didn't mean to put words in your mouth there, Astegrion.
quote:
Which brings me to you and Paizo... I was very excited to hear that you, Elaine and Ed and working on PF/Golarion material, and I hope that you'll end up writing a lot of stuff eventually for the RPG I'm growing to love more and more each day. Maybe you could even sell that Shanatar info you worked on for Paizo? Anyway, if Erik can also get mr. Boyd and George "I-Can-Do-The-Best-Fat-Old-Innkeeper-Prestige-Class-Ever" Krashos on the PF boat, I'm going to be very happy, indeed!
(Yes, George probably *could* do the best 'Fat Old Innkeeper' PrC ever... ;)
P.S. If I were Erik Mona, I would hire you to write about elven history and kingdoms in Golarion, and chain you to the desk to design a bunch of elven racial feats, spells and magic!
Well, I'm just a playtester (not like you--I get to play, not DM), though I wouldn't mind if Paizo contracted me for some work. For now, I'm content with tinkering at the edges for stuff only for one campaign.
Besides, I'm busy enough finishing up my Game Design class; I've got a week to finish putting together a 4th-7th level module for running next week and the following, and then have an "alpha" rough of that campaign setting ready for the students no less than a month later. I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Wooly Rupert
Master of Mischief
USA
24623 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 13:42:00
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quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
Should we re-read the Catspaw Quartet, as well, since the late Osco Salibuck is apparently mentioned in Blackstaff Tower?
He does more in the novel than he ever did in the comics, Wooly.
Steven
Well, let's see... In the comic, we saw him walk a bit, find a secret door, and then get disintegrated. It's not going to be hard to top that level of activity, though getting around being a small pile of dust may be problematic... |
Candlekeep Forums Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
Editor and scribe for The Candlekeep Compendium
I am the Giant Space Hamster of Ill Omen! |
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Wooly Rupert
Master of Mischief
USA
24623 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 13:53:07
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quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes? |
Candlekeep Forums Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
Editor and scribe for The Candlekeep Compendium
I am the Giant Space Hamster of Ill Omen! |
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The Sage
Procrastinator Most High
Australia
30304 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 15:34:26
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quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
I'm curious about this myself. Any further info you can share on these developments Steven?
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Candlekeep Forums Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium -- Volume IX now available (Oct 2007)
"So Saith Ed" -- the collected Candlekeep replies of Ed Greenwood
Zhoth'ilam Folio -- The Electronic Misadventures of a Rambling Sage |
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Asgetrion
Master of Realmslore
Finland
1553 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 15:43:09
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quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
Didn't mean to put words in your mouth there, Astegrion.
Oh, I didn't imply that you did! I just wished to make clear that I'm not abandoning the Realms -- not just going to buy into 4E material, unless you count novels/short stories written by yourself, Elaine and Ed. :)
quote:
Well, I'm just a playtester (not like you--I get to play, not DM), though I wouldn't mind if Paizo contracted me for some work. For now, I'm content with tinkering at the edges for stuff only for one campaign.
Besides, I'm busy enough finishing up my Game Design class; I've got a week to finish putting together a 4th-7th level module for running next week and the following, and then have an "alpha" rough of that campaign setting ready for the students no less than a month later. I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
Game Design class? Sounds really nice. I would definitely be interested in buying that module! :) Have you considered the print-on-demand system? You could just print it as the sales so go up, and to my understanding there's no extra costs involved.
You can rely on fanatic "Schendists" ("Schend-maniacs"?) trying to get Erik or Lisa or Jason to hire you to work on Golarion (we'll keep shouting your name at the Paizo boards until they give in! ;). If they did, it would show how much more "business-savvy" they are than WoTC.
And Eric and George are also great minds who should be on board, although George's "beardlessness" may be a negative factor here! |
"What am I doing today? Ask me tomorrow - I can be sure of giving you the right answer then."
-- Askarran of Selgaunt, Master Sage, speaking to a curious merchant, Year of the Helm |
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Asgetrion
Master of Realmslore
Finland
1553 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 15:49:52
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quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
Here: http://steveneschend.com/index.html
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"What am I doing today? Ask me tomorrow - I can be sure of giving you the right answer then."
-- Askarran of Selgaunt, Master Sage, speaking to a curious merchant, Year of the Helm |
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Wooly Rupert
Master of Mischief
USA
24623 Posts |
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The Sage
Procrastinator Most High
Australia
30304 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 17:14:14
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quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
Yeah, that website is a bit bare...
Still, it's nice seeing all those Schend credits again. I'd forgotten about some of those. |
Candlekeep Forums Moderator
Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
http://www.candlekeep.com -- Candlekeep Forum Code of Conduct
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium -- Volume IX now available (Oct 2007)
"So Saith Ed" -- the collected Candlekeep replies of Ed Greenwood
Zhoth'ilam Folio -- The Electronic Misadventures of a Rambling Sage |
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Brimstone
Great Reader
USA
2545 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 18:41:58
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quote:
Originally posted by AsgetrionGame Design class? Sounds really nice. I would definitely be interested in buying that module! :) Have you considered the print-on-demand system? You could just print it as the sales so go up, and to my understanding there's no extra costs involved.
You can rely on fanatic "Schendists" ("Schend-maniacs"?) trying to get Erik or Lisa or Jason to hire you to work on Golarion (we'll keep shouting your name at the Paizo boards until they give in! ;). If they did, it would show how much more "business-savvy" they are than WoTC.
And Eric and George are also great minds who should be on board, although George's "beardlessness" may be a negative factor here!
-I totally agree with said post, especially with the Golarion Part!
BRIMSTONE |
"These things also I have observed: that knowledge of our world is
to be nurtured like a precious flower, for it is the most precious
thing we have. Wherefore guard the word written and heed
words unwritten and set them down ere they fade . . . Learn
then, well, the arts of reading, writing, and listening true, and they
will lead you to the greatest art of all: understanding."
Alaundo of Candlekeep |
Edited by - Brimstone on 11 Jun 2008 18:47:03 |
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Markustay
Great Reader
USA
9874 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 20:58:07
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quote:
Originally posted by Asgetrion
You can rely on fanatic "Schendists" ("Schend-maniacs"?) trying to get Erik or Lisa or Jason to hire you to work on Golarion (we'll keep shouting your name at the Paizo boards until they give in! ;). If they did, it would show how much more "business-savvy" they are than WoTC.
I prefer the term "Schendohalics".
I think I'd prefer Elaine for any Golarion 'Elfish stuff' (no offense), and of course Ed for Dark Elves (or just about anything else - the man has a knack for making the ordinary extraordinary), but Steven really made the Empires of the Sands come alive for me. Maybe if he didn't want to tackle whatever area of Golarion stands in for our RW Arabian-flavor, he could perhaps do a 'Morrocan' area (which is what I think of when I picture Calimshan).
Also, anything he does with the religions would be awesome. I think his development of Ilmater's faith really made the area feel more real for me - lots of little Abbys dedicated to various 'Patron Saints'.
Then again, there no reason why all three of them couldn't do a bang-up job on anything they want - its not like Golarion should be a remake of FR. Maybe it is time for them to shake things up a bit. |
"Before you speak, ask yourself: Is it kind, is it true, is it necessary, does it improve upon the silence?" - Shirdi Sai Baba
"Maps I'll find for you both old and rare.
Maps will I seek for you of lands both dark and fair."
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 11 Jun 2008 : 22:37:41
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quote:
Originally posted by Asgetrion
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
Here: http://steveneschend.com/index.html
Y'all can feel free to ooh and ahh over my most excellent little nephew pictured on the front page, now.
The one I'll probably develop more (or link through that one with my name, just for ease of finding things) will be http://vistagmedia.com/
Steven
who really has to improve that site, as he's up to 6 short stories and 2 novels by now... |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 12 Jun 2008 : 01:00:04
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quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
In the context of the classes (both the World Building one last fall and the Game Design one this spring), I've generated over 150 pages for each class, at least 20% of each being notes on one example fantasy world (or at least I've cobbled it together so all the disparate examples can become one potential world).
Steven
who wants you to know that Generalissimo Francisco Franco is still dead.... |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Steven Schend
Forgotten Realms Designer & Author
USA
1518 Posts |
Posted - 12 Jun 2008 : 12:15:19
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quote:
Originally posted by The Sage
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
I'm curious about this myself. Any further info you can share on these developments Steven?
It may be a tad premature, but I'm looking at publishing a world in PDF form without necessary ties to any game rules (or perhaps just dropping them in as sidebars, using OGL just due to market saturation, or perhaps some other OGL out there). I'm not sure how long this will take, given my lack of professional mapping/illustrating skills, but I'm shooting for text preparation by autumn.
The question for me is whether there'd be more interest in a world and adventures among gaming fans or if there's more interest in producing my game design/world build classes as online classes/textbooks.
Steven |
For current projects and general natter, see www.steveneschend.com
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Asgetrion
Master of Realmslore
Finland
1553 Posts |
Posted - 12 Jun 2008 : 13:42:17
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quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
quote:
Originally posted by Asgetrion
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Steven Schend
I'm seriously hoping that I can turn this world of game design and world building examples into something solid for my own business as a PDF, so you may hear more about that soon....
Steven
who really really needs to do things with his websites
I didn't know you had any websites, friend Steven. And the pdf sounds interesting... Going for your own world, or just world-building notes?
Here: http://steveneschend.com/index.html
Y'all can feel free to ooh and ahh over my most excellent little nephew pictured on the front page, now.
The one I'll probably develop more (or link through that one with my name, just for ease of finding things) will be http://vistagmedia.com/
Steven
who really has to improve that site, as he's up to 6 short stories and 2 novels by now...
Steven, I could try to put together some kind of layout for you, but it's been years and years since I worked as a graphic designer (my former profession -- before I realized that what my real "calling" is to be a librarian :). You'd have to deal with the compiling of the website, though (I'm too rusty for that ;).
It's a nice picture... your beard gives you more "street cred" as a designer! (why doesn't George realize this? ) |
"What am I doing today? Ask me tomorrow - I can be sure of giving you the right answer then."
-- Askarran of Selgaunt, Master Sage, speaking to a curious merchant, Year of the Helm |
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Questions for Steven Schend
