Three Principles I want DR Games to Embody

I have had a long time to think about my own creative ethos such as; being creative, open minded, inclusive, chase an idea and develop it, try not to fix on your first idea and such. I want DR Games to embody some of this. So, I conceived of three principles that I hope all my games will reflect and embrace, helping form a recognisable brand.

The three principles are:

Narrative. I am keen to have to have a story for every part of any game I create. In my mind elements of a game need to be created for a reason and that is often story driven. In fact, I want this narrative to continue through the game, so the players end up making their own stories after it is out of my hands. It’s that sense of emersion I want to imbue in my games, one that comes from the story. At the same time, I think that doing this makes everything make sense, increase peoples’ chances of remembering and makes it more fun!

Streamlined. I have seen many complex games over the years and although some are great, they often involve a high level of commitment, time and learning which most of us find hard to cram into everyday life and maybe a bit off putting. I am keen to create involved games but also make them streamlined. What I mean by this, is reduce the number of counters, cards and pieces, break down the rules, simplify the system, find other ways to impart information. It is about being more inclusive and appeal to a larger demographic but still at its core deliver something that is expected, at a shorter play time.

Recognisable. One of my aims is to create a brand continuity. My drawings and map work will be a unifying element through the range of products I produce. This is an illustrative style that relies on hand draw line techniques and shading which has been embodied by my Dark Realm Maps.