Atomic Age Kickstarter & Wonderfilled Threats

In this engaging Vlog of Many Things episode, hosts Don and Tom welcome David Flor, known for his Kickstarter fame with Atomic Age, a post-apocalyptic RPG. The conversation delves into the game's unique blend of genres, drawing from cyberpunk, Mad Max, and even Gamma World, featuring classes like the Channeler, Engineer, and Scion. The game avoids specifying the cause of the apocalypse, leaving it open to players' creativity. The discussion also addresses the controversy surrounding AI art in RPG materials, with David clarifying their commitment to original artwork. The Kickstarter campaign offers various rewards, including digital and hardcover editions, with a goal to fund the high-quality production of the game. The episode is filled with insights into the game development process, the challenges faced by indie publishers, and the importance of community support in the RPG industry.

Takeaways

• 🎲 David FL, a software architect and game developer, is creating a post-apocalyptic RPG called Atomic Age, which is inspired by various genres including Gamma World, Mad Max, and Shadowrun.
• 🚀 The game is designed to be open-ended, allowing players to choose different scenarios like war, plague, or alien invasions for their post-apocalyptic setting.
• 📚 Atomic Age combines mechanics from D20 and 13th Age, offering a traditional D20 system with class definitions in the style of 13th Age.
• 🤖 The game includes classes like Channeler, Engineer, and Scion, with the Engineer class having a cyberpunk influence, using programming as a form of casting.
• 🧙 The game features genotypes instead of races, allowing players to define their character's species with various characteristics like agility, the ability to fly, and more.
• 💻 The Kickstarter campaign for Atomic Age aims to raise $16,000, which will cover costs such as editing, printing, and binding, with taxes and platform fees taking a significant portion of the funds.
• 🎨 The game's artwork is being done by Don, who is also the host of the Vlog of Many Things, and there was a controversy regarding AI-generated art that was clarified during the discussion.
• 🌐 David has plans for a website that will host the game's rules, allow online character creation, and provide a searchable beastiary.
• 📉 The Kickstarter campaign has had some initial struggles with marketing, but the team remains optimistic about its progress.
• 🤝 Don and Tom express their support for David's project and encourage viewers to back the Kickstarter, share the link, or simply stay updated with the campaign.
• 🔢 The game uses a D20 and D6 dice, with a mechanic that involves adding bonus or penalty rolls from a D6 to the D20 roll for a unique take on the standard system.

Q & A

What is the name of the post-apocalyptic role-playing game that David Flor is developing?

The name of the post-apocalyptic role-playing game that David Flor is developing is 'Atomic Age'.

What is unique about the setting of Atomic Age?

The setting of Atomic Age is unique because it is open-ended and not specific to a particular cause for the apocalypse. It could be due to war, plague, aliens, or any other scenario that players want to explore.

How does the Kickstarter campaign for Atomic Age differ from other RPG campaigns?

The Kickstarter campaign for Atomic Age is unique because it combines traditional D20 mechanics with aspects from 13th Age, offering a blend of simplicity and complexity in gameplay. It also features classes like the Engineer, which uses technology and hacking as a form of magic.

What is the controversy surrounding the use of AI art in the Kickstarter campaign?

The controversy arose when BackerKit, a crowdfunding platform, accused the Atomic Age campaign of using AI-generated art. The creators clarified that the art was not AI-generated and faced challenges in proving its authenticity, which led to a switch to Kickstarter.

What are the components of the Atomic Age game?

The components of the Atomic Age game include six core classes (Channeler, Engineer, Scion, Marauder, Scout, and Veteran), genotypes instead of races, and a system that incorporates programming and hacking mechanics for the Engineer class.

How does the Atomic Age game handle character progression?

Atomic Age handles character progression in a way that each class is functionally different at every 10 levels. Players can choose from simple to complex classes depending on their preference for gameplay complexity.

What is the current status of the Atomic Age Kickstarter campaign?

At the time of the transcript, the Atomic Age Kickstarter campaign has reached 27.2% of its funding goal with 22 days remaining in the campaign.

What are the future plans for the Atomic Age RPG if the Kickstarter is successful?

If the Kickstarter is successful, David Flor plans to release at least four adventure modules and possibly some supplements and lore material for various aspects of the United States in the Atomic Age setting.

What is the controversy involving Stephen Dardt and David Flor?

The controversy involves a warning letter from Stephen Dardt to David Flor, accusing him of defamation and cyberstalking, and demanding that he cease his actions. This stems from public criticism of Dardt's work by Flor and others.

How does David Flor approach criticism of his work?

David Flor is open to criticism and sees it as an opportunity to improve his work. He has expressed willingness to provide a free copy of his published work to anyone who wants to do a legitimate critique of it.

What is the estimated budget for the Atomic Age RPG project?

David Flor estimates that he needs around $21,000 to be in the black for the Atomic Age RPG project, with Kickstarter and taxes taking up about a third of the funding.

Outlines

00:00

😀 Introduction and Atomic Age RPG Overview

The video begins with host Don welcoming viewers to the Vlog of Many Things. He is joined by Tom and special guest David Flor, known for his work on Kickstarter. They discuss the Atomic Age, a post-apocalyptic RPG developed by David. The game is flexible, allowing for various scenarios like war, plague, or alien invasions. The conversation highlights the game's unique classes, such as the Channeler, Engineer, and Scion, and touches on the game's mechanics, which are a blend of D20 and 13th Age systems.

05:01

🚀 The Engineer Class and Cyberpunk Influence

The discussion delves into the Engineer class in Atomic Age, which is inspired by cyberpunk and Shadowrun. Unlike traditional spellcasters, Engineers use an 'engineering deck' to execute programs as spells. They also have a hacking mechanic, allowing them to enhance their abilities through special programs. The conversation also touches on the game's setting, which combines elements of Mad Max, Gamma World, and Fallout, with a unique genotype system that defines character species and abilities.

10:03

🎨 Artwork and AI Art Controversy

The hosts address the controversy surrounding AI-generated art in the context of their Kickstarter campaign. They share their experiences with BackerKit, which led to a last-minute switch to Kickstarter due to policies regarding AI art. They clarify that the artwork for their project is not AI-generated and discuss the challenges faced by artists in proving the authenticity of their work. The video also includes a link to the Kickstarter campaign for those interested in supporting the project.

15:05

📚 Kickstarter Rewards and Format Details

The conversation shifts to the rewards available through the Kickstarter campaign, which include digital and hardcover versions of the Atomic Age RPG, a GM screen, and a stretch goal for brass D6 bullet dice. The hosts discuss the book's format, featuring full-color, high-resolution covers and black and white interiors. They also mention the involvement of a talented cartographer and the possibility of additional content, such as a bestiary and adventure modules, if the campaign is successful.

20:08

💰 Kickstarter Funding and Future Plans

The hosts discuss the financial aspects of the Kickstarter campaign, including the goal of $16,000 and the various costs associated with producing the RPG, such as editing, printing, and binding. They emphasize the importance of responsible funding and the potential for future supplements and adventures. David also shares his commitment to releasing the product regardless of the Kickstarter's outcome, though funding will help to enhance the final product.

25:09

🤝 Collaboration and Support in the Indie Publishing Community

The video highlights the importance of supporting indie publishers and the collaborative efforts within the community. David Flor is praised for his contributions to the gaming community, particularly his reporting on industry news. The hosts also mention their ongoing collaboration with other publishers and the value of mutual support. They encourage viewers to back the Kickstarter not only for the product but also to show appreciation for the service David has provided to the community.

30:11

📘 RPG Mechanics and D20 System

The conversation explores the RPG mechanics of Atomic Age, which are inspired by D&D but are not a direct reskin of 5e. The game uses a D20-based system with class mechanics influenced by 13th Age. The hosts discuss the importance of familiar game mechanics for players and the prevalence of the D20 system across successful RPGs. They also touch on the use of other dice systems, such as D6, in different games.

35:11

📈 Kickstarter Progress and Personal Projects

The hosts provide an update on the Kickstarter's progress, celebrating new backers and the growth of the campaign's funding. David shares his history with Kickstarter, mentioning past successful projects and the ongoing work on the Midian Temple. They discuss the importance of transparency and updates with backers, even when projects face delays. The conversation also includes a humorous moment where David is congratulated for making it onto a certain list, highlighting the community's camaraderie.

40:13

📝 Handling Criticism and Legal Threats

The video addresses the challenges of handling criticism and legal threats in the public eye. The hosts read a letter from a company president accusing David of defamation and cyberstalking, and they discuss the importance of accepting legitimate criticism. They contrast negative reactions with a positive example from a Facebook user who pointed out a mistake on their website. The hosts emphasize the need for public figures to accept critique and the importance of professionalism in response to errors.

45:14

💌 Responding to Mistakes and Professionalism in Publishing

The conversation continues with a discussion on acknowledging and correcting mistakes, especially in the context of publishing. The hosts share their experiences with editing and the importance of professional responses to errors. They also discuss the process of obtaining ISBN numbers and the benefits of buying them in bulk for professional publishing. The video concludes with a reiteration of the commitment to quality and professionalism in their work.

50:15

🎲 RPG Components and Supporting the Kickstarter

The hosts discuss the components needed to play Atomic Age, emphasizing the importance of D20 and D6 dice. They also mention the future development of a website for character creation and an online searchable beastiary. The video wraps up with a call to action for viewers to support the Kickstarter, even if it's just by sharing the link. They highlight the value of sharing and the impact it can have on the success of crowdfunding campaigns.

55:18

📢 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

In the final moments, the hosts thank David for joining the show and express their support for the Atomic Age Kickstarter. They encourage viewers to subscribe to their channels and like the video. The conversation ends on a positive note, with well wishes and an invitation for David to return to the show in the future.

Keywords

Atomic Age

Atomic Age refers to the post-apocalyptic role-playing game that David Flor is developing and has a Kickstarter campaign for. It is set in a post-World War III United States, though the specific cause of the apocalypse is left open-ended, allowing for various scenarios like war, plague, or alien invasion. The game is inspired by different genres, including Gamma World, Mad Max, and Shadowrun, and incorporates elements from these into its mechanics and setting.

Kickstarter

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform where creators can raise funds for their projects by offering rewards to backers. In the context of the video, David Flor has launched a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the development and publication of the Atomic Age RPG. The success of the campaign is crucial for the game's production as it helps cover costs such as editing, printing, and binding.

Role-Playing Game (RPG)

A Role-Playing Game (RPG) is a type of game in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting. In the video, the discussion revolves around the Atomic Age RPG, which David Flor has created. The game includes elements like character classes, genotypes, and a unique mechanic that combines traditional D20 systems with new ideas.

D20 System

The D20 System refers to a game mechanics framework used in various tabletop RPGs, most notably the Dungeons & Dragons franchise. In the video, it is mentioned that Atomic Age uses a system inspired by D20, with modifications and additions to create a unique gameplay experience. The D20 refers specifically to the 20-sided die that is central to these mechanics.

13th Age

13th Age is a fantasy RPG that uses a system influenced by Dungeons & Dragons. It is mentioned in the video as an influence on the Atomic Age RPG, particularly in how classes are defined and the structure of the game mechanics. The 13th Age style is noted for its narrative focus and is compared to the more traditional D20 mechanics in Atomic Age.

Genotypes

In the context of the Atomic Age RPG, genotypes are used instead of traditional races in role-playing games. Players can define their character's species or genotype by characteristics such as being light, heavy, agile, or even the ability to fly. This system allows for a broader and more customizable range of character creation options.

Engineer Class

The Engineer class in Atomic Age is described as a 'Caster' class with a cyberpunk influence. Unlike traditional spellcasters, Engineers use an 'engineering deck' where their 'spells' are actually computer programs they can execute. This class incorporates technology as magic, blending the concept of programming with the mechanics of spellcasting.

Mad Max

Mad Max is a series of post-apocalyptic movies that have influenced the setting and atmosphere of the Atomic Age RPG. The game includes vehicle rules and portrays a barren desert wasteland, similar to the Mad Max universe, which adds to the game's overall post-apocalyptic theme.

Shadowrun

Shadowrun is a tabletop RPG that blends cyberpunk and fantasy elements. It is mentioned in the video as an influence on the Atomic Age RPG, particularly for the Engineer class which has a hacking mechanic and uses programming as a form of magic, similar to Shadowrun's blend of technology and magic.

AI Art

AI Art refers to artwork created or generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence. In the video, there is a discussion about the use and controversy surrounding AI art in the context of the Atomic Age RPG's Kickstarter campaign. The creators clarify that the art for the game is not AI-generated, addressing concerns and misconceptions raised by potential backers.

Stretch Goals

Stretch goals are additional objectives that a Kickstarter campaign aims to achieve beyond its initial funding target. If the campaign raises more funds than the initial goal, these extra funds can be used to provide additional content or benefits, such as premium dice or additional game supplements, as mentioned in the video for the Atomic Age RPG.

Highlights

Don and Tom welcome David Flor of Kickstarter Fame Atomic AG to the Vlog of Many Things.

Atomic Age is a post-apocalyptic RPG set in a World War III-like United States, with open-ended scenarios allowing for various causes of the apocalypse.

The game mechanics are a blend of D20 and 13th Age systems, offering a mix of simplicity and complexity for different player preferences.

David Flor discusses the six classes available in Atomic Age, including the Channeler, Engineer, Scion, Marauder, Scout, and Veteran.

The Engineer class is influenced by cyberpunk, using an 'engineering deck' where spells are executed as computer programs.

Atomic Age features genotypes instead of races, allowing players to define their character's species with various characteristics.

The game has been in development for 12 years, with a focus on mechanics and a recent addition of lore to the game world.

David Flor addresses the controversy around AI art in RPG products and the challenges faced with BackerKit due to misconceptions about the art being AI-generated.

The Kickstarter campaign for Atomic Age offers digital and hardcover options, with stretch goals including a GM screen and brass D6 bullet dice.

The core book of Atomic Age is about 80% complete with 220 pages, and the Kickstarter features a temporary cover art placeholder.

David Flor shares his plans for future supplements and adventures for Atomic Age if the Kickstarter is successful.

The first adventure module, 'Fire from the Sky', is included in the core book and is a reimagined version of a previously争议ed adventure.

The discussion touches on the importance of supporting indie publishers and the contributions of David Flor to the OSR community.

David Flor's commitment to delivering the product regardless of the Kickstarter's outcome, though funding would make the process smoother.

The Atomic Age RPG uses a combination of D20 mechanics and unique systems, inspired by games like DND but offering its own twist.

David Flor's transparency about the budgeting process for the Kickstarter campaign, emphasizing the need for financial viability and professional publishing standards.

The importance of editing and the challenges faced by creators in the final stages of product development, emphasizing quality over quantity.

The plan to create an online platform for Atomic Age that includes all rules, character creation tools, and a searchable beastiary.