By Leo Cunha, Lead Game Designer

Starting with the excitement of Gen Con, the event proved to be an incredible success for Relics Untold. The entire experience of the conference was nothing short of amazing. As newcomers to Gen Con, we were very happy to discover that this year’s edition was the largest so far, boasting an impressive turnout of over 70,000 enthusiastic attendees. We had an amazing time on our trip to Indianapolis, with lots of fun and memorable experiences.

One of the defining moments of our time at Gen Con was the privilege to interact with none other than Tracy Hickman, a legend in the world of fantasy gaming and storytelling. Tracy’s influence had been profound on our creative journey, and meeting him in person was a dream come true. The highlight was an immersive session centered around Dragonlance releases, where attendees could dive into the intricacies of the game world and its lore. For me, personally, having him and Margaret autograph my cherished first edition of Dragons of Fate was unforgettable.

One memory will stand out as a testament to Loot Studios’ shared passion and appreciation for fantasy worlds: the honor of presenting a stunning gift to Tracy Hickman, a diorama featuring an inspiring and detailed scene of a battle between two great dragons, a symbol of gratitude and respect for Tracy’s unparalleled contributions to the realm of fantasy gaming and storytelling.

The days that followed were a whirlwind of interactions, connections, and shared experiences. Engaging with fellow creators, industry experts, and gamers of all backgrounds revealed the mosaic of perspectives that converged within the gaming world. The exchange of ideas and visions in an atmosphere of collaboration and growth reminded us that Gen Con was not merely a platform for showcasing our creation, but a hub of collective creativity.

However, the pinnacle of our Gen Con journey revolved around Hickman’s once-secret, now-revealed project. The unveiling of Relics Untold during the conference shared exclusive insights and intricate details about the game’s mechanics, storyline, and visual design. Interacting with some Loot subscribers, previous playtesters, and new devoted players was a moment of connection that enriched the experience, watching their eyes lighting up with curiosity and excitement as the layers of the game’s world were unfurled before them. Their enthusiasm and genuine interest fortified our belief that we are indeed on the right path, creating something that resonates deeply with the gaming community’s desires.

Standing alongside Tracy Hickman during the presentation of Relics Untold was a moment that filled me with a sense of pride and honor. To share the stage with a visionary like him, someone whose work had sparked my own creativity, was a realization of dreams beyond my imagination. As we introduced the game to the world, discussing its process of creation, features, and narrative, I felt a deep connection to the legacy of storytelling and world-building that Tracy had championed. His enthusiasm further validated the journey we had embarked upon, reinforcing the belief that we were not only contributing to the tapestry of gaming but also carrying forward the torch of innovation that individuals like Tracy had ignited, continuing to serve as a source of inspiration.

In addition to the conference events, we had the privilege to run some playtests with influencers and important figures within the gaming industry. It was an opportunity to see our creation in the hands of those who contributed to the gaming landscape. Just as Loot Studios is renowned for its breathtaking art and realistic miniatures, much like Tracy is celebrated for his inspiring worlds and unforgettable stories, witnessing the participants’ engagement and enjoyment with the game was deeply gratifying. As the playtests unfolded, the room buzzed with energy as players immersed themselves in the world of Relics Untold. The resounding phrase “You have the hardest: a good game” sounded as an echo through the halls, validating our dedication to crafting a challenging yet rewarding experience. The interactions and discussions that followed were enlightening, providing valuable perspectives that would definitely help refine the gameplay and enhance player immersion.

Our presence in Indianapolis extended far beyond the convention center. Gen Con 2023 provided a unique opportunity for us to solidify strategic partnerships, ensure top-tier manufacturing standards, develop innovative technical solutions to enhance gameplay and expand our distribution network that promises wider accessibility to our creation. In essence, Gen Con not only symbolized an achievement for unveiling our passion project but also served as a pivotal milestone for forging the future success of Relics Untold.

As we bid farewell to these incredible days, we carry with us a treasure trove of memories, knowledge, connections, and invaluable insights that will continue to guide us on our creative journey. With hearts full of gratitude and inspiration, we step into Relics Untold odyssey, propelling us towards even greater horizons of storytelling, gameplay, and shared adventures.