The Long Drift Begins

When Life Gets in the Way: Rediscovering Joy Through Game Design

The past few months have been a whirlwind. As an independent game publisher, I've been striving to balance business activities, game development, a full-time marketing career, and family responsibilities. It's been overwhelming at times, but I'm grateful for my incredibly supportive family who understands that designing board games is more than a hobby—it's a passion that keeps me grounded.

Navigating Professional Transitions

Recently, my company (marketing company) was acquired by a large foreign corporation, introducing a new set of challenges. Adjusting to a different corporate culture while leading a small team has been both stressful and rewarding. I've been working hard to ensure a smooth transition for my team and to showcase our accomplishments to the new leadership.

The Importance of Mental Health

Amidst these changes, I realized I had been neglecting the activities that bring me joy. Game design, my creative outlet, had taken a backseat. Recognizing the toll this was taking on my mental health, I sought support through therapy. With guidance, I've started to reclaim time for myself and reengage with my passion.

Progress on "The Drift"

I'm excited to share that I've resumed work on "The Drift," my solo adventure game designed for busy individuals seeking a quick yet immersive experience. After months of online testing and designing over half the levels, I'm now building a physical prototype to share with fellow game designers. This project has reignited my enthusiasm, and I hope it brings joy to others as well.

Updates on "Project EOS Rise"

The 2.0 Rulebook for "Project EOS Rise" has been a collaborative triumph, thanks to our dedicated community. With only 20 copies of Project EOS Rise left, I'm focusing on local events for distribution. Shipping to the U.S. from Canada presents some uncertainties due to potential tariffs, but I'm committed to ensuring a smooth process for interested players.

Looking Ahead: "Foundation Rise"

I recently revisited the Tabletop Simulator version of "Foundation Rise," the sequel to "Project EOS Rise," and was pleasantly surprised by the progress made. Once "The Drift" prototype is circulating among colleagues, I plan to dive back into developing this next installment.

Thank you for being part of this journey. If you have questions about any of the games or would like to try them—whether released or in development—feel free to reach out. I'm always open to connecting on Tabletop Simulator for a session.

Stay tuned for more updates and live streams in the near future.

Warm regards,
James