THORN

This is THORN Seedling Edition.

Like a seedling, this is just the beginning . THORN will grow over time, as new rules and ideas are created and released as optional modules. Eventually, THORN will be fully grown, creating the full game. For now, we start small.

It’s diceless, doesn’t use health for enemies, treats combat more like a puzzle, and emphasizes exploration just as much as fighting. Welcome to LUMEN 2.0, fantasy style.

Modular

THORN Seedling Edition is being released in small bits and pieces. The core rules are here for you to try out, with more on the way. As I create more rules modules, they'll be added to this page. 

The point of modular design is multifold. It frees me from trying to create the whole dang game in one shot. It allows me to play with possible subsystems, releasing them as modules and then seeing how they feel. It allows you to plug in the modules that are most exciting to you, and ignore those you don't vibe with.

The first module for THORN Seedling Edition has arrived! You'll find more rules on how to run combat and a deeper explanation of removing health/HP from the game.

The second module is focused on specific classes for the Thorns to choose from.

PWYW

Given its very incomplete nature, THORN Seedling Edition is pay what you want. If you do decide to pay for it, I of course appreciate it. Whether you pay or not, the modules will be here for you when I release them.

The final version of the game will be a separate release. Your support here helps make that a reality.

Videos

As I release the rules and modules, I'll try to do a short stream and recording breaking down how it works. For modules in particular, I'll talk about how they do or do not line up nicely with any other previously released rules. 

Check out the video for the core rules below!

A design commentary on the first module can be found in this video!

A design commentary on the first module can be found in this video!