About Alex Watkins
Alex Watkins is the head of organized play for SolForge Fusion, but before joining our team, he had years of experience running organized play for games like Keyforge and X-Wing. We're super excited to have him on the show today, discussing how organized play systems are developed, the relationship between organized play and game design, and what organized play will look like for SolForge Fusion.
Show Notes:
Unique Deck Mechanics in Soulforge Fusion (16:35.54 - 19:22.87):
"Every card is numbered... because we have over 15,000 possible cards in set one alone."
Alex delves deep into the revolutionary mechanics of Soulforge Fusion, highlighting the uniqueness of every deck and card. This system, he believes, adds an unparalleled depth and variety to gameplay while giving collectors a treasure trove of possibilities.
Unique Deck Mechanics in Soulforge Fusion (16:35.54 - 19:22.87):
"In Soulforge Fusion, every card has its own story... with a universe of 15,000 possibilities in just the first set."
This deep dive into the game mechanics underscores the depth and individuality inherent in Soulforge Fusion. The unique numbering and vast array of cards promise a fresh experience for every player and a collector's dream.
Season Zero - A Lesson in Innovation (21:40.33 - 23:55.12):
"With Season Zero, we aimed for early engagement... yet, the complexity of innovation can sometimes be its own obstacle."
Through this introspection, Alex and the team acknowledge the hurdles of pioneering game concepts. It's a candid reflection on the balance between groundbreaking ideas and ensuring they resonate with the community.
Renown System - A New Dimension to Gameplay (31:07.50 - 33:48.63):
"Through Renown, every game becomes a chapter in your deck's legacy... and every achievement, a step toward its evolution."
This discussion unveils the innovative Renown system, emphasizing its transformative impact on gameplay. For the team, it's not just a scoring mechanism but a way to reward dedication and maintain game dynamism.
Embracing Feedback and Player-driven Formats (39:12.45 - 40:53.55):
"Our game thrives on its community. We might falter, but together, we shape its destiny."
Alex champions the value of community feedback, urging players to be co-creators in Soulforge Fusion's journey. It's a testament to a development approach that prioritizes player voices.
Closing Thoughts on the Soulforge Fusion Journey (51:20.71 - 53:15.23):
"Embarking on this journey with Soulforge Fusion has been a dream... and every teammate and player makes it a reality."
In this heartwarming conclusion, Alex celebrates the collective effort behind Soulforge Fusion. With anticipation and gratitude, he looks to the game's future, hoping it captures hearts worldwide.
Alex Watkins — From Evolutions in Mechanics to Shaping the Future of Organized Play, The Journey of Crafting a New Gaming Experience in Soulforge Fusion (#41)