Judging and rating for the Appendix N Jam was extended to mid-October, but I already feel like I have the feedback I need to deliver the definitive version of my adventure, Warriors of the Bleached Basin. So today, I’ve released the Director’s Cut–a version that exists outside the boundaries of the competition.
The Director’s Cut isn’t intended to replace my original submission for ranking purposes, obviously. If you’re a jam participant, I recommend not even looking at this until you’ve read and rated my original entry (let’s keep it fair!). But I had planned to move on from this project by the end of September and, unlike the judges, I have no commitments. Picture me as a hooded ranger in the corner of the tavern, sliding forth forbidden lore. I hope you’ll take a look and let me know what you think!
What’s Changed?
I added two A5 pages to my entry, inspired by some really insightful critiques of my entry. That’s it, just two more pages. Despite a few people asking about an expanded edition, this remains a concise piece for now.
I’m thrilled the setting resonated with so many, but those extra locations in the Bleached Basin don’t actually need expanding. That isn’t why they’re there. They’re sparks for your group’s improv: toys that ground the setting in its pulpy science-fantasy roots. The wilderness crawl offers the illusion of a larger world without ruining the intrigue. After all, you don’t really want extra scenes about the Jawas when you’re watching Star Wars for the first time. The focus of the adventure should remain on the explorers–the players–and their encounters with the titular Warriors.
I also made some major changes to how information is presented. As one Redditor put it, I had “the where mixed with the what and the who.” With two additional pages, I can give dedicated space to both the dungeon key and the villains.
Thank you to everyone who looked at or rated my original submission, and to everyone who took the time to leave feedback in the comments or on Reddit. It seriously warms my heart to know this community is filled with so many thoughtful creators, and I’m proud to showcase my work alongside yours.
Check out the Director’s Cut of Warriors for the definitive experience. It’s free right here.
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