079: Designing Vagrantsong & two expansions with Kyle Rowan of Wyrd Games

Roll Play Grow: A TTRPG Business Podcast

Today, we take an exclusive tour of board game development behind the scenes with the imaginative Kyle Rowan, Design Lead at Wyrd Games. Kyle delves into his personal trajectory from gamer to game designer, detailing the evolution of his role at Wyrd Games and the life of the board game Vagrantsong.
Kyle reflects on the spark that ignited Vagrantsong and the journey of developing the game and its expansions. He provides deeper insights into the mechanics and philosophy behind each expansion. We also touch upon the local legend of Slagpile Annie, a friendly Pittsburgh ghost, making her spectral debut in the game.
We also delve into the anticipation surrounding the upcoming Kickstarter and the reception of the game since its release. Kyle gives us an honest glimpse into the rollercoaster ride of the game industry, the highs, the lows and everything in between. He offers pearls of wisdom for those aspiring to make their mark in the gaming world. So, buckle up and enjoy this enlightening conversation with a true gaming wizard.
Find Kyle & Vagrantsong at:

• Vagrantsong
• Vagrantsong Encore
• Vagrantsong Encore Kickstarter
• Twitter

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Chapters

1. Introduction & Updates (00:00:00)

2. Kyle Introduction (00:02:45)

3. Designing a complex board game like Vagrantsong (00:09:16)

4. Vagrant Song's Expansions and Character Development (00:16:53)

5. Introducing the upcoming expansions for Vagrantsong (00:20:39)

6. Developing the expansions for Vagrantsong (00:29:49)

7. What will the Kickstarter look like? (00:34:34)

8. Game Industry Challenges and Rewards (00:42:59)

9. Where can people find you? (00:48:12)

10. Wrap-up (00:49:39)