Lorekeeper Prototype V2 Update: A Better Binder, Page Tweaks & Some Challenges

The V2 prototype is here! A lot of the changes probably won't look crazy at first, but there has been a lot of work happening behind the scenes.

A Binder Actually Designed for Lorekeeper

It makes it easier to write on the foldouts

The biggest change is the binder itself. I realized I don't need to work around a standard binder design, I can just make one specifically for Lorekeeper. (This just in, product designer finds out she can design product.) So V2 has been redesigned around the wet erase foldout pages, giving them proper support while still keeping the journal compact and usable at the table.

I've also added a pocket to the back for handouts, maps, character art, loose notes, and all the other bits that you accumulate during a campaign.

The Unsung Hero: Page Edits

I also edited every single interior page. Because Lorekeeper uses a six-hole binder instead of the coil binding from my previous journals, the margins are different and V1 was designed at the wrong width.

Every page has now been adjusted to maximize writing space and I've also standardized the line heights throughout the journal so there's a little more room to comfortably write. Will you notice? Likely not. Did it take me forever? Yes. So, please pat me on the back, I need it.

A Manufacturer Challenge and Change

My original binder manufacturer unfortunately didn't work out. Communication and execution weren't where I needed them to be, so I've moved the project over to the manufacturer I already use for the MagVaults.

I've worked with them before and trust their quality, so I'm actually really happy with the change. I'm also glad it happened now, during prototyping, rather than later when there's a Kickstarter deadline hanging over me.

What's Next?

There are still a couple of physical tweaks to make. I want to protect the tab dividers a little better and increase the binder ring size so there's more room for refills.

Once the binder dimensions are locked in, I can start the deboss designs for each colourway.

I'm also making the last corrections to the interior pages and having a friend go through everything from an editor's perspective, including checking the game mechanics for anything I've missed.

I need to make sure class mechanics are sound

My current plan:

V3: Finalize the binder construction, interior pages and stationery packaging.

V4: Test the finished deboss designs and colourways, plus the binder packaging.

So... Timeline?

My goal is to have as much finished before the Kickstarter launches as possible. That way, once it's funded, we're basically ready to move into production.

I'm comfortable launching once V3 arrives and the binder itself is finalized, even if everyone has to use a tiny bit of imagination for the final deboss designs. I can finish those and the remaining packaging while the Kickstarter is running.

I also want the second MagVault production run finished and in people's hands before I launch something new. Things are a bit up in the air, but i promise to stay as transparent as possible!