KickStarter Sea of Legends - deckbuilding tactical pirate RPG from Jordan Weisman

[Infinitron]

Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jordanweisman/sea-of-legends-open-world-crpg

https://adventureforge.games/seaoflegends

Take the open systems-driven world of Sid Meiers’ Pirates with the tactics of Shadowrun and Slay the Spire’s deck-building mechanics.

Jordan Weisman, the creator of BattleTech, MechWarrior, Shadowrun, Crimson Skies, and more is inviting you to set sail for adventure, privacy, larceny, and romance in Sea of Legends, a new open-world, decking-building RPG.

Become the Scourge of the Seas​

Lead your crew to victory with tactical maneuvers and the deadly abilities of your card deck!

When sailing the Caribbean, you can land at any island to take advantage of what it has to offer. Engage in battle with any ship you can board.

Engage in Boarding Actions!​

Your sea battle deck is built from your ship’s ability cards and your crew’s ability cards. In this initiative driven system, you’ll maneuver your character and crew to attack and take cover. Your tactical combat desk provides special abilities and attacks.

Visit Ports & Taverns​

Dock at friendly ports to sell your plunder, purchase supplies, repair or upgrade your ship, hire crew, and collect rumors about rich ships to prey upon. If you've gained notoriety you may just be welcomed at the Governor’s mansion to help the Crown’s agenda.

Romance Characters​

Whether at the Governor’s mansion, in taverns, or onboard, romance is almost always in the air as you woo lovers to gain their emotional and material support in your endeavors. Romance requires learning about the person you are wooing in order to avoid mistakes such as giving them flowers they’re allergic to!

Beware Strange Tides​

Beware the Dread Tide, Conquistadors who drank from the Fountain of Youth and are now doomed are cursed to an eternity of being the living dead. Led by their Skeletal Colossus they seek vengeance on the living as they attempt to conquer the Caribbean.

Based in the Universe of a Highly Successful Board Game!​

Based on the successful tabletop game by Zach Weisman and Ryan Schapals, Sea of Legends: CRPG will be the first large scale game built on the Adventure Forge no-code authoring platform which has been in development for over three years.
This project is led by:

• Jordan Weisman, Creative Director, creator of BattleTech and MechWarrior, Shadowrun, Crimson Skies, and more.
• Justin Gray, Design Consultant, designer of Ascension, one of the most respected deck building games ever created.
• Kate Cruz, Art Director, Senior Concept artist on Ubisoft’s Skull & Bones.
• Zach Weisman, Game Designer, Creator of the Sea of Legends board game series.
• Andrew McIntosh, Lead Writer, Lead Writer of BATTLETECH, Shadowrun: Dragonfall, and Shadowrun: Hong Kong.
• Jeffery Campbell, Contributing Writer - Narrative Designer on Darkest Dungeon, Dead Rising 4, and Deus Ex: Mankind Divided,
• Anthea Carns - Contributing Writer - Narrative Design on Lamp Lighters League

 

[Infinitron]

 

[Parsimonious cook]

From Battletech to this? This is what real decline looks like.

 

[Lemming42]

Looks like fun but the most interesting bit might be this:

Based on the successful tabletop game by Zach Weisman and Ryan Schapals, Sea of Legends: CRPG will be the first large scale game built on the Adventure Forge no-code authoring platform which has been in development for over three years.

I heard about this thing the other day, I wonder how powerful it is. Could be a whole wave of good games coming our way. Or a wave of total shit. Or a wave of shit with some good games hidden in it, that you have to dive into open-mouthed to try and look for the gems.

 

[cyborgboy95]

Man I am willing to stomach the card-based combat. However, I really wish they would do something about the artstyle, it just look cheap and not in a good way. Not gonna back the kickstarter but will certainly follow on Steam

 

[Tyranicon]

Looks like fun but the most interesting bit might be this:

Based on the successful tabletop game by Zach Weisman and Ryan Schapals, Sea of Legends: CRPG will be the first large scale game built on the Adventure Forge no-code authoring platform which has been in development for over three years.

I heard about this thing the other day, I wonder how powerful it is. Could be a whole wave of good games coming our way. Or a wave of total shit. Or a wave of shit with some good games hidden in it, that you have to dive into open-mouthed to try and look for the gems.

Has Adventure Forge been released yet?

There's always a million questions you need to ask about a new engine (or an "authoring platform"). The trailer seems to be very focused on Visual Novels, when there's already Ren'py, a well-established free engine with a dedicated community. Then it goes onto to describe isometric RPGs, but doesn't show combat at all.

....

 

[Jaesun]

I like the Pirate theme and card based combat (I actually enjoy that stuff).

Is this another game where they (currently) do not own the rights for it? Also isn't he a part of Hairbraned and aren't they doing GRAFT?

 

[OSK]

I like the Pirate theme and card based combat (I actually enjoy that stuff).

Is this another game where they (currently) do not own the rights for it?

It's based off a board game by Jordan Weisman's son.

 

[Jaesun]

I like the Pirate theme and card based combat (I actually enjoy that stuff).

Is this another game where they (currently) do not own the rights for it?

It's based off a board game by Jordan Weisman's son.

OK interesting. Thank you.

 

[Zed Duke of Banville]

Would be better with a strictly accurate map rather than the cartoonish, stylized one:

 

[Fedora Master]

Deck building --> Trash

 

[Borelli]

I thought based on thread title that you build decks of a ship.

 

[Infinitron]

Also isn't he a part of Hairbraned and aren't they doing GRAFT?

He left Harebrained Schemes in 2019, a year after they were acquired by Paradox.

 

[Zed Duke of Banville]

I thought based on thread title that you build decks of a ship.

You must have been thinking of that Ship of Theseus game.

 

[luj1]

Looks like a browser game made in Taiwan. What the fuck?

 

[Infinitron]

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jordanweisman/sea-of-legends-open-world-crpg/posts/4225165

New Faction: The French Empire Joins the Fray!​

Ahoy, backers! We can’t thank you enough for your incredible support—you’re the wind in our sails, helping us bring Sea of Legends to life. Now for the exciting news:

That's right, The French Empire is officially joining the base game! With their arrival comes a sense of mystery—what secret plans are they weaving across the Caribbean? Expect new enemies, fresh challenges, and their growing influence across the islands. You’ll also gain access to intriguing new romance options that will add even more depth to your pirate adventure

Mechanically, the French bring a unique twist to combat. They excel at healing and keeping their forces in the fight, making their crews especially durable. Their subtlety also shines through in clever tactical maneuvers, using cards that can be combined to influence enemy behavior—allowing you to control who and how enemies target, giving you a powerful edge in battles.

To give you a glimpse of what’s coming, we’re thrilled to share an early battle with Dumas and his French soldiers, set on a Caribbean beach. But this is just the beginning—the French will be a formidable presence across the islands, keeping you on your toes. (Note that this is prototype gameplay, and as such there's no sound in this battle - yet!)

Stay tuned for our weekly updates, where we’ll reveal new game features and content. Next week, we have something extra special—our Pirate Halloween Spectacular! Don’t miss out, and help us spread the word by telling your friends about the Kickstarter by forwarding this email to them. Be sure to follow us on social media for even more exciting news and updates. Let’s work together to bring more backers on board!



Like18 people like this update

 

[Zed Duke of Banville]

Would be better with a strictly accurate map rather than the cartoonish, stylized one:

Sid Meier's Pirates! (1987)

 

[BosanskiSeljak]

I am actually impressed by how bad this looks, a level of talent beyond what I thought imaginable

 

[NaturallyCarnivorousSheep]

I don't hate the idea so added to my wishlist but I have my doubts with deck building and shit

 

[Infinitron]

 

[Infinitron]

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jordanweisman/sea-of-legends-open-world-crpg/posts/4228308

Join the Writhing Maw – Because Even World Domination Deserves Style​

Ahoy, sailor! The Writhing Maw, a shadowy cult bound to the Kraken, has long been lurking beneath the surface, quietly steering the fate of the Caribbean. Whispers of their influence ripple through every faction, their true purpose known only to a select few. The Maw’s ultimate goal remains shrouded in secrecy, but one thing is certain: they seek to awaken the Kraken and unleash its power to reshape the world in its image. The seas will never be the same again.

Why Join the Writhing Maw?

• Buffets Worth Endin' the World For: Honestly, the food alone is reason enough to join. If ye like yer meals unlimited and slightly chaotic, this is the cult for ye.
• Look Good While Sowing Chaos: If ye’re gonna bring about world domination, at least do it with style. The natty dress of the cult is all ye need to look the part.
• Reasonably-Priced Hats: Sure, ye could dominate the seas without one, but why would ye? Especially when they’re this good lookin' and easy on the purse.

See, to carry out their plans, they need more than followers. They need bold souls to lead the charge, those unafraid to embrace the chaos to come.

To make yer mark ye need more than ambition. Ye need the look. Ye need the Squid Hat.

Yep, the Squid Hat. The same one Oria, the legendary Tentacle Tamer, wears while summonin’ sea monsters in Sea of Legends. Slap it on, and ye won’t just look like ye know the Kraken—ye’ll look like ye control it. And that’s half the game, right?

Why Ye Need the Squid Hat:

• Real, Plush, and Ready for Adventure: This isn’t just a digital item—it’s a real, cozy, plush hat ye can wear to show off yer Kraken loyalty in the real world.
• Look the Part Wherever Ye Go: Whether ye’re commandin' a ship, shoppin' for groceries, or showin' off at game night, this hat guarantees ye’ll turn heads and command respect wherever ye roam.
• Tentacle Vibes Included: It may not actually summon tentacles, but it’ll definitely make ye feel like it could. Plus, it’s perfect for keepin’ yer head warm while plannin’ yer next conquest.

This Squid Hat is more than just a look—it’s yer badge of honor in the Writhing Maw. And the best part? It’s available right now as an add-on. Don’t wait—buy yer Squid Hat today and make sure ye’re ready to make the seas tremble—tentacles and all!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jordanweisman/sea-of-legends-open-world-crpg/posts/4231158

Fortune or Folly: The Perils of Uncharted Islands​

Uncharted Islands of the Caribbean​

Ahoy, ye fearless backers and lurking scallywags alike!

This week, we’re chartin’ a course for the uncharted islands of Sea of Legends—where treasures lie buried, ruins whisper of forgotten secrets, and danger lurks in every shadow. Whether ye’re hunting lost loot, solving puzzles in ancient tombs, or burying yer own spoils, these islands are the true test for any pirate worth their salt. Ready to make yer mark? Let’s set sail!

X Marks the Spot: The Thrill of Treasure Hunting​

In Sea of Legends, treasure ain’t just handed to ye—it’s earned. The adventure starts with a clue—maybe a torn map from a rival, a cryptic note, or a secret whispered over a mug o’ rum. Then, it’s up to ye to follow the trail.

Using yer clues and maps, ye’ll sail to secret islands where treasure and mystery await. These islands are packed with traps, puzzles, and riches, but only the cleverest pirates will claim ‘em. Outsmart the dangers, solve the puzzles, and seize the loot—if ye’ve got the nerve!

Ancient Ruins: Puzzle-Filled Pirate Dungeons​

On these uncharted shores, ye’ll stumble upon ancient ruins and cursed tombs, half-lost to the jungle and time. These ruins are no easy prize—they’re RPG-style dungeons filled with deadly puzzles, traps, and long-lost secrets.

Unlock doors, dodge traps, and piece together forgotten history to claim legendary relics. Fail, and ye might face spiked pits, crumbling walls, or worse... an ancient curse. But for those who survive, there’s more than gold—relics of power, hidden maps, and knowledge that could change yer fate.

Buried Booty: A Pirate's Secret Vault​

In Sea of Legends, the wealthier a pirate gets, the more they’ll seek out uncharted islands to hide their spoils. The craftiest captains conceal their treasures with trickery and riddles, making their loot nearly impossible to find without a sharp wit and a bit of luck.

Of course, treasure this tempting rarely stays secret for long. Rumors and whispers in the taverns may lead you to these hidden caches—if you know where to listen. But be warned: digging up another pirate’s hoard is a surefire way to earn their wrath. If ye’re bold enough to try, be ready for the consequences!

So grab yer map, sharpen yer cutlass, and set sail! Fortune awaits—but so does danger.

Our Friends at Ossian Studios are Making a Pathfinder CRPG on Kickstarter, check it out!​

Only Two Days Left to Back!​

Hey RPG fans - our friends at Ossian Studios have a Kickstarter campaign for their new CRPG Pathfinder: The Dragon's Demand! This single-player, turn-based game blends the nostalgia of tabletop gaming with full 3D tactical combat using miniatures and digital dice. This expanded version of Paizo’s fan-favourite module is updated to the remastered Pathfinder 2E rules, where players can create their own character and assemble a party to explore a vast world by climbing, swimming, and flying. They’ve hit their funding goal but want to reach as many stretch goals as possible, so check it out before the campaign ends!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ossianstudios/pathfinder-the-dragons-demand?ref=9cpfz0

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jordanweisman/sea-of-legends-open-world-crpg/posts/4232576

From the Depths They Rise: The Children of Tlaloc Awaken!​

The seas are rumblin’, and somethin’ fierce be stirrin’ beneath the waves. The Children of Tlaloc—an ancient race of Merfolk—are risin’ from the deep, their vengeance as cold as the depths themselves. Treasure hunters, driven by greed, plundered their sacred temples, unleashin’ a fury the likes of which the surface world ain’t never seen.

The Children of Tlaloc: Masters of the Deep​

For many a century, the Children of Tlaloc kept to the abyss, guardin’ their relics in peace. These relics weren’t just any trinkets—they be powerful objects, holdin’ the key to summonin’ their god, Tetzahuitl, the bringer of storms and drownin' waters. But when greedy treasure hunters disturbed their rest, the Merfolk, long forgotten by time, rose again to reclaim what was theirs.

At the head of their revenge be Tenoch the Wavebreaker, a warrior whose strength be as relentless as a hurricane. Right alongside him be Chak the Oddfin, a clever fighter with an eye for the unexpected, and Itzel the Inkdepth Seer, a mage who reads the sea’s darkest secrets and foretells the doom of those who cross her kin. These three lead the charge, callin’ their Merfolk from the depths to take back their sacred relics—and drown the surface world in the process.

But their goal ain’t just revenge. These relics hold the power to awaken Tetzahuitl, the ancient god who’ll bring a great flood to sweep away the lands of men. With each relic they recover, their power grows, and the seas grow more restless. The coastal towns be whisperin’ of a comin’ doom, and they ain’t wrong—if the Children of Tlaloc reclaim all four relics, the world as ye know it will be swallowed by the sea.

Now, ye face a tough choice: Do ye strike fast and hard before they gather too much power, or do ye align yerself with 'em, usin' their strength to yer advantage, and leavin' the problem of Tetzahuitl to others? One thing’s certain, mate—the seas will never be the same.

In the game, the Merfolk scour the map for these relics, growin’ stronger with each one they claim. Once all four be in their grasp, they’ll summon Tetzahuitl, and no mortal force will be able to stop ‘em. It’s up to ye, brave captains—choose wisely, or risk bein' swept away in the final reckoning!

The Crew’s Hard at Work, Full Sail Ahead!​

The crew’s been hard at it, layin' the foundations for Sea of Legends piece by piece. We’re still early in the journey, but every day we’re buildin’ somethin' new—whether it’s fine-tunin’ tactical crew battles or breathin’ life into romances and love stories that’ll steal yer heart (or break it!). There’s plenty left to chart, but we’re takin' care to make sure every part of the adventure is crafted with purpose.

We may still be in the early stages, but the passion’s high, and we’re excited to keep pushin' forward. There’s more excitement to come, and we can’t wait to share it with ye as we continue to bring this world to life!

A Spooky Tale on the Horizon!​

Hold on to yer hats, mates, because next week we’ve got somethin' extra special for ye—a spooky Halloween update to chill yer bones! We'll be divin' deeper into the story of the pirate captain ye’ll be playin', but beware—we can’t give away too much just yet. All we’ll say for now is that this captain carries secrets in their past, and ye’ll want to keep yer wits about ye as ye sail through the murky waters of their story.

And that’s not all! We’ve got plenty more videos of gameplay comin’ yer way, so ye can see the high seas action, the supernatural encounters, and all the thrills Sea of Legends has in store. Keep yer eyes on the horizon, because there’s plenty of excitement ahead! Keep spreadin’ the word, and together we’ll ensure Sea of Legends becomes the grand adventure we’ve all set out to make!

 

[OSK]

Announcment

 

[Harthwain]

Would be better with a strictly accurate map rather than the cartoonish, stylized one:

That depends on the style. I love Port Royale 2 & 3 maps of the Carribean. In particular they managed to pull off the lush look in Port Royale 3 (and the minimap is a nicely stylized cartographic map).

 

[Lhynn]

Going to keep an eye on it. There are simply not enough RPGs around the sea.

 

[Fargus]

And i thought Shadowrun being mobile trash was bad. I guess next stop for this malfunctioning has-been jew will be making literal flash games.