Sony is reportedly in talks to acquire Kadokawa, a Japanese media conglomerate with interests in publishing, anime, gaming, and more. If successful, this deal could have far-reaching implications, particularly in the tabletop gaming and anime industries. Kadokawa owns FromSoftware, the acclaimed studio behind Dark Souls, Elden Ring, and Bloodborne, but its portfolio extends far beyond gaming. Kadokawa also publishes light novels, manga, and anime, with ties to international distributors. The deal might provide Kadokawa’s tabletop sector—bolstered by its recent acquisition of Arclight, a prominent Japanese tabletop company—with stronger global opportunities. Sony’s potential purchase of Kadokawa has sparked concerns about a monopoly in the anime industry. 

Thomas Elliott, a former Games Workshop artist known for his work on Warhammer 40k and Age of Sigmar, is developing Eskaton, an original grimdark science fiction setting. After five years at Games Workshop, Elliott transitioned to freelance work in 2023 to focus on this passion project, a decade in the making. Eskaton explores a universe where space travel is fragmented, technology has stagnated, and human colonies evolve in isolation. The setting’s rich narrative includes dystopian worlds, such as Neo-plasia, where massive mining facilities and totalitarian regimes dominate.Key elements of Eskaton include the Agori—towering cyborg warriors—and a dark, expansive sandbox for storytelling. Elliott plans to release Eskaton as a series of art books and miniatures, starting with Neo-plasia, while collaborating on a skirmish game. Inspired by the success of indie wargames like Trench Crusade, Elliott hopes Eskaton will offer a fresh take on grimdark aesthetics, providing an alternative to well-worn franchises. 

Household Volume II expands the imaginative universe of the ENNIE-nominated RPG, delving deeper into the lore, settings, and characters of the Littlings’ adventures. Players explore new areas, including the Garden’s Front Yard and Backyard, filled with mythical locations like the Fountain of Quillwaters and Bramble Town. New playable Folk, including Gnomes, Shinigami, and Fae, join the existing roster alongside new animal companions like moths and frogs. The book introduces fresh mechanics tied to seasonal changes, colossal opponents, and a new Profession, the Wayfarer, which brings unique vocations like Traveling Artist and Settler. The expansion also enhances gameplay with new Vocations for all existing Professions and a rich narrative set in an expansive, beautifully detailed world. Household Volume II’s expansive offerings include beautifully illustrated maps and art by renowned creators, enriching the immersive experience. Comprehensive pledge tiers provide various combinations of physical and digital rewards, from corebooks to custom dice sets. With its focus on artistic and production quality, Two Little Mice promises a rich RPG experience, slated for delivery by December 2025, showcasing their dedication to world-building and storytelling.

Elf Creek Games, a board game publisher known for titles like Atlantis Rising and Honey Buzz, faces backlash from Kickstarter backers due to prolonged delays in delivering crowdfunded projects and a lack of updates since August 30, 2024. The company has four overdue campaigns, including expansions for existing games and a new title, Paradox Initiative. Some backers, particularly in North America and Europe, have received partial deliveries, but others, including international supporters, are still waiting years past original timelines. Notably, the designer of Honey Buzz left the company in October but has tried to provide independent updates. Communication from Elf Creek Games’ founder, Brent Dickman, remains absent, leaving backers frustrated and concerned about the fate of their pledges.

#kadokawa #eskaton #householdrpg #elfcreekgames

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