Good Evening Ladies and Gentlemen,
Spring has sprung and with that the groves of people that were once buried to their heads in snow are now coming out of the wood work and are enjoying the trend in warmer weather! This a great time of year! People are going to outdoor sporting events, camping, going on long walks, and of course taking vacation.
I like everyone in Indiana enjoy doing all these activities, but guess what? Sometimes a weekend at home with friends, a new game, and beer is just as excited. So throw open the windows, tear off the plastic wrap, and enjoy a season of gaming!
To kick this season off, I wanted to speak with a group of people who are putting together an amazing tabletop game that will be eventually be up for purchase in the future. Now before you sigh in disappointment that you will have to wait.......remember....Pop Con is just around the corner and they will be there with demonstrations! And of course Gen Con.....DUH!
Now, lets learn more about LM Studios!
1. How did LM Studios come to be and why Indianapolis as its base?
Sean and I have been friends for more years than either of us are comfortable admitting and through everything in our lives we have always had gaming be it pen and paper RPGs, video games, miniatures or board/card games. Six years ago we started kicking around the idea of starting a publishing company, as of 3 years ago we decided to focus all of efforts on gaming, being as we are both lifetime gamers. We spent our first year, with our new found focus, building a business plan and developing our first couple of prototypes. We officially incorporated 2 years ago this coming this June.
Indianapolis is its base, in large part because we both live here, but the Indianapolis gaming community, which we are proud to be a part of, is the perfect breeding ground for games with plenty of hobbyists passionate about gaming and willing to give great feedback.
2. How many games have you created since the Studio’s existence?
We have about 8 or 9 that have been worked on. Talked about, system developed and either further developed or side-barred for the time being. We have 4 that are in the process of coming to market or are available in limited runs.
3. Could you give a brief description of those games?
The four games that are either available or coming soon
Attrition – 2 player abstract area control game (Artisan Series: small run and hand crafted)
Divergence – 2-4 player strategic ever-changing maze game that, based on player actions, changes the course of your path to the center. (Artisan Series: small run and hand crafted)
Super Turbo bit Crawl FX: Alpha Xtreme – 1-8 player co-op game, inspired by classic JRPG and rogue-like videogames
bit Crawl Pocket – 1-4 player take with you version of STbCFX:AX
Side -barred Games (Some will be developed some will not)
Heterodox Universe (Omega) – Currently still being worked on actively but at least 1-2 years out. Tabletop RPG
Zombies Come to Midtown – Actively being worked on 1 year out – semi-cooperative tower defense board game
Midtown Racing League – Cars with guns
4. Tell me about Super Turbo Bit Crawl?
Super Turbo bit Crawl FX: Alpha Xtreme is my love letter to JRPG’s. I cut my teeth on Dragon Warrior for the NES when it comes to video games and HeroQuest was the first non-classic board game I ever played. So I made a game that hopefully will bring people back to those classics with mixing in some new flair. I wanted to make a dungeon crawler that never played the same way twice and gave more customization than anything available on the market. I wanted to bring people together all fighting on the same side trying to best the biggest, baddest boss they could think of and I wanted to do it in a way that was accessible to gamers that are just starting out but fun enough and challenging enough to keep the hardcore gamers coming back for more. I wanted to give people the progression of a pen and paper RPG without the point allocation. Basically I wanted to make the coolest game I could think of and just hoped that others would think it was cool too.
5. How long has this game been in development?
It has been in development for 2 years. We received amazing feedback from the players in the First Exposure Playtest Hall during GenCon ’13. Finding out that others felt the same way about the game that we did, sparked the desire to add even more customization, random events and special abilities on the monsters you will encounter during your crawl. We are really excited to see how it is received during GenCon ’14 as we launch the kickstarter project.
6. I see the official release is due in August of this year; will there be opportunities for enthusiasts to try the game before release?
Yes
We will be at IndyPopCon in the gaming hall all 3 days with both bit Crawl Pocket and Super Turbo bit Crawl FX: Alpha Xtreme . A one of a kind Indy PopCon copy of bit Crawl Pocket will be will go home with a twitter follower at the end of the con.
We hope to schedule regular demos around the city between PopCon and GenCon for people to play through any of our games.
We will be demoing all of our games at our GenCon ’14 booth where we will officially launch our kickstarter campaign for Super Turbo bit Crawl FX: Alpha Xtreme.
bit Crawl Pocket will only be available at GenCon or via our kickstarter then the files will be shared as PnP. This will be the only time that this version of bCP will be available for purchase.
7. Are you doing any special release events or promoting of Super Turbo Bit Crawl?
We have been contacting several online reviewers to do a preview of the game. Being a startup company we are hopeful that through bloggers, like yourself, and the supportive hobby gaming community we can get the word spread and bring a game to market that people will be enjoying for a long time to come.
We are still discussing additional promo ideas. There will be something cool but not 100% sure what as of this moment.
We plan on doing several gaming events around the city leading up to the launch of the kickstarter.
8. It is awesome to see a budding gaming studio here in Indianapolis, how do you feel about the
gaming culture here in Indianapolis?
We feel that the gaming culture here is growing by leaps and bounds every year with more FLGS and places where people can gather with friends and be truly passionate about their hobby. Thanks to conventions like Whos-yer Con, Indy PopCon and GenCon we see more and more gamers who are welcoming and willing to play with anyone they meet, and that, is what we feel is the backbone to the gaming culture.
9. How is LM Studios promoting this culture?
We try and support local gaming groups and FLGS as much as possible. We pull our playtesters from local gaming groups. With us being a grassroots company we rely heavily on word of mouth and partnerships with local game stores, game cafes, and bloggers to spread the word.
10. To other designers out there wanting to begin a career in game design, what advice can you give them?
Every game has something in it that is worth seeing, play as many of them as you can. Never turn down a game with a stranger. Playtest whenever and wherever you can. Listen to every bit of feedback, make something you want to play, and at the end of the day if you find one other person that likes your game, consider yourself successful.
11. Is there anything you want readers to know?
(Shameless Self Promotion time)
Although STbCFX:AX will not be available for purchase at GenCon we will be launching our KS with some really exciting exclusives including bit Crawl Pocket and some video game themed mini mods (expansions)
Our other games Attrition and Divergence will be available for demo and purchase at our booth at GenCon and it will be the only way to pickup a copy of bit Crawl Pocket other than the kickstarter for STbCFX:AX.
Stay current on all LM Studios news via twitter @L_M_Studios and bit Crawl news at @bitcrawlgame
If you want us to be at any event in the city or just get together and play a game (shoot us an email: contact@l-m-studios.com
Websites (still a work in progress)
www.l-m-studios.com
www.bitcrawlgame.com
This is just a side question; do you offer any internships or even visits to the studios for those interested in game design?
A bit difficult, with both of us working out of our homes and having day jobs to contend with but anyone wanting to get together and play should shoot us an email at contact@l-m-studios.com
Some awesome answers from this group! It makes me even more excited to not only begin playing their games but to meet them this coming May at Pop Con!
Share some thoughts and definitely love for LM Studios on their Twitter feed!
Hope everyone has a soggy but fun filled week! And don't forget! Free Comic book Day!
Till next time!
Kyle
@ShwoodyLove
Monday, April 28, 2014
Saturday, April 12, 2014
How to fix a NES 72 Pin Connector
Good Evening Everyone,
So tonight is my first video....be warned.....it's a little lengthy but funny!
Last week my good friend Cat was asking me what a 72 Pin connector which immediately prompted a "what are you trying to fix?". She told me that she had recently brought home her old NES that she had growing up but that many of the games were not working properly and saw from many others online that the issue was....the 72 Pin Connector.
I agreed to purchase a new piece, on one condition.
She and my wife would have to do it....on camera.
So please enjoy! And let me know what other fixes or videos you would like to see done! It would be fun to make this into a series that would happen from time to time!
Link below!
NES Pin Connector
Until next time,
Kyle
@Shwoodylove
So tonight is my first video....be warned.....it's a little lengthy but funny!
Last week my good friend Cat was asking me what a 72 Pin connector which immediately prompted a "what are you trying to fix?". She told me that she had recently brought home her old NES that she had growing up but that many of the games were not working properly and saw from many others online that the issue was....the 72 Pin Connector.
I agreed to purchase a new piece, on one condition.
She and my wife would have to do it....on camera.
So please enjoy! And let me know what other fixes or videos you would like to see done! It would be fun to make this into a series that would happen from time to time!
Link below!
NES Pin Connector
Until next time,
Kyle
@Shwoodylove
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Web Series Wednesday: Chris Sanders (Motivational Nerd)
Good Evening Readers!
Welcome to another addition of Web Series Wednesdays!
I wanted to cover a series that not only encourages me on my blogging adventure, but a series that I have seen inspire and helped many young "geeks".
His name is Chris Sanders.
It began roughly four years ago when I was attending a close friends wedding but only knew a handful a people (many who were in the wedding party). At my table at the reception, I knew absolutely no one .....I was screwed.
Fortunately Chris was at my table and a night of potentially awkward conversations turned into a evening of conversations that spanned video gaming to movies. As in all one time meetings, we facebooked each other (that's what cool kids do at least).
Since then, I have watched Chris's you tube channel grow over the years. In less than four years, Chris has gained 24,000 subscribers and hit a milestone where he can travel to conventions and even be paid for his you tube contributions
It is not about the fame and money though. Chris is a self proclaimed Nerd who continues to play Pokemon as an adult, speaks his mind on what he believes in, and produces motivational videos that truly effect viewers. Chris has even called out PETA on the matter of harassing the Pokemon brand. His series is one that can make you laugh, learn a few things, but most of all make you understand that there are people out there that is just like you.
At the beginning of 2014, I began my blog in hopes that I can not only speak my mind about topics I love, but to truly immerse myself in the "Geek" culture by attending Cons, making new acquaintances at events that are out of my safety bubble, and venturing in new areas (I think I have only read one or two comics?).
Chris was one of the inspirations to do this (my wife being the biggest inspiration). Although I actually haven't spoken to Chris since the wedding, he has definitely impacted my dreams and goals.
If you have never watched any of his videos, jump on over to his channel and let me know what you think!
Now to tie the lose ends:
Indy Pop Con is only 7 weeks away! Make sure to purchase tickets ahead of time. The convention organizers will be upgrading a ticket every week to VIP status and will constantly be updating the roster of amazing artists/exhibitors. Don't forget to use code Kbur when purchasing to help me out! Also keep a look out for another community event coming soon!
Also don't forget to vote for Pop Con Panels!
As mentioned last week, still contribute to Crit Confirm to help out on creating an even better podcast!
Fellow blogger, @IndianaGeeking, is revamping his site. Why not help like I plan on by purchasing your amazon products through his link on his blog! All proceeds go to the blog!
A new brewery has opened in Greenwood....and of course it's named Planetary Brewing. Anyone up for a drink?
Finally,
Next week I hope you all enjoy my first video! Myself, Wife, and Best Friend Cat will be doing a How to Video.....be ready.....it will be fantastic!
Until next time!
Kyle
@ShwoodyLove
Welcome to another addition of Web Series Wednesdays!
I wanted to cover a series that not only encourages me on my blogging adventure, but a series that I have seen inspire and helped many young "geeks".
His name is Chris Sanders.
It began roughly four years ago when I was attending a close friends wedding but only knew a handful a people (many who were in the wedding party). At my table at the reception, I knew absolutely no one .....I was screwed.
Fortunately Chris was at my table and a night of potentially awkward conversations turned into a evening of conversations that spanned video gaming to movies. As in all one time meetings, we facebooked each other (that's what cool kids do at least).
Since then, I have watched Chris's you tube channel grow over the years. In less than four years, Chris has gained 24,000 subscribers and hit a milestone where he can travel to conventions and even be paid for his you tube contributions
It is not about the fame and money though. Chris is a self proclaimed Nerd who continues to play Pokemon as an adult, speaks his mind on what he believes in, and produces motivational videos that truly effect viewers. Chris has even called out PETA on the matter of harassing the Pokemon brand. His series is one that can make you laugh, learn a few things, but most of all make you understand that there are people out there that is just like you.
At the beginning of 2014, I began my blog in hopes that I can not only speak my mind about topics I love, but to truly immerse myself in the "Geek" culture by attending Cons, making new acquaintances at events that are out of my safety bubble, and venturing in new areas (I think I have only read one or two comics?).
Chris was one of the inspirations to do this (my wife being the biggest inspiration). Although I actually haven't spoken to Chris since the wedding, he has definitely impacted my dreams and goals.
If you have never watched any of his videos, jump on over to his channel and let me know what you think!
Now to tie the lose ends:
Indy Pop Con is only 7 weeks away! Make sure to purchase tickets ahead of time. The convention organizers will be upgrading a ticket every week to VIP status and will constantly be updating the roster of amazing artists/exhibitors. Don't forget to use code Kbur when purchasing to help me out! Also keep a look out for another community event coming soon!
Also don't forget to vote for Pop Con Panels!
As mentioned last week, still contribute to Crit Confirm to help out on creating an even better podcast!
Fellow blogger, @IndianaGeeking, is revamping his site. Why not help like I plan on by purchasing your amazon products through his link on his blog! All proceeds go to the blog!
A new brewery has opened in Greenwood....and of course it's named Planetary Brewing. Anyone up for a drink?
Finally,
Next week I hope you all enjoy my first video! Myself, Wife, and Best Friend Cat will be doing a How to Video.....be ready.....it will be fantastic!
Until next time!
Kyle
@ShwoodyLove
Saturday, April 5, 2014
Go Fund Me Campaign: Ron
As promised, I am now writing a blog post about the person(How we met) who has contributed to my campaign for a new computer or to write about a certain topic of their choosing!
Today's Post:
RON
I have know Ron for roughly two years now and our story of meeting is one that I enjoy telling even though at times it can fill me with sorrow.
After my father passed away in early 2011, I felt lost and upset about losing the man who I respected and who still had a plentiful to teach me about life and the whirlwinds it can toss you through.
I was fortunate enough to find my first job out of college back in my home town where I could stop in to say hi to Mom after work. The months that passed brought our family closer, but even I knew that a time would come when she would find someone that has been through the the same struggles and to have that companionship back. Of course my wife and I were eager to help her out in anyway we could. Took the photos for her online profile and even escorted to her first date. I was so torn of whether or not I should be upset or happy about this new comer.
Now it's an easy choice.
Ron is now a part of family. He is a man a honor, love for family, and a husband that has grieved. He has been instrumental in encouraging my mother in living life to the fullest and having a good time at it. He is a man I respect. A man who gives to others in need (even on Thanksgiving Day), a man who has everlasting faith and hope, and someone who will debate you about politics till the cows come home.
To Ron, who not only has helped me in my small fundraiser, but to helping my family heal and honor my father.
Kyle
@Shwoodylove
Today's Post:
RON
I have know Ron for roughly two years now and our story of meeting is one that I enjoy telling even though at times it can fill me with sorrow.
After my father passed away in early 2011, I felt lost and upset about losing the man who I respected and who still had a plentiful to teach me about life and the whirlwinds it can toss you through.
I was fortunate enough to find my first job out of college back in my home town where I could stop in to say hi to Mom after work. The months that passed brought our family closer, but even I knew that a time would come when she would find someone that has been through the the same struggles and to have that companionship back. Of course my wife and I were eager to help her out in anyway we could. Took the photos for her online profile and even escorted to her first date. I was so torn of whether or not I should be upset or happy about this new comer.
Now it's an easy choice.
Ron is now a part of family. He is a man a honor, love for family, and a husband that has grieved. He has been instrumental in encouraging my mother in living life to the fullest and having a good time at it. He is a man I respect. A man who gives to others in need (even on Thanksgiving Day), a man who has everlasting faith and hope, and someone who will debate you about politics till the cows come home.
To Ron, who not only has helped me in my small fundraiser, but to helping my family heal and honor my father.
Kyle
@Shwoodylove
Friday, April 4, 2014
Web Series Wednesday.....better late than never?
Good Evening All!
After a wonderful week in Florida, I'm glad to be back in the routine and ready to get on track with the blog!
This week's Web Series Wednesday isn't necessarily a review by any sorts but more a public service announcement on a type of web series that I enjoy daily while at work....PODCASTS!
Podcasts can easily turn a boring day of shuffle on your Iphone to an hour of enjoyment where you can laugh and learn something......sometimes.
So Tonight I wanted to mention not only the the big name podcasts that I enjoy but the also the local podcasts here in Indiana who are just amazing as well!
1. IGN' GameScoop (Knockin' Boots):
This is a hard to beat podcast especially with a great crew that is constantly rotating besides the hilarious Greg Miller and Damen Hatfield. The podcast focuses on weekly stories in the Video gaming industry as well as general chitchat. The GameScoop podcast is great for hearing the latest in developments of games and announcements, but it's the podcast's alter ego that takes it to the next level. Although the Knockin' Boots podcast currently is not being recorded anymore, all the past episodes are available. These episodes are not for kids by any means. With a large supply of alcohol and an inbox of emails from young lovers around the globe, the group struggles to answer questions about Video Gamers's in love. Be ready for big laughs and moments of shock even.
2.ChatterBox Radio:
Although not necessarily a podcast until 2012, the duo of Alon and Ara every week meet up every Tuesday night at 6PM....or 9PM here in Indiana to have deep discussion on everything gaming. The two occasionally have guests that have either worked on video gaming projects or just avid fans on the topic. This is the podcast for you if you definitely love good debate and are eager to learn a fact of two.
3.The Dice Tower:
This a podcast that is out of my norm. I am first a Video Gamer, I am just naturally better at picking up a controller and going. This past year though, my brother in law has really immersed me into the world of table top gaming. Since then, I continue to listen to Dice Tower for not only the fun chit chat between Tom and Eric but to learn the latest news in the industry. Great way of hearing about new games as well!
The Last two are new to me and are locally broadcasted here in Indiana.
1. Crit Confirm: I first have to say thanks to Tony Trexell @IndianaGeeking for showing the twitter world such an awesome group of people. This is just a fun group of people who I have really enjoyed listening too this past week. When listening, I can imagine a good group of friends who meet up to talk about what they love, and you can seriously feel that every episode. By far the episode of Future of Gaming is my favorite, especially the discussion of obesity and the treadmill full immersion. I hope they continue to bring more content forward and can't wait to meet the group in person!
2.The Established Facts: Another local group who I just found this past week, but unlike Crit Confirm, they do have a large backlog of past episodes for you to enjoy. I have to compare this group to Chatterbox Radio, they aren't pod casting to just have fun or goof around....which they do....but they are doing it to create quality discussion about today's gaming culture.
I still have plenty hours of listening to these two podcasts, but luckly I have 40 hours a week to do so!
What podcasts do you enjoy listening? I'm always looking for new content to enjoy listening to, please share @ShwoodyLove
Until next time Indy!
PS-Please also visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/371449909/crit-confirm-entertainment-operation-indy-pop-con to help support Crit Confirm. Although they have hit the goal for Indy Pop Con, they like everyone else can always use an upgrade on equipment and possible free swag!!!
Kyle
@ShwoodyLove
After a wonderful week in Florida, I'm glad to be back in the routine and ready to get on track with the blog!
This week's Web Series Wednesday isn't necessarily a review by any sorts but more a public service announcement on a type of web series that I enjoy daily while at work....PODCASTS!
Podcasts can easily turn a boring day of shuffle on your Iphone to an hour of enjoyment where you can laugh and learn something......sometimes.
So Tonight I wanted to mention not only the the big name podcasts that I enjoy but the also the local podcasts here in Indiana who are just amazing as well!
1. IGN' GameScoop (Knockin' Boots):
This is a hard to beat podcast especially with a great crew that is constantly rotating besides the hilarious Greg Miller and Damen Hatfield. The podcast focuses on weekly stories in the Video gaming industry as well as general chitchat. The GameScoop podcast is great for hearing the latest in developments of games and announcements, but it's the podcast's alter ego that takes it to the next level. Although the Knockin' Boots podcast currently is not being recorded anymore, all the past episodes are available. These episodes are not for kids by any means. With a large supply of alcohol and an inbox of emails from young lovers around the globe, the group struggles to answer questions about Video Gamers's in love. Be ready for big laughs and moments of shock even.
2.ChatterBox Radio:
Although not necessarily a podcast until 2012, the duo of Alon and Ara every week meet up every Tuesday night at 6PM....or 9PM here in Indiana to have deep discussion on everything gaming. The two occasionally have guests that have either worked on video gaming projects or just avid fans on the topic. This is the podcast for you if you definitely love good debate and are eager to learn a fact of two.
3.The Dice Tower:
This a podcast that is out of my norm. I am first a Video Gamer, I am just naturally better at picking up a controller and going. This past year though, my brother in law has really immersed me into the world of table top gaming. Since then, I continue to listen to Dice Tower for not only the fun chit chat between Tom and Eric but to learn the latest news in the industry. Great way of hearing about new games as well!
The Last two are new to me and are locally broadcasted here in Indiana.
1. Crit Confirm: I first have to say thanks to Tony Trexell @IndianaGeeking for showing the twitter world such an awesome group of people. This is just a fun group of people who I have really enjoyed listening too this past week. When listening, I can imagine a good group of friends who meet up to talk about what they love, and you can seriously feel that every episode. By far the episode of Future of Gaming is my favorite, especially the discussion of obesity and the treadmill full immersion. I hope they continue to bring more content forward and can't wait to meet the group in person!
2.The Established Facts: Another local group who I just found this past week, but unlike Crit Confirm, they do have a large backlog of past episodes for you to enjoy. I have to compare this group to Chatterbox Radio, they aren't pod casting to just have fun or goof around....which they do....but they are doing it to create quality discussion about today's gaming culture.
I still have plenty hours of listening to these two podcasts, but luckly I have 40 hours a week to do so!
What podcasts do you enjoy listening? I'm always looking for new content to enjoy listening to, please share @ShwoodyLove
Until next time Indy!
PS-Please also visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/371449909/crit-confirm-entertainment-operation-indy-pop-con to help support Crit Confirm. Although they have hit the goal for Indy Pop Con, they like everyone else can always use an upgrade on equipment and possible free swag!!!
Kyle
@ShwoodyLove
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