[Everspark] Version 0.9.3 is out! A lot of good stuff!

Happy New Year, my friends!

I’m excited to announce the release of Everspark version 0.9.3! (No, you didn’t miss 0.9.2—I used that number for internal updates, so don’t worry.) This update is packed with great stuff. Let me give you a breakdown of what’s new:

What’s New in 0.9.3?

• Quick Map-Making Procedure:

I couldn’t resist adding this! It’s a superfast map-making system that uses hand gestures—and I love it. Check it out!

• Custom Characters:

I’ve added the pages and backstories for the custom characters. While I’m still waiting for the artwork (Ray is taking a short holiday break), the written content is ready.

• Backer and Patron Names:

Your names have been added! Please check that your name is correct, and let me know if any changes are needed.

• Named Spot Art NPCs:

Nearly all the spot art now has short descriptions! This transforms them into named NPCs you can use as inspiration or drop right into your adventures. Just flip to a page, and there they are!

• Updated Story Sheet:

The story sheet has been refactored to match the style of the other tables in the game.

• Optional Back of Character Sheet:

I added a new optional backside for the character sheet. It includes a space to track Sparks. You can place a post-it note on it and use the space to write down details as needed.

• Bookmarks, Page Numbers, and a Content Page:

These are now in place! However, I’m still working on adding internal links and fixing page references, which are currently marked as “page XX.”

• Reference Guide:

The full reference guide is complete! It’s 28 pages of tables and short rules summaries for the game’s most important mechanics. You can print and play it now, and I’ll also offer a print-on-demand version with Saddle Stitch binding for those who want a handy companion to the core book. It’s the same 6”x9” US trade format as the main book. Look at this beauty:

• Text Fixes and Formatting:

I corrected several copy-paste errors, repetitive text, and other small mistakes. I’m also continuing to review the text for formatting and polishing sentences where needed.

• Potential Text-Only Version:

Based on backer feedback, I’m considering a text-only version of the final game. This might be offered as a website or ebook to make it easier to reference.

What Else?

• Campaign Status:

The campaign is officially over, and funding is now closed. However, I’ve made the game available for pre-sale on itch.io at a discounted price while we finish the final touches.

• Art and Pre-Sale Updates:

I’m waiting on the final pieces of art to be completed and added. While the pre-sale goes on, I'll finish the polishing of the PDF and prepare the print on demand version as well. Links to the PoD will be added among the download links on itch as well.

You should receive an update announcement from itch.io, and you can use the same link as before to download the latest version.

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished in this update, and we’re so, so close to the final version. Thank you again for your continued support—I hope you enjoy this latest version of Everspark!

Until next time, and Happy New Year!

-- Cezar