Over the past few months, we’ve come to realize that this project can’t be done well or quickly by a team of three part-timers. However, we believe we have accomplished enough to make a convincing pitch to publishers. A publisher can help us with development funding, marketing, distribution, and potentially a lot more, so our main effort now is going to be in finding a great partner.

During this process, we’re also working on changes to the design, art, and story based on what we’ve learned since the start of development, and we want to share those with you now.

Welcome to Doma

Doma is the new world in which all things Artizens exist. It has some earth-like qualities, but its most special characteristic is its frequently shifting tectonic plates. This means that levels will be semi-randomly generated, which will allow for a lot of level design diversity.

Introducing Wilby, the Maker

Wilby is the creator of everything, including Doma. He made all of the flora and fauna on the planet, including the Artizens. He’s a good natured fellow who enjoys creating more than destroying, but he is also very interested in balance. Wilby will teach you how to play, give you your missions, and restore you when you’re defeated.

The Villain, Mefirsto!

Mefirsto was the first Artizen ever created and Wilby gave him near infinite creative powers. Unfortunately, Mefirsto has selfishly used these powers in an attempt to conquer Doma with his own creations and overthrow Wilby. All enemies you fight will be Mefirsto’s monster creations and you may even fight Mefirsto himself if you’re so unlucky.

And the new Artizens

Unlike in the previous story, in this world, the Artizens have always looked like mannequins. They are creations made by Wilby that have the power to change their own appearances and abilities by crafting new body parts and equipment.

It all starts in the Mallea tree

This massive skyscraper of a tree supplies the wood from which every Artizen is carved. It also serves as a treehouse homebase. Here, Wilby will give you missions of all varieties to go out and stop Mefirsto’s progress. The treehouse also includes your own studio, workshop, arsenal, and shop just like in the previous design.

Defeat Mefirsto’s Monsters

Unlike before, the monsters you will be fighting are creations of Mefirsto and not natural creatures. No need to feel remorse when destroying these abominations. Each monster will have a signature mechanic and when you defeat them, you will be able to tap them for crafting resources associated with that mechanic.

We really hope you like the new art style and story. Wish us luck as we try to find a partner who can help us make this all a reality.

Happy New Year,
Charles, Adam, and Simon