From Dream to Reality: Unboxing Our Game Components

There are moments in any creative journey when the intangible becomes tangible when dreams forged in the fires of inspiration manifest into something you can hold in your hands. This week, we reached such a moment at Dark One Games, the parts for our first two published games have arrived, ready to be boxed up and sent into the world.

It’s hard to describe the feeling of opening those shipments. The scent of freshly printed cards, the smooth weight of dice, the sturdy perfection of tokens, each piece a testament to the effort, love, and countless hours poured into making these games a reality. It’s a thrill that borders surrealism, holding the components that will soon sit on gaming tables, sparking laughter, rivalry, and camaraderie.

The journey to this point wasn’t without its challenges. We agonized over every design decision, tested every mechanic, and reworked countless details to ensure these games were as immersive and engaging as possible. Sourcing production was a labyrinth, navigating material options, coordinating with manufacturers, and balancing the ever-present tug-of-war between quality and cost. Yet, here we are, holding the fruits of that labor, ready to take the next step.

For those following along, you’ll know that Cthulhu Rises!! and Holiday Rollout are not just games but reflections of the ethos behind Dark One Games, games with a dark edge, dripping with atmosphere, but always welcoming to players ready for a good time. From the eldritch chaos of battling ancient gods to the quirky joy of holiday-themed dice-rolling, each box is packed with stories and experiences we can’t wait to share.

What’s next? The boxing begins! Each game will be carefully packed by hand (our own hands, no less), ensuring every set is perfect. We’ll prepare for conventions, pre-orders, and shipping—a whirlwind of activity as we set these games loose into the wild. And of course, this milestone marks not an end but a beginning. We’re already dreaming of what’s next, designing, testing, and planning for the future.

For now, though, we’re taking a moment to savor this achievement, to hold these games and reflect on how far we’ve come. Whether you’re a gamer, a designer, or just someone curious about what goes on behind the scenes, we hope you’ll join us in celebrating this milestone. And maybe, just maybe, one of these games will find its way to your table, where the story will truly begin.