Promo: (Full Vid Below)
Full Video:
I def started out awkward lolz. But went great and was a lot of fun! Looking forward to doing more episodes with other characters/collaborators soon!
Shattered Fables Episode 1!
Tag: Fantasy
Echoes of an Arcane Genesis – Prologue Lore & TCG concept in development.
Over the past couple weeks, I’ve noticed more people exploring my site – digging into the lore, checking out content, even jumping across pages. First of all, thank you. Every visit, view, or message of support truly means a lot. Since things have started to pick up, I wanted to take a moment to share what I’ve been working on lately, and what’s actively in development behind the scenes.
🌌 Prologue Concept: The Beginning of Everything
The heart of this whole world – Echoes of an Arcane Genesis – starts with a concept prologue I recently recorded.
This sets the stage for the world I’m building: a magical cycle reborn after collapse, where power resurfaces through fractured myths and forgotten truths. This version is still a draft, but it’s the cornerstone of everything else – planned to eventually evolve into a graphic novel, potentially an audiobook or podcast series, and eventually paired with more polished visual storytelling.
If you’re new to the project, this video is probably the best place to start.
🧬 Character Collaboration & Creation Process
Something I’m really proud of is the character submission system I built, especially because it seems to be working how I hoped.
This form lets collaborators and Patreon supporters submit custom characters to be adapted into the world. It’s been described as “TTRPG character creation meets fantasy lore,” which is exactly what I was hoping for. So far, I’ve received about five really creative submissions, each now being developed into their own Codex entries and playable TCG Avatars. It’s the start of something really special, and honestly, seeing people put their energy into this with me has been incredibly rewarding.
⚔️ Voices From the Realms – The Recruitment Call
Bringing other creators into this world has been one of the most energizing parts of this journey.
This “Recruitment Call” video features characters voiced by Sinnsayy (of Popcorn & Porkrinds) and Through the Shuffle(YouTube), both playing their own creations, while I voiced the Rogue Wizard as the one summoning them. It’s a fun little lore piece, but more than that – it’s the start of collaborative storytelling with real people shaping this fantasy universe together. We’re building something that’s both personal and mythic, one voice at a time.
🐾 Codex Creatures – Lore in Motion
Another piece of this evolving world is the bestiary – starting with my first creature Codex video.
This one features the Thornspire Myrmandant, a fierce, fire-aligned (or Frost) siege beast introduced in both lore and potential gameplay form. It’s the beginning of a series of visual Codex entries I’m working on – where players and readers can learn about the creatures, flora, and factions of the world before they hit the gameboard. I’m also exploring the idea of allowing Patreon supporters to submit ideas for new creatures or magical plants, so if you’ve got something brewing in your imagination, there might be a way to make it real in-universe.
🌀 Learning Curve Meets Fantasy Chaos
Here’s something a bit lighter (and weirder). This next short was created while I was learning how to make chatbots – but I figured, why not turn that process into a bit of chaotic fantasy?
It’s based (loosely) on a true story, narrated by AI voice, and infused with a little humor and magic. Not every piece has to be serious lore – I’m trying to keep things fun and flexible as I grow, with room for experimentation and personality. It also hints at where things are heading with the Rogue Wizard chatbot and the wider storytelling network I’m building around this.
🔮 Where We’re Headed
Right now, I’ve got eight Avatars in development – each inspired by real-life people, creators, and supporters. They’re being built out into full characters with their own backstories, elemental affinities, and gameplay styles. I’ve started to assemble a small “team” of sorts – creative minds helping shape this world through personality and personal connection. The result? Lore that’s alive. Characters with heart.
I’ve also paused my Adobe Certification courses temporarily while I go through a move, but I plan to jump back in soon – specifically to finish my Premiere Pro training so I can start posting more polished content on a regular basis. The more I learn, the more I can share – visually, narratively, and through the game mechanics.
🤝 Supporting the Vision
I’m doing all of this on a very tight budget, using every bit of free time and energy I can spare to keep the vision moving forward. If you’ve enjoyed anything I’ve shared – whether it’s lore, videos, character concepts, or the chaotic wizardry of it all – there are a few simple ways to support the project:
- Leave feedback or comments – It really helps shape what I do next
- Engage on socials – Likes, subs, shares – every bit adds momentum
- Support via Patreon or “Buy Me a Coffee” – These options are in the site menu and help with print tests and future content
- Just spread the word – Sharing with a friend who’s into fantasy or TCGs makes a difference
Everything helps, and I’m grateful for all forms of support, big or small.
🎁 Coming Soon: Giveaways & Crowdfunding
Once I get re-established in my new setup, I plan to restart giveaways and special supporter perks. I’m also looking into potential funding options – Kickstarter or GoFundMe – to help cover production and test print costs. But I didn’t want to go that route until I had more to show – and now, finally, I think we’re getting close.
Thanks again for following along. There’s still a long journey ahead, but piece by piece, this world is being built. And you’re already part of it.
— ✍️ Rogue Wizard
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Surprised with SEO Score after upgrade. Level Up?
After doing so much on the free version, I realized my page wasn’t really going to be seen much at all unless I either upgraded, or shared it constantly to try and bring some traffic. As I’m still really new at all this, I’m finding I’m a little too hungry for feedback and engagement which is making my advertising coming across a lot more spammy than I want to be doing. I’d really like to be just creating more anyway than trying find the people into what I’m creating.
Hoping upgrading the site will help w/this a bit, just allowing people to find my stuff and what I’m trying to do more organically. Featured image is a pic of what it rated the sites Search Engine Optimization after the upgrade, which is encouraging. Makes me feel like despite not knowing much about what I’m doing yet I’m still doing a decent job. I have also noticed more site traffic naturally since it was upgraded yesterday afternoon.
I realize I’m doing more niche stuff, and my Designs aren’t particularly everyones vibe. As well as the fact my site shows I’m still figuring out my direction and what things are going to work for me. I want to find a balance of the things I enjoy doing and get excited about, but also what my future followers are into. So I’m still very much at a phase I’m looking for feedback on stuff, and very open to constructive criticism and suggestions. I am a lil stubborn and still want to do things with my vibe and flavor, but I also listen to feedback and try and find what works for me in the middle, or can be convinced I need to change something with just some reasonable details.
I mostly come from a collectible card game / video game retail background, and have been developing my own CCG over the years. I’ve created my own custom “Card Creator” file in Photoshop elements. More details about all that can be found on my About Page and in my Blog/Updates. All engagement / support greatly appreciated. Gonna just keep working and making stuff like I already have thousands of followers or I’m just looking for that one Super Fan haha.
Thanks for Reading =)~
Rogue Wizard – TR3CC Designs
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About / Contact
About Me: The Creator Behind Shattered Fables™
My name is Thomas, and for over 25 years, I’ve lived and breathed the world of gaming. From working in Magic: The Gathering retail and running events, to competitive play, strategy and storytelling have always been at the heart of what I love.
But now, my focus has shifted to something uniquely mine—the creation of the Shattered Fables™ multiverse and its companion Trading Card Game. Inspired by years of gaming, personal challenges, and a deep love for fantasy worlds, this project is my dream coming to life.
🔄 From Inspiration to Creation
MTG and other games were where I started, but Shattered Fables™ is where I’m going.
This world-building journey took on new meaning after a life-changing event—when my best friend survived a serious accident, I realized how fleeting life can be. It pushed me to take my ideas seriously.
Alongside my own struggles with PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Bipolar 2, this project has become both a challenge and a form of healing. Creativity, storytelling, and gaming have grounded me when nothing else could.
💡 The Vision Now
With support from my girlfriend (an artist in her own right), and guidance from Vocational Rehab and business mentors, I’m pushing forward to create something truly unique:
- A TCG with grid-based strategy, symbol-driven mechanics, and a deep lore that players can connect with.
- Expanding a world through Codex entries, graphic novel stories, and interactive content.
Recently, I’ve been:
- Developing and refining game mechanics with help from ChatGPT and AI tools.
- Creating narrated videos that explore my world and design process.
- Diving into an Adobe Certified Professional course, growing my skills in Photoshop and video editing to bring everything to life.
🌌 Looking Ahead
While I still enjoy MTG content and sell through TCG Player, that’s no longer the centerpiece. Instead, it’s part of a bigger tapestry, showing where I’ve been—not where I’m going.
I’m focused on:
- Sharing more of Shattered Fables™ through video, lore, and design updates.
- Building a community around the project, through Patreon and social platforms.
- Working toward a playable prototype and visual showcases for the game.
- Continuing to refine my custom Photoshop Card Creator, which allows me to efficiently produce and update card designs for testing and print. More about this process is detailed below.
This journey isn’t about overpromising—it’s about steadily building something real, something meaningful. And I’m excited to share each step along the way.
🌟 Thank You for Being Here
Whether you’re into TCGs, fantasy storytelling, or just curious about creating something from the ground up, I hope you’ll stick around. This is more than a game—it’s a world in the making.
Special Thanks to my Best Friend and longest supporter of almost 25 Years, Jason Bell.
Special Thanks to Jason Bell (details)
🤝 A Special Thanks to Jason
I met Jason when I started working at my first game store, and from day one, we clicked—bonding over collectible card games and quickly becoming more like family than just friends.
Back when Shattered Fables™ was just black-and-white text on printer paper, no images, just raw ideas—Jason believed in it. He’s always been one of the most supportive, caring, and generous people I’ve ever known. Through the hardest times, I’ve often thought, “At least I still got Jason,” and that’s meant everything.
In late 2023, I almost lost him and his wife in a major car accident. Thankfully, they’re both recovering, but that moment shook me. It reminded me how fragile life is and pushed me to stop waiting and start creating. His support, especially now, motivates me to keep moving forward and bring this world I’ve been building into reality.
We’ve even talked about opening a tabletop gaming and card shop together someday—a dream I hope to make possible by turning Shattered Fables™ into something truly successful.
Jason’s been there since the beginning, and I’m grateful every day that he still is. <3
My “Card Creator” base working file (details)
🖼️ Evolving My Card Creator
Over the years, I’ve built my own custom Card Creator in Photoshop—originally in Elements, now expanding as my skills grow. My first working file had over 500 layers, packed with every border, element, and design variation I could think of.
Recently, I started a fresh version with larger graphics to prep for Print-on-Demand products and higher-resolution visuals. I designed it to be modular—letting me quickly swap borders, frame styles, art sizes, and elemental or faction icons, all in a single file. This setup makes it easy to tweak designs during testing without starting from scratch.
Right now, this is a self-taught system—but once I complete my Adobe Certified Professional course, I plan to rebuild it from the ground up using everything I’ve learned. My goal is to make it even more streamlined and powerful for producing Shattered Fables™ cards efficiently.
My website, much like my original card files, is a work-in-progress—all built from scratch without formal training (yet!). Thanks for sticking with me on this journey!
My Collectible Card Game Development
🃏 Creating Shattered Fables™: A TCG Journey
Shattered Fables™ has been a long time in the making, and I’m finally at a point where I’m ready to start showing more and inviting others to be part of its creation.
While I’m still keeping some mechanics and deeper gameplay details under wraps until testing and feedback expand, I’m excited to share the evolution of this world and game. Inspired by my love of TCGs, tabletop RPGs, and strategy games, this project blends the best elements of each into something truly unique.
This is more than just a game—it’s a world. One that features:
- Grid-based tactical gameplay, where spacing, range, and unit placement matter.
- Customizable, collectible cards with symbols for fast, intuitive play.
- Dice-based mechanics that bring unpredictability and excitement to every battle.
- A strong focus on lore and storytelling, with characters and factions that players can connect with.
As seen in my recent videos and design previews, my goal is to create a game that feels familiar yet fresh—something that TCG fans, RPG lovers, and strategy enthusiasts can all enjoy.
I’ve spent years building the foundation, and now, I’m looking to bring others along as I refine, test, and develop Shattered Fables™ further. If you’re into worldbuilding, game design, or just love the idea of shaping a fantasy multiverse, I hope you’ll join me on this journey.
More details will come as development continues—but for now, I’m thrilled to finally start revealing what I’ve been working on.
How I Create & Source my Graphics / Art
🎨 How I Create & Source My Art
Art has always been part of my life—I took it through high school, and while I’ve got decent traditional skills (colored pencil was my favorite), I’ve found that digital tools let me bring my visions to life in ways that feel more natural.
Most of the symbols and images in Shattered Fables™ start as layered designs I build like puzzles. Some come from original sketches that I scan and edit, others are purely digital from the start, crafted in Photoshop (originally Elements, now being rebuilt with everything I’m learning in my Adobe Certified Professional course).
Past Contributions & Current Approach
- I’ve purchased some art in the past from a friend, though due to a falling out, I no longer rely on that work. What remains from those contributions is minimal, often reworked into new symbols or concepts.
- Elena, my partner, is a big creative influence too. As an aspiring tattoo artist, she’s helped me design several concepts—some inspired by tattoos she’s made just for me.
Adapting & Evolving with AI Tools
One of the hardest parts of this journey has been sourcing art for playtesting and potential final products—mainly due to cost. Early on, I used royalty-free images from sites like Pixabay, which I’d edit or use as inspiration.
Now, I’ve embraced AI-assisted tools to fill the gap. While I know AI art is still a hot topic, for me, it’s about bringing my ideas to life in ways I otherwise couldn’t afford. I often start with something original when I can —a sketch, an outline, or a design(I have made)—and use AI to help shape and enhance it. Every image is heavily edited in Photoshop, often combining pieces from multiple sources. For more information on How I use AI to build my fantasy IP.
My Take on AI Art
People often think AI art is just “click and done.” It’s not. Especially in fantasy settings, getting exactly what you envision can take hours of refinement. I’ve spent days on some images, layering, adjusting, and blending elements until they match my world. AI is a tool, not a replacement—and I believe when artists and designers work with it creatively, it can open up incredible possibilities.
My goal is to continue improving my own skills, and eventually, work with other artists to bring even more personal, high-quality visuals into Shattered Fables™. For now, I’m proud of what I’ve built—and grateful for the tools that let me make it real.
The Development Journey “Concept Art” Throwbacks
More Details in Blog with comments enabled. (and Gallery View)
Coin Symbol Layers 
HP Hit Points Heart Symbol Creation 
Throwback Rarity Symbol Creation 
Crystal Ball and Flame Creation 
D20 Dice Symbol Creation 
Throwback Siege Engine playtesting concepts 
Throwback Siege Ballista 
Throwback Siege Petrary 
Throwback Siege Trebuchet 
Throwback Trenches orig 
Throwback Trenches 
CCG / TCG – Print on Demand Designs 
CCG / TCG – Print on Demand Designs 
CCG / TCG – Print on Demand Designs
McMinnville, OR 97128 USA
