Solar Echoes in 2018: Conventions and Books

This year I may be dialing back my convention attendance a little. Some of the bigger local conventions, like Balticon, Shoreleave, and Shorehammer are definitely going to remain on my radar, but smaller conventions may not make it to my calendar this year. Although I really enjoy seeing familiar faces and gaming with old friends, some of the smaller conventions haven't involved many new players, and the entire reason I attend conventions is to expose new players to Solar Echoes in hopes of generating more interest for the game. Another reason I may be dialing back convention attendance a little is because I'm running out of physical copies of the core rulebooks. This year I may need to address the issue and make some big decisions. The current physical editions are already outdated and are essentially collector's editions now: anyone that purchases one gets an automatic free download of the updated digital edition at RPGnow.com. I've also considered a major overhaul of the core rulebooks, including re-formatting, more graphics and tons of color. The barriers to this are cost, though, and also the question of whether doing another physical print run would be cost-efficient, especially if more color is involved. I've thought about Kickstarting a project to improve the core rulebooks, but that's a huge investment and I'd need a LOT of artwork done, plus, the logistics of physical sales vs. digital aren't very encouraging—most profit is made through digital sales. You may have noticed the huge increase in the quality of digital titles released this year, and I am trying to keep to those high standards. One other option is pursuing a Print-On-Demand option, where customers can decide to purchase and order the digital books printed in soft or hardcover through a POD company. I have some big decisions to make this year!