Interview With James Sweatman of Jagex, Developers Of Chronicle: RuneScape Legends

I recently had the chance to ask Chronicle: RuneScape Legends' lead designer James Sweatman some questions about the game via email. I asked about what sparked the decision to make a RuneScape card game, what content may be added in the future, and more.

What made you decide to make a card game based on RuneScape?

Sweatman: Interestingly, we never actually intended to make a RuneScape card game. Chronicle started off as a collection of different prototypes aimed as a unique twist on the RPG genre, with a semi-autonomous set of mechanics. All of these tracked in the same design direction: build a character and send them on an autonomous quest. Whilst the different variations were fun, we began to ask ourselves, “What if you built the quest, instead of the character?” We played around with some ideas and using cards seemed to make the most mechanical sense, and thus Chronicle was born.

What inspired the board game aspect?

From the start of development we wanted to make sure our presentation matched the unique nature of the gameplay. Central to this was tactility. Coupled with the concept of questing and "writing" a story, the idea of using a book came about. This grand magical tome is what helped further inspire the table top feel, allowing us the freedom to use the Legends as game pieces in a detailed 3D recreations of much loved locations from RuneScape.

Will more boards be introduced in the future?

Absolutely. The boards will be released as "regions." These are areas from the RuneScape universe that have a unique style or theme. Coming next is the dark, gloomy lands of Morytania, home to the Vampryes and other creepy characters. On top of this will be added gameplay in the form of "page cards." Once added to the game next year they will bring even more unique flavour and excitement to the boards.

What were the design goals for each of the characters that are currently available?

Each one of the Legends within Chronicle represents an archetype and set of unique mechanics from the game. Ariane, the mage, utilises card draw and her hand size to perform unique attacks. Raptor, the tank, focuses on increasing core stats and soaking up damage. Linza, the blacksmith, leverages the power of weapons and her ability to buff them. Finally, Ozan the thief is all about gold and using it to foil the plans of others.

What characters might be introduced in the future?

We already have four new legends designed and in mid-development. Like the first four Legends they leverage unique mechanics to convey their style of play. Coming in early 2016 are Morvran and Vanescula—part of our Nightfall expansion. They bring some darkness to the light of Chronicle, adding epic new gameplay in the process.

Considering the current beta phase is being called an “authentic closed beta,” how long do you expect to be in beta?

We want to open the game up to more players really soon, but we want to make sure that the balance, depth, and rewards in the game are to the standards that we and the players expect. We’re working with the community to evolve the game and they’ll help us decide when it’s ready for a wider audience.

Are any other game modes planned?

We have lots of exciting ideas for future modes in Chronicle: Challenges, Drafts, Tournaments and plenty others are on our big list of desired modes, but they’re all for much later in development and things we’ll work towards based on community feedback. The next mode we hope to add to the game during Closed Beta is the Campaign. This is a unique take on the single-player story mode that will leverage the whole community to guide progression. We’re really excited to share more details on the Campaign in the coming weeks.

Will the final business model have items that are only purchasable with a premium currency? If so, what sort of items might only be purchasable with a premium currency?

We haven’t decided whether any items will only be purchasable with premium currency. We want to make sure that Chronicle’s free players feel like their time investment is well rewarded and the game always feels fair. Cosmetics and other prestige items will be coming next year and we may consider making some of these premium purchases

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Chronicle: RuneScape Legends is currently in Closed Beta. You can sign up for a chance to get access to the Closed Beta on the official website.