DROP BEARS: A cooperative survival game for 1-4 players. Drop Bears lurk in the Aussie bush every night, can you survive until dawn?
Latest Updates from Our Project:
Update #34 - Production Sampling continues...
over 1 year ago
– Tue, Jun 06, 2023 at 08:43:10 AM
May/June Update: Aussie Adventure in Progress!
G'day Campers,
Here at Platypus HQ, we've got some exciting news to share about our latest miniatures and game components. So grab a cold one and listen up!
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Miniatures:
The first round of miniatures samples has arrived, and I've personally inspected each one for any issues, big or small. Luckily, there's nothing major to report. The manufacturer provided some helpful advice on certain technical aspects, so we're making a few markups and adjustments based on that. Unfortunately, the sculptor has been dealing with some family matters, causing a slight delay, but rest assured, we'll get back on track as soon as possible. Check out my doodles on the Drop Bear minis below. Bloody ripper!
Utility Cards:
The final artwork for the utility cards has been combined and edited, and they're ready to go for printing. Keep in mind that we're still in the sampling phase, so there's room for some changes, especially for you, the editor. I've had to redact a few cards and trust me, they're as surprising as finding a drop bear on an outdoor dunny roof!
Profile Cards:
We've got more cards that are all set to go. Since you last saw them, there have been a few minor changes. We're fine-tuning everything to make sure they're spot on.
Dusk till Dawn Board:
Even the tiniest details matter, so we're making adjustments and fixes to ensure everything aligns perfectly. Our dedication to quality is as unwavering as a true-blue Aussie.
Plastic Components
Plastic Components:
We're coordinating the colours of the components to ensure they all fit together seamlessly. We're still waiting for the final samples of the blue, but take a gander at the image below to see the red cubes in all their glory.
Sample of the Token and Dice red.
Gaming Mat & Dice Tray:
We're paying attention to every detail, right down to the stitching on the edges of the dice tray. And speaking of the gaming mat, we're printing over the stitching on the edges to truly showcase the incredible artwork by Patricia. It's the only way to pay proper tribute to her talent.
Now, let's talk about the delivery timeline for Ratcatcher stock and upgrades. We've received inquiries from a few campers, and we've got good news. All Ratcatcher products will ship alongside the Drop Bears fulfilment. By bundling them together, we're saving both time and money on logistics. As for the production schedule, the Ratcatcher product line is already completed and is waiting for the Drop Bears to wrap up.
Oh, and before I forget, I've been working on another promo rat(s) that we hope to release in Q4 this year. No guarantees though, as we've got heaps to do to meet this deadline. For a little sneak peek, check out the Platypus's latest update. There is a little peek in the Platypus Industries Discord channel.
STATUS: CLOSED PAYMENT STATUS: CLOSED Please if you haven't already please taken the time to complete your survey, you must do so now. I'm always happy to help anyone if they have any issues or questions.
At this stage, address changes CAN still be made by logging into your backer kit account. This will continue until manufacturing is completed.
Platypus Industries Discord - There is a Kickstarter help channel, I hope this will facilitate a quick live dialogue for problem-solving.
Creator (Matthew): [email protected] Address changes can still be made.
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That's all for now, cobbers! Stay tuned for more thrilling updates from your mates at Platypus Industries. Cheers!
- Matthew Aslin
Update #33
over 1 year ago
– Wed, May 03, 2023 at 10:32:03 PM
Good day again Campers,
It's nice to be back a bit sooner and see the vast majority of you remain uneaten. Good job. Looks like you are starting to get the knack of this bush survival gig. This update is just to keep you all in the loop of what is going on and show off one of the great milestones achieved this week.
With lots of hard work, dedication and creative vision, this week marked an exciting milestone for the project! All 101 unique illustrations were completed – a huge accomplishment that I can all be proud of. A massive thank you to the extremely talented Patricia for her phenomenal illustrations that lead the way in bringing our ideas into reality.
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Production Schedule
Sampling
Make samples of all the components, packing tokens, print materials etc and send them to me here at Platypus HQ so I can go over them with a fine-toothed comb looking for anything out of sorts. Make any needed changes and then if needed request further samples.
Miniatures sample tooling, a mockup stage where the miniatures are made in plastic to test the modified files and materials. This stage will also include details like the joinery for the models as they will be assembled in the factory. I'll be 3d printing everything along the way so I will have lots to share as we go along comparing.
Next Step: Proofs and Manufacturing of approved components.
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Timeline
Despite my hardest efforts, the Kickstarter project is running behind. I understand this unfortunate reality can be common. I have done my utmost to avoid any delays or setbacks and I am doing what I can now to regain lost ground. I understand if this is disappointing news - no one likes a missed deadline.
So, what's the plan moving forward? Below is the reassessed timeline (with room for flexibility built in). While not a guaranteed timeline for delivery by any means, these events are still well-planned estimations - so please take them with a big slice of Pavlova.
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Components
Location Tiles
Brightening things up a light
Step into a world of heart-stopping suspense with the refurbished Drop Bear tiles! Refining the colour palette to brighten the details and reveal just how isolated and terrifying the camper's environment really is.
Experience true terror as you immerse yourself in this captivating Aussie bush filled with mystery and horror - dare you take the plunge?
After months of hard work and discovery, the dream has become a dark and terrifying reality! Delve into the stunning visuals of these tiles - each one more incredible than the last. Uncover their small details as you gaze upon them; start your exploration right away to be thoroughly amazed at what lies in store!
Miniatures
Ok, the very exciting component I know many of you want to see. So the first 3D print samples are now on their way here from the factory to check details etc.
STATUS: CLOSED PAYMENT STATUS: CLOSED Please if you haven't already please taken the time to complete your survey, you must do so now. I'm always happy to help anyone if they have any issues or questions.
At this stage, address changes CAN still be made by logging into your backer kit account. This will continue until manufacturing is completed.
Platypus Industries Discord - There is a Kickstarter help channel, I hope this will facilitate a quick live dialogue for problem-solving.
Creator (Matthew): [email protected] Address changes can still be made.
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A side note. Thank you for all the well wishes and kind words relating to the last update. It's great to know as a creator that I have the support of the backers in not only what I am doing but also how it gets done.
Well, that's it for another update folks. I hope that gives you a good idea of the scope of everything that is happening (it's a lot!). There is plenty more to come and you can expect them pretty frequently as production ramps up. As always if you need anything please just reach out and let me know.
Until the next campsite. Keep fresh batteries in your torches and no eucalyptus-scented sprays or candles, please, we all know what happened last time (poor Nancy....).
Regards
- Matthew
Manufacturing is a go!
over 1 year ago
– Fri, Apr 07, 2023 at 01:01:47 AM
What's taking so long?
I'm not one to share my personal life but with the continued delay I feel obliged to share a fragment of what has been happening. I have sadly had an immediate family member who attempted suicide, thankfully they are now well. This occurrence radically changed my household and had a major burden on all my family and friends. Something I could never imagine. I am heartbroken and have struggled to maintain my focus on the project. I am working when able and sometimes it's a good distraction.
I ask only your patients moving forwards. The Drop Bears board game will get made and delivered, never fear (well fear the Drop Dears, they are scary)
Behind the scenes, there have been lots to do with confirming numbers for production. Organising files... so many files! Self-sampling print work for refinement. Continued Editing for all text - (Updated Rulebooks below). More artwork, graphic design etc... it all adds up sadly.
Once files are submitted and there isn't much else to do it will make updates far easier to keep up with. I cannot wait to share this final part of the process with all of my fellow campers.
Timeline:
I am endeavouring to get all the Platypuses in a row again as I reschedule a few things and am waiting for some key information used to put together a timeline. As soon as a solid timeline is ready I will be sharing it.
Manufacturing is a go!
Exciting news right!?
The current stage of manufacturing.
Mould making - Miniatures and custom dice and tokens will go through 2/3 steps to make the moulds. I'm very excited about this process and will be making sure the miniatures turn out perfectly.
Sampling - All paper, wood and cardboard components will be test printed and sent for inspection.
Guides used to clarify with our manufacturing partner HJM.
Files are being transferred and checked by the manufacturer... there are a fair few to check over.
Just confirming how massive this beast is!
Packaging (just a look at a few, I won't bore you with the full collection)
Ancient Jonah expansion packaging - Lid
Game Mat packaging
Rulebook editing... feels endless, but I want to make sure the rules are as clear and clean as possible. A huge thanks to Robert for his time and effort in making the rules amazing! His keen eye for details rivals those of a hungry dingo.
The core Rulebook is getting down to what we hope will be the final pass over the next week before submitting the file for print.
New Setup Render - Far more clear.
Tabletop Simulator
Remember to check and play Drop Bears on Tabletop Simulator.
Please note the following images of the Box Inserts are concepts only and are highly likely to change in the hands of the professionals.
Core box set - Box Insert concepts
Ol'Bruce - Box Insert
Ancient Jonah - Box Insert
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Pledge Manager Status
STATUS: CLOSED PAYMENT STATUS: CLOSED Please if you haven't already please taken the time to complete your survey, you must do so now. I'm always happy to help anyone if they have any issues or questions.
At this stage, address changes CAN still be made by logging into your backer kit account. This will continue until manufacturing is completed.
Platypus Industries Discord - There is a Kickstarter help channel, I hope this will facilitate a quick live dialogue for problem-solving.
Creator (Matthew): [email protected] Address changes can still be made.
With plans for production and delivery in full swing, the anticipation is building as samples are eagerly awaited. Excitingly, images of these new developments could arrive sooner than expected - stay tuned to get a glimpse into this upcoming milestone!
Until next time campers, hold your loved ones close and don't forget to zip up your tents tightly at night.
Kind Regards
- Matthew
*Pledge Manage closes*
almost 2 years ago
– Fri, Feb 10, 2023 at 02:22:28 AM
Pledge Manager Locks down tonight!
This a super quick update with the main focus on the lockdown of the pledge manager. But I will always share some images of what is happening as the manufacturing stage comes so very close now. Ol'Bruce's
***Pledge ManagerCLOSING***
Important Dates
Pledge Manager closes on 10th February 2023, Midnight (11:59 PM) AEST.
What do you need to do?
Triple check your shipping address and details are correct.
Last chance to make any changes or additions to your pledge.
Make sure that your pledge is completed and locked in.
STATUS: CLOSING - 10-FEB-2023 - Midnight (11:59 PM) AEST. PAYMENT STATUS: OPEN CLOSES:10th February 2023
Still currently at 83% completed. Please if you haven't already please taken the time to complete your survey, you must do so now. I'm always happy to help anyone if they are having any issues or questions.
Chinese new year is all done and I'm now working on print files readying for samples. STLs for miniatures have been submitted and samples will be coming soon (can't wait)
Back side of Ol'Bruce box
Otherwise, just double checking details and files in preparation for manufacturing.
Still waiting on the final designs for the box inserts. I'll be showing them off as soon as I have them.
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Component Details:
The top of the Tree is now a solid plate rather than the previously shown cut-out shape. A look at the 3D cardboard Campfire tokens included with the core set.
Artwork
All card artwork is now completed. Just Lcoation Tile art now remains.
That's it for this quick update. As always if there is anything I can assist with please just let me know.
Regards
-Matthew
JAN 2023 - Pledge Manager locking date
almost 2 years ago
– Sat, Jan 21, 2023 at 06:24:16 AM
Hello, again Campers!
Wow, has it already been that long since I last saw you in the bush, I defiantly overslept. I'm glad you're all here... well most of you, where's Kevin?
Happy New Year and Happy Luna new year as well. So I get hopping like a rabbit into the rest of this update.
***Pledge ManagerStatus***
Important Dates
Tracking a little off schedule so I've extended the pledge manager closing date. This will give everyone plenty of time to get all their Platypuses in a row. Pledge Manager closes on 10th February 2023.
What do you need to do?
Triple check your shipping address and details are correct.
Last chance to make any changes or additions to your pledge.
Make sure that your pledge is completed and locked in.
STATUS: CLOSING SOON PAYMENT STATUS: OPEN CLOSES:10th February 2023
Currently at 83% completed.
Please if you haven't already please taken the time to complete your survey, you must do so now. I'm always happy to help anyone if they are having any issues or questions.
Now that all the rulebooks are ready I'd love to get your feedback on them as much as possible. The best way to do that is twofold.
Step 1. Read the Rulebooks.
The rulebooks have comments active so if you spot something, say something. There is still time to make changes and it's much easier at this stage of the process.
Play the game + expansions via Tabletop Simulator. Since the competition of the Kickstarter campaign, there have been lots of changes big and small to the game and expansion. So make sure you get your hands dirty and play the game.
*** Still working on the update folks ***
Hoping to have this sorted out over the week.
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Ancient Oonah - Gameplay Focus
River Habitats. The centre stage on which the expansion takes place and also home to the arcane beast which the Camper must face. These long tiles add a few new aspects to the game the Campers, Oonah and even the Drop Bears must adapt to it.
River tiles will allow Oonah to move faster through the water.
Dens will provide the victory conditions for either the campers & Drop Bears, by destroying them and for Ancient Oonah by protecting them.
Trash Tokens, These new tokens play a vital role in the Camper's victory and the unfortunate demise of Ancient Oonah.
Each time a Camper discards/uses a Utility card at a Den location they add a trash token. Should the number of tokens equal or exceeds the listed number then that Den is destroyed. Den may be repaired, but they are vital to Oonah's gameplay, so protecting and repairing Dens is an important part of Oonah's game plan.
Adaptation Cards. Utilised by Ancient Oonah this small selection of cards gives Ancient Oonah the options he will need to bring down the invaders that have come to his watery home.
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Production Schedule
Current Tasks
Rulebook Edits
The editing team and I will continue to refine the editing and weeding out clarity issues. I'd greatly appreciate my fellow camper's feedback and comments on this. See above rulebooks.
Print Layouts for Diecut and Print components
Plastic Refinement and design
Confirming all the details of the miniatures. There was one that was bugging me and I finally caved and requested a scale-up of Blinky whilst I was at it I moved his arm to a more open and aggressive position. I think you'll agree it makes him a little bit more awesome.
A big thank you to Francesco for his work on this one (whilst he was on holiday mind you!)
More Artwork
I still have more illustrations to complete, so I will continue to plough through them and have them ready for the print samples.
Next
Samples, Once CNY is ended and the manufacturer is back up and running I'll be starting the sampling process. Sampling all the print and basic components.
Tooling can begin on the miniatures and custom tokens. As above I still have to finalise the Inserts for all three boxes so that they can also begin tooling.
Adjusting Timelines and shipping timeframes once we can lock in a few more sample and print details. I'll go through this more in detail in the next update.
Component updates.
The grandeur of the confrontation location tile proved to be too much for the expansion box. So rather than scale up the box for this one component it was time to chop it up. This was done in a way that the cuts would not intersect with any text/icons and also maintain rounded cornering to prevent fraying.
Just for clarity sack, these Tracking tokens attachment sections were shown to be the wrong way around. The models and STL have been updated (fixed).
Wooden versions of both Poison & Trash of these tokens will be added to the Deluxe Token set. This will likely increase the MSRP of the Deluxe tokens post Pledge manager, so save yourself a few dollareedoos and get them before the pledge manager closes.
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Pretty artwork
The focus of the illustrations this round was the adaption cards. A fun break from joining
So that's it for another furry killer koala update. Lot's to take in. But a bit still to go. Next update will be an exciting one, with samples of the the games and some exciting and big steps underway. So I'm pumped to be at this stage!
Talk to you all again soon camper's. Remember don't leave your pavlova in the sun and always apply ample bug spray.
