Developing a Hybrid RPG-Board Game

[Glassthrower]

Hi Folks,

This is my first post here, and I'll spare everyone a lengthy introduction and get to the goodies.

We (my soninlaw and myself) are developing a hybrid PNP RPG and Board Game - it will be neither, but have elements of both, with a lean towards RPG. Think of it as a PNP RPG with props that is playable right out of the box or with off the shelf accessories the players may already have.

Currently we are hammering out the kinks in the game mechanics and are in the early playtesting stage. While this process is going on, we have been doing extensive homework on the internet to make sure that we aren't re-inventing the wheel with this project. I landed here on this forum because my partner is a big Toon fan and I found some links here to some self-publishing/POD resources.

I am starting to research my options when it comes to having the rulebook printed and having some custom plastic gamepieces made. The former won't be a major issue, but the latter could be a sticking point. My soninlaw is a talented artist and sculptor (wicked good), so that is not the problem. The problem is production costs - I'd like to go straight to the Chinese and order in bulk. I have a few leads, but am always looking for more options.

So my question for the group here is two fold :

1) What is the preferred POD service for books that contain prolific artwork? (full color cover, b/w interior)

2) Are there any preferred manufacturers for custom plastic gamepieces? I am willing to work with foreign parties.

Best regards and thanks in advance!

MikeG

[The Final Door]

Originally Posted by Glassthrower

1) What is the preferred POD service for books that contain prolific artwork? (full color cover, b/w interior)

2) Are there any preferred manufacturers for custom plastic gamepieces? I am willing to work with foreign parties.

1) There are really no brilliant choices, color POD is still expensive. LULU can manage a book that is barely affordable, but NOT cheap, and they offer hardback options. Createspace can be made cheaper in color through a PRO publishing option, but no hardbacks.

2) Shapeways.