Ever wondered how you can get started in such a competitive and desirable industry? Wade Dyer from Fragged Empire reveals all at the first DUELS networking event for 2021!
Last Monday, DUELS had our first guest speaker in to talk to members about his journey to success in creative writing.
Wade Dyer is the founder, manager, and imagination behind Fragged Empire - an immersive tabletop RPG franchise that allows players to create characters and explore dynamic worlds.
Like many of us who are trying to get into creative industries, Wade wasn't always working in writing. Finding he had some spare time after moving to Melbourne, he took the opportunity to work on his novels for a hobby.
He never expected them to take off.
When Kickstarter came to Australia, Wade took a chance and posted his project.
By this stage, his books had evolved more closely into the RPG form they take today. After seeing Kickstarter success stories, he decided to sell his story to potential players and gain their support.
Here's Wade's process from idea to published:
Idea. Wade utilised his spare time to develop his idea in-depth. He had some art concepts drawn up for him by trading his skills in graphic design with artists - and his book started coming together.
Traction. Planning to post a project on Kickstarter, Wade began collating a Fragged following on social media. Because, really - what success story doesn't start with socials these days?!
Kickstarter. This is where all the work so far comes together. His previous efforts The response was far greater than expected, and Wade had the support he needed to begin his journey to being published!
Printing. Wade didn't know anyone in printing, but he didn't let that stop him! He scoured his beautiful collection of art books and found some printing companies that would fit his brand.
Distribution. The publishing house, Modiphius, manages Wade's sales in the U.K. But, when it comes to Australia and the U.S., Wade does it all himself! He's always looking for new sales networks to expand his reach.
Repeat. With his first book published and in player's hands, Wade now has his own business and is expanding the Fragged universe by doing it all over again.
Don't just take it from me! Hear it from Wade himself below. You'll learn about his journey, creative process, and a stack about world-building, too.
The Q&As are worth a listen too, as there's heaps of extra tips that came out of your peer's questions.
Like the sound of Fragged Empire?
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If you want to attend the next DUELS networking event, be sure to sign up for the club here.
We'd be happy to have you!