TCG Log #12 - Long Journeys and Looming Singularities
Venturing into the magically weird future
Hey friends,
Quick update on what I built this week, what I’m wrestling with, and what’s coming next.
What I Built
Polished the card frame: I cleaned up the core card frame. I’ll probably have it ready to share next week.
Drafted new cards: I’ve been chipping away at a new batch of cards.
(Bonus) A quick shout-out: I’m helping organize a 4-week art residency at Edge Esmeralda in Northern California. It’s focused on creativity, technology, and human flourishing. We’re seeking great artists and funding to make it happen. More info here.
Challenges + Reflections
Cut a half-built website: I built out a landing page only to realize I didn’t need it. It reminded me: being efficient is worthless if I’m working on the wrong thing. Clarity = Speed.
Card creation pipeline is too slow: A friend recently told me I should be creating way more cards. Given how many great concepts and memes are floating around—and the fact that I’m using AI—I agree. Card creation is still the most time-consuming part of the project, but it’s also the most essential. So this week, I’m experimenting with new workflows and art styles to speed things up without losing the soul of the work.
I made this overview of my latest process for card art if you’re curious or want to make some of your own.
What’s Next
Booster pack experience: This is a top priority—building a fun, in-browser pack opening flow.
A better card creation pipeline: Refine the way I create cards so I can share a lot more of them—more styles, more speed, same soul.
Long Journey House: I’m applying to the Long Journey House at Edge Esmeralda (thus the “Long Journey” card above). The dream is to keep creating alongside other builders and dreamers.
More cards and news coming your way soon. As always, thanks for being here.
With metta,
—Colton
