Finding the Right Path: My Journey Through the Trenches of Gloom Trench 1926

Gloom Trench 1926 is a tabletop game set in an alternate post-World War I universe, blending dark horror with strategic gameplay. It’s a project close to my heart, yet I’ve found myself staring at the same notes and drafts without making any real progress. I’ve struggled to move the project forward for over a year now.

If you’re a tabletop game designer, you know the drill. Ideas flow like water one moment, and the next, you’re entrenched in a direction you hadn’t intended. For me, Gloom Trench 1926 started with a burst of inspiration. I envisioned trench warfare with a supernatural twist, detailed characters, and a rich storyline. But as time went on, I realized the game was veering off in a direction I hadn’t planned, hemming in my creativity and making it difficult to continue.

Over time, it became clear that the game was morphing into something akin to Warhammer 40K, with larger armies and more complex logistics, rather than the smaller model count skirmish game I had originally envisioned. This shift wasn't immediately apparent, but about six months ago, I started to realize where the issue lay and what needed to be done.

I initially tried to course-correct by reducing the model count in the British Empire list. However, because I hadn’t fully acknowledged the underlying problem, my adjustments were half-hearted and ineffective. It was only by fully confronting the direction the game was taking that I began to see a way forward.

I want to let all the fans of Gloom Trench 1926 know that the direction of the game style is going to change. The next iteration of the rules will bring the game back to its roots as a smaller model count skirmish game. This means fewer models on the battlefield, but more intense and strategic gameplay. The focus will be on creating a tight, immersive experience where every model counts and every decision is critical.

So, what’s the takeaway? Realizing why Gloom Trench 1926 had stalled was the first step toward getting back on track. By acknowledging the misdirection and taking steps to correct it, the game’s original vision is gradually being restored. Each small victory, every piece of feedback, and every moment of inspiration brings me closer to the finish line.

If you’re in the same boat, remember: it’s okay to struggle. Creativity isn’t a constant stream; it ebbs and flows. Embrace the journey, lean on your community, and above all, keep the faith.

Here’s to finding the right path and bringing Gloom Trench 1926 to life as it was meant to be! I'm off to scribble some new ideas and hopefully, get Gloom Trench 1926 back on track.