Daniel (@Dungeondive) interviews Dustin Freund, the designer of The Ghosts Betwixt, to discuss the development of the game and the challenges of crowdfunding on Kickstarter. They dive into topics such as early inspirations for The Ghosts Betwixt, including HeroQuest, Imperial Assault, and Shadows of Brimstone, which shaped the game’s strategic mechanics, particularly its initiative system. Dustin explains how the game’s family of protagonists—Bill, Joan, Maddox, and Evelyn—bring an emotional core to the dungeon-crawling experience, making the game unique in a genre often dominated by more typical adventurer archetypes.
They also explore the impact of components, such as standees versus miniatures, and the decision to incorporate everyday objects as loot in the game to enhance immersion. Dustin shares his thoughts on the importance of accessibility and engagement in both the gameplay and the rulebook, citing how The Ghosts Betwixt uses time as a currency during setup, allowing players to customize their party and gear in an intuitive way.
The conversation wraps up with insights into Dustin’s plans for The Ghosts Betwixt: Chapter Two, which will expand the original game’s world without the need for a massive new box. Players can expect new storylines, an overworld map, and more flexibility in mission lengths. He emphasizes keeping the game accessible for both veteran players and newcomers, ensuring that Chapter Two can be enjoyed even if you haven’t played the first chapter.
