

Mike Webber
Jan 29, 2025
After our Kickstarter campaign for "The Level One Collection" didn't resonate with our community, we knew we needed a different approach. Instead of guessing what our users wanted, we decided to listen instead. Sounds ridiculously simple but it was hard for us to pivot away from our initial idea of pushing out a TTRPG fashion app. So, with the help of Concordia University's District 3 innovation incubator in Montreal, we embarked on a comprehensive market validation journey. Over the fall of 2024, we conducted in-depth conversations with 75 Game Masters and surveyed 25 players from across the TTRPG community.
Our goal was simple: understand the real needs, pain points, and desires of our potential users. By taking this step back and prioritizing direct feedback, we committed ourselves to building Faes AR with our community. What we found out was awesome.
Before diving into some of the findings, I want to acknowledge the Game Masters, Players and Designers who shared their time and insights with us: thank you. Your contributions to this project have been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for your willingness to engage. It is a privilege to hear from the creative minds shaping the TTRPG world.

What stood out most in the interviews was your adaptability. You navigate the challenges of a fragmented myriad of game systems, rule sets and technical set ups with curiosity and passion. You pursue game design, storytelling, and community-building with remarkable resourcefulness. Many of you spoke about finding ways to create meaning and connection through your games, often working within constraints of time, resources, or tools. That drive to make something worthwhile, no matter the circumstances, is inspiring.

Another recurring theme was a shared desire to co-create as a way of us all connecting with each other. Whether exploring new mechanics, emphasizing collaboration over conflict, or rethinking traditional systems, it’s clear that you aren’t content to simply follow established paths. Your work reflects a deep care for stories we tell and how we tell them together.

In the Player’s Survey, we learned that in the realm of online play, the use of video cameras is a point of contention. Players were split between embracing visual connection and preferring voice-only anonymity. Despite the differences, DMs collectively underscored the importance of community and supporting players, whatever their preference.
This process has been humbling. Listening to your thoughts and experiences has reinforced just how important this work actually is—not just in the games we play but in the communities they build. Thank you for sharing your stories. We are better for it.
Stay tuned for news about our project and if you are interested, sign up to our Patreon!
Many thanks,
Mike Webber
CEO ARaura & Co-Founder, Faes AR