Epocrypha

Epocrypha – A Trading Card Game of Strategy, Identity, and WarEpocrypha is a trading card game (TCG) that I have meticulously designed from the ground up, crafting not only the gameplay mechanics but also the rich lore and individual card designs. My goal was to create a deeply immersive experience where strategy is not just about managing resources—it’s about identity and leadership.At the core of Epocrypha is a two-tier strategic system:The Leader – Players don’t just control a deck; they embody their leader, choosing a figure that reflects their playstyle, philosophy, and tactical approach. The leader dictates unique mechanics and influences every strategic decision.
The Team – Players construct their battlefield using a synergy of creatures, warriors, and powerful field cards, crafting a lineup that either amplifies their leader’s strengths or compensates for their weaknesses.This system moves beyond traditional life points, transforming the player into a true part of the game, reinforcing emotional and tactical investment.
Deep Strategy, Dynamic PlaystylesOne of my design principles in Epocrypha was to ensure that each deck archetype felt distinct yet balanced, offering meaningful decision-making at every level. Whether a player adopts an aggressive, tempo-driven, midrange, or control strategy, they must adapt to the battlefield while carefully managing risk and reward.Red Faction: Sacrifice HP to deal devastating damage.
Green Faction: Support and heal, reinforcing long-term survivability.
Dark Faction: Spend battle progress to manipulate and gain advantages.The interplay of spell, support, and artifact cards adds another dimension of customization, allowing players to adapt their decks in creative ways beyond the core faction mechanics.
Innovation Through the Promotion SystemOne of the most ambitious mechanics I’m developing is Promotion—an evolution system that unlocks unparalleled customization. While many TCGs offer predictable upgrade paths, Promotion introduces conditional evolution, where certain paths break the rules of others, enabling unexpected power shifts. This ensures that no two matches play the same way and rewards players who can identify unique card synergies.
Why Epocrypha MattersIn designing this game, I sought to merge the immersive storytelling of RPGs with the deep tactical layers of TCGs. Players don’t just build a deck; they become a force within the game world, fighting for dominance in a high-stakes war. Every choice matters, from the leader they align with to the battlefield strategies they employ.Epocrypha isn’t just about winning—it’s about becoming.