Stupendous! The Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide Campaign has Concluded!
Hello Storytellers,
Thanks to the support of more than 1100 backers, Onyx Path will be able to develop and print the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide!
Not only did we rally a large number of backers, we extended the campaign with a last minute Backer Train taking us into Overtime!! That was cool! It's a neat feature on BackerKit and we love seeing how much more fun we can have with our campaigns.
There's more to celebrate! Not only did we fund the project in the first day, we also unlocked all four Stretch Goals to build a new storyteller's supplement containing more examples of advice and bits from the book.
It came down to the last few days but we managed to hit every Stretch Goal we'd posted and completed the bonus Storyteller Supplement in the final day of the campaign!
Great job!
Let's review and see what we've accomlished by coming together to Crowdfund this project!
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Unlocked and Expanded via Stretch Goal achievements.
Backers receiving the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide PDF will automatically have this Storyteller's Supplement PDF added as a bonus to their list of digital rewards.
Backers pledged to receive either of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide hardcover editions will also receive a code to order the Print-on-Demand version at a discounted price.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle - An Exalted: Essence Storyteller's supplement will be created, featuring antagonists that could be found in the Blessed Isle.
ACHIEVED! - Adventures on the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures on the Blessed Isle - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Blessed Isle will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Threshold - The Stretch Goal built storyteller's supplement will be expanded to include antagonists that could be found in or related to the Threshold.
ACHIEVED! - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
And all of that is, of course, on top of our main purpose here - the creating of the actual book itself! This is the real reward - everything else is a bonus!
So a huge congratulations to Eddy and H and the team on this project, and to all of the backers who've joined in to make this possible. I'm happy about the goals we hit and rewards we introduced, but I'm also always amazed and excited about having more than 1000 backers join in during this campaign, and we really surpassed that dream target! Exalted fans are always a delight, and I'm happy that I get to share in the excitement and enthusiasm in my own little corner of the project!
AN EXTRA THANK YOU!
So, thank you to all the backers who supported us and made this happen. And an extra thanks to everyone who participated online, either in the Community comments section of the campaign, and on social media around the web. Thanks to everyone who talked about the project on the Discord and thanks to the Onyx Path team who answered questions and provided insight.
COMMUNICATION
So, as noted in today's earlier update, starting in July I'll be sending out updates once a month and whenever we've got a new goal, survey, or other item to cover. If you have any questions or need clarification on something related to the campaign, feel free to get in touch. I may take a bit to answer as I handle some family business and recover from the past few weeks, but eventually I'll have an answer!
I'll also see if I can sneak a compiled draft manuscript at the bottom of this update. Nothing changed, just smashed together in order. Scroll down to check it out if you need it.
TO CONTACT ME
Via E-Mail: Onyx.Kickstarter [at] gmail.com
Via BackerKit: Click "Need Help?" from your forthcoming survey page, and then fill in the Contact Us form. BackerKit will pass your message along to me.
ONYX PATH DISCUSSION CHANNELS
If you've got questions about the rules or setting, or just want to discuss this game with other fans (as well as the Onyx Path writers and developers!), you can check out these Onyx Path discussion zones:
Backers make it better! That's the real Charm happening here.
The Discord is particularly lively, and I loved seeing the thoughts and jokes as the chapters came out bit by bit.
BackerKit will begin collected pledges and processing payments later tonight, so be ready for that.
I hope everyone is able to finish June in a good place, and I'll be in touch next month.
High fives all around in the comment section and on the Discord, and you'll hear from me again in a month-or-so when I've got the pledge manager set up and ready to roll out!
Welcome to the final hours of this campaign! We've had a pretty great run - funding very quickly and coming up to the end with 1,100 backers! We've unlocked all four Stretch Goals, building a whole new supplement as a bonus reward for supporters of this campaign!
That's right - we've unlocked every posted Stretch Goal for this project, including the final one that I just shared yesterday! I thought we'd need every minute of our campaign, but you managed to smash it in the past hour! Great job!
ACHIEVED! - At $70,000 in Funding - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
So happy to have plot elements for the Threshold added in to support the antagonists we'd added earlier!
The most important part of this campaign, though, is that we have successfully funded this project! Thanks to everyone who's come out to support this campaign, we'll be getting this cool book!
As mentioned, backers have also unlocked a companion book that will be added to all pledge tiers containing the Storyteller’s Guide PDF.
FINAL DAY CHECKLIST
Whether you're a Dragon-Blooded freshly chosen by the Elemental Dragons or an heroic Solar hero of legend, these are some good topics to review over these final five hours...
This update breaks down your best starting point for figuring out which Backer Reward Tier to choose to help support this project in a way that works for you.
The first decision you need to make in figuring out your reward tier is whether you want to receive the PDF, the standard hardcover version or the deluxe hardcover edition (all hardcovers also come with the PDF version).
Resplendent Storytelling Arts
This is the PDF-only reward tier. So, if you're saving trees or saving shelf space - or avoiding the shipping charges that are absolutely ever-increasing - this is the reward tier options that you should begin with. The PDF will be fulfilled by our partners at DriveThruRPG.com - when it is ready, you will receive a link to add it to your DTRPG library at no cost and be able to download at your leisure.
Machinery of Greatness
This reward tier includes the standard hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
Golden Tongues and Fiery Wit
This reward tier includes the deluxe hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
As noted, shipping charges will be calculated later and charged in the BackerKit Pledge Manager. We'll have exact shipping costs once the book is in production and we know the specifications, but we;ve done our best to provide estimates on the front pate. If it looks expensive, you can pledge to the Resplendent Storytelling Arts tier and possibly upgrade inthe pledge managerto one of the hardcover tiers once the shipping costs are known before we lockdown orders.
ADD-ON OPTIONS - The other half of our Reward Tiers update, including information on the second step of pledging. There are several Add On options that you can add as part of your pledging process, including a ton of interesting Exalted: Essence and Exalted Third Edition books and supplements.
ADD ON selections will be available in the post-campaign Pledge Manager as well.
Also to note, only those who participate during the campaign will have Stretch Goal rewards to their rewards lists. If you're waiting to pre-order at a later time, it's better to pledge to the Tales of the Chosen tier now and then simply upgrade your pledge later to have the option to include these bonus rewards.
Additionally, this may go without saying,please review your personal budgetand ensure you've selected the appropriate reward tier and add ons for your current financial situation. BackerKit will begincharging your payment methodat midnight the day the campaign ends, so ensure you've budgeted correctly. Choose what works best for you now and is affordable at this time, knowing that you can upgrade your pledge level or choose Add Ons in the Pledge Manager at a late date.
There are no refunds for regret, and the funds raised start being spent immediately on paying for the work done thus far and the additional work ahead plus the projects unlocked via Stretch Goal. So please be financially responsible.
Choose a Reward Tier You Can Afford
Readthe Manuscripts and Make Sure You Know What You're Getting
Be Aware of the Projected Delivery Date (Onyx Path will try to deliver earlier than this, but the book will take some time to get perfect, and we're dealing with an imperfect world. Schedules sometimes go awry)
3. PAYMENT AND CONTACT INFORMATION
Once you're comfortable with your pledge, please ensure that the payment and contact information in your BackerKit account is up to date and correct. Making sure your e-mail is entered correctly and your credit card isn't expired will speed up the next step process. (I have learned from experience!)
4.OVERTIME MODE
Overtime Mode extends the campaign past its original end time to give backers a final chance to make their pledge and adds an interesting twist to the end of the campaign. How long will it extend? That’s entirely up to backers: The campaign will keep going for an additional 10 minutes as long as pledges keep coming in – a chain of back-to-back pledges is called the Backer Train. The campaign will end only when the Backer Train stops after a period of 10 minutes passing without any pledges.
You’ll know we’re in Overtime Mode when the campaign’s Backer Train counter displays a bright rainbow border and a new countdown that resets to 10 minutes after each new backer joins that final Backer Train ride.
So we're scheduled to end today at 2:00 pm Eastern, but it'll be extended in 10 minute chunks as long as backers keep pledging. Will we add an extra 10 minutes? An extra 20? Or will it all finish up as we programmed? Who knows, but we'll find out together! The power of rolling dice!
WHAT COMES NEXT?
5. AFTER THE CAMPAIGN ENDS
First, we celebrate. The campaign page will subtly change, locking out the ability to pledge and showing the final totals. We'll give socially-distanced high fives and digital fist bumps in the Community section and over on Discord.
Then, the BackerKit payment process begins. Starting late tonight and continuing over the next week, Backerkit will begin charging your payment methods for the total amount you've pledged.
If there is an issue with your payment method (expired credit card or incorrect number or pre-paid Visa awaiting funds, for example), BackerKit will keep trying to process payment during this time.
Once this step is done, which will likely be by the start of July, BackerKit will confirm everything with Onyx Path and I can begin to set up the project in the Pledge Manager and load in all of the campaign data.
In addition to providing the crowdfunding platform for this campaign, BackerKit is also Onyx Path's regular Pledge Manager partner.
BackerKit provides a robust fulfillment integration and pledge management program that will allow us to work with all of the data and distribute the rewards to you. It will take me about a month to set the project up. Once I've got it all entered and built, the team from BackerKit will review to ensure I didn't mess anything up too badly, and then I'll make any changes they've suggested and we can move on to the Survey stage.
6. BACKERKIT SURVEYS
Once BackerKit says I'm good to go, I will send out a survey to all backers. This is why confirming your e-mail is important!
The BackerKit survey is both a verb and a noun - it will collect data for the analysis of some aspect of a group (enabling Onyx Path to set print runs, prioritize new projects, and fine-tune future campaigns), as well as providing a general review or summary of the reward tier you've chosen, confirm all of the rewards associated with that reward tier, and confirm your total pledge amount.
I expect Surveys to go out before the end of July 2026.
During the Survey period, you can choose to increase your reward tier and add on additional options. If you've found $20 in your summer shorts or got a big tax refund and decide it's time to trade up to the deluxe hardcover version of the book or include another add-on, you can do so at this time. Note, you will not be able to reduce your reward tier selection, only increase.
If you selected Add On options, they'll be added to your reward list automatically.
Note that you'll be able to upgrade your pledge tier for quite some time - until we're getting ready to print the book itself and have figured out shipping costs. So don't feel pressure to have it all figured out right away - we'll make sure there's plenty of time to get it all sorted before the books go out.
Similarly, if you have a hardcover book as one of your rewards, the survey will ask you to confirm your shipping address, even though it'll be some time before we ship out the final product. Do not worry about moving before shipping begins - you will be able to update BackerKit right up until the point that we begin fulfilling the final book. We will send out a notice prior to lock down so you can update any information.
I'll also use the Survey to confirm some details for the premium reward tiers.
7. REWARD DISTRIBUTION
Once the surveys are up and running, I'll prepare fulfillment for the existing rewards - the Add On options that are all currently available, like the Exalted core rulebook and expansions as well as the fiction omnibus. Depending on how smoothly the Pledge Manager process goes, those should be out fairly soon after the survey stage starts. So, let's say the existing PDF rewards will be out to you by the end of Jul;y. That's only the beginning, though.
This is a long process, but I will send out regular updates (usually at the end of the month) to keep you up to speed on Onyx Path's progress. There will be strings of updates that are just "still working on it," but I will share new artwork or information when I can.
Eventually, we will have a completed PDF of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide. Onyx Path will take some time to distribute, review, and compile any errata or corrections that need to be made. When they've made any necessary changes, they'll make an updated version of the PDF available in your DriveThruRPG digital library and then begin creating print-ready files for the Print-on-Demand and the hardcover versions.
It's yet another long road ahead, likely full of twists and turns and surprises, but one that we wouldn't be undertaking if not for your ongoing support.
So - one final time - please spread the word to any potential backers and fans, and thanks so much for a great campaign!
We're not quite in the final 24 hours, but getting very close! Within this last day, I wanted to review some important topics, most especially our current Stretch Goal situation! Let's start stretching!
We're in the Final Day countdown for this Crowdfunding campaign. Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide finishes the crowdfunding campaign on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. There's still time to give the spark of exaltation to a few more backers, but we're definitely near the finish line. With that in mind, I wanted to touch on some of the basics over these final days to make sure everyone has the information they need to support this project in the way that works best for them.
Whether you're a Dragon-Blooded freshly chosen by the Elemental Dragons or an heroic Solar hero of legend, these are some good topics to review over this week to make sure we all end up where we want to be.
(An aside, if you're a new backer, make sure you check out our Final Week Countdown / Resource Update. It has links to the manuscript previews and other helpful information.)
I want to highlight the Reward Tier and Add On Review post.Please review it prior to the conclusion of this campaign, as it outlines important information about your pledge selection, your rewards, and supporting this campaign that you should be aware of before we get to the end.
Refresher Course
Note for New Backers: Please check out the updates listed above. There's a lot of information there that will be important to know about before the end, like how we're not including shippingcharges in our pledges for this campaign and instead will be charging them in our pledge manager before we ship out the books, and you can also read the entire draft manuscript before the end of the campaign and any pledges are processed.
Note for Since-the-Start Backers: It's probably a good idea to review that stuff as well. Never hurts to make sure you haven't missed anything!
In fact, just to make sure I've hit all of the main points several times, here's a quick rundown of some key items:
MANUSCRIPT PREVIEW - As noted, the complete Preview Manuscript for the book is available for you to review prior to the conclusion of the campaign. If you're a backer, you'll have access to this preview manuscript after the campaign. Remember, though, there are still some minor edits, development and proofing that need to be done, but you can consider it most of the way there and a good representation of what you'll get in the final book. Making the manuscript available for review before the campaign ends ensures that everyone knows exactly what our goal is - making this book - and are on board with our aims for this project. Thanks for your support, we're all in this together!
PLEDGE TIERS -This update breaks down your best starting point for figuring out which Backer Reward Tier to choose to help support this project in a way that works for you.
Resplendent Storytelling Arts
This is the PDF-only reward tier. So, if you're saving trees or saving shelf space - or avoiding the shipping charges that are absolutely ever-increasing - this is the reward tier options that you should begin with. The PDF will be fulfilled by our partners at DriveThruRPG.com - when it is ready, you will receive a link to add it to your DTRPG library at no cost and be able to download at your leisure.
Machinery of Greatness
This reward tier includes the standard hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
Golden Tongues and Fiery Wit
This reward tier includes the deluxe hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
ADD-ON OPTIONS - The other half of our Reward Tiers update, including information on the second step of pledging. There are several Add On options that you can add as part of your pledging process, including a ton of interesting Exalted: Essence and Exalted Third Edition books and supplements.
Choose Wisely
Choosing the correct Reward Tier for your desired rewards, and then filling in any "gaps" with add-ons, ensures that you'll be claiming all of your desired rewards as a thank you for supporting this project and bringing this world to life.
Remember, your PLEDGE AMOUNT is equal to your REWARD TIER + ADD ONS only - Any Shipping costs will be collected at a later date. You will also be able to select Add On options in the Pledge Manager after the campaign, but remember that only funds added during the campaign count towards Stretch Goal funding targets.
Also to note, only those who participate during the campaign will have Stretch Goal rewards to their rewards lists. If you're waiting to pre-order at a later time, it's better to pledge to the Tales of the Chosen tier now and then simply upgrade your pledge later to have the option to include these bonus rewards.
Additionally, this may go without saying,please review your personal budgetand ensure you've selected the appropriate reward tier and add ons for your current financial situation. BackerKit will begincharging your payment methodat midnight the day the campaign ends, so ensure you've budgeted correctly. Choose what works best for you now and is affordable at this time, knowing that you can upgrade your pledge level or choose Add Ons in the Pledge Manager at a late date.
There are no refunds for regret, and the funds raised start being spent immediately on paying for the work done thus far and the additional work ahead plus the projects unlocked via Stretch Goal. So please be financially responsible.
Tomorrow I'll be posting one further "Final Day" update, covering What Happens Next and outlining what to expect once the campaign ends.
But until then, let's review our Stretch Goal success story!
Over the past 27 days as we've worked through this campaign, we've not only funded the book but also built a whole new supplement via Stretch Goal achievements!
Let's review and see what we've accomlished by coming together to Crowdfund this project!
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Unlocked and Expanded via Stretch Goal achievements.
Backers receiving the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide PDF will automatically have this Storyteller's Supplement PDF added as a bonus to their list of digital rewards.
Backers pledged to receive either of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide hardcover editions will also receive a code to order the Print-on-Demand version at a discounted price.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle - An Exalted: Essence Storyteller's supplement will be created, featuring antagonists that could be found in the Blessed Isle.
ACHIEVED! - Adventures on the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures on the Blessed Isle - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Blessed Isle will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Threshold - The Stretch Goal built storyteller's supplement will be expanded to include antagonists that could be found in or related to the Threshold.
We've unlocked and expanded the Storyteller's Supplement PDF with three sections... so far! But we've got one final Stretch Goal lined up to finish off this bonus book!
At $70,000 in Funding - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
YOUR REWARDS!
That's right! You backed this project to help make and publish the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide! Our primary reward - the big thank you that we'll send out in appreciation for your support - are PDFs and/or hardcover copies of this book! BUT AS A BONUS, you may also receive an amazing collection of adversaries and adventures for your Exalted: Essence game!
NOT MUCH MORE TIME
Unfortunately, we seem to continue to move forward at a regular pace, and our campaign will some come to the inescapable end. We've achieved our primary goal of funding the book, but there is still one possible Stretch Goal reward that is almost within grasp! I know this last funding target may seem a challenge, but it wouldn't be a STRETCH goals if we didn't have to really STRETCH to reach it! It's certainly within reach, but won't be easy, so let's keep at it!
So, as every update concludes: let's keep the enthusiasm rolling! Keep spreading the word and letting others know about this project. They've got this final day to jump in and share the Stretch Goals we've achieved!
And every backer who joins in as we approach the end is not only able to enjoy the additional rewards already added by the early fans and backers, but also help reward those early backers by maybeunlocking thatfinal Companion section!
Remember, only the funds generated during the Crowdfunding campaign go toward achieving these Stretch Goal targets, so the time to act is now! Together, we can bring this game to life and make great things happen!
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide finishes the crowdfunding campaign on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time.
We will finish up as soon as our backer train ends after that point! So let's see if we can't hit a final Stretch Goal and then keep that train running for an extra 10 or 20 minutes!!
Exalted and Supernatural Antagonists [Draft Manuscript Preview 3b]
Hello super Storytellers,
We're in our final days, and it's time for our final section of the draft manusript! As of this update, backers have access to the entire approved draft and can read the book before any pledges are processed or payments collected. If you're with us beyond this point, you know exactly what this project is you're backing and a key member of the supporters bringing this project to life!
Before we get to the manusript download link, I just wanted to quickly go over a few key pieces of info. We're in the Final Days countdown for this Crowdfunding campaign. Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide finishes the crowdfunding campaign on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. There's still time to give the spark of exaltation to a few more backers, but we're definitely getting closer to the finish line. With that in mind, I wanted to touch on some of the basics over these final days to make sure everyone has the information they need to support this project in the way that works best for them.
June 16 - Manuscript Preview 3B - Exalted and Supernatural Antagonists (that's today!)
June 17 - Stretch Goal Review
June 18 - Final Day Checklist & What Comes Next
Whether you're a Dragon-Blooded freshly chosen by the Elemental Dragons or an heroic Solar hero of legend, these are some good topics to review over this week to make sure we all end up where we want to be.
(An aside, if you're a new backer, make sure you check out our Final Week Countdown / Resource Update. It has links to the manuscript previews and other helpful information.)
I want to highlight the Reward Tier and Add On Review post.Please review it prior to the conclusion of this campaign, as it outlines important information about your pledge selection, your rewards, and supporting this campaign that you should be aware of before we get to the end.
Tomorrow, we'll have a review of our Stretch Goal achievements, but here's a sneak peek at our next target.
At $70,000 in Funding - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
Probably not a surprise, for those who have paid attention to our first three stretch goal achievements. That's right - we unlocked our third goal yesterday, expanding our Storyteller's supplement with new antagonists from the Threshold.
Shipping Costs will be Collected in the Pledge Manager
We’ll be charging for shipping in the Pledge Manager once the books are being printed and we can deal with the actual shipping charges rather than using our best-guesses this far out (see our current guesses on the front page).
Draft Manuscript Previews
Over the course of this campaign, backers have received the entire current draft manuscript for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide released in sections each week of the campaign. This helps me seem interesting over the next 28 days, but it's more about guiding the conversation and helping steer feedback for the developers.
Because they want your feedback! These manuscript previews are of the current draft manuscript – the document in its latest, approved form. This may not be the final form after editing and any additional development, but you can consider it about 95% finished, so keep that in mind.
In fact, you can help guide the team through the next stages of development by providing feedback on these manuscript previews! The Onyx Path team has set up a special Feedback Form just for campaign backers for this very purpose: <Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide Feedback Form>
You can use this FEEDBACK FORM to share your thoughts directly with the Exalted: Essence creative team to help guide them through the next rounds of development and editing.
DRAFT MANUSCRIPT PREVIEWS - BACKERS ONLY
Remember, thanks to BackerKit sorcery, these download links are visible to Backers only - you must be logged in and reading this on the website to have access to the manuscript preview links. So, if you're reading this via e-mail, click that "Reply to this Update" or "Learn More" button on the bottom and I'll see you below the Exalted emblem.
Final Days Review: Pledge Tiers and Add On Options
Hello Super Storytellers,
It was a busy weekend and a lot of thins that felt like grand finales are happening, and not coincidentally, we're in the final days of this crowdfunding campaign.
The Campaign ends on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time
With only a handful of days remaining, I just wanted to go over some key bits to make sure everyone's got the info they need to back this campaign if they so choose!
PLEDGE REWARD TIERS
Like it says right at the top of the campaign story page, we've come together to help create fully developed PDFs and hardcover print versions of Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide for the Exalted: Essence tabletop roleplaying game. This book is a reexamination and expansion of Storyteller-facing rules, system, and advice, offering guidance and options for Storytellers and groups of all levels of experience. The Exalted: Essence core rulebook offers mechanical tools and storytelling advice to bring Creation to life, which the Exalted: Essence Storyteller’s Guide builds on to make running an epic campaign even easier.
PLEDGING YOUR SUPPORT
To borrow an analogy that I've used in past campaigns, this process we're a part of works similar to the "Viewers Like You" support campaign from your local Public Broadcasting Station (while they still exist): There are various levels of support that you can pledge to, and these come with various levels of rewards offered as a thank you. Like getting a tote bag or t-shirt when you give money to public broadcasting to fund them doing their thing, you can get rewards for helping Onyx Path work on this project.
Let's review the Backer Reward Tiers to ensure that you've pledged to a Reward Tier that provides all the rewards you wish to receive.
In thanks for your support, we offer rewards based on your level of funding pledged. The Reward Paths linked at the top of the page outline the various rewards reflecting various levels of support pledged. Please note that shipping costs ARE NOT included in the cost of your pledge. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager.
While the world of Exalted is full of epic characters and larger-than-life adventures, we've kept supporting this project as simple and straightforward as possible. To pledge support to this project and receive the book in one (or more) of the formats offered, pick one of these reward tiers:
Resplendent Storytelling Arts: This is the PDF-only reward tier. So, if you're saving trees or saving shelf space - or avoiding the shipping charges that are absolutely ever-increasing - this is the reward tier options that you should begin with. The PDF will be fulfilled by our partners at DriveThruRPG.com - when it is ready, you will receive a link to add it to your DTRPG library at no cost and be able to download at your leisure.
Machinery of Greatness: This reward tier includes the standard hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
If you're a big fan of Exalted: Essence and want to really impress your gaming group, we're also offering a special edition Deluxe Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide hardcover book.
Golden Tongues and Fiery Wit: This reward tier includes the deluxe hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
In addition to these primary reward pledge paths, we also offer the following option:
Tales of the Chosen: Not ready to commit, or just looking to offer general support? This pledge path is for you. This does not include our primary reward, but allows you to select some digital optional Add Ons, as well as participating in the post-campaign Pledge Manager as a backer. You'll also be able to read the draft manuscript of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide that we post throughout this campaign.
After the campaign is over we'll launch our Pledge Manager and invite the backers to set up their rewards via survey. This allows you to confirm your pledge and add on anything that you might have missed, as well as possibly increasing your pledged reward path, should you choose to expand your reward selection. Funding collected after the Crowdfunding campaign does not count toward any campaign Stretch Goals, however.
After the Crowdfunding campaign, in the Pledge Manager, you 'll be able to:
Review and update your Pledge Level selection - for example, you can pledge to the Resplendent Storytelling Arts tier during the campaign and then switch to the Machinery of Greatness once we know shipping costs and are preapring to fulfill the softcover rewards.
Confirm and Update your Shipping information - you'll be able to update your final delivery address up until we're shipping out the hardcover rewards.
Pay for Shipping and additional Add On Options - we'll process payments for shipping costs and additional add-ons selected in your Pledge Manager survey when we get closer to reward fulfillment.
Download Digital Reward Redemption Links - the Pledge Manager will have links to access all of your digital rewards as they are fulfilled
An important reminder at this stage:
Shipping Costs: We’ll be charging for shipping in the Pledge Manager once the books are being printed and we can deal with the actual shipping charges rather than using our best-guesses this far out (see our current guesses on the front page).
You'll note that two rewards - Access to the Manuscript Previews and Participation in Post-Campaign Pledge Manager - are included in ALL reward tiers. That's just one of the perks of participating in this crowdfunding campaign!
OPTIONAL DISCOUNTED PoD VERSION – For this Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide campaign, some pledge tiers have the option of using DriveThruRPG.com’s Print-On-Demand service to purchase a printed copy of the PDF directly from their PoD partners at discounted cost (this cost is not included in your pledge, and you do not need to increase the cost of your pledge to use this option). When the PoD versions are available to order (which maybe some time after the books have gone to print), you will receive links to purchase these versions of the books from DriveThruRPG.com. You DO NOT need to take advantage of this PoD offer as it does not affect in any way your pledge rewards.
EXALTED: ESSENCE STORYTELLER'S GUIDE BACKER PDF - Crowdfunding backers will receive a redemption link for an early version of this book before it goes on sale to the public. This initial "Backer Version" will be used to get feedback from the fans to make the final version the best that it can be. When it has been updated to the final version, it will automatically be added to your DriveThruRPG library and available for download at your convenience.
EXALTED: ESSENCE STORYTELLER'S GUIDEHARDCOVER BOOKS - The main goal of this campaign is to fund the creation, production, and print run of a standard and limited edition deluxe hardcover editions of this book. Note that all Reward Tiers that include a physical hardcover version also include the digital PDF version as a bonus.
Choosing Your Reward Tier
There has been some churn over this past week - a few Reward Tier adjustments and changes by backers, as budgets changed and people have read the manuscript previews. In these final days it's best to ensure that you've selected the Reward Tier that offers you the options and rewards you want to receive and are ready to lock down. This timing - before the campaign ends - is the absolute most affordable and inclusive these rewards will be, and will save headaches and heartbreaks if fully considered now.
This is just the first step, however, in completing your pledge for this campaign. Funds for additional extras can be added to your pledge by selecting Add On options and increasing the overall funding and maybe getting us closer to a Stretch Goal.
First Step: Reward Tier
To summarize the first part of this post, the absolute best way to ensure that you're getting the primary rewards you want from this crowdfunding campaign is to ensure you've selected the appropriate Backer Reward Tier. Selecting the right Reward Tier covers about 95% of the options available to you. If you want the standard hardcover, make sure you've selected the correct reward. If you want the deluxe edition, double-check your reward tier to ensure the proper option is featured.
Once you've completed that important step, you're going to want to look at the Add On rewards for any reward "bits" that don't automatically fall into your reward tier. That takes us to the Add On step.
Step Two: Add-On Options
Once you've chosen your pledge tier, you've likely already included the main rewards you want. In addition to the rewards offered as part of the Reward Tier configurations, there are a few other possible PDFs you may wish to add. All Add-On rewards are described in our Add On menu below.
You can select an Add On option, which will increase the amount of your pledge by the listed amount. Add on options will be selected and confirmed again in the Pledge Manager when that's up and running.
In addition to offering extra copies of ther Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide PDF and hardcovers, you can also get the Exalted: Essence core rules PDF, and pre-order the Exalted: Essence Player's Guide PDF and hardcovers.
A few other highlights from this list, first some supplements specific to Exalted: Essence that were part of the original crowdfunding ExEss campaign:
Pillars of Creation expands the content presented in Exalted: Essence, providing dozens of new Charms, antagonists, and story hooks for players and Storytellers alike.
Tomb of Memory is a full-length adventure designed to introduce Storytellers and players to Exalted: Essence. Ideal for a brief chronicle or one-shot.
Deeds Yet Undone offers three adventures for your Exalted Essence gaming group, whether they’re newly Exalted heroes (and first-time players) or they stand amongst the mightiest of the Exalted who have walked Creation’s breadth.
Exalted: Essence Novella Omnibus presents the World of Creation in fiction, a great way to explore more about the setting with three epic tales.
While the Add On options listed beyond those ExEss specific rewards are Exalted Third Edition supplements and use that ruleset, the lore and setting material transcends mechanics. I'd like to specifically point out Across the Eight Directions as a mosty-system agnostic tour around Creation and a great resource for Exalted: Essence Storytellers. Similarly, The Realm delves into the details of the Dragon-Blooded's empire and is a great reference if you've got a DB chronicle in mind.
Ready to join in? If you're backing for the first time, you can click BACK IT and select your Pledge Tier and finalize funding amount in the next menu.
Once you click BACK IT, you'll see pledge level options. If you want to know a bit more about each level, click Learn More, or click Back It.
For example, clicking Learn More on the MARCHINERY OF GREATNESS pledge gives you...
Once you're ready, you can click that BACK IT button and go right to Add On options.
You should also be aware that any available Add On options will be made available in our BackerKit pledge manager, so if you're unsure about adding on something at this point, you will be able to adjust your pledge in the post-campaign phase.
Pledging to the campaign also opens up the Stretch Goal rewards as thanks for your participation. It's important to note that backers who wait and Pre-Order the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide book at a later date will not have any Stretch Goal rewards automatically added to their rewards list if applicable.
REWARD DELIVERY
About 4-6 weeks after the campaign has ended, I'll launch our post-campaign Pledge Manager to collect information from all backers and confirm which rewards you'll be receiving. At that point, you'll be able to review your rewards and also also adjust any Add On Options that you may have missed. Once we have everything confirmed, I'll be able to deliver any rewards that are currently available - like existing Exalted titles and bundles. Backers who have pledged for these options will be sent special redemption links to claim these digital rewards from our partners at DriveThruRPG.com. Clicking these redemption links will allow you to add these PDF titles to your digital library to download anytime. I'll send an update when all of that is happening, though, so you are aware every step of the way.
So, while it will take some time for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide to move from manuscript form to a final product, you won't be waiting a year for PDFs that already exist. (You'll be waiting about 8-10 weeks or so, just enough time for us to set up the reward infrastructure.)
Physical Books
If you're waiting to see the shipping costs before upgrading your PDF pledge to any of the hardcover reward tiers, you'll have lots of time for that. We won't close the Pledge Manager until the books are ready to print and we know what shipping costs will be, so you'll be able to go back and adjust your pledge tier at that time.
It's going to take some time to create the final PDF for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide and even longer for the eventual print run for the hardcover books. When the books are at the printer, I will be in touch with all backers to outline timeline for pledge adjustments, as well as lockdown procedures and when we'll be confirming addresses and processing BackerKit Add Ons and Shipping payments. That's a long time away, and we'll cover that as we get closer to that part of the process.
Don't fret if you had forgotten to select additional rewards by the end of the campaign. These Add Ons will be available to select in our post-campaign Pledge Manager for those who participated in our campaign and have full access to the Pledge Manager. So, if you are undecided at this time, you will be able to hold off until we're closer to the final reward shipment goes out.
Step 1: Pledge Tier
Step 2: Add On Options
Again, your first step should involve your main reward selection, and your Add On Options will build upon that. If you selected the PDF-only tier, you can investigate PDF and digital options. If you select a hardcover tier, you will be able to add additional copies of the hardcover.
Note that all funds are expressed in US Dollars, so take into account your conversion as needed.
It Adds Up!
That should explain the process of Selecting your Reward Level and adding Add On options and confirming your TOTAL PLEDGE AMOUNT. Since increasing your pledge amount increases the overall funding level of the project, add-ons can help us achieve our Stretch Goal funding targets, so it benefits us all to suggest that you double-check to make sure you're getting all of the rewards you want.
Additionally, this may go without saying,please review your personal budgetand ensure you've selected the appropriate reward tier and add ons for your current financial situation. BackerKit will begincharging your payment methodat midnight the day the campaign ends, so ensure you've budgeted correctly. Choose what works best for you now and is affordable at this time, knowing that you can upgrade your pledge level or choose Add Ons in the Pledge Manager at a late date.
There are no refunds for regret, and the funds raised start being spent immediately on paying for the work done thus far and the additional work ahead plus the projects unlocked via Stretch Goal. So please be financially responsible.
Did I stress that enough? I hope so.
Conclusion
As we move through these final days of the campaign, please ensure you've chosen the correct Pledge Level for the rewards you want (at least at this point). And beyond that - please make sure you've investigated and selected any add-ons you wish to receive. If you have any issues with the Pledge process, either selecting the reward tier or figuring out the Add On options, you can reach out to me or to the support team at BackerKit. I've found them to respond quickly and offer great support.
On Thursday, just before the campaign ends, I will send an update detailing the steps that occur after the campaign concludes, including notes about our Pledge Manager and the communication plan going forward.
So, just like always: Spread the word! Share your excitement on social media! Tell your friends! I'll be back tomorrow with our final chapter, covering the Exalted and Supernaural antagonists, so let's make sure that none of our friends miss out! Anyone supporting this project will be able to read the entire draft manuscript before any pledges are processed or payments collected, so you'll know exactly what you're getting! And you'll be able to submit your feedback directly to the developers who will use your notes to take the manuscript through the final stages of editing and development to make it the best it can be.
So, review your pledge, make sure it works for you in this moment, and let's carry on to our big finale on Thursday!
I'm running out to attend my daughter's graduation, but wanted to send out one more sneak peek preview to keep us excited through the weekend!
On Tuesday, backers will get the back half of Chapter 3, which contains the Exalted that we've already seen, but also...
Other Supernatural Entries
God, demons, and stranger things haunt all the corners of Creation, and often cross paths or purposes with the Exalted.
Demons
Strange inhabitants of the hell-city Malfeas, demons are amongst the oldest enemies of the chosen. All demons have the following qualities: Immaterial, Immortal (Demon), Measure the Wind. All Second and Third Circle demons have the Heroic and Significant qualities.
Erymanthoi, the Blood-Apes
Often summoned en masse to serve as an army or labor pool, the ferocious Erymanthoi are famed for their brute strength and thirst for blood. These hulking simians reek of gore even when immaterial, and favor direct, violent action. In Malfeas, they're often found in positions that let them indulge their instincts: shock trooper, enforcer, shock troopers or enforcers.
Virtues: Ambition (Proving their personal might)/Courage Primary Pool(9): Climbing, Feats of Demolition, Intimidation Secondary Pool(6): Crude Manual Labor, Raucous Song Tertiary Pool (4) Essence: 2 Health Levels: 8 Resolve: 3 Defense: 5 Hardness: 3 Soak: 5
Attacks and Qualities
Murderous Blow (Exalted Essence p. 317), Principle of Motion (Exalted Essence p. 319)
Brutal Pounce: Spend1 Mote. The Blood-Ape makes a withering attack; if it generates 5+ power, the target is knocked prone.
Rending Claws: Spend 1 Mote on Step 6 against a grappled or prone opponent to gain Double-9s on the damage roll. Against a target that is both grappled and prone, gains Double-8s instead.
Erymanthoi tend towards brute force and overwhelming violence, grabbing or knocking over their victims before brutally savaging them. Their hunger for blood leads them to impulsive behavior, even when bound. Summoners with a brutal streak of their own can leverage it to command their loyalty, or at least convince them to obey on pain of death.
Patrok, the Havens of the Wanderers
These demons appear as beautiful mortals with golden eyes and brazen spikes lining their spines. Each Patrok is marked by a sense of grief or emptiness, and wanders the world in eternal pilgrimage, seeking companions to heal its suffering. When it desires, a Patrok may briefly swell to immense size, engulfing another within its ribcage. In most cases, the Patrok acts as a strange, wandering sanctuary, keeping its charge safe within its body. Rarely, the Patrok's charge is exactly who it needs to feel whole. In the case of mortals, the charge merges with the Patrok's body, transmuting into a heart of brass and alabaster. Other beings may face a different fate, as the Patrok grows furiously possessive.
Virtues: Compassion/Wonder Primary Pool(9): Combat Movement, Pleasant Social Company, Protecting Their Charge Secondary Pool(6): Pilgrim Songs, Profile Individual Tertiary Pool (4) Essence: 3 Health Levels: 6 Resolve: 2 Defense: 5 Hardness: 4 Soak: 3
Attacks and Qualities:
Brazen Shelter: Engulf a willing target, protecting it within an armored ribcage. While inside, the Patrok's ward is protected by a reflexive Defend Other action, and benefits from two bonus Soak. Whenever the Patrok moves, its ward is safely carried along.
Perilous Vise: When making a normal grapple attempt, the Patrok may trap its target inside its ribcage, ignoring the Enormous Size quality. The Patrok may take other actions while grappling a target this way, and makes contested grapple rolls reflexively.
Patrok protecting a ward avoid obviously dangerous situations, going so far as to ignore their ward’s wishes to the contrary. Forced into defensive combat by enemy’s pursuit or the commands of a summoner, they attempt to knock enemies down or away so they can extricate themselves as swiftly as possible. When hunting, the Patrok’s demeanor changes entirely, and they will attempt to grapple, vise, and batter even dangerous foes as long as the Patrok senses a chance at victory.
Sesseljae, the Stomach Bottle Bugs
These small, beetle-like demons live to consume filth and poison. In Malfeas, their tastes make them a nuisance to other demons, who tend to see them as vermin at best. While they normally scuttle and hop about, they can also swim through living flesh as though it were water – allowing them to filter toxins from a host's veins or guts. Sesseljae find surgery enjoyable, and take to it with playful glee. Many sorcerers keep them on hand as personal doctors, and insurance against poisoning.
Virtues: Compassion/Courage Primary Pool(9): Medicine, Resist Magical Poison/Disease Secondary Pool(6): Begging for Poison, Singing Tertiary Pool (4) Essence: 3 Health Levels: 6 Resolve: 2 Defense: 5 Hardness: 0 Soak: 3
Attacks and Qualities
Internal Surgery: Spend one mote during a recovery scene to grant a host greater recovery. Spend 2 motes to count a recovery scene as Minor Milestone for the purposes of their host recovering from a Dramatic Injury, once per session.
Poison Sipper: A sesselja's host gains the benefits of Vile Repast as long as it's inside their body. The sesselja suffers any magical poison-based effects in their place.
Shield of Flesh: While inside a body, a sesselja benefits from an automatic, reflexive Defend Other action by its host.
Vile Repast: Sesseljae are immune to nonmagical poison and disease.
Sesseljae scurry to safety at the first sign of trouble, but poison and filth can inspire them to self-destructive cravings. If unable to flee or hide inside someone's body, they'll attack with mandibles or improvised weapons, but only as an absolute last resort. A sesselja will use its Internal Surgery quality on behalf of their host, or anyone else their summoner indicates.
Florivet, the Whim-of-the-Wind, Second Circle Demon
Formerly known as the Masterful Scholar, Florivet cast off his title and took up a life of exploration and adventure. He carved his own skeleton from his flesh, and replaced it with Cecylene-glass struts; he used his bones to craft the Foremost Gale, his prized land ship. Drawn onward by the lure of the unknown, he travels the length and breadth of Malfeas – and Creation, too, when summoned. Mercurial and impulsive, Florivet is as quick to anger as he is to forgive. His fiercest anger is reserved for those who wound his pride. This rage takes form as vitriol within his glass bones. Florivet uses it to scar those who offend him, the better to identify them in the future.
Florivet is lean and tall, with the head of a wolf and the wings, neck, and talons of an owl. Wherever he goes, the wind favors him, often shifting to match his mood. Many air elementals find themselves charmed by his roguish demeanor.
Divine Excellence (Exalted Essence p. 319), Domain's Beneficence (Wind) (Exalted Essence p. 319), Flying, Principle of Motion (Exalted Essence p. 319)
Wastrel's Wanderlust: When aiding a travel venture, following Florivet’s guidance or riding aboard his landship allows the travelers to negate the consequences of cutting corners once per venture, in return for a dramatic scene of the demon carousing or taking a detour to pursue his sudden interests.
Florivet is a bravo at heart, but he still seeks knowledge and new experiences. He can easily be won over with the promise of certain discovery, but his temperament can complicate arrangements if he feels slighted or disappointed. In combat, Florivet typically opens with Domain's Beneficence, which grants him additional offensive and defensive options. He takes full advantage of his flight, attacking foes from above with his bow. If given the opportunity and incentive, he'll attempt trick shots, aiming to hinder his foes while showing off.
Elementals
Ageless spirits embodying Creation’s natural elements, elementals are material spirits found across every Direction.
Fog Brothers
Hundreds of towns and cities are nothing but tumbled ruins, entire nations wiped out in the Contagion. The reclusive brume-giant elementals called Fog-Brothers are drawn to these places, descending from their mist-shrouded mountains to set up homes. Some simply protect these places, baffling travelers and treasure-seekers in endless fog, but more enthusiastic Fog Brothers seek to restore what they imagine was lost, ensnaring travelers to gradually recreate a community in the mist.
The Fog Brother of Buld
Once, Buld was a thriving caravan stop on the edge of the cold Northern Desert. The contagion came, and killed off thousands, and the desert swallowed it, the survivors moving to better lands. Now, it is streets, tumbled houses, and mist. But it is growing. Yeddim trains pass by, and do not leave. The gods of Buld, long since reassigned, hear prayers that they have not heard for generations. And its new citizens freeze and scrape the dry earth and know in their bones they do not belong here.
Immortal (Elemental) (Exalted Essence p. 319), Domain’s Benefience (Exalted Essence p. 319), Domain’s Curse (Exalted Essence p. 319), Enormous Size (Exalted Essence p. 316), Excellency (Exalted Essence p. 318)
Field of Forgotten Dreams: Characters must pass a successful, Difficulty 5 Sagacity, Integrity, or Physique roll to make recovery scenes in a Fog Brother’s territory. Additionally, it is surrounded by a Difficulty 5, 0 damage environmental hazard, that encompasses several miles an interval of “Scenes,” that gives a -2 Penalty of “Uneasy Visions” to mental rolls when failed.
Down From the Mountain: The body of a fog-brother is surrounded by a swirling mist, granting all characters within Long Range concealment to all targets but the Fog-Brother.
Hidden By Time and Thought: Commit 3 motes. The Fog Brother gains +4 Soak, which is reduced by 1 for every Intimacy it possesses that the attacker is aware of. Fog-Brothers have intimacies related to the ruins of the places they inhabit.
Eyes Like Shrouded Suns: Spend 3 motes to make a special gambit with its primary pool to enthrall a target, filling their mind with a memory of a false existence, spending power equal to their Hardness if used in combat. If it surpasses the target’s resolve, they replace their intimacies with a set appropriate to their new life. This lasts until the Fog Brother’s death. Significant characters may roll to resist this each scene and make take a Hard Bargain to act normally in scene.
Fog Brothers protect their villages, and those within their thrall, driving away or enthralling those who would linger. They do not like to see mortals suffer, and employ less powerful elementals, and enthralled animals as protectors, but are jealous and wary of everyone and everything. They are willing to part with those under their enchantments in exchange for the recovery of treasures or scraps of knowledge of the places they protect, but do not do so happily.
Tune in on Tuesday for Ululaya, the Blood-Red Moon (Third Circle Demon) and the Wood Spiders!
In the meantime, have a great weekend, keep spreading the word about this campaign in your social circles and on your social media, and let's unlock our third stretch goal as we race toward the finish line!
After the last few previews, it's time to get to the goods - the next section in our draft manuscript previews. This is the first half of Chapter 2, which is all about working with the systems and subsystems in the Exalted: Essence rules, and then switching out to alternates and options to make the game work best for your group!
Lots of good stuff in this one, and it's only half of the Chapter!
Draft Manuscript Previews
Over the course of these 4 weeks, backers will receive the entire current draft manuscript for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide, but it's not going to come to you all in one go. The previews will come out in Tuesday-sized sections each week of the campaign. This helps me seem interesting over the next 28 days, but it's more about guiding the conversation and helping steer feedback for the developers.
Because they want your feedback! These manuscript previews are of the current draft manuscript – the document in its latest, approved form. This may not be the final form after editing and any additional development, but you can consider it about 95% finished, so keep that in mind.
In fact, you can help guide the team through the next stages of development by providing feedback on these manuscript previews! The Onyx Path team has set up a special Feedback Form just for campaign backers for this very purpose: <Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide Feedback Form>
You can use this FEEDBACK FORM to share your thoughts directly with the Exalted: Essence creative team to help guide them through the next rounds of development and editing.
DRAFT MANUSCRIPT PREVIEWS - BACKERS ONLY
Remember, thanks to BackerKit sorcery, these download links are visible to Backers only - you must be logged in and reading this on the website to have access to the manuscript preview links. So, if you're reading this via e-mail, click that "Reply to this Update" or "Learn More" button on the bottom and I'll see you below the Exalted emblem.
Thanks to the support of more than 1100 backers, Onyx Path will be able to develop and print the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide!
Not only did we rally a large number of backers, we extended the campaign with a last minute Backer Train taking us into Overtime!! That was cool! It's a neat feature on BackerKit and we love seeing how much more fun we can have with our campaigns.
There's more to celebrate! Not only did we fund the project in the first day, we also unlocked all four Stretch Goals to build a new storyteller's supplement containing more examples of advice and bits from the book.
It came down to the last few days but we managed to hit every Stretch Goal we'd posted and completed the bonus Storyteller Supplement in the final day of the campaign!
Great job!
Let's review and see what we've accomlished by coming together to Crowdfund this project!
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Unlocked and Expanded via Stretch Goal achievements.
Backers receiving the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide PDF will automatically have this Storyteller's Supplement PDF added as a bonus to their list of digital rewards.
Backers pledged to receive either of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide hardcover editions will also receive a code to order the Print-on-Demand version at a discounted price.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Blessed Isle - An Exalted: Essence Storyteller's supplement will be created, featuring antagonists that could be found in the Blessed Isle.
ACHIEVED! - Adventures on the Blessed Isle
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures on the Blessed Isle - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Blessed Isle will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
ACHIEVED! - Antagonists from the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Antagonists from the Threshold - The Stretch Goal built storyteller's supplement will be expanded to include antagonists that could be found in or related to the Threshold.
ACHIEVED! - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
And all of that is, of course, on top of our main purpose here - the creating of the actual book itself! This is the real reward - everything else is a bonus!
So a huge congratulations to Eddy and H and the team on this project, and to all of the backers who've joined in to make this possible. I'm happy about the goals we hit and rewards we introduced, but I'm also always amazed and excited about having more than 1000 backers join in during this campaign, and we really surpassed that dream target! Exalted fans are always a delight, and I'm happy that I get to share in the excitement and enthusiasm in my own little corner of the project!
AN EXTRA THANK YOU!
So, thank you to all the backers who supported us and made this happen. And an extra thanks to everyone who participated online, either in the Community comments section of the campaign, and on social media around the web. Thanks to everyone who talked about the project on the Discord and thanks to the Onyx Path team who answered questions and provided insight.
COMMUNICATION
So, as noted in today's earlier update, starting in July I'll be sending out updates once a month and whenever we've got a new goal, survey, or other item to cover. If you have any questions or need clarification on something related to the campaign, feel free to get in touch. I may take a bit to answer as I handle some family business and recover from the past few weeks, but eventually I'll have an answer!
I'll also see if I can sneak a compiled draft manuscript at the bottom of this update. Nothing changed, just smashed together in order. Scroll down to check it out if you need it.
TO CONTACT ME
Via E-Mail: Onyx.Kickstarter [at] gmail.com
Via BackerKit: Click "Need Help?" from your forthcoming survey page, and then fill in the Contact Us form. BackerKit will pass your message along to me.
ONYX PATH DISCUSSION CHANNELS
If you've got questions about the rules or setting, or just want to discuss this game with other fans (as well as the Onyx Path writers and developers!), you can check out these Onyx Path discussion zones:
Backers make it better! That's the real Charm happening here.
The Discord is particularly lively, and I loved seeing the thoughts and jokes as the chapters came out bit by bit.
BackerKit will begin collected pledges and processing payments later tonight, so be ready for that.
I hope everyone is able to finish June in a good place, and I'll be in touch next month.
High fives all around in the comment section and on the Discord, and you'll hear from me again in a month-or-so when I've got the pledge manager set up and ready to roll out!
Welcome to the final hours of this campaign! We've had a pretty great run - funding very quickly and coming up to the end with 1,100 backers! We've unlocked all four Stretch Goals, building a whole new supplement as a bonus reward for supporters of this campaign!
That's right - we've unlocked every posted Stretch Goal for this project, including the final one that I just shared yesterday! I thought we'd need every minute of our campaign, but you managed to smash it in the past hour! Great job!
ACHIEVED! - At $70,000 in Funding - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
So happy to have plot elements for the Threshold added in to support the antagonists we'd added earlier!
The most important part of this campaign, though, is that we have successfully funded this project! Thanks to everyone who's come out to support this campaign, we'll be getting this cool book!
As mentioned, backers have also unlocked a companion book that will be added to all pledge tiers containing the Storyteller’s Guide PDF.
FINAL DAY CHECKLIST
Whether you're a Dragon-Blooded freshly chosen by the Elemental Dragons or an heroic Solar hero of legend, these are some good topics to review over these final five hours...
This update breaks down your best starting point for figuring out which Backer Reward Tier to choose to help support this project in a way that works for you.
The first decision you need to make in figuring out your reward tier is whether you want to receive the PDF, the standard hardcover version or the deluxe hardcover edition (all hardcovers also come with the PDF version).
Resplendent Storytelling Arts
This is the PDF-only reward tier. So, if you're saving trees or saving shelf space - or avoiding the shipping charges that are absolutely ever-increasing - this is the reward tier options that you should begin with. The PDF will be fulfilled by our partners at DriveThruRPG.com - when it is ready, you will receive a link to add it to your DTRPG library at no cost and be able to download at your leisure.
Machinery of Greatness
This reward tier includes the standard hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
Golden Tongues and Fiery Wit
This reward tier includes the deluxe hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
As noted, shipping charges will be calculated later and charged in the BackerKit Pledge Manager. We'll have exact shipping costs once the book is in production and we know the specifications, but we;ve done our best to provide estimates on the front pate. If it looks expensive, you can pledge to the Resplendent Storytelling Arts tier and possibly upgrade inthe pledge managerto one of the hardcover tiers once the shipping costs are known before we lockdown orders.
ADD-ON OPTIONS - The other half of our Reward Tiers update, including information on the second step of pledging. There are several Add On options that you can add as part of your pledging process, including a ton of interesting Exalted: Essence and Exalted Third Edition books and supplements.
ADD ON selections will be available in the post-campaign Pledge Manager as well.
Also to note, only those who participate during the campaign will have Stretch Goal rewards to their rewards lists. If you're waiting to pre-order at a later time, it's better to pledge to the Tales of the Chosen tier now and then simply upgrade your pledge later to have the option to include these bonus rewards.
Additionally, this may go without saying,please review your personal budgetand ensure you've selected the appropriate reward tier and add ons for your current financial situation. BackerKit will begincharging your payment methodat midnight the day the campaign ends, so ensure you've budgeted correctly. Choose what works best for you now and is affordable at this time, knowing that you can upgrade your pledge level or choose Add Ons in the Pledge Manager at a late date.
There are no refunds for regret, and the funds raised start being spent immediately on paying for the work done thus far and the additional work ahead plus the projects unlocked via Stretch Goal. So please be financially responsible.
Choose a Reward Tier You Can Afford
Readthe Manuscripts and Make Sure You Know What You're Getting
Be Aware of the Projected Delivery Date (Onyx Path will try to deliver earlier than this, but the book will take some time to get perfect, and we're dealing with an imperfect world. Schedules sometimes go awry)
3. PAYMENT AND CONTACT INFORMATION
Once you're comfortable with your pledge, please ensure that the payment and contact information in your BackerKit account is up to date and correct. Making sure your e-mail is entered correctly and your credit card isn't expired will speed up the next step process. (I have learned from experience!)
4.OVERTIME MODE
Overtime Mode extends the campaign past its original end time to give backers a final chance to make their pledge and adds an interesting twist to the end of the campaign. How long will it extend? That’s entirely up to backers: The campaign will keep going for an additional 10 minutes as long as pledges keep coming in – a chain of back-to-back pledges is called the Backer Train. The campaign will end only when the Backer Train stops after a period of 10 minutes passing without any pledges.
You’ll know we’re in Overtime Mode when the campaign’s Backer Train counter displays a bright rainbow border and a new countdown that resets to 10 minutes after each new backer joins that final Backer Train ride.
So we're scheduled to end today at 2:00 pm Eastern, but it'll be extended in 10 minute chunks as long as backers keep pledging. Will we add an extra 10 minutes? An extra 20? Or will it all finish up as we programmed? Who knows, but we'll find out together! The power of rolling dice!
WHAT COMES NEXT?
5. AFTER THE CAMPAIGN ENDS
First, we celebrate. The campaign page will subtly change, locking out the ability to pledge and showing the final totals. We'll give socially-distanced high fives and digital fist bumps in the Community section and over on Discord.
Then, the BackerKit payment process begins. Starting late tonight and continuing over the next week, Backerkit will begin charging your payment methods for the total amount you've pledged.
If there is an issue with your payment method (expired credit card or incorrect number or pre-paid Visa awaiting funds, for example), BackerKit will keep trying to process payment during this time.
Once this step is done, which will likely be by the start of July, BackerKit will confirm everything with Onyx Path and I can begin to set up the project in the Pledge Manager and load in all of the campaign data.
In addition to providing the crowdfunding platform for this campaign, BackerKit is also Onyx Path's regular Pledge Manager partner.
BackerKit provides a robust fulfillment integration and pledge management program that will allow us to work with all of the data and distribute the rewards to you. It will take me about a month to set the project up. Once I've got it all entered and built, the team from BackerKit will review to ensure I didn't mess anything up too badly, and then I'll make any changes they've suggested and we can move on to the Survey stage.
6. BACKERKIT SURVEYS
Once BackerKit says I'm good to go, I will send out a survey to all backers. This is why confirming your e-mail is important!
The BackerKit survey is both a verb and a noun - it will collect data for the analysis of some aspect of a group (enabling Onyx Path to set print runs, prioritize new projects, and fine-tune future campaigns), as well as providing a general review or summary of the reward tier you've chosen, confirm all of the rewards associated with that reward tier, and confirm your total pledge amount.
I expect Surveys to go out before the end of July 2026.
During the Survey period, you can choose to increase your reward tier and add on additional options. If you've found $20 in your summer shorts or got a big tax refund and decide it's time to trade up to the deluxe hardcover version of the book or include another add-on, you can do so at this time. Note, you will not be able to reduce your reward tier selection, only increase.
If you selected Add On options, they'll be added to your reward list automatically.
Note that you'll be able to upgrade your pledge tier for quite some time - until we're getting ready to print the book itself and have figured out shipping costs. So don't feel pressure to have it all figured out right away - we'll make sure there's plenty of time to get it all sorted before the books go out.
Similarly, if you have a hardcover book as one of your rewards, the survey will ask you to confirm your shipping address, even though it'll be some time before we ship out the final product. Do not worry about moving before shipping begins - you will be able to update BackerKit right up until the point that we begin fulfilling the final book. We will send out a notice prior to lock down so you can update any information.
I'll also use the Survey to confirm some details for the premium reward tiers.
7. REWARD DISTRIBUTION
Once the surveys are up and running, I'll prepare fulfillment for the existing rewards - the Add On options that are all currently available, like the Exalted core rulebook and expansions as well as the fiction omnibus. Depending on how smoothly the Pledge Manager process goes, those should be out fairly soon after the survey stage starts. So, let's say the existing PDF rewards will be out to you by the end of Jul;y. That's only the beginning, though.
This is a long process, but I will send out regular updates (usually at the end of the month) to keep you up to speed on Onyx Path's progress. There will be strings of updates that are just "still working on it," but I will share new artwork or information when I can.
Eventually, we will have a completed PDF of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide. Onyx Path will take some time to distribute, review, and compile any errata or corrections that need to be made. When they've made any necessary changes, they'll make an updated version of the PDF available in your DriveThruRPG digital library and then begin creating print-ready files for the Print-on-Demand and the hardcover versions.
It's yet another long road ahead, likely full of twists and turns and surprises, but one that we wouldn't be undertaking if not for your ongoing support.
So - one final time - please spread the word to any potential backers and fans, and thanks so much for a great campaign!
It was a busy weekend and a lot of thins that felt like grand finales are happening, and not coincidentally, we're in the final days of this crowdfunding campaign.
The Campaign ends on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time
With only a handful of days remaining, I just wanted to go over some key bits to make sure everyone's got the info they need to back this campaign if they so choose!
PLEDGE REWARD TIERS
Like it says right at the top of the campaign story page, we've come together to help create fully developed PDFs and hardcover print versions of Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide for the Exalted: Essence tabletop roleplaying game. This book is a reexamination and expansion of Storyteller-facing rules, system, and advice, offering guidance and options for Storytellers and groups of all levels of experience. The Exalted: Essence core rulebook offers mechanical tools and storytelling advice to bring Creation to life, which the Exalted: Essence Storyteller’s Guide builds on to make running an epic campaign even easier.
PLEDGING YOUR SUPPORT
To borrow an analogy that I've used in past campaigns, this process we're a part of works similar to the "Viewers Like You" support campaign from your local Public Broadcasting Station (while they still exist): There are various levels of support that you can pledge to, and these come with various levels of rewards offered as a thank you. Like getting a tote bag or t-shirt when you give money to public broadcasting to fund them doing their thing, you can get rewards for helping Onyx Path work on this project.
Let's review the Backer Reward Tiers to ensure that you've pledged to a Reward Tier that provides all the rewards you wish to receive.
In thanks for your support, we offer rewards based on your level of funding pledged. The Reward Paths linked at the top of the page outline the various rewards reflecting various levels of support pledged. Please note that shipping costs ARE NOT included in the cost of your pledge. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager.
While the world of Exalted is full of epic characters and larger-than-life adventures, we've kept supporting this project as simple and straightforward as possible. To pledge support to this project and receive the book in one (or more) of the formats offered, pick one of these reward tiers:
Resplendent Storytelling Arts: This is the PDF-only reward tier. So, if you're saving trees or saving shelf space - or avoiding the shipping charges that are absolutely ever-increasing - this is the reward tier options that you should begin with. The PDF will be fulfilled by our partners at DriveThruRPG.com - when it is ready, you will receive a link to add it to your DTRPG library at no cost and be able to download at your leisure.
Machinery of Greatness: This reward tier includes the standard hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
If you're a big fan of Exalted: Essence and want to really impress your gaming group, we're also offering a special edition Deluxe Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide hardcover book.
Golden Tongues and Fiery Wit: This reward tier includes the deluxe hardcover version of this book. You will be charged for shipping after the campaign through the pledge manager. In addition, this option also includes the PDF version, so you will get a digital copy as described above.
In addition to these primary reward pledge paths, we also offer the following option:
Tales of the Chosen: Not ready to commit, or just looking to offer general support? This pledge path is for you. This does not include our primary reward, but allows you to select some digital optional Add Ons, as well as participating in the post-campaign Pledge Manager as a backer. You'll also be able to read the draft manuscript of the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide that we post throughout this campaign.
After the campaign is over we'll launch our Pledge Manager and invite the backers to set up their rewards via survey. This allows you to confirm your pledge and add on anything that you might have missed, as well as possibly increasing your pledged reward path, should you choose to expand your reward selection. Funding collected after the Crowdfunding campaign does not count toward any campaign Stretch Goals, however.
After the Crowdfunding campaign, in the Pledge Manager, you 'll be able to:
Review and update your Pledge Level selection - for example, you can pledge to the Resplendent Storytelling Arts tier during the campaign and then switch to the Machinery of Greatness once we know shipping costs and are preapring to fulfill the softcover rewards.
Confirm and Update your Shipping information - you'll be able to update your final delivery address up until we're shipping out the hardcover rewards.
Pay for Shipping and additional Add On Options - we'll process payments for shipping costs and additional add-ons selected in your Pledge Manager survey when we get closer to reward fulfillment.
Download Digital Reward Redemption Links - the Pledge Manager will have links to access all of your digital rewards as they are fulfilled
An important reminder at this stage:
Shipping Costs: We’ll be charging for shipping in the Pledge Manager once the books are being printed and we can deal with the actual shipping charges rather than using our best-guesses this far out (see our current guesses on the front page).
You'll note that two rewards - Access to the Manuscript Previews and Participation in Post-Campaign Pledge Manager - are included in ALL reward tiers. That's just one of the perks of participating in this crowdfunding campaign!
OPTIONAL DISCOUNTED PoD VERSION – For this Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide campaign, some pledge tiers have the option of using DriveThruRPG.com’s Print-On-Demand service to purchase a printed copy of the PDF directly from their PoD partners at discounted cost (this cost is not included in your pledge, and you do not need to increase the cost of your pledge to use this option). When the PoD versions are available to order (which maybe some time after the books have gone to print), you will receive links to purchase these versions of the books from DriveThruRPG.com. You DO NOT need to take advantage of this PoD offer as it does not affect in any way your pledge rewards.
EXALTED: ESSENCE STORYTELLER'S GUIDE BACKER PDF - Crowdfunding backers will receive a redemption link for an early version of this book before it goes on sale to the public. This initial "Backer Version" will be used to get feedback from the fans to make the final version the best that it can be. When it has been updated to the final version, it will automatically be added to your DriveThruRPG library and available for download at your convenience.
EXALTED: ESSENCE STORYTELLER'S GUIDEHARDCOVER BOOKS - The main goal of this campaign is to fund the creation, production, and print run of a standard and limited edition deluxe hardcover editions of this book. Note that all Reward Tiers that include a physical hardcover version also include the digital PDF version as a bonus.
Choosing Your Reward Tier
There has been some churn over this past week - a few Reward Tier adjustments and changes by backers, as budgets changed and people have read the manuscript previews. In these final days it's best to ensure that you've selected the Reward Tier that offers you the options and rewards you want to receive and are ready to lock down. This timing - before the campaign ends - is the absolute most affordable and inclusive these rewards will be, and will save headaches and heartbreaks if fully considered now.
This is just the first step, however, in completing your pledge for this campaign. Funds for additional extras can be added to your pledge by selecting Add On options and increasing the overall funding and maybe getting us closer to a Stretch Goal.
First Step: Reward Tier
To summarize the first part of this post, the absolute best way to ensure that you're getting the primary rewards you want from this crowdfunding campaign is to ensure you've selected the appropriate Backer Reward Tier. Selecting the right Reward Tier covers about 95% of the options available to you. If you want the standard hardcover, make sure you've selected the correct reward. If you want the deluxe edition, double-check your reward tier to ensure the proper option is featured.
Once you've completed that important step, you're going to want to look at the Add On rewards for any reward "bits" that don't automatically fall into your reward tier. That takes us to the Add On step.
Step Two: Add-On Options
Once you've chosen your pledge tier, you've likely already included the main rewards you want. In addition to the rewards offered as part of the Reward Tier configurations, there are a few other possible PDFs you may wish to add. All Add-On rewards are described in our Add On menu below.
You can select an Add On option, which will increase the amount of your pledge by the listed amount. Add on options will be selected and confirmed again in the Pledge Manager when that's up and running.
In addition to offering extra copies of ther Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide PDF and hardcovers, you can also get the Exalted: Essence core rules PDF, and pre-order the Exalted: Essence Player's Guide PDF and hardcovers.
A few other highlights from this list, first some supplements specific to Exalted: Essence that were part of the original crowdfunding ExEss campaign:
Pillars of Creation expands the content presented in Exalted: Essence, providing dozens of new Charms, antagonists, and story hooks for players and Storytellers alike.
Tomb of Memory is a full-length adventure designed to introduce Storytellers and players to Exalted: Essence. Ideal for a brief chronicle or one-shot.
Deeds Yet Undone offers three adventures for your Exalted Essence gaming group, whether they’re newly Exalted heroes (and first-time players) or they stand amongst the mightiest of the Exalted who have walked Creation’s breadth.
Exalted: Essence Novella Omnibus presents the World of Creation in fiction, a great way to explore more about the setting with three epic tales.
While the Add On options listed beyond those ExEss specific rewards are Exalted Third Edition supplements and use that ruleset, the lore and setting material transcends mechanics. I'd like to specifically point out Across the Eight Directions as a mosty-system agnostic tour around Creation and a great resource for Exalted: Essence Storytellers. Similarly, The Realm delves into the details of the Dragon-Blooded's empire and is a great reference if you've got a DB chronicle in mind.
Ready to join in? If you're backing for the first time, you can click BACK IT and select your Pledge Tier and finalize funding amount in the next menu.
Once you click BACK IT, you'll see pledge level options. If you want to know a bit more about each level, click Learn More, or click Back It.
For example, clicking Learn More on the MARCHINERY OF GREATNESS pledge gives you...
Once you're ready, you can click that BACK IT button and go right to Add On options.
You should also be aware that any available Add On options will be made available in our BackerKit pledge manager, so if you're unsure about adding on something at this point, you will be able to adjust your pledge in the post-campaign phase.
Pledging to the campaign also opens up the Stretch Goal rewards as thanks for your participation. It's important to note that backers who wait and Pre-Order the Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide book at a later date will not have any Stretch Goal rewards automatically added to their rewards list if applicable.
REWARD DELIVERY
About 4-6 weeks after the campaign has ended, I'll launch our post-campaign Pledge Manager to collect information from all backers and confirm which rewards you'll be receiving. At that point, you'll be able to review your rewards and also also adjust any Add On Options that you may have missed. Once we have everything confirmed, I'll be able to deliver any rewards that are currently available - like existing Exalted titles and bundles. Backers who have pledged for these options will be sent special redemption links to claim these digital rewards from our partners at DriveThruRPG.com. Clicking these redemption links will allow you to add these PDF titles to your digital library to download anytime. I'll send an update when all of that is happening, though, so you are aware every step of the way.
So, while it will take some time for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide to move from manuscript form to a final product, you won't be waiting a year for PDFs that already exist. (You'll be waiting about 8-10 weeks or so, just enough time for us to set up the reward infrastructure.)
Physical Books
If you're waiting to see the shipping costs before upgrading your PDF pledge to any of the hardcover reward tiers, you'll have lots of time for that. We won't close the Pledge Manager until the books are ready to print and we know what shipping costs will be, so you'll be able to go back and adjust your pledge tier at that time.
It's going to take some time to create the final PDF for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide and even longer for the eventual print run for the hardcover books. When the books are at the printer, I will be in touch with all backers to outline timeline for pledge adjustments, as well as lockdown procedures and when we'll be confirming addresses and processing BackerKit Add Ons and Shipping payments. That's a long time away, and we'll cover that as we get closer to that part of the process.
Don't fret if you had forgotten to select additional rewards by the end of the campaign. These Add Ons will be available to select in our post-campaign Pledge Manager for those who participated in our campaign and have full access to the Pledge Manager. So, if you are undecided at this time, you will be able to hold off until we're closer to the final reward shipment goes out.
Step 1: Pledge Tier
Step 2: Add On Options
Again, your first step should involve your main reward selection, and your Add On Options will build upon that. If you selected the PDF-only tier, you can investigate PDF and digital options. If you select a hardcover tier, you will be able to add additional copies of the hardcover.
Note that all funds are expressed in US Dollars, so take into account your conversion as needed.
It Adds Up!
That should explain the process of Selecting your Reward Level and adding Add On options and confirming your TOTAL PLEDGE AMOUNT. Since increasing your pledge amount increases the overall funding level of the project, add-ons can help us achieve our Stretch Goal funding targets, so it benefits us all to suggest that you double-check to make sure you're getting all of the rewards you want.
Additionally, this may go without saying,please review your personal budgetand ensure you've selected the appropriate reward tier and add ons for your current financial situation. BackerKit will begincharging your payment methodat midnight the day the campaign ends, so ensure you've budgeted correctly. Choose what works best for you now and is affordable at this time, knowing that you can upgrade your pledge level or choose Add Ons in the Pledge Manager at a late date.
There are no refunds for regret, and the funds raised start being spent immediately on paying for the work done thus far and the additional work ahead plus the projects unlocked via Stretch Goal. So please be financially responsible.
Did I stress that enough? I hope so.
Conclusion
As we move through these final days of the campaign, please ensure you've chosen the correct Pledge Level for the rewards you want (at least at this point). And beyond that - please make sure you've investigated and selected any add-ons you wish to receive. If you have any issues with the Pledge process, either selecting the reward tier or figuring out the Add On options, you can reach out to me or to the support team at BackerKit. I've found them to respond quickly and offer great support.
On Thursday, just before the campaign ends, I will send an update detailing the steps that occur after the campaign concludes, including notes about our Pledge Manager and the communication plan going forward.
So, just like always: Spread the word! Share your excitement on social media! Tell your friends! I'll be back tomorrow with our final chapter, covering the Exalted and Supernaural antagonists, so let's make sure that none of our friends miss out! Anyone supporting this project will be able to read the entire draft manuscript before any pledges are processed or payments collected, so you'll know exactly what you're getting! And you'll be able to submit your feedback directly to the developers who will use your notes to take the manuscript through the final stages of editing and development to make it the best it can be.
So, review your pledge, make sure it works for you in this moment, and let's carry on to our big finale on Thursday!
We're in our final days, and it's time for our final section of the draft manusript! As of this update, backers have access to the entire approved draft and can read the book before any pledges are processed or payments collected. If you're with us beyond this point, you know exactly what this project is you're backing and a key member of the supporters bringing this project to life!
Before we get to the manusript download link, I just wanted to quickly go over a few key pieces of info. We're in the Final Days countdown for this Crowdfunding campaign. Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide finishes the crowdfunding campaign on June 18th at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. There's still time to give the spark of exaltation to a few more backers, but we're definitely getting closer to the finish line. With that in mind, I wanted to touch on some of the basics over these final days to make sure everyone has the information they need to support this project in the way that works best for them.
June 16 - Manuscript Preview 3B - Exalted and Supernatural Antagonists (that's today!)
June 17 - Stretch Goal Review
June 18 - Final Day Checklist & What Comes Next
Whether you're a Dragon-Blooded freshly chosen by the Elemental Dragons or an heroic Solar hero of legend, these are some good topics to review over this week to make sure we all end up where we want to be.
(An aside, if you're a new backer, make sure you check out our Final Week Countdown / Resource Update. It has links to the manuscript previews and other helpful information.)
I want to highlight the Reward Tier and Add On Review post.Please review it prior to the conclusion of this campaign, as it outlines important information about your pledge selection, your rewards, and supporting this campaign that you should be aware of before we get to the end.
Tomorrow, we'll have a review of our Stretch Goal achievements, but here's a sneak peek at our next target.
At $70,000 in Funding - Adventures in the Threshold
Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Supplement - Adventures in the Threshold - A set of plot hooks, scenario ideas, and perhaps story outlines set in and around the Threshold will be added to the Exalted Essence Storyteller's supplement being built by Stretch Goal achievements.
Probably not a surprise, for those who have paid attention to our first three stretch goal achievements. That's right - we unlocked our third goal yesterday, expanding our Storyteller's supplement with new antagonists from the Threshold.
Shipping Costs will be Collected in the Pledge Manager
We’ll be charging for shipping in the Pledge Manager once the books are being printed and we can deal with the actual shipping charges rather than using our best-guesses this far out (see our current guesses on the front page).
Draft Manuscript Previews
Over the course of this campaign, backers have received the entire current draft manuscript for Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide released in sections each week of the campaign. This helps me seem interesting over the next 28 days, but it's more about guiding the conversation and helping steer feedback for the developers.
Because they want your feedback! These manuscript previews are of the current draft manuscript – the document in its latest, approved form. This may not be the final form after editing and any additional development, but you can consider it about 95% finished, so keep that in mind.
In fact, you can help guide the team through the next stages of development by providing feedback on these manuscript previews! The Onyx Path team has set up a special Feedback Form just for campaign backers for this very purpose: <Exalted: Essence Storyteller's Guide Feedback Form>
You can use this FEEDBACK FORM to share your thoughts directly with the Exalted: Essence creative team to help guide them through the next rounds of development and editing.
DRAFT MANUSCRIPT PREVIEWS - BACKERS ONLY
Remember, thanks to BackerKit sorcery, these download links are visible to Backers only - you must be logged in and reading this on the website to have access to the manuscript preview links. So, if you're reading this via e-mail, click that "Reply to this Update" or "Learn More" button on the bottom and I'll see you below the Exalted emblem.
