Silverheart Is Finally Released!
- Karl Otto Kristoffersen
- Apr 15, 2024
- 3 min read
After an intense year of focused work, the day had finally come. On February 28 it was time for an author talk and the official launch of Silverheart - during the tradition-rich Kongsbergmarken.
Author Talk
Kongsbergmarken has roots back to the 1600s as an important trading arena and social meeting place for the residents of the mining town by the Lågen river. In recent years, Asvo-Kongsberg has taken responsibility for keeping the event alive. This year the market ran from February 28 to March 2, and I was asked to do an author talk on stage during opening day. Of course I said yes, and in the midday sunshine I sat down with host Vegard Thomas Olsen to talk about Silverheart. In addition to telling the story of what this is and how it came to be, we also improvised a small scenario. He got really into it and lived the situation fully.
Vegard: «How does this actually work?»
Me: «Let's try a little game. Are you ready?»
Vegard, laughing nervously: «Okay, let's try.»
Me: «You are on your way to the pharmacy to buy medicine, with a few shillings in your pocket. On the way, you meet some poor children. They clearly have nothing, and ask if you can spare some money. What do you do?»
Vegard: «Okay… can I do whatever I want?»
Me: «Yep, within the historical framework.»
Vegard: «Well, there are a lot of people watching right now, and I don't want to come across as a cold fish, so I guess I'll give away the money.»
Me: «That was very kind. The children are delighted. Now I want you to roll a die to see how the situation develops. Roll low, and there will be unfortunate consequences.»
Vegard: «Damn, I'm actually feeling the nerves now. I HATE losing at games. No! I rolled a 2!! What happens now??»
Me: «A group of adults has also noticed that you're in a charitable corner. They flock around you and want money from you too. It's getting uncomfortable. What do you do now?»
Vegard: «But I'm out of money!»
Me: «Yes, that's right…»
Vegard: «Oh damn…»
The rest of the day I ran a stand for Manaheim where I sold and signed books. All in all it was a very fine launch. It was especially nice that my family came to watch the author talk, and that good friends stopped by or helped out at the stand. From this day on, Silverheart can be found on the shelves of Outland Oslo, two local Norli retailers, the museum shop at the Norwegian Mining Museum, and Manaheim. That is cool! And maybe the books will reach more retailers soon? Who knows...
World Premiere
In extension of the launch, Manaheim also held the world premiere of organized Silverheart play. I borrowed a miner's uniform from the Norwegian Mining Museum for the occasion and gave a short introduction to the game wearing it. It became a wonderfully atmospheric evening with laughter, joy, and learning about Kongsberg at the end of the 1700s
The Norwegian Mining Museum
Not long after the launch, I was also asked to run a game for the staff at the Norwegian Mining Museum in connection with a payday get-together. It turned into a delightful, comical, and intense session for 9 people. Only one of them had prior roleplaying experience. It was a very powerful experience to have the professional quality of the work confirmed after the session, by those who are the leading authority in the field in Norway. Great fun!
A Visit to Vertshuset
Later I also got the chance to visit Norway's leading roleplaying podcast Vertshuset, to talk about Silverheart. It was a very pleasant chat with Michael and Nicolai, where I talk about everything big and small around the game. It should also be mentioned that these guys, together with Simen Stangeland, are behind the Norwegian fantasy roleplaying game Dragepust - which is coming to stores soon. Check it out!
People Are Playing Silverheart!
I feel truly lucky. I have received photos from sessions, and several verbal and written play reports from people who have brought Silverheart to the table. They report hours of fun stories, and it brings me great joy that others are enjoying the game. Here is a lovely example of what to expect when you throw yourself into a whirlwind journey through time!
Over Easter I brought my mom, dad, wife, and brothers along for a similar session. It was great fun! I recommend you try the same!
-KO
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