Interview with PAX RISING Dolven’s Principal Developer - Andrew

By Drawza

Drawza: Firstly please introduce yourself and your game?

Andrew: Sure, my name is Andrew, I'm the Principal developer at indie game studio called Covyne Entertainment. We're working on a turn based card deck builder called Dolven.

What is your background?

So my background has been in software development and team leadership. I’ve worked in both startups and in corporate roles across various industries including logistics, banking, utilities and business intelligence.

What made you decide to journey down the path of game development?

I’ve been making games since I was a bored kid in the 80’s.The very first “Rogue” adventure on the IBM 386 always intrigued me and sparked a passion for creating games, and software engineering in general.

What previous games have you created/worked on?

I’ve made 3 games before our current game; FrontierQuest a web based platformer, Medieval Zombie Smash for Android, and DropShip Commander also for Android..

Going into the game Dolven What are the core concepts?

Dolven is a fantasy turn-based strategy RPG with a deep card-based battle system.The card system is especially unique - unlike other card deck builders you form card combinations to gain rewards in battle. I would describe it as a mix between XCom and Slay The Spire, in a fantasy setting.

What were your inspirations?

I’m a huge fan of Turn based games like XCom, Baldur's Gate and Divinity Original Sin. I also love playing card games like Poker, so that’s mainly where the inspiration for the game comes from.

How long have you been working on this game?

Since September 2022, so nearly 2 years!

What is it like to have the game showcased at events such as PAX Aus?

I believe getting feedback and actioning the feedback is paramount to any successful product, so having the chance to showcase it at a conference like PAX facilitates this on a large scale. There’s nothing like face to face contact - and I love meeting new people!

What advice have you got for upcoming game developers?

Start small and go through the full release process before starting on your dream game. Listen to feedback, you don’t have to do all of it, but certainly listen. Spend time doing things the right way the first time, if you don’t, you’ll end up back there doing it again, that’s a certainty.

What advice have you received that you have held onto throughout your journey?

It’s always going to take twice as long and cost twice as much as you think haha.

Have you had any mentors in the gaming industry?

Yes! Neil Rennison from Tin Man Games has been giving us advice as we go along, along with some of the staff at Screen Australia which has been helpful.

How many PAX Aus events have you attended (as both a developer and as a regular attendee)?

Only one! 2023 which was the first showcase of Dolven to the general public. Looking forward to the next one in October!

Check Out the Steam page for Dolven

Be sure to check out Dolven and other PAX RISING games

And make sure you check out all the indie games that will be on display during PAX Aus 2024 in October.