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SALVAGE: Deep Space

Created by 3301 Games

A co-op exploration & adventure game that places emphasis on roleplaying, teamwork, & an enthralling player-driven story in deep space! ** Due to fluctuating global shipping rates, we will be charging shipping fees at a later date. We will keep you updated through Kickstarter Updates for when shipping fees will be applied to your pre-order. Thank you for your patience and understanding!

Latest Updates from Our Project:

SALVAGE Returns to Gen Con
9 months ago – Fri, Jul 28, 2023 at 03:34:21 PM

Hello Pilots!

It’s update time again, here, at 3301–but this isn’t just any old update. Next week marks a major milestone for both SALVAGE: Deep Space and 3301 Games! Next week we’re excited to exhibit at North America’s largest tabletop games convention for the second time! Gen Con was where we unveiled SALVAGE to the world, and in many ways it was our first outing as a company.

Since then the game has fleshed out into a beautiful, fun, compelling experience we can’t wait to get into your hands! We’ve bulked out the discoverable suits, delved deeper into the world of Sol System, and enhanced the capabilities of the spaceship you’ll call home. As we near completion on the project we unveiled at Gen Con 2022, we thought it might be fun to mark this milestone with a peek at how far we’ve come in a year!


In the past year we’ve redesigned almost every component within the box (at least once,) to create something that looks appropriately premium while still being easy to play. We replaced our adversary tracking pegs with our new adversary status bases–to both reduce the number of miniscule components and accommodate our colorblind friends! We’ve overhauled and rebalanced suit mechanics to get them just where we want them, and we literally cannot wait to share the unlockable suits with you!

 Have a Blast with Us at Gen Con! 

We’re thrilled to be back at Gen Con–Booth 1451, and we’re bringing along some pretty cool stuff to share. To commemorate the con we’ve crafted an exclusive Gen Con miniature (on our adversary tracking base!) featuring a human thug attacking in zero G. That miniature can be yours for $10 as an on-site exclusive (with 50% off if you sign up for our updates!) or the mini will be free if you pick up some of our other offers.

For example, pick up a three-pack of Salvage Pilot pins for $30 and the con mini is yours for free! OR if you’d like to try your hand at painting one of our 70mm statuettes yourself pick one up for $50 and the convention exclusive will also be yours for free. Lots of ways to bring home your very own powersaw-wielding maniac.

If you’ve been following us on social media (and if you don’t: you should) you might have seen the painted 70mm statuettes we’re bringing to Gen Con to give away. Every day of the con, about an hour before the floor closes, we’ll be selecting someone from our on-site signup sheet to pick a painted statuette. Sign up early for more chances. Even if you’re only in Indianapolis for one day, we’ll still be happy to send it to you!


Want to stay in the loop and be the first to know about our latest developments? You should follow us on social media! We're active on Facebook, Instagram, and to a lesser extent Twitter (X?!), and TikTok. You can find us by searching @3301Games on most platforms, and on TikTok, it's @3301Cap.

At 3301 Games, we're super passionate about what we do, and we want to connect with you! If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to drop us a line. You can reach out to us anytime via email at:

Always know where your towel is,

Sean, Ben and Cap at 3301 Games

The Synaptic Phase, Synergy, and Efficiency
10 months ago – Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 02:18:29 PM

Happy Friday, Pilots!

Con season is in full-swing over here at 3301. With PAX East and Origins in the books, the team has begun soft preparations for Gen Con 2023! In addition to being the largest and longest-running gaming convention in the U.S., GC is special for us as it was where we first announced SALVAGE: Deep Space. It was here in 22’ where we first met many of you and shared our passion and vision for our first project.

As always, in the weeks preceding the convention, we will have information on fun promotions as well as ways to connect with us in Indianapolis. We sincerely hope to see you there.

The bulk of this update will surround a handful of SALVAGE’s mechanics that are integral to the core gameplay, specifically - Synergy and Efficiency.

If you have playtested, stopped by any of our booths, or watched the gameplay videos, you know the significance of these two interdependent mechanics. We have little doubt that you have heard a team member talk about how Salvage is not just cooperative, but a team game.  As we edge closer to fulfillment we thought it’d be a good idea to reemphasize what this means.

With any ‘rules’ discussion the balance is always between providing enough context without getting lost in the mechanical ‘crunch’. If after reading the update you think you’d benefit from watching a playthrough of the core mission loop, please follow one of the links below:

The Synaptic Phase, Synergy, and Efficiency

As you know, SALVAGE: Deep Space is a game where you take command of four skilled Salvage Pilots, as they venture into treacherous locations in a distant-future setting. With an array of starting suits to choose from, your crew immediately has access to resilient frontline fighters, nimble damage dealers, resource optimization masters, and invaluable team support. The selection and utilization of four suits on each mission unleashes an abundance of interplay possibilities, allowing you to shape your own gameplay experience on a session-to-session basis.

As a crew member of a team of Salvage Pilots, it is going to take leaning on your allies to survive. Gameplay transcends mere cooperation and embodies the essence of a true team game. Players unite their efforts to achieve a shared objective, where mission success and failure are experienced collectively. This dynamic fosters a profound emphasis on strategic engagement, effective communication, and seamless teamwork throughout the game.

What does that mean?

Put plainly - While one will experience the player agency expected of a skirmish game with RPG elements, we have gamified and heavily incentivized teamwork in the core gameplay loop. The most relevant mechanics tied to that idea are as follows:   

Synaptic Phase

Mission gameplay is organized into Rounds. Each Round is broken down into multiple, consecutive Phases. A Pilot has a Turn within each Phase, with Adversaries having their own respective turns in the same Phase. 

The Synaptic Phase is the first Phase of every round and  is what makes the Salvage Suits truly special, giving them an upper-hand against all Adversaries encountered in Sol System. ‘In-world’ this is the moment that the Crew’s Suit’s communicate with one another at a speed that is imperceptible to all others. This communication is vague and is more akin to a Pilot being able to read what their crew members are considering in real-time, than a specific action or command. As teams perform more Missions together, they will naturally get more confident in the intentions of their fellow team members. The use of Focus Tokens during this phase, is this concept realized.

Starting with the Alpha player (designated at Mission Launch), the Pilot places either their Primary or Secondary Focus Token on a specific hex of the Mission Tile with the intention of silently declaring intent. After each Pilot has placed a Focus Token, continuing in Alpha to Delta order, each Pilot may choose to place a second token on the Mission Tile. Once all Players have placed their desired tokens, the Phase ends.

Synergy

During the subsequent Action Phase, Pilots and Adversaries play out Systems in Speed order. Each Focus Token that is “completed” (meaning the goal the pilot wanted to achieve, i.e. attack a specific adversary, occupy a specific Checkpoint, interact with a specific objective marker, etc.) results in a ‘Synergy,’ which allows the Pilot who completed the action to remove one Cooldown Counter from any System belonging to another Pilot. The acting Pilot need only notify their team member, who then selects from their own Systems.

Whenever two or more Pilots declare a Focus Token on the same target (empty hex for movement, adversary, objective, etc.) whichever player first completes that declaration achieves Synergy for all Pilots that placed a Focus Token on that target.

Efficiency

As Pilots complete their actions, Focus Tokens are added to the Efficiency Tracker with the following considerations:

  • If a Pilot has completed two Synergies, place each Focus Token on the Efficiency level that is one higher than the current turn.
  • If a Pilot declared and then completed one Synergy, place the Focus Token on the current Efficiency.
  • If a Pilot fails to complete one or both of their declared Actions, place one Focus Token on the Efficiency level that is one lower than the current turn.

In turns where ALL Pilots complete both (2) Synergies, the Efficiency Tracker is advanced one, leading to the unlocking of unique and powerful suit abilities. On any Round where this isn't accomplished, the Efficiency Tracker either stays the same or is moved down one level. 

Takeaways

  • When your pilot performs the actions they communicated in the Synapse Phase, you complete a Synergy and are able to remove a Cool Down token from any of your ally’s systems.
  • In circumstances where multiple crew members declare the same target, teammates are able to complete each other's foci, freeing up subsequent pilot’s so no turn ever feels ‘wasted’ or ‘lost.’
  • In Rounds where all Pilot’s complete their respective Synergies, the entire crew gets more powerful.

These core mechanics are some of the most unique rules found in SALVAGE: Deep Space. They can take a bit of practice and are one of the things that separates Salvage from most other tactical skirmish games. 

Could one largely deemphasize the above team mechanics in favor of more direct decision making and individual heroics? It's possible. However, the reality is that your player group’s success, growth, and overall enjoyment will be tied to embracing the spirit behind these rules and in turn embracing teamwork. 

To stay the most up-to-date with our progress, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. We frequently share visual assets on these platforms to give you a sneak peek into our game development process. @3301Games on most platforms (3301Cap on TikTok)!

At 3301 Games, we love sharing our passion, and we are always available to answer any questions or address any concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time via email at

Enjoy your weekend,

Matt, Sean, and Ben at 3301 Games. 


Taking a Post Origins Holiday
10 months ago – Fri, Jun 30, 2023 at 02:34:32 PM

Greetings, Pilots!

We're back from an epic adventure at Origins Game Fair in Columbus, Ohio, and we had a fantastic time! The energy was so compelling, as we connected with fellow lovers of games, sharing our project and witnessing the excitement firsthand.

The con was a wild ride, filled with laughter, intense battles (at 9th Level’s Mazes Till Midnight,) and mind-blowing displays of creativity from our fellow creators. We were honored to see the UC43-Draco’s you painted up at the Paint N Take, and we’re so happy that some of our painted statuettes went home to smiling new owners. If you were there and painted a mini, please let us know on social @3301Games. 

Now, as we gear up for the upcoming 4th of July holiday weekend, we're taking a moment to kick back and enjoy some well-deserved downtime. It's time to savor the warm weather, fire up the grill, and soak in the spirit of independence and celebration.

We want to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you an absolutely fantastic weekend. It's because of your belief in us that we've come this far, and we couldn't be more grateful. So whether you're hosting a barbecue, hitting the beach, or just relaxing with loved ones, we hope you have an incredible time, filled with laughter, good food, and memorable moments.

As the fireworks burst in the blackness of space, we'll be thinking of all of you and the incredible support you've shown us. It's your enthusiasm and dedication that fuels our determination to create something extraordinary.

To stay the most up-to-date with our progress, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. We frequently share visual assets on these platforms to give you a sneak peek into our game development process. @3301Games on most platforms (3301Cap on TikTok)!

At 3301 Games, we love sharing our passion, and we are always available to answer any questions or address any concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time via email at

Enjoy your weekend,

Ben, Matt, and Sean at 3301 Games

Origins Update Paint N’ Take Promotion, and the Progressive D10
11 months ago – Fri, Jun 09, 2023 at 05:51:55 PM

Greetings, Pilots!

We hope that wherever you are, this update brings good vibes and hopefully supplements what will shape into a relaxing/fun Friday. In today's announcement, we have some exciting news to share about our collaboration with Origins Game Fair and GDEX. Additionally, we're eager to delve into one of our most innovative game mechanics: the Progressive Suit Die.

The Progressive Suit Die

If you are well-read on the particulars of Salvage or have been to one of our booths, then you know that one of the standout features of the game is the level of customization offered to each pilot. One of the features is the Progressive Suit Die.

Whenever you unbox a brand new Exo-Suit, you’ll discover a special custom d10 that accompanies it, featuring ‘Max’ (maximum) and ‘Mis’ (mishap) markings. This unique d10 is rolled whenever a Pilot performs an action, enhancing the outcome of every attempted ability, and adding an extra layer of excitement. Most commonly these are Attack, Traverse, and Salvage actions.

Regardless of how many individual actions are part of a single System, there is only ever one roll of the Progressive Suit Die. The ‘roll’ and subsequent result is an attempt to augment the main function of the System dictated by its type: Armament, Traversal, Salvage.

As your pilot progresses through the campaign, you’ll have the opportunity to personalize your Exo-Suit, choosing from a range of stickers to be placed on the recessed faces of the d10. This customization allows you to tailor your Suit(s) precisely to your desired playstyle and preferences.

There are two types of Progress Stickers in Salvage: Improvements and Modifications.

Improvements are numeric values placed on the die. They are improvements because they are considered to be improving the base function of a system.

Modifications place ‘effects’ on the die. They are modifications because they are adding new functionality to a system.

As the game progresses, key moments will present themselves and offer the players the ability to upgrade the Suit Die of their respective pilots. Some of these moments will facilitate the adding of Improvements whereas others will call for the addition of Modifications. These ‘moments’ come in different forms, including leveling, important story junctures, and notable NPCs, Pilots will also eventually gain the ability to be able to spend in-game currency to replace/update existing stickers.

Like the Suit systems that unlock and their accompanying legacy components, the Progress Stickers represent augments to the Suit, meaning in the case of Pilot death, the Suit Die is unaffected by the hiring of a new pilot. The newly hired Pilot will take over the Exo just as the previous had well… left.. it.. and it will be up to them to decide if they want to alter any of the existing Improvements and Modifications.

Origins Game Fair

As we mentioned in previous updates, we're stoked to inform you that 3301 will be present at Origins Game Fair & GDEX, taking place from June 21st to 25th in Columbus, Ohio. If you're planning to attend this game-centric event, we would love to hear from you! Visit us at Booth 950 and prepare yourself for an array of exclusive goodies, including a convention-exclusive mini, pilot pins, and 70mms available for purchase. But that's not all! We're also thrilled to showcase some beautifully painted statuettes that may find their way into your collection. So, make sure to drop by and see if you can take one home with you!

Paint n’ Take Sponsorship

In addition to running our booth 3301 is proud to be involved in Origin’s Paint N Take event.

Whether you’re a novice or a master with a brush, we are teaming up with Origins with an exciting opportunity for you! Introducing the Paint N Take event, happening throughout the entirety of the show. Regardless of your experience level, everyone is invited to participate.

Here’s how it works: Each attendee will receive a miniature–from 3301 Games or any other participating sponsor–and you’ll have the chance to unleash your creativity and bring it to life. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the art of miniature painting, regardless of whether you’re new to the craft or an expert in the field. So, don’t miss out on this engaging and inclusive event!

  • When: Thursday Noon-6PM/Friday-Saturday 10AM-6PM/Sunday 10AM-4PM
  • Where: Gaming Hall C
  • How Much: FREE!

To stay the most up-to-date with our progress, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. We frequently share visual assets on these platforms to give you a sneak peek into our game development process. @3301Games on most platforms (3301Cap on TikTok)!

At 3301 Games, we love sharing our passion, and we are always available to answer any questions or address any concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time via email at

Enjoy your weekend,

Ben, Matt, and Sean at 3301 Games

Playtesting, Origins Update, and a GDEX Speaking Engagement
12 months ago – Fri, May 26, 2023 at 01:01:26 PM

Happy Friday Pilots,

Today’s update contains some fun, behind-the-scenes information about our ongoing advance-stage playtesting as well as further details surrounding our involvement with Origins Game Fair & GDEX!

Playtesting

As the team continues to round the full game into form, we reserved a large chunk of time this week to playtest some of the mechanical updates that have been sitting in the queue. Most of these considerations relate to advanced, late-stage, combat systems that your Pilots will select for their respective suits.

A large amount of focus also went into the twelve unlockable Salvage Suits and stress testing the different suit load-outs your crew will select before launching a mission. As we’ve discussed, the starting six suits that have been featured are only the beginning. Hidden within the campaign are twelve yet-to-be-unveiled suits, each with a unique skill set and aesthetic.

Origins Game Fair

As previously announced, 3301 will be exhibiting at Origins Game Fair & GDEX, June 21-25 in Columbus Ohio. If you think you’ll be attending Origins - let us know! We will be blasting tunes and handing out high-fives all weekend at Booth 950. In addition to a con-exclusive mini, pilot pins, and 70mms for sale, we’ll also have some painted statuettes you might just be able to bring home…

Matt Marsters featured as a speaker at GDEX 2023

3301 is excited and proud to announce that Matt Marsters (‘Cap’) has been selected to be a professional presenter at GDEX! The convention with its focus on creative technology, will be running alongside Origins at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

While most of you know Cap as a co-founder of 3301, in a previous life he crafted creative concepts for the likes of Disney, NBCUniversal, Warner Bros, and the short-lived G4 resurrection. Notably, he was heavily involved in crafting ‘Breakthrough’, a SXSW Innovation Award winning experience for National Geographic Channel.

Cap will be drawing on his career and personal experiences to discuss ‘Tutorialization in Gaming.’ Stay tuned for more information as we would love to have your support and welcome any questions you may have in this unique setting.

To stay the most up-to-date with our progress, we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. We frequently share visual assets on these platforms to give you a sneak peek into our game development process. @3301Games on most platforms!

At 3301 Games, we love sharing our passion, and we are always available to answer any questions or address any concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at any time via email at

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend,

Matt, Sean, and Ben at 3301 Games