As of late I’ve been doing a bit less writing than I’m used to. This doesn’t mean I’m throwing in the towel, it’s just that suddenly I’ve gotten bit by a new bug: game designing. For those that know me, I grew up with D&D, playing extensively through high school to the point when things like working, playing sports, and girls were of little interest to me. Recently, I’ve been making lots of card games for my students. One game involves picking “Quests” from a board and getting “Silver” (one yen pieces) in return. Students also get level ups and can earn candy at the end of the game. It sounds weird to be doing such activities in a university class, but they seem to enjoy it. At the same time, it’s created this monster of sorts. I can’t stop making games now. And the main game I spent a load of time on, “Fabulous Fantasy,” has expanded even more. I’ve since made Grammar Goblins (a word grouping memory game) and Synonym Wizards. Besides those, I have half a dozen other mini-games brewing in my head.

In many ways I hope it’s making my students more interested in topics that aren’t as interesting to them. On the other hand, I’m also scratching a creative itch and fulfilling something I’ve needed myself: a creative outlet in the workplace. It’s awesome to spend a lot of time creating something and see it come together well. Same with writing. When I write a story that clicks with someone, it obviously pleases me. If I can just be creative in some aspect, I’m happy. I’m content.

So of course this doesn’t mean I’m quitting writing to be a game designer, but it does mean I’m not going to put all my eggs in one basket. If I like doing something, like making games, then I may sacrifice once precious writing time to do that. If I want to make a small comic, I’ll do that. If I want to try some other creative outlet, I will.

Which is to say, I don’t see myself as solely a writer anymore. I’m a creative. And creatives create, no matter what it is. Therefore, I’ll ride this “game train” to the tracks run out. In the meantime, I’ll keep tinkering away at stories.

Don’t fret. Splatter Elf isn’t going anywhere. But Fabulous Fantasy might always join it.