The Genial Captain

by Charlie Plaine, Chairman

1st January 2010

As you've seen during our team introductions for Make It So, we asked each applicant the following question:

Design a card that is intended to be given away to new players at conventions and large tournaments. Instead of lore, the card will have basic information about The Continuing Committee. The card should be instantly recognizable as Star Trek.

A few months ago, the Second Edition design team was given the same assignment, and they've produced a wonderful card to add to the game. Take a look at Jean-Luc Picard (Genial Captain):

Why is the Genial Captain the perfect card to give away to new players? First of all, he's a recognizable figure from Star Trek, and Patrick Stewart is a high-profile actor that will draw a lot of interest. At the same time, the card is legal for all players, but very simple. There aren't a lot of words, very few confusing game terms, and it references something that a Star Trek fan will recognize at one: the Enterprise. But, the text isn't so simple that it's insulting; instead, it will hopefully inspire passers-by to ask questions and begin a conversation about the game.

We're happy to offer Jean-Luc Picard (Genial Captain) for immediate download. On the Virtual Promo Page, we've offered both 3-Up and 9-Up PDF files of our "giveaway Picard." All tournament directors are encouraged to keep a few, nice copies of this card around to hand out to new players at their tournaments.

In the mean time, why not see if you can find a place for the Genial Captain in one of your decks?