The Logomancer

The Logomancer is a JRPG in which conflicts are settled through argument rather than killing. Negotiators Ardus Sheridan and his apprentice John Marrow work for the dream commodities company Powell-Mercer. They travel to the seaside city of Ordolus to finalize a contract with Glenton Dahl, the region’s most recently discovered logomancer; the story begins as they reach the city limits.

The Mindscape

Everyone is connected to the Mindscape, a communal dreamworld where people meet while they sleep. Logomancers are rare people who can build dreamworlds for others to enter. The story explores the nature of this shared world and of logomancy, as well as questions about whether feelings for fictional characters differ from feelings for real people. It also asks whether the ancient peoples of Callosum liked slow-roasted brisket.

Rhetorical battles

Social encounters play out as battles using the classical elements of persuasion. You use logical discourse and persuasive speech to convince even stubborn people; a boss fight might involve persuading a store owner to give you a suit for free. Persuasion, confidence and elocution matter more than strength, dexterity or magic attack.

People you meet serve as your weapons, while the skills they teach function as your magic. You might befriend an old editor to learn Proofreading or help a schizophasic blacksmith to learn Doublespeak. The game also lets you improve your characters’ Perspicacity.