As the year draws to a close, an enchanted aura surrounds these final days. It is a time marked by the Yule tides washing over the northern realms. Cold winds bring snow to the lands, and only the very peaks of the mountains manage to grasp the fleeting rays of the sun.

In this season, dwarves gather in their cosy halls, immersing themselves in ancient stories of legendary kings and epic battles. It's a period of rare tranquillity, where the usual clamour of forges is silenced, and the tunnels lie empty, shadowed and quiet.

We'd like to seize this moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. Your solidarity in our shieldwall and companionship on our journey to bring "Return to Nangrim" to life has been invaluable. 🏔️⛏️💎



To celebrate the season of Yule, we're excited to share the Genesis Book with everyone at the Arafinn Kontor. Simply download the demo on Steam and explore the 'Books' category to discover this special release.

May your shields remain unbroken and your axes forever sharp! 🍻⚒️

Greetings Adventurers,

It's been a wild ride exploring the teaser for "Return to Nangrim" with all of you! Originally, it was meant to be a short stint for Gamescom, but your enthusiasm kept it going for a bit longer. 🍻



As the journey continues, and our game slowly evolves into its early access state, it's time to bid farewell to the teaser. Come January 1st, 2024, it'll be making its exit from the Steam store. The underlying systems have grown and branched out significantly since the teaser's inception, and we want to ensure there's no confusion or misaligned expectations for the final game.

But don't worry, this isn't goodbye forever! We're gearing up for the next phase, and we can't wait for you to join us when "Return to Nangrim" makes its clashing return in early access. Until then, keep the anticipation high, and we'll see you on the other side of this exciting adventure!

See you under the mountain, friends! 🏔️⛏️🍻⚒️💎

Greetings adventurers,

Journey deep into the heart of Nangrim and unravel the mysteries that have been tucked away within its ancient tunnels. Introducing, for the very first time, the concepts behind the resource cycle and forging mechanic that promises to challenge both your crafting skills and survival instincts!



Whether you stumble upon a rusty pickaxe or embark on a quest to locate the perfect ore, the depths of Nangrim will offer a plethora of materials. Smelt these ores into pristine metal ingots and be prepared to forge them into instruments of unparalleled power. 🪓

The essence of forging is not just in the metal, but in the heat. Each material demands a specific fervor; a heat so intense that you may need to venture into the treacherous forests for wood, or dive even deeper into the mountain's belly for coal. ⛏️🔥



But be wary! Tools deteriorate, especially under the punishing work of a dedicated dwarf. As you integrate more and more materials into your forging processes, the complexity of the crafting recipe increases. Not just skill, but artistry and precision are required.



Forge illustrious hammers, pickaxes, and a myriad of other tools. Hone your forging abilities and imbibe the expertise passed down from generations. ⚒️⛏️



Feel the resonance of the mountain with each hammer blow on the anvil. The metals have their song, their rhythm, and as a master blacksmith, you'll learn to play along.

The dwarven crafting melody is a symphony that resounds deep within the heart of the mountain, where the art of metallurgy takes on a mystical form. Every clang of the hammer against metal isn't just a mere strike but a note, forming a unique song that speaks to the essence of each item being crafted. As the smith's hammer falls, it taps into the very rhythm of the mountain itself, echoing ancient beats that have pulsed through the earth for aeons. The anvil and hammer serve as instruments that amplify this rhythm, allowing the crafter to tune into each melody and mold the metal in harmony. The result is a piece that isn’t just a tool or weapon, but a manifestation of the mountain's song and the legacy of the ancestral spirits. Each crafted piece, be it a blade, armor, or trinket, carries with it a distinct song, a testament to the skill and spiritual connection of the hands who forged it.

Technically, the number of blows and their intensities at the different anvil positions define the forging melody, which corresponds to a numerical hash. This hash defines the procedural appearance of the forged item (tool, weapon, jewellery, tankard, etc.). If you change the melody, the shape changes in tandem.



Also, you might unearth crafting techniques from various dwarven clans and perhaps even integrate the wisdom of other races or dark cults.

Among the dozens of metals, legends whisper of Haldyr – the most sacred and sturdy of metals. To forge with it, one needs a flame hotter than any conventional furnace can provide. Rumors abound of dragon fires with the potential to melt even Haldyr. Will you be the dwarf to find them?




In the unforgiving realm of Nangrim, challenges abound. Tools and weapons deteriorate, and demand repair. But resources are a rare treasure, demanding effort to extract from the mountain's firm embrace. Your robust arms, while powerful, drain energy, necessitating ample food and brews. But, even brewing beer requires more than mere air and sunlight. 🍺🐝🌞🌬️

Get ready to delve into advanced production chains and cyclical resource systems. As you progress, the complexity will amplify, demanding strategic planning, efficient management, and a keen understanding of the interconnected processes.

Reclaiming the mountain won't be a stroll in the park, but then again, when have dwarves ever backed down from adversity? The mightier the foe, the sharper the axe!

Join us on the development journey of "Return to Nangrim", merge survival with craft, and let destiny guide your hammer. See you in the mines; the tunnels are waiting. ⛏️

The world-building in "Return to Nangrim" is not merely about the rich lore, the intricately designed locations, or the challenging environment. It's also about the subtle details that breathe life into the game, such as the ever-changing seasons, the lifelike climate of Ebboria, and the deeply rooted traditions of its former inhabitants, the Stonebeard Dwarves.




Unlike their northern cousins, who dwell deep within the mountains, Stonebeard Dwarves live both above and beneath the earth. This unique lifestyle necessitates a keen understanding of the seasons, which significantly impact their farming and famed brewing industry.

Begins with the ceremonial Day of Stone. Ebboria slowly emerges from its icy slumber, and the snow recedes to reveal the stone beneath. An ideal time for sowing and preparing the fields.

As the sun casts its golden embrace upon Ebboria, the dwarves reap the rewards of their hard work. This season is characterized by jubilation, dancing, and many a toast raised with freshly brewed ale.

Marked by the Day of Snow, the first snowfall ushers in a sense of urgency among the dwarves. The hillside farmers, in particular, scurry to harvest the last of their crops.

A true test of resilience. The winds are merciless, the cold unforgiving. Yet, in this harsh climate, the brewing masters work their magic, preparing for the next cycle of growth.

Experienced both during spring and autumn, this transitional season represents renewal, growth, and change.




The northern dwarves segment their years into twelve moon periods. While the seasons dictate the broader rhythm of life in Ebboria, the dwarven months add layers of depth to their traditions.

Vonatòr
In the heart of Ebboria, as the first snow melts, Vonatòr emerges as a beacon of hope. Dwarven clans unite, their songs echoing promises of renewal and brighter tomorrows.

Harkatòr
By the glow of flickering flames, elders regale tales of valor and ancient lore. It's a month where the young listen, eyes wide, and the past melds seamlessly with the present.

Werfandor Arkasìn & Werfandor
The mountainside is awash with color as flora awakens. Craftsmen find inspiration, and every corner of Ebboria seems touched by a masterful dwarven painter's brush.

Berandir
A sacred time where anvil strikes are rhythmical, akin to heartbeats. New artifacts are born, symbolizing the endless cycle of creation within the heart of the dwarven halls.

Hisarìn Trilogy (Arkasìn, Hohìdòr, Sìrdoran)
The sun, though mild, shines the brightest. It's a dance from dawn's gentle embrace to the zenith of midday, finally bowing to dusk's lullaby. Festivals abound, celebrating the sun's embrace and the fruits of labor.

Fallandìr Lifamìr
Leaves turn golden, mirroring the storied halls of the dwarves. It's a month of reflection, of cherishing moments and preparing for the eventual embrace of Frimsòrandìr.

Tavaltòr & Frimsantòr
The air turns crisper, and preparations begin. Granaries are stocked, and ales are brewed stronger, ensuring warmth in the impending chill.

Dorgantòr
The mountain's embrace becomes firmest now. Dwarves retreat to the deeper halls, seeking solace in their ancient chambers, rejuvenating for the cycle to begin anew.


In "Return to Nangrim", we've ensured an accurate simulation of Ebboria's climate, intertwined with the dwarven calendar. This doesn't just serve an aesthetic purpose. Your in-game actions, from sowing to crafting, are directly influenced by the seasons, moon phases, and sun cycles.



For instance, crafting during certain moon phases might result in a sturdier axe, while brewing during the Hilgùrson might produce a more robust ale. This dynamic system encourages players to strategize, making choices based on the environment. 🏔️💎




We've put heart and soul into these details, ensuring that every season, every month adds depth to your gameplay experience. Get ready for an unparalleled journey, where the calendar and climate isn't just a backdrop; it's an integral part of the story. As the dwarven calendar progresses, players will witness and experience palpable changes in the environment. The intricate dance of the seasons brings with it tangible shifts in the very fabric of Nangrim's atmosphere.

Players will experience dynamic meteorological changes, from the enveloping embrace of fog to the gentle cascade of snow. And just as the climate changes, so does the bounty of the land and beneath it. When you pluck an apple or delicately gather berries, timing is paramount; harvested at the season's zenith, these fruits offer unparalleled wholesomeness. Similarly, the treasures buried deep within the mountains, the gleaming ores and hidden gems, resonate with the calendar's rhythm. The very heart of the mountain pulsates in tandem with the time of year, bestowing its richest rewards on those who understand its cyclical song. ⛏️🍻

We hope this provides a good starting point for showcasing the rich seasonal lore and its gameplay implications in "Return to Nangrim".











Let us know your thoughts!

"Mountain Tales" is a captivating comic book series that serves as a companion to the dark world of Arafinn, intricately connected to the "Return to Nangrim" game. ⛏️ The series introduces readers to the grim yet fascinating adventures of Duorìn Shadowstone, an ambitious dwarven alchemist, and his loyal companion Finrim Stonehand. Together, they embark on a quest to unveil the elusive source of immortality.

The comic book series not only provides an enthralling narrative but also offers readers a deeper understanding of the world of Nangrim. Within its pages, you can discover valuable information and content that directly translates into the game. For instance, you can learn about ancient recipes for epic stews, granting your character unique abilities or enhancements. Additionally, you might stumble upon knowledge about legendary weapons and their whereabouts, giving you an advantage in your in-game quests.



With "Mountain Tales," you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich lore and intricate details of the Arafinn universe. Whether you're a game fan seeking additional insights or a comic book enthusiast intrigued by dark and compelling stories, this series promises to captivate and offer useful information to change and enhance your gaming experience.

If you want to be the first to read, get one of the early bird discounts on Kickstarter now!

Share your ideas! ⚒️
❓Let us know your ideas on how the comic could further influence the game and vice versa!



The concept of immortality for certain beings, like elves, raises questions about existence and the meaning we find in life. This imbalance in a fictional world like Arafinn can be seen as an allegory for real-world inequalities. Mortal beings, like humans or dwarves, have limited lifespans, which brings a sense of urgency and appreciation for the moments we have. The awareness of our mortality adds poignancy to our actions as we seek lasting impact and meaning in the face of eventual death.

We have noticed that some concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact of the "Mountain Tales" comic on the timeline of the "Return to Nangrim" game. We would like to take this opportunity to clarify a few important points.

Firstly, the game and the comic are being developed completely independently of each other. This means that the progress and development of the game will not be affected by the creation of the comic.

Furthermore, it's important to note that the comic is intricately connected to the world of the game. It serves as a valuable resource, providing connections, knowledge, and even content that can be utilized within the game. The story of the comic unfolds before the events of the game, creating a cohesive and interconnected experience.


By exploring the Mountain Tales comic, you will uncover valuable information that directly applies to the gameplay and storyline of "Return to Nangrim." It enhances your understanding of the game world and its ruleset and enriches your overall gaming experience. So, for instance, if you learn about a legendary soup recipe in the comic, chances are good that you are able to replicate this in the game.



We hope this clarification alleviates any concerns and reinforces the exciting and interconnected nature of the "Mountain Tales" comic and the "Return to Nangrim" game.

Thank you for your support! 🏔️🍻⚒️🤘💎

Rumours have been circulating that the "Return to Nangrim" project has been abandoned, but we want to clarify things and share some news. We are heavily focused on developing the survival and sandbox mechanics, including mining, brewing, crafting, chopping, harvesting, and other nature-related elements. 🏔️⛏️🍻⚒️

We're also working on implementing a dynamic environment, and continuous calendar with moon phases and celestial mechanics. We assure you that the project is actively being developed, and you don't have to worry about its progress.

To give you a glimpse of what we've been working on, we've released a video showcasing the nature around the main mountain. This is part of a case study we conducted earlier, and it highlights the soundscape, dynamic nature, and environment.



Let us know your thoughts!

Greetings, fellow adventurers! As the holiday season descends upon the realm of Arafinn, we bid thee a hearty and joyous celebration. May the taverns under the mountain be filled with merriment and cheer, and may the cup of mead overfloweth with sweetness. May thy hearts be filled with pride and honor as we reflect on the journey we have undertaken together in the creation of "Return to Nangrim."



We are eternally grateful for the support and camaraderie of this esteemed community. Without thy encouragement and guidance, the path ahead would surely have been fraught with perils and tribulations. Let us raise our cups high and toast to the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

To health, wealth, and the enduring bonds of our mountain kin!

Sycoforge Team

Greetings adventurers!

A new Explainer Video about the untold stories and experiences in Arafinn's universe has been released. While Return To Nangrim is our current focus, there are many stories and experiences in Arafinn that are incredibly interesting outside of the game that you can explore!

You can watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/9W1E6VXzyp8

Remember to subscribe to our channel or join our Discord community for more information about Arafinn's world!

Greetings adventurers!

The Nangrim Raven is your window into the world of Arafinn and its in-lore information. Find out about Arafinn's adventures and major events by summoning the raven here:

https://youtu.be/gFrJpIaADZI

…and signing up for these letters on the website: https://sycoforge.com/en/news

Remember to subscribe to our channel or join our Discord community for more information about Arafinn's world!