Inspirational Video

Here are to be found links to videos that capture some aspect of the Sword Haven World. None them is "cannon", Sword Haven is its own dark and whimsical creation. And none of them are set in the Maine Woods. However, they should provide some idea of what the game is all about. And the world of Sword Haven is many times the size of Earth and much older... ...so images like these probably exist somewhere in the world, or did at some time in the past!

Intro to Jon Carter of Mars - We are, of course, short on deserts and flying machines around here, but this clip captures the idea of an ancient world, of technology that is advanced but NOT dominant, and of meddling powers.

Nausicaa of the Valley of Wind - this beautiful work by Miyazaki captures the interplay of high and low tech, the creation of unique world of wonders, of nations that rise from the ashes of ancient times.

Skyrealms of Jorune - an amazing early RPG that did a great job inventing a world with a rich history tied to a vast universe that did not intrude directly on the game, but still could be be felt. Jorune and its Magic system influences not only Sword Haven, but a number of other MASI games. Jorune also illustrates the "Arise and Arrive, Dwindle and Depart" concept that Sword Haven uses to explain its many, many intelligent forms of biped. Shantha are awesome too, and Journe's alien biology concepts are also inspirational.

Flash Gordon - Zany costumes and light hearted mayhem. Sword Haven is generally more like being an inhabitant of Mongo than about being Flash Gordon and doesn't have space travel or a direct connection to Earth, but you can play a character from an isolated area which has basically the same effect.

Episode 1, Naboo - George Lucas drew on classic science fiction themes for this film, and the bucolic world of Naboo probably resembles some of the nicer parts of the world of Sword Haven at the nicer points of their history. The idea of alien civilizations hidden in the nearby wilderness is also pertinent, as is the notion that energy fields render ranged weapons mostly useless.

Chakan the Forever Man - great disturbing music, epically dark themes, hacking your way through hordes of enemies....

Masters of the Universe/She Ra/He Man - Full disclosure, I haven't seen these, they weren't part of my childhood. But those who have say the spirit of Sword Haven is reflected in them. I'm sure they will be a source of ideas going forward.

Sardaukar Tribute - Dune's grand sweep and interpretation of technology remain a pillar of science fiction.