You inspire us

[Kevin]

You inspire us

Since the announcement of the Crisis of Treachery in Spring of 2006, it has been a long, rough haul getting back on our feet. It is a struggle that continues today. Our efforts have been hampered by deep losses, unexpected obstacles and the global eccomic crisis.

I won’t kid you, there have been days over the last several years that I have leaned back in my chair and thought, “This is it, Palladium’s done. I can’t do this any more. None of us can. It's too hard.” But then something happens that gives us a boost, or we catch our second wind, suck it up and press forward.

This weekend was one of those moments. I’ve been feeling a little under the weather the last week, as well as tired and stressed. In fact, the stress is showing on everyone, even a few freelancers, including good friend and Palladium champion Mark Dudley. We weren’t at the “This is it,” stage, but we’ve been feeling the pressure of the holidays, deadlines and money concerns. We are especially concerned about sales in the months to come, as February thru the first half of May is traditionally a slow sales period for the entire RPG industry.

We know if we stay focused and bang out quality product we should be okay. That's the trick, getting out great, new product. Only sometimes it is hard to stay focused and keep your energy up to keep product rolling out.

Sales had already slacked off a bit prior to the weekend, and we knew they’d drop significantly afterward. We just hoped last minute Surprise Package sales would be strong and the Spring slump starting this week would not be too steep.

Weekend sales were three times what any of us had imagined they would be, and twice the amount we saw this same time last year. We were floored. Furthermore, the 59 Surprise Package orders that came in were accompanied by comments filled with words of support and positive energy.

Friday night sales were huge. Saturday sales were solid, and Sunday sales were weak, but the overall weekend was incredible.

In addition, we saw a good number of Rifter subscriptions and regular orders as well as a few Open House admission sales.

Even feeling under the weather, the strong sales and words of encouragement buoyed my spirits and helped me make good progress on Dimensional Outbreak! When the guys heard the news on Monday mourning, you could see a bounce in their step as well.

You – Palladium’s fans – have helped me and the Palladium crew get through some very rough times these past 4-5 years. Not just with shows of financial support via your purchases, but with your words and deeds. You have no idea how many times you – sometimes just one of you – have helped to motivate us to get over the blues, deal with a setback or push forward when we thought we were too worn out to do so.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Kevin Siembieda
Publisher, Writer, Game Designer & a Fan of You

© Copyright January 19, 2010 Palladium Books Inc. All rights reserved.

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