The Obojima Podcast the Blog | Episode 59: New Fishing Master Subclass

In this episode, Creative Director Jeremiah and Writer Adam discuss a fishing related subclass in Obojima. Considering the setting and the fact that Obojima is an island, fishing is a huge part of the economy, cuisine, and life in the leisure fantasy world. The first big question the duo tackled was what class would this master baiter subclass fit best with? Would this be better suited to some sort of physical class? They also talked about the subclass having transformative powers versus a Druid-like character that has a symbiotic relationship with fish and the ocean. Eventually, they leaned towards the symbiotic themed powers. 

Jeremiah and Adam then went in to talk about what the powers of the subclass would look like. They settled on the coolest thing being a subclass that makes pacts with real fish, awakening them and giving them sentience in the process. Specific examples of creature abilities discussed include a sea star causing confusion, an octopus manipulating objects or inking, a barracuda acting as an attack creature, a swordfish skewering targets, or a gulper eel swallowing opponents. The concept of a “bait ball” of tiny reflective fish for area-of-effect obscuration was also mentioned. These creatures could be summoned to briefly perform a task or serve as long-term companions. The more this water type Pokémon master-esque class was fleshed out, the more it seemed like it was getting geared towards a spellcaster. 

As the talk of spellcasting continued, the pair talked about mechanics. The pact forming would involve making “windows into the ocean” via drawing squares in the ground to summon fish to their aid. Being able to summon both awakened and “non-awakened” fish for abilities and spells along with ocean water would be the core spellcasting concept in the end. 

They continued to discuss what the awakened fish would look like, and how it would separate them from mundane Obojiman fish or even spirit fish. An awakened fish might differ in appearance, potentially shifting art styles to reflect their personalities. Suggestions include adding human-like expressions, particularly in the eyes, to convey sentience. Unique markings or “signature motifs” could also indicate awakening, such as a tattoo of the character’s glyph, an ascot, or a distinct streak on their fins, similar to how a “spirit chicken” differs from a regular chicken. They also talked about the fish personalities, the emotional impact of losing a fish companion, and the idea of having random personalities to attach to the fish. Something like having a scatterbrained hammerhead shark that floats upside down. These personalities align with the Obojima philosophy of “many small stories” with beginnings, middles, and ends, rather than one continuous narrative. 

Jeremiah and Adam concluded by discussing the Obojiman cultural significance of this subclass. This included the Zen-like nature of fishing, and the importance the subclass would bring to landlocked areas of the island like Mount Arbora. This character could “bring the ocean” to secluded areas, teaching others to fish, and embodying the “wandering master” trope. 

To see the full episode go here: https://youtu.be/onh2SUo8F-Q?si=hIcXhl5e4u28NNJj