FAM Newsletter #25 9/30/2024 - Shipbroman

Greetings, FAM members and Web3 Community!

Welcome to this week's edition of the FAM newsletter! We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with Shipbroman, diving into his journey as a streamer and his contributions to the Web3 gaming space. In addition, we take an exciting deep dive into The Desolation, a looter shooter we’ve been following closely and are now experiencing more of as its early access content expands. As always, stay tuned for the latest updates in our guild activities section to stay connected with all the exciting FAM community developments. Get ready for a week packed with insights, reviews, and community highlights!

Ready to Dive into Illuvium?
If you're new to Illuvium and eager to start your adventure, we'd love to help! Use this referral link to get started: https://illuvium.io/open-beta?alliance=MRS369FAMTV and experience the excitement of this groundbreaking Web3 game. See you in the Overworld!

Let’s Talk The Desolation: An In-Depth Look at the Looter Shooter's Early Access

The Desolation, developed by Stratosphere Games, is an action-packed co-op looter shooter where players battle against an alien parasite known as The Shade in a futuristic, war-torn universe. Combining fast-paced, tactical combat with rich character customization, players can explore procedurally generated worlds filled with unique challenges. Currently available in early access, Desolation offers participants the chance to explore dungeons and survival modes, and contribute feedback that will shape future updates, allowing the community to influence the game’s development as it moves toward full release.

To access Desolation early, players need a Founder’s Pack or a Rare Access Pass, which grants immediate access and includes exclusive in-game items and bonuses. These packs not only allow players to experience the game early but also provide special perks, such as Exo Modules that enhance gameplay with powerful stat boosts. Even though the initial sales have ended, more opportunities to gain access are expected through giveaways and special events, so staying engaged with the community is key.

One of the most exciting features of Desolation is its NFT weapon crafting system. Players can craft tradeable weapons using in-game resources, premium currency like Platinum, and special NFTs. Crafting weapons from the Viper Edition set, which includes unique abilities like the Viper Strike poison damage, gives players an edge in combat. Early access players have reported that stockpiling crafting materials and focusing on key crafting NFTs early in the game can make a big difference when progressing through more difficult challenges.

The game’s 2024 roadmap included significant updates, such as the launch of a mobile version and the introduction of the game’s own token, which will support its expanding in-game economy. With more content, including new extraction levels and crafting features, Desolation is positioning itself to become a deeply immersive and strategic experience for both early adopters and future players.

Early access players are already finding ways to maximize their success. A commonly shared strategy involves carefully managing Exo Module slots to optimize stats for different scenarios, especially in survival mode. Players also recommend focusing on resource farming in early missions to ensure they are well-prepared for crafting key items like weapons from the Viper Edition set. As Desolation continues to evolve, those involved in early access will not only secure valuable items but also position themselves to benefit from the upcoming token launch and other economic features.

Desolation stands out in the looter-shooter genre with its innovative combination of engaging combat, crafting mechanics, and evolving economy. Early access offers players a unique opportunity to dive into the game and earn exclusive rewards while shaping its development. With so much on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get involved.

FAM Guild Activities Update

This week, FAM streamers will be showcasing World Shards 24/7, giving you round-the-clock insights into the gameplay. We’ll be sharing tips and strategies to help players navigate and save the world of Murlandia, with high-end NFTs up for grabs to enhance your journey! You can find out who’s streaming right now by visiting our Twitch lineup at https://famguild.com. Don’t miss out on this chance to catch live gameplay and win amazing prizes!

FAM RENTALS ARE BACK! Headed up by our Community Manager, ExoticMTG, FAM is back to offering rentals to our members! While marketplace discounts are currently deactivated, we will be offering up to 10% discount on initial postings for all inventory (while supplies last). Please be mindful of the rules — you can read all the rules for rentals in the #fam-guild-rentals channel. Take advantage of these low market prices with an additional 10% off while the opportunity is still here!

The FAM Stream Team continues to offer 24/7 content for all Web3 games! If you're interested in learning more about Big Time, Illuvium, BossFighters or any of the other FAM favorites, visit a FAM streamer live; you can find who is streaming now at https://famguild.com. They are ready to answer your questions and share in the journey providing you with immediate access to play, quality insights, and shared experiences in all aspects of Web3 gaming.

The current list of FAM discord channels dedicated to supporting our favorite Web3 projects* includes Big Time, BOSSFIGHTERS, Illuvium, Off The Grid, Lumiterra, MetalCore, XOCIETY, World Shards, UNIOVERSE, Shrapnel, Hunters On Chain, Nyan Heroes, Guild of Guardians, Seraph, Night Crows, Entropia, RavenQuest, and Earth From Another Sun.
*Note: We have game leaders within each of these spaces; if you would like to know more information about any of these games, start the conversation in any of the dedicated channels!

Always stay up to date by visiting our continuously improving website (https://famguild.com), watching the FAM Stream Team (broadcasting 24/7 on Twitch), and being a part of the FAM discord.

Spotlight FAM Community Member: Shipbroman

Shipbroman, also known as Alen Zlimen from Croatia, is a 28-year-old Twitch streamer with a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Faculty of Maritime Studies in Rijeka. His introduction to Web3 gaming began when he was offered sponsored streams a few years ago. "I started getting many offers from partners to promote Web3 games, and I’ve loved them since then," he recalls. These early opportunities to promote games aligned with his growing interest in innovation, especially when he started developing his own game, SHIPR Knights. This game, which won a gold medal for the best invention in Croatia in 2023, was the culmination of his creativity and technical expertise. His success in developing the game marked a turning point, not only in his career but in his deeper involvement with Web3. "It piqued my interest even more when I saw how my own projects could fit into this world," he adds, illustrating the personal significance Web3 holds for him.

One of the key features that drew Shipbroman to Web3 gaming was the ability to earn real value through gameplay, a concept that intrigued him as both a gamer and an inventor. "The idea that you can earn by playing games got me into Web3," he explains. This feature was not only a motivation to play but also inspired him to think of how his own innovations could blend into the space. With a portfolio that includes 16 medals and accomplishments from five unique inventions, Shipbroman is no stranger to success in creating groundbreaking projects. His latest invention, SHIPR Knights, stands as a symbol of his entrepreneurial spirit, and he hopes to push it further into the Web3 ecosystem once financial constraints ease.

Shipbroman’s technical expertise, honed through his academic background in Electronics and Computer Engineering, gave him a significant advantage in understanding how Web3 operates. "My studies helped me better understand how Web3 works," he shares, adding that this knowledge allowed him to navigate the complexities of blockchain gaming more confidently. His education wasn’t just a theoretical advantage—it became a practical tool that shaped his approach to Web3 development. Beyond gaming, Shipbroman takes pride in helping other content creators succeed, assisting over 785 streamers in reaching affiliate status and 85 in achieving partner status on Twitch. This desire to support others aligns with his personal values, showing that his engagement in the space goes beyond self-promotion. "I love helping others grow; it makes me feel happier and more fulfilled," he notes, expressing how community building has become a core part of his journey.

Over time, Shipbroman’s involvement in Web3 gaming has grown, driven by the partnerships and sponsorships he has secured. "My journey has been shaped by the many sponsorships I’ve received to promote Web3 games," he explains. As a Twitch partner for over four years, Shipbroman has developed strong relationships with more than 20 partners, collaborating on sponsored giveaways, review streams, and other promotional content. Despite his success, being based in Croatia has presented challenges in accessing the same opportunities as creators from larger regions like the U.S. and U.K. "It’s been harder to get the same level of sponsorships as creators in bigger countries, but I keep pushing forward," he admits. His perseverance, even in the face of geographical limitations, demonstrates his determination to continue growing in the space.

Active engagement with the Web3 community is a vital part of Shipbroman’s life. Despite personal challenges and a demanding schedule, he finds time to connect with other gamers and creators. "I’ve gained many good friends and supporters who like me for who I am," he shares, appreciating the positive relationships he’s built. He has participated in several promotional events, collaborating with others to highlight new Web3 projects and ideas. His passion for fostering relationships within the gaming world extends beyond streaming, as he continues to actively promote other streamers, helping them reach their goals while expanding his network. Outside of gaming, he even found time to help a colony of doves by providing a place for their nest, illustrating his care and empathy beyond the virtual world.

Among the Web3 projects that have had the most profound impact on Shipbroman are Big Time and Illuvium. "These projects made a big impact on my journey," he says, crediting their innovative play-to-earn mechanics and unique ideas for enhancing his perspective on Web3 gaming. As someone with a deep interest in creating new things, Shipbroman resonates with the groundbreaking nature of these games. "I always love to create new things in life," he adds, connecting his passion for invention with the potential for innovation in Web3 gaming. His ability to bring creative ideas to life has earned him multiple awards, further validating his contributions to the world of gaming and technology. Recently, he expanded his portfolio by founding the SHIRP crypto coin on the Solana blockchain, showcasing his entrepreneurial drive and his belief in Web3's future potential.

Balancing his work as a content creator with other aspects of life has been a challenge for Shipbroman, who candidly shares, "I hardly pursue a balanced lifestyle, but I manage as much as I can." Alongside his streaming career, he works as an engineer, maintaining communication, navigation, and safety equipment on large ships. His professional responsibilities, combined with his personal life, create a packed schedule, yet he still finds time to care for his retired parents and stay active by going to the gym weekly. Shipbroman’s resilience is also reflected in how he manages his mental health, as he is currently undergoing treatment with antipsychotics for trauma stemming from childhood bullying. Despite being diagnosed with autism, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, he continues to push forward, using his platform to inspire others with his message of perseverance and positivity. "Much love everyone, and be well," he often says, reinforcing his commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community.

This interview was not recorded but you can find out more about Shipbroman by checking out the social media links here:
Twitch - https://www.twitch.tv/shipbroman
Website - https://shipbroman.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/allentheguy
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/shipbroman
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8x5jY5RICh9XTh2c7itIjw
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@shipbroman

Thank you for being a part of our vibrant community. Your passion and engagement are what make the FAM Guild truly extraordinary. Let's keep building, exploring, and achieving together in the exciting world of Web3 Gaming.

Until next time, game on, FAM!

The FAM Guild Team