Image Description : Image 1: Planning and Drafting for Ecliptic Peril RPG. Image 2: Chinese Elements Diagram.

In the makings of Ecliptic Peril, we had a lot of discussion on how to interpret the Chinese mythology behind the Sì Xiàng (Four Symbols) and its connection to Daoism in a way that stayed authentic to its origins, while also leaving room for creative interpretation.  As the lore is widely disputed and includes many variations, we made the executive decision to add the Foo Dogs as a fifth symbol.  It is worthwhile to note that a fifth symbol already exists under the Chinese "Five Phases", known as the Qilin/Kylin or Yellow Dragon, and corresponds with the Chinese element of Earth.  We chose to add the Foo Dogs instead as the twin guardian lions are representatives of Yin and Yang and are symbols of prosperity and guardianship. For this reason we thought they would be a good addition to the Ecliptic Peril universe and would serve as the upholders of balance.  

We also discussed adding another technical element in the game that would have made the point system more intricate.  As exhibited in the second image above, certain elements amongst the 5 Chinese elements, react positively, negatively, or neutrally with each other. We considered having point buffs and penalties based off of this system.  For example, If you were the representative of the Fire Nation and you claimed an object/place in the Metal Nation, the Metal Nation representative would take a penalty to their point summary, say -2 points. However, in the name of simplicity and legibility, we decided to leave this out.