Steamforge Community Content Expansion Framework - wwestlake/Steamforge GitHub Wiki

Steamforge Community Content Expansion Framework

Overview

The Steamforge Community Content Expansion Framework empowers players, server owners, and creators to contribute meaningful content to the game world. By offering structured tools, guidelines, and recognition pathways, Steamforge becomes more than a game—it becomes a living, evolving platform for collaborative storytelling and systemic creativity.

1. Community Content Sharing Infrastructure

  • Official Content Hub: A centralized platform (Steamforge site or GitHub) where creators can upload and share:
    • Dialogue trees (JSON)
    • Encounter packs
    • Modular dungeons or puzzle rooms
    • Custom scripts and automations
    • Lore entries and item sets
  • Future Platform Integration:
    • Compatibility with Steam Workshop
    • Support for DriveThruRPG or other third-party ecosystems for published adventures

2. Content Creation Guidelines & Templates

  • Creation Kits:
    • JSON schemas for NPC dialogue, quests, and behaviors
    • Dungeon layout formats (voxel blueprints or prefab assemblies)
    • Automation script templates
  • Balance and Design Benchmarks:
    • Stat blocks, CR tiers, economy thresholds
    • Compatibility levels: balanced / experimental / sandbox
  • Modding Handbook:
    • A living document covering content types, best practices, and file structures

3. Recognition and Official Support

  • Spotlight Features:
    • Monthly/quarterly highlights of standout community contributions
    • Showcased on the Steamforge site, GitHub, or Discord
  • Official Endorsement Pathway:
    • High-quality content may be reviewed and integrated into core game updates
    • Credits and potential monetary rewards for featured creators
  • Creative Events:
    • Dungeon design contests
    • Automation scripting challenges
    • Lore expansion or art contribution jams

4. Balancing and Compatibility Strategy

  • Tags and Flags:
    • Label content with compatibility and balance status
    • e.g., "GM-only", "Experimental", "PvE Balanced"
  • Playtest Seal System:
    • Optional peer-review or dev-validation for advanced content
    • Helps players and GMs identify trusted, tested content

5. Monetization Guidelines

  • Official Expansions:
    • Major new content packs (settings, factions, campaigns) offered as paid DLC
    • Clearly separated from community content
  • Community Monetization:
    • Creators may sell their content on platforms like itch.io or Ko-fi
    • Must comply with licensing terms and attribution guidelines
    • Steamforge may offer support tools or integrations in future

6. Creator Tools and Resources

  • In-Game Editors:
    • Build and export voxel structures or regions
    • Connect to NPCs and assign dialogue trees
  • Script and Automation Tools:
    • JSON or node-based scripting tools for logic flows, event triggers, puzzles
  • Template Repository:
    • Reusable content blocks, NPCs, dialogue examples, map tiles

Summary

The Community Content Expansion Framework transforms Steamforge into a platform for creator-driven innovation and player expression. With robust tools, fair recognition systems, and avenues for meaningful contribution, this framework ensures the world of Steamforge grows alongside its community—diverse, dynamic, and deeply collaborative.