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318 articles archiveds
POD UPDATE — Production Timeline and last shippings
With the release of Roots of Corruption and the announcement of the project’s conclusion, an incredible number of you have placed orders for the Print on Demand service. Seeing your enthusiasm for completing your collections is heartwarming—and we get it, we’re finalizing our own binders too.
Gretel & Rust
I watch her as she lifts her eyes to the rusted, grime-caked suit of armor displayed at the center of the window.
Sam & Spook
The second generation unfortunately appears, despite the risks undertaken, to be following the same path as the Firstborn.
Yeong-gi & Ember
Attain perfection. Every bouquet is a subtle balance, and its perfection lies in its fleeting nature.
Neverending Journey — Explore New Horizons
As some adventures come to an end, others are only just beginning. With the release of Altered’s seventh set, Neverending Journey, we want to encourage the community to take ownership of the universe and the Altered's tools to continue the voyage and take the game toward new horizons.
Roots of Corruption Storybook — Download the set's lore
Discover the story of Roots of Corruption in our Storybook, featuring every novella written for the set. Rather than waiting for weekly lore articles on our website, you can now find them all gathered in the PDF available for download below.
Seeds of Unity Storybook — Download the set's lore
Discover the story of Seeds of Unity in our Storybook, featuring every novella written for the set. Rather than waiting for weekly lore articles on our website, you can now find them all gathered in the PDF available for download below.
Altered’s Legacy
(This article is currently a work in progress and will be updated regularly in the coming weeks.)
A Chapter Closes
As promised, we are getting back to you to provide an update on the mobilization of our professional partners.
Evolving the Print-on-Demand Experience
As more countries receive their Seeds of Unity deliveries, we are taking the opportunity to look back at our first year of live operations. Our goal has always been to make Altered as accessible and fluid as possible, ensuring the bridge between your digital collection and your physical deck is seamless.
Roots of Corruption - Factions Focus : Axiom & Muna
After exploring the heroism of the Bravos and the discipline of the Ordis, we conclude our Faction Focus series with an alliance of instinct and engineering: Muna and Axiom. Faced with a corruption that threatens the very foundations of our world, the wisdom of nature unites with the ingenuity of science.
Roots of Corruption - Factions Focus : Bravos & Ordis
After discovering more on the Yzmir’s hidden secrets and the Lyra’s purifying rituals, our Faction Focus series continues. In this second installment, we shine a spotlight on the two pillars of the city’s defense: the Bravos and the Ordis. As corruption relentlessly advances, pure heroism meets iron discipline.
Roots of Corruption - Factions Focus : Lyra & Yzmir
To celebrate our Gamefound launch, we are thrilled to present a series of three exclusive articles: the Faction Focus. In these deep dives, our Lore, Art, and Game Design teams take the floor to reveal the creative journey behind Roots of Corruption.
Altered Tournament Sponsorship Program
Want to organise a 64+ Altered tournament in your country? We want to help! Here's what you need to know to qualify for our Tournament Sponsorship Program.
The Exile
During the first few weeks, speaking with the Reka was no easy task. I had to patiently listen to the interpreters and rely on numerous translators and transcribers… The Ordis linguists, assisted by the Yzmir Horomancers, naturally set themselves to deciphering their language: syntax, phonemes, writing, and grammatology. Yet the greatest breakthroughs came through Alteration. The Lyra extracted the ideas contained within the spoken words, allowing us to visualize them and thus understand them, word by word. We began with rudimentary concepts and terms before moving on to more complex associations. Fortunately, the Reka language appears to share some similarities with Asgarthan, probably because of common roots. Willingly or not, and even though the process was extremely laborious, we eventually managed to make ourselves understood. Some linguistic or cultural subtleties still escape us, of course, but little by little we will surely manage to dispel them.
In The Dark
Abe’s voice pulls me from my restless daydreaming, and I force myself to stop biting my nail. I sigh, trying to dispel my nervousness, to stem my anxiety. I can’t afford to waste energy on futile worries. I know nothing about what happened; all I can do is speculate, imagine the worst-case scenarios conjured by my own imagination. If I let my fears run free, they’ll soon start laying down their own law… And that, I cannot allow. I have to keep a clear head about all this. I look Abe straight in the eye, place a hand on his forearm, and nod knowingly.
Seeds of Unity, Shipping Update
As some of you learned yesterday, the very final production phase is experiencing a slight delay. We are monitoring the situation very closely and are actively working with our partners to limit its impact and further strengthen our processes for the future.
Kairos
My thoughts drift to Kumari. Saskia told me a few weeks ago that she had a lead, but I didn’t dare press her about it. Somewhere deep down, I knew that if there were any developments, I would be the first to hear about them… Of that, I could be certain. I just had to be patient and let time take its course.
The Story so Far #3
Seeds of Unity Demo Deck Online Tournament
To celebrate the launch of Seeds of Unity, Equinox is hosting an online Demo Deck Tournament on Board Game Arena. The tournament will take place on Sunday, February 22th, 2026, starting at 3:00 PM (UTC+1) and is open to all players, from beginners to veterans.
Seeds of Unity Season 5 OP Program
With our new distribution model and the launch of Season 5, a lot of things are evolving, some you’ve experienced already like our new Competitive Circuit, but also many new updates and improvements to the player experience like the Adventure Pass rework. Let’s explore what’s new with Season 5 Seeds of Unity!
Della & Bolt
Even now, when she hears sirens tear through the night, she bolts upright, ready to throw on her clothes in a rush—before remembering she no longer has to. She lets out a long breath, trying as best she can to calm the surge of adrenaline. But she doesn’t go back to sleep. She always takes a moment to make sure Ira is all right, gently cracking open his bedroom door before heading into the kitchen to make herself a cup of coffee. With the steaming mug in her hands, she walks to the window and gazes out into the dark. Only now, it is no longer the rooftops of Arkaster she sees beyond the glass, but a strange and foreign city, unlike anything she has ever known. Without fail, Bolt joins her, roused from sleep as well.
Matz & Hive
A wasp lands on his hand, its abdomen twitching, and he simply watches it without fear of being stung. For this swarm has no queen, but a king. Across from him, on the circular esplanade, the workers are putting the finishing touches on the scaffolding under the calculating, concerned gaze of his Reka counterpart. Corinna and he work in much the same way. Matz need only envision a shape, and his wasps coordinate and set to work, as if instinct itself dictates what they must build; she, for her part, codes a program that the Reka nanites execute without hesitation, shaping and reshaping the Sap as though it were clay. No, it is more in temperament that they differ: she, overly conscientious; he, faintly phlegmatic.
Turuun & Benih
She sometimes thinks back to Amorgand—its milky waters, the lotus flowers budding across their surface when molting season comes… She used to wake to the sound of sails snapping above her skiff. They no longer served any purpose, of course. The schooner had been raised up onto a pier. But the sails still billowed at the slightest breeze, like white and pink magnolia petals. At dawn, merchants, fishermen, and strollers would leave offerings along the jetty, and Turuun took particular care to wrap them in bamboo leaves. Then she set them upon broad lily pads and watched them drift toward the shore, toward the sanctuary over which she kept vigil. Over which another Muna now kept watch.
The HIVE Missions — Grow Your Altered Community
Altered is a game that has been built largely thanks to its incredible community, and we couldn’t be happier about it. In the last year, many of you have reached out to offer your help in promoting Altered within your communities and we want to channel that amazing energy into meaningful action.
First Contact
The entire Ouroboros creaks and groans as the metal of its hull twists and buckles, whole walkways torn apart by the swirling winds, vanishing into the cyclone’s gusts like into an ogre’s gullet. The Wayfarer fares no better: spires and rooftops are ripped away, their tiles forming, at this distance, a trail of particles inside the storm. One of its balloons bursts under the shearing currents.
Seeds of Unity Season Patch
Over the last few months, players have enjoyed a fairly diverse metagame. However, while the options to play Altered competitively are distinct from one another, we acknowledge that the environment itself is perhaps a bit more predictable than we would have liked. Some newer heroes have gained ground, but three strategies still dominate the meta, and even through our previous balance efforts, have done so for quite some time. These are Bravos decks built around a shared core of cards, Sigismar, and Treyst.
Whiplash
The pillar of light is now only a few nautical miles away from us. A single day at most, as the crow flies. It rises toward the heavens and seems to tear at the firmament, ringed with iridescent effluvia where it ionizes the atmosphere. So close, and yet… Between the armada and the column of energy stands a terrible obstacle: a cyclonic tornado with a flared vortex, its swirling winds shearing through the air in a single direction at over five hundred kilometers per hour. When we sent our drones in, they were ripped apart by a second tornado, nested within the first like a Russian doll, driven by counter-rotating winds. A double funnel that grinds like a millstone. All our probes were torn to pieces, as though fed into an industrial shredder… and our fleet will meet the same fate if we do not find a solution. None of our vessels is capable of withstanding forces of such intensity.
Designing Uniques: One Year After
Unique cards were one of the wildest innovations Altered brought to the table, and it was no small feat.
Metaphysics of the Aether
After the Confluence, nature and its laws seemed to have been so deeply altered as to become unrecognizable. In a world overturned from top to bottom, humankind searched for answers, for meaning, for a new framework through which to understand reality. Thus metaphysics, one of the four major branches of philosophy, came to hold a preeminent place within the discipline. Studying the fundamental nature of reality had become a necessity, a safeguard against madness. As Aristotle had said millennia before the cataclysm, it was first philosophy, preceding epistemology, logic, or even ethics. From this necessity arose several generations of thinkers, the most emblematic of whom left a lasting mark on the history of Asgartha.
[UPDATED] Seeds of Unity Release Date & Roots of Corruption Campaign
This article is an update to the January 9, 2026, post regarding the initial delivery dates for Seeds of Unity.
Winter Season Finals - Date & Information
As the first competitive season of 2026 draws to a close, a major showdown awaits. This January, players who have qualified since the 2025 World Championship will face off to determine who will be the first to secure a spot in the 2026 World Championship Finals. This marks the first major milestone of the Year 2 circuit, and we are thrilled to share the full details with you today.
Designing Seeds of Unity
Today, we invite you to discover how Seeds of Unity came to life through the collaborative efforts of our Lore, Art, and Game Design teams. Throughout this article, we will look back at the birth of this expansion and how the central theme of meeting and unity guided every stage of its development; from the worldbuilding of the city of Asty to the creation of its gameplay mechanics and visual identity.
Roots of Corruption Set Preview
Shadows loom over the Reka Capital, but even as Corruption spreads through its streets, the city refuses to fall. Darker and more unsettling than previous sets, Roots of Corruption plunges you into an epic stand of resistance as nightmarish entities tear at the fabric of reality and descend upon the Reka civilization. Drive back the darkness in Roots of Corruption, Altered’s sixth and most ambitious expansion yet, revealed now on Gamefound!
Limbo
‘We do not have to oppose one another,’ says the man with the enamel mask.
Roots of Corruption Announcement
Revealed yesterday for the very first time at the Gamefound Winter Feast 2026, Roots of Corruption is the next expansion for Altered and the final chapter of the Reka storyline. Rediscover Altered as you've never seen it before in a darker yet equally emotional and colorful expansion. Collect over 300 new cards, including 12 Exalted cards and brand-new Corrupted illustration treatments!
New formats arriving on Board Game Arena
In a previous communication, we shared our desire to highlight the alternative formats developed by the community. To satisfy your appetite for diverse gameplay experiences, we wanted to give these variants more visibility and have collaborated with the team at Board Game Arena to integrate them. We are therefore pleased to announce that the “No Unique” and “Singleton” modes are now available in the deckbuilding section of the Altered website, as well as on Board Game Arena. You can start designing your decks today by following the specific construction rules for each format, and test your strategies on Board Game Arena. You will find the detailed rules for each mode in the rest of this article.
Musk
It is strange to see how, so often, the smallest artifice can conceal the obvious. It may be nothing more than a change of clothes, a wig, a pair of glasses—and the trick is done. Identity blurs, like barnyard eggs whose shells are cracked open so the yolk and albumen can be lapped up. And it is even easier for those with enough audacity: they can hide in plain sight, right under the noses of fools, the blind, and the inattentive alike, relying on posture, on mannerisms, on affectations—however blatant and garish they may be.
Skybound Odyssey Mid-Season Patch
With the Skybound Odyssey Season Patch, we decided to reintroduce Helping Hand and suspend Botfix.
Knit
At what point did I decide this was a good idea? I’m clinging for dear life to my bird’s mineral plumage while a massive shadow passes overhead. And the worst part is, if I survive this, I’m definitely getting a serious beatdown from Soledad… When we crossed paths just now, I could tell she was giving me a weird look. Like, what the hell are you doing here? I don’t think she realizes how much I’m asking myself that exact same question.
The Hunt
The moment the little light switches color, I launch myself without hesitation from the rear ramp. The void doesn’t matter. The stakes don’t matter. Neither does the opposition. I tip forward, swallowed by the immensity of the sky as my tether disengages from the anchoring rail. All I hear is the whistle of air screaming past my ears. I glance back quickly, watching my people jump after me in single file. Then I stabilize, tucking my arms tight against my body to assume an aerodynamic posture, spear leveled so it pierces the air ahead of me. I let the weight of its tip pull me downward…
Remnants
I look at the child and the giant fish accompanying him with a certain tenderness. The two beings seem to exist in perfect osmosis. When the boy looks left, the Chimera does the same. Each of their movements either completes or mirrors the other. It is fascinating to watch—and at the same time, it leaves me with a faint sense of unease.
Organized Play Year 2 — Your path to the Altered World Championships 2026 begins now
Calling upon all adventurers, explorers and seasoned cartographers of the world of Altered, the race to the 2026 World Championship starts now! Year 2 brings substantial upgrades and new ways to participate in the Altered Competitive Circuit.
Eru
For Kauri, Eru is a mentor, a confidant. For his parents, he is the guardian spirit of harmony between humans and animals—one of the Oneiroi prayed to by shepherds and herders. But Eru is far more than that, though few know it, even within the Muna Faction. He was one of Niavhe’s earliest true disciples, the first person—besides the founder of the Muna herself—whom Kaibara allowed upon her back, and the only one to whom she entrusted her secret.
Help Us Shape the Future of Altered — Answer our Seeds of Unity Survey!
The Seeds of Unity Gamefound is wrapping up and production is about to begin! With this first campaign now over, we’d like to hear from you, whether you participated or not.
Bonds
I scratch my head, wrinkle my nose, and glance off to the side—anything to avoid his reproachful stare. Okay, maybe I did interrupt his meditation, or his sky-gazing, or the part where he composes haiku or whatever.
Goliaths
Aside from Halua, the armada has encountered other Leviathans within the Sea of Clouds. While most do not appear to display aggression toward our squadrons, others can prove more problematic if safety protocols are not followed to the letter.
Seeing Red
My fingers clamp around the glass, so tight I know I could shatter it if I squeezed just a little harder. Just a bit more pressure. That’s all it would take. Instead, I watch the amber liquid slide down the dull inner walls as I grind my teeth.
Thank You—Seeds of Unity Campaign Results
The Seeds of Unity Gamefound campaign has officially concluded and we’re really thankful for all your support and commitment all throughout the campaign. As we expressed earlier this week, your mobilization has been nothing short of incredible and its impact on the team is really heartwarming.
Halua
Following the Althing and the summoning of the Bravos Fyrds, our researchers have compiled, for the hunter assemblies, all available data concerning the Leviathan known as “Halua.” The name is believed to be of Polynesian origin, roughly translating to “ambush” or a similar concept. According to reports, it was chosen in reference to the creature’s aggressive nature and its tendency to favor stealthy, surprise attacks.
Seeds of Unity is Happening—Thank You for your Mobilization
Since our last update on the campaign, we witnessed an incredible wave of support and mobilization from the entire community, and we are extremely grateful for it. Because of this, we are thrilled to confirm today that Seeds of Unity will be printed and delivered to all our dedicated players and retail partners.
Onslaught
She clenches her teeth and leans her full weight against the crowbar. The access shaft’s security grille groans in protest before the hydraulic pistons finally give way. At last, the airlock opens with a plaintive screech. Wherever you go, elevators all make the same sinister noises, she thinks, wiping dust and sweat from her brow. The ones in Hadera did too—and this one’s no exception. It’s the rule of metal, of time, and of rust—the universal law of entropy.
Update on the Seeds of Unity Gamefound
Altered has always been designed as a meeting point: a space where players connect with the game and, just as importantly, connect with each other. If the message we communicated on Monday caused you concern, it means we failed to deliver the most important: a message of clarity and optimism, not one that generates anxiety.
Our Marketplace & Print-on-demand services are now available to all
Following the deployment of Group POD (Print-on-Demand) last September, we are happy to announce that the Marketplace and Print-on-Demand are now accessible to all our players around the world!
Faction Focus: Lyra & Yzmir
Our previous article introduced the Axiom and Bravos factions—two groups whose strategies are getting a great boost with many of Seeds of Unity's new interaction elements. For this final Faction Focus article, we are spotlighting the Lyra and Yzmir factions!
Cloud Realm
Who ever said there was nothing in the sky but cotton-candy shapes and hailstones the size of candy drops? At first, I thought this was going to be a dull cruise, where I’d spend my time pacing circles in my cabin or on deck. But in truth, the Sea of Clouds is like an ocean — with its suspended islands where you can make port — and I can’t say I dislike that. There are floating landmasses, levitating water bubbles, and plenty of new territories to explore. And after my recovery, I definitely had the travel itch. Still, the trips from island to island are dreadfully long — hence this journal. I don’t know how long I’ll keep it up (patience has never been my strong suit), but Sunisa told me it’s a good way to kill boredom. So I’m trying.
Faction Focus: Axiom & Bravos
In our previous article, we discovered the Muna and Ordis factions and their respective interactions with Manaseeds, the new Permanent tokens in Seeds of Unity. Today, it's the turn of Axiom and Bravos to take center stage.
Faction Focus: Muna & Ordis
To celebrate the launch of the Gamefound campaign, we wanted to unveil a bit more about each faction with a three-part article series called Faction Focus. These articles are an opportunity for our creative teams—Lore, Art, and Game Design—to speak directly to you and give you a glimpse of the work done behind the scenes to ensure each faction stands out within Seeds of Unity.
Organized Play Program 2025–2026
The very first World Championship has come to an end marking the close of an incredible first year of organized play, full of color and emotion. Congratulations to Rinku, our new World Champion, and thank you all for taking part!
Altered World Championship Finals: Relive The Event As If you Were There
We were all gathered on October 17th, 18th, and 19th at the White in Neuilly-sur-Marne for the Altered World Championships 2025—three days of competition, emotion, and celebrations that brought the community together. For us, it was a huge opportunity to meet many of you, and we were truly touched by the warm welcome you gave us throughout the entire weekend.
The Turmoil
The Turmoil. That’s what they call this endless sea of clouds. We’ve been flying over it for nearly two weeks now, enduring its perilous whims. For while above our heads the sky may shine blue or starry, beneath the cloud cover the Tumult roars. Constantly. Time and again, the flotilla has had to maneuver to counter the "tides" that churn the cloud layer. According to the Yzmir lookouts, these are bubbles and waves of Tumult that rise through updrafts to burst at the surface. The AES Concord suffered severe damage when one such Tumult pocket exploded, forcing it to turn back for repairs, its hull badly corroded. Fortunately, the four main ships — whose shielding is far more effective against mutagenic winds — sustained only minor degradation. A decision was made to position the lighter vessels that arrived alongside the Mandjet above the heavy ships, both to serve as observation posts and to shelter them from potential harm.
Eidocracy
Over the course of three intense and eventful days, the people of Asgartha turned out in large numbers to cast their votes in six consecutive ballots. Following the announcement of the results on Sunday, several sociologists and political analysts were quick to highlight the possible emergence of a new paradigm of power within the Peninsula. Indeed, the popular vote clearly favored civilian figures drawn from among the common people, at the expense of the long-established lineages traditionally accustomed to holding the highest offices of government.
Collecting the Best and the Brightest—Introducing Collector Boosters
From our very first set, Beyond the Gates, we've been committed to highlighting our unique visual universe. This colorful, dreamlike world, inherited from Dixit and the artistic vision of Régis Bonnessée, makes Altered an absolutely unique game in the trading card game landscape today. It's feedback you've given us many times: our illustrations speak to you and move you. After a first year spent solidifying our artistic direction and the coherence of Altered as an original universe, it's time for us to explore new horizons and offer you even more spectacular illustrations.
Seeds of Unity: Previews and First Glimpse of the Gamefound
Today we’re giving you a glimpse of Seeds of Unity, the next Altered set available for pre-order on Gamefound now!
Retailers: How to Order Seeds of Unity?
With our change in distribution model, we want to affirm our commitment to game stores, which remain at the core of our ecosystem. If you are a retailer, you now have a specifically designed path to place your orders. Moving forward, you will be in direct contact with us, Equinox, for all future Altered sets.
New Group POD Feature: Share POD Orders and Print Cards with your Friends!
Since the launch of Print-on-Demand in April we've been listening intently to your feedback and working on improving the service. Making Print-on-demand more accessible to everyone, everywhere is one our top priority right now, and that’s why we’re very excited to introduce a new feature designed to help players reduce costs, optimize card printing, and collaborate with friends: Group PODs are now live!
Taking Flight
On the main deck of the Mandjet, the contingents wait in silent discipline beneath a dappled blue sky. The moment is solemn. Grave, even. Formed into platoons and gathered into regiments, the Tagmata troops stand ready, while above them the copper hull of the escort ship Ox Caa gleams like the chitin of some immense insect. They stare straight ahead, posture rigid, weapons at their sides, arms pinned to their bodies. Not a wrinkle in their uniforms. Not a speck of dust. They are worthy of the moment — and she has made sure of that. In the shadow of the wheelhouse, banners and gonfalons snap in the gusts. Farther away, the Templars’ armor shines under the already fierce morning sun. Yet the air, borne on high-altitude winds, is cold and dry.
Musubi 2025 — Discover the new members joining the program!
It has been a little over a year since we launched our Musubi program. Through this program, we aim to reward members of the Altered community for their many and diverse contributions, whether it be content creation, illustrations, stories, cosplays, developing tools players use daily or building and creating the community we have today.
The Deep Tumult
They look grumpy. I stand still in a corner of the observatory, while around me the other Initiates seem to be fussing. Some pore over the latest reports, frowning. Others pace in silence, their faces grim. You could hear a pin drop. The good thing about Mana Moths is that their wings make no sound, just like owls. In fact, even less. It’s not a question of wingspan or air resistance: Mana Moths simply don’t really exist within the world… They don’t displace air when they flutter.
Updates to the Cards List: A New Binder for Your Collection
We’re excited to share a significant update to how you browse and interact with cards on our website. This release brings together the Cards List and Marketplace into one unified experience, designed to simplify navigation, streamline finding new cards, and bring us closer to the feel of flipping through your own card binder.
Introducing our Errata and Ban Compensation Policy
It's been almost a year since the very first Altered balance patch, Addressing Robin Hood’s gameplay experience, was published. It introduced a new errata for Robin Hood and detailed our reasoning on game balancing. Since then, several patches have been released to modify certain cards, always with the intention of providing the best possible game environment.
Comprehensive Rules Update - Skybound Odyssey
With Skybound Odyssey’s release on October 3, we’re updating the Comprehensive Rules to account for the new set’s rules and mechanics.
The Story so Far #2
Skybound Odyssey Corrections on Texts and Translations
A few errors that occurred during the manufacturing of some cards from Skybound Odyssey have been sent to print. We want to inform our players and give you all the necessary information ahead of the Skybound Odyssey release.
Join our Online Skybound Odyssey Demo Deck Tournament
To celebrate the launch of Skybound Odyssey, Equinox is hosting an online Demo Deck Tournament in partnership with the A.W.O.L (Altered Weekly Online League) on Board Game Arena. The tournament will take place on Sunday, September 21st, starting at 4:00 PM (UTC+2) and is open to all players, from beginners to veterans.
Soledad
The transport barge groans and creaks around them as it wrestles with the turbulence. In the dimness of the cabin—banished only by the faint glow of a few kelonic sconces bolted to the walls—they wait, strapped tight into their seats. Yejun nods off, seizing the lull to catch up on lost sleep. Veora polishes her kelonic harpoon with zeal, more to keep her hands busy than out of any real need to maintain the weapon. Tokota chews a strip of sivisse root, eyes fixed intently on a firing slit. Outside, rain streaks across the hull in horizontal rivers as the armored vehicle pushes through a cloud swollen with water, ozone, and Tumult. Soledad closes her eyes for a moment, drawing in the stale air, letting the jolts of the old crate rock her.
Discover Whispers from the Maze online with six demo decks
Whispers from the Maze arrives in your local game store on June 6! If you can't wait to play with the cards from the new set, we're giving you the opportunity to discover it early with six demo decks.
Zhen & Zephyr
Virtue and dishonor. Those two words shape Zhen’s story, and they express the weight she has carried on her shoulders since childhood. If the proud Ordis commander shines for her exploits and those of her parents—heroes and martyrs—her legacy is nevertheless hard to bear. And even more so now, in light of the revelations that have shaken all her certainties. When she closes the door to her cabin aboard Mandjet, guilt and shame always come back to assail her, like vultures waiting to prey on her moments of weakness. In the field she knows how to face danger, but she doesn’t have the tools to confront those invisible enemies lurking at the edge of her consciousness. Not yet. Because that’s precisely what she is trying to obtain: something to wash away the affront, something to shed light on what has stained her honor.
Forget-me-not
I stare into the darkness, and it stares back at me. A hand with long, clawed fingers suddenly bursts from the unfathomable black, slicing through the night, before plunging into the formless mass of Sap. The thick liquid, golden as honey, runs from its palm in sluggish rivers as the entity slowly lifts it toward itself. Suddenly, an eye flares in the gloom, like a baleful flame. A carnivorous grin reveals itself, as if the darkness itself bore fangs. A tongue snakes out of its maw and begins lapping at the amber fluid… It licks its chops, mandibles shivering with ecstasy, like those of a gluttonous god born of chthonic depths. And its eye… its eye takes on the hue of a blood moon, suspended in the night sky.
Lost and Found
As I suspected, the confrontation with the Hunger was grueling for many of the Exalts, especially as it came directly on the heels of the already exhausting events of Caer Nilam. Despite their reassuring claims about their condition, I had to request reinforcements from Asgartha to preserve their morale and overall well-being. Even if it is a small thing, one new Exalt has nonetheless been deployed by the Tagmata to lend us assistance. I should already consider myself fortunate for this allocation, given that the Exalts who remain in Asgartha are normally assigned to defending the Peninsula—or still in training. That said, we are not entirely without resources. Chimeras have been discovered within Caer Oorun and Caer Nilam, and the Muna have been petitioned to call upon the Musubi… Moreover, rumors speak of an unregistered Exalt already present aboard the Wayfarer. I will have to look into this matter further, to invite them to contribute to the common effort—if their very presence is not already a strong sign of their willingness to integrate into the Corps.
Whispers from the Maze Tumult Championship Results
The Whispers from the Maze Tumult Championships are coming to a close. Your descent into the depths of the labyrinth has led you through dark corridors to the heart of an ancient underground city.
Skybound Odyssey Season Patch
After many months of careful consideration, with the last patch, we made the decision to errata Afanas. This errata has breathed new life into the game's diversity. While three Heroes—Treyst, Sigismar, and Kojo—have taken a central place in the meta, this change has also paved the way for others like Fen, Basira, Atsadi, Teija, and Nevenka, all of whom we've seen performing well on the leaderboards in recent weeks.
Skybound Odyssey Season 4 OP Program
Altered's Season 4 is on the horizon! As the Skybound Odyssey reveals have just begun, it's time to tell you more about what awaits you this season in terms of organized play.
What's in the Adventure Pass and Promo Boosters for Season 4?
With the reveals for Skybound Odyssey still ongoing, it's time to get ready for a new Season of Organized Play! Join a pre-release starting September 26 and start your journey on the Skybound Odyssey Adventure Pass. Let's look at all the exclusive rewards you can unlock this season!
Altered is one year old! What’s next ?
In February 2024, we launched Altered with a historic crowdfunding campaign. Our dream was clear: to shake up the TCG universe with a game unlike any other. Cards that are unique in the world, the ability to play online with your collection, and an ecosystem where selling, trading, and printing your cards happens instantly.
Isaree & Pebble
A will of iron? At the very least, a will of stone… That’s how far Isaree’s temperament goes. Once she has something rooted in her, nothing can make her change. From her convictions to her friendships, she doesn’t compromise on anything. And just because she comes from the wealthiest classes of Hadera doesn’t mean she cannot be sensitive to the struggles of common folk. Her father, Rama Thongsuk—a dreamy scientist, a geologist as passionate about minerals as about defending the rights of the weak—had instilled in her, from a very young age, a respect for humanist values. Through science and reason, he offered her insights into Asgarthan social issues, always tinged with kindness and compassion. He punctuated his explanations with poems and quotations to etch the guiding principles of his philosophy into Isaree’s mind. And Isaree hung on his every word. She loved those moments of sharing and debate, often held after class in the little tea room next to her school. The embroidered doilies were always covered in crumbs of pastries and scattered books of philosophy.
Moyo & Silk
Just watching what surrounds him, trying to make sense of its existence. Sitting there, in the middle of nowhere, or isolating himself in the crowd by closing his eyes, slowly letting meditation take over. Like a river flowing drop by drop. Like a salutary parenthesis, so as not to be drowned in noise and fury. Moyo had always had that ability to shut himself off, to batten down the hatches and retreat into his inner world. Now, he could curl up within Silk’s folds to cut himself off from the outside world, to look at it as a detached spectator. As a child, he never would have imagined knowing such a bond with anyone. Still less with a creature. But he was deeply aware of the privilege he had been given. That foreign consciousness had been like a window opened onto the world, a new vantage point through which he could see things differently—and, just as importantly, weave connections he never could have forged on his own.
The Eastern Asia BGA Qualifier is here!
On September 13th and 14th take part in our online Eastern Asia WCQ on Board Game Arena and try to win your place at the Altered World Championships in Paris this October! This article contains information on how to register, event structure, prizing, and broadcast information for our competitors.
Where to find Skybound Odyssey Card Previews?
The Reveal Season for Skybound Odyssey is here! Starting today and all throughout the month of September, we’ll be celebrating the release of Skybound Odyssey on October 3, 2025 with card previews, articles and exciting events.
Skybound Odyssey Mechanics
Rise to new heights beyond the clouds and journey through the sky! Skybound Odyssey brings a lot of new features to Altered with six brand-new heroes and all-new game mechanics. Rediscover your favorite faction and build surprising synergies, but beware of the leviathans lurking nearby!
Kauri & Puff
His feet press into the earth, and he lets his toes sink into the humus. Waving his shepherd’s staff, he guides his dogs with whistles, clicks of the tongue, or hoots to direct the flock. Then he lies back in the grass and watches the clouds drift above the Screed, just as he used to when they were still home, in Asgartha. But unlike the Shards, here he feels none of the constant tremors that shook the floating isles. The ground is silent. He can let his vigilance melt away and listen to the tinkling of bells, along with the occasional bleat of his beasts. He doesn’t have to stay on edge, doesn’t have to constantly scan for the first hints of a seismic jolt. And that is the paradox: they are deep within the Tumult, and Kauri had expected danger to lurk everywhere. He had heard all the stories of explorers’ mishaps and tragedies, but he himself had been spared from real threats. Perhaps too much so—for lately, boredom had been his fiercest enemy.
Nadir & Bubbles
It was strange, sometimes, what one might find on their doorstep. That morning, upon opening it, there was a freshly killed field mouse. Most likely the work of the gray neighborhood cat, who had gotten into the habit of bringing him regular offerings. Surely in thanks for the bowl of scraps he unfailingly set out each evening, not far from the gutter. Which, in cat language, might have meant some form of affection—or perhaps a complaint that his hunting skills, and maybe the quality of the food, left something to be desired. Far above, a balloon burst in the sky—the one in the shape of an overfed chick—before crumpling down like a shriveled egg yolk onto a rooftop. The unwrappers were going to have a lot on their plate, clearing away the deflated skin and folding the silk taffeta back together for repair.
The Hunger
Excerpt from the journal of recruit Alfie Phillips, service number 2187 of the Aegis, communications officer of Section 57 of the Expeditionary Corps
The America BGA Qualifier is here!
On September 6 and 7 take part in our online North-Central-South America WCQ on Board Game Arena and try to win your place at the Altered World Championships in Paris this October! This article contains information on how to register, event structure, prizing, and broadcast information for our competitors.
The Betrayal
No, there is nothing natural here. This architecture is not that of the World Before. I had studied the Sanctum archives long enough, wandered Arkaster’s museums often enough, to know this with absolute certainty. It is without a doubt the product of an anomaly—of long exposure to the Tumult—not the patient craft of mortals.
Oblivion
“A strange affliction is spreading among our Alterers, and I must explain every detail to you, for my fears are growing regarding the scope of this, until now, unknown blight. As a Sister of the Cloister, it is my duty to try to understand its mechanisms, to contain it as much as possible, and above all, to inform you—so that action might be taken.
Enhancing Your Altered Marketplace Experience: Understanding Limits and Our Commitment to Security
Understanding Limits and Our Commitment to Security
Ignorance is Bliss
‘It's fine! Memory lapses happen to everyone, or so they say!’, she trumpets at full volume.
European BGA Qualifier is here!
The European BGA World Championship Qualifier is fast approaching! This article contains information on how to register, event structure, prizing, and broadcast information for our competitors.
Arkaster Echo - Shockwave
The announcement struck the Asterion like a thunderclap. Anuncia ruun-Aysun and Amaro Arundhani, both candidates in the basileal election, have formalized their union — in life and on the political stage. This alliance reshuffles the deck and could mark a major turning point in Asgartha’s political landscape.
Find your World Championship Qualifier - August Events
The first World Championship Qualifiers have already started and crowned the first World finalist, but don’t worry, there are many more on their ways. Find your World Championship Qualifier today and get your hands on beautiful and exclusive prizes, promotional cards, playmats and maybe even a ticket to Paris to attend the World Finals!
CHANGELOG 2025, JULY 24
Here are the latest updates to the Altered website and mobile app.
The Sap
Professor Tang Lang casts a glance at the stands towering above him. The place is packed to the brim. Not a single seat is empty — people are even sitting in the aisles. He gathers his notes as the murmur of the audience settling down fades. He clears his throat and taps the microphone to check that the sound system is working. It’s time to begin. Another throat clearing — this time into the mic. The crowd freezes. The researcher smiles and continues.
WCQ Essen, Germany Results
On July 26, the German WCQ took place in Essen. This qualifier welcomed 128 players vying for the title of WCQ Champion, and the Champion earned a qualification for the Altered World Championship Finals!
Whispers from the Maze Mid-Season Patch
As we reach the first half of the season for Whispers from the Maze, the first World Championship Qualifiers have paved the way to this fall's World Finals, and the competition is in full swing.
WCQ Lille, France Results
On July 5 and 6, the French WCQ took place in Lille. This is one of our biggest Qualifiers of the season, with 660 players vying for the title of WCQ Champion, and the Top 4 earning a qualification for the Altered World Championship Finals!
Skybound Odyssey Previews
Celebrate the 1-year anniversary of Altered with Skybound Odyssey! For this very special occasion, we've packed this set with exciting new features for you to discover right away!
Escherian
At this depth, it’s hard to get any sense of time passing — or to know what time it actually is, for that matter. Down here, in the unfathomable darkness of the City, time seems to stretch and dilate; or on rare occasions, compress. When he bothers to look at his watch, sometimes only a few dozen minutes have gone by, even though he would have sworn it had been hours.
Whispers from the Maze Tumult Championships Announcement
Tumult Championships are back! From August 15, 2025 to September 14, 2025, dive deeper than you’ve ever been and face The Hunger, the very soul of the City of Scholars. Gather in your local game store and claim the title of Tumult Champion or come back to defend your seat!
Leocardius Sree
This historian, with his long white beard and kindly face, devoted his life to preserving the remnants of human history. He would wander daily among the collections he oversaw: endless corridors housing thousands of artifacts and relics from ages past. Despite his advanced age, he still maintained the thirst for knowledge and curiosity of his earliest days, fascinated by everything that had ever been created and shaped throughout the world. He firmly believed that if humanity hoped to remain whole, it had to remember its history and traditions. It was the only way for people to forge their identity and, by extension, adhere to a united, supportive, and incredibly resilient society.
The Gig
The strings of lanterns sway in the wind like tiny bells missing their clappers. They give off a dim, flickering light, as if little will-o’-the-wisps had snuck inside — weary little hikers settling in for the night inside their tents.
Whispers from the Maze Previews
Take a first look at what awaits you in Whispers from the Maze, the new Altered set coming to your local game store on June 6, 2025.
A First Look at Skybound Odyssey
A fresh breeze is blowing from the horizon, bringing with it promises of adventure and new discoveries! The next Altered set is starting to unveil itself, and it's time to give you a sneak peek at what's coming this fall, once you've uncovered the labyrinth's deepest secrets.
The Wayfarer
I walk past the excavators’ stalls without stopping, though I still glance from side to side — just in case. Piled directly on the ground, on spread-out blankets or wooden planks set up as makeshift tables, all the junk brought up from the depths of the City of Scholars sits in a jumbled mess. Before ending up here, the spoils of the digs are sifted through by the Ordis for anything of historical significance — black stone frontispieces veined with gold and intricately carved, brittle-covered tomes... — and also screened by the Axiom if any relics show technological promise.
WCQ Zoetermeer, Netherlands Results
On June 28th, we kicked off the 2025 World Championship Qualifier Season with the very first WCQ in Zoetermeer, Netherlands! This event hosted 103 players and successfully qualified the first Finalist for the Altered World Championship Finals.
Board Game Arena is evolving for Altered Online Qualifiers!
A few months ago, we unveiled our Year One plan for the Altered World Championship circuit. Our goal is to offer a simple and accessible competitive experience for all Altered players.
The Duel
He’s being followed, and he knows it. Atsadi keeps moving through the tunnels of the City of Scholars. He’s going deeper and deeper underground. How far is he from the surface? It's impossible to tell precisely, but he’s been walking for hours—climbing stairs, leaping across carved stones, squeezing through endless crawlspaces. It's a true shifting labyrinth, where every turn reveals a new challenge: a maze, a chasm, winding spiral staircases that rise, twist, and plummet... And that’s far from the hardest part. There are also the countless dangers lurking in the depths—specters, abyssal creatures driven by feelings of fear, darkness, and isolation. Atsadi almost misses the colorful Chimeras he fought under the open sky.
Altered Official Tournament Guidelines - June 2025 Update
The Altered TCG Official Tournament Guidelines are a guiding document to assist with the preparation, and execution of Altered tournaments.
The City of Scholars
The City of Scholars. It is in the annals of Baird y Idris, Shepherd of the Sunset Tribe, that we find the first and only references to this city, which once served as a stopover for some of the western Tumult Nomads as they made their way toward Asgartha. He describes it as an underground metropolis, nestled beneath a tall mountain, well sheltered from the Tumult currents. In his accounts, Baird y Idris offers several theories: the city might once have been a nerve center of the World Before, encircled by rocky foothills. These surrounding mountains, under the pressure of the Tumult, are said to have surged over the city like Herculean waves. Before completely engulfing the human settlement, those waves supposedly solidified again, trapping the population in a stone casing shaped like frozen water. It’s difficult to verify such claims, as many of these statements remain speculative at best, but they are the only sources historians can rely on to attempt even a faint understanding of this civilization’s story and fate.
Down the Rabbit Hole
I can't help but shiver as I stare into the abyss.
Find your World Championship Qualifier - June and July Events
The preparations are beginning! Altered is hosting its World Championships this Fall 2025, a celebration of a year of play and competitive events that will crown the top Altered players, and the World Champion.
The Outpost
Welcome back, Admiral. Major Dimuri snaps to attention as Admiral Singh descends the ramp of the transport barge. Temera briskly returns the salute after stepping onto the landing platform. She raises a hand to shield herself from the wind—a biting gust carrying cold air from the Storhvit—or rather, from Caer Nilam, as she should now say.
THE ARKASTER ECHO
Sunn opens the newspaper, looking for some kind of distraction. Tomorrow, she’s leaving the field hospital—headed for the outpost.
The Story so Far #1
The Rediscovery Endeavor has been underway for nearly eight months now — a fitting time to take stock of its progress.
Comprehensive Rules Update - Whispers from the Maze
With Whispers from the Maze’s release on June 6, we’re updating the Comprehensive Rules to account for the new set’s rules and mechanics.
Whispers from the Maze Pre-release Guide
With Whispers from the Maze pre-releases just one week away, it's time to explore the different archetypes you'll discover in the set!
Murky Truths
His white scales creak against each other as his head slowly lowers toward me, like a wispy cloud descending from the heavens. His gigantic eye settles before my face—a pearly sphere that stares at me unblinking.
The Crow’s Eye
Welcome back, Admiral. Major Dimuri snaps to attention as Admiral Singh descends the ramp of the transport barge. Temera briskly returns the salute after stepping onto the landing platform. She raises a hand to shield herself from the wind—a biting gust carrying cold air from the Storhvit—or rather, from Caer Nilam, as she should now say.
Whispers from the Maze Demo Deck Online Tournament on BGA
To celebrate the release of Whispers from the Maze, Equinox is organizing a Demo Decks Tournament in partnership with the A.W.O.L. (Altered Weekly Online League) on Board Game Arena. This tournament will take place on Sunday, May 25, starting at 4 PM (UTC+2), and is open to all players, beginners and experienced alike.
Whispers from the Maze Season 3 OP Program
Welcome to a new season of Altered organized play! After launching the Whispers from the Maze reveals and previews last week, it's now time to dive into the Season 3 event and reward program.
What's in the Adventure Pass and Promo Boosters for Season 3?
A new season of organized play is beginning! Starting May 30, Season 3 of Altered arrives in stores with the pre-releases for Whispers from the Maze. Along with this new set, you can also discover all-new rewards that you can earn by playing at your local game store.
Where to find Whispers from the Maze Card Previews?
The Reveal Season for Whispers from the Maze is here! Starting today and all throughout the month of May, we’ll be celebrating the release of Whispers from the Maze on June 6, 2025 with card previews, contests, articles and exciting events.
Clear Skies
The storm was still rumbling when Kuraokami took flight, emerging from the shattered trunk of the Nilam. The Tumult hurricane was raging then. But when he rose high into the sky, his roar alone was enough to scatter the clouds gathered over the Storhvit.
Trial by Frost Tumult Championship Results
The ascent is coming to an end. After several months of forging a path through the snow, the ice, and the tumultuous winds of the Cais Adarra, your factions have finally managed to reach the heart of the mountain.
Whispers from the Maze Pre-releases
Get ready to explore Whispers from the Maze before its official June 6 release! Pre-release events, starting May 30, offer the very first opportunity to play with the set's new cards in a fun, community-focused environment. Join the celebration at your local game store and connect with other adventurers!
Whispers from the Maze Reveal Season Starts Now
The ice is finally starting to melt. The freezing winds of the Cais Adarra are behind us now, and the Reveal Season for Whispers from the Maze is finally here. It’s time for our expeditions to move forward!
White Out
Its shell is opalescent, veined with iridescent waves and bluish striations, undulating with countless facets that rise skyward—toward clouds and storm. They distort its reflection, multiplying its image into a thousand furious echoes.
Whispers from the Maze Season Patch
The Tumults events have just ended and results will be revealed next Thursday. As we approach the end of the season and the start the Reveal Season for the next set — it's also time to unveil the contents of the new patch.
On the Tip of the Tongue
It was more than an unpleasant feeling. It was the insidious sensation of having lost a pair of glasses, or of staring at a painting in a museum where the subject was only suggested in negative space—without being able to make out its shape.
Print-on-Demand Launch Offer — Bonus Packs!
Born in 277 AC during the reign of Assura ruun-Caellach, Aroro Niski demonstrated exceptional Alteration abilities from a very young age, just like her older sister before her and her younger brother a few years later.
Addressing Robin Hood’s gameplay experience
With this first article regarding the current Altered format, we’d like to address the gameplay experience we’ve seen on the rise since the first competitive tournaments with the use of Robin Hood, on its own, and when slotted in Waru decks.
Apologies to our artists
We made a mistake…Indeed, we recently realized that some cards created by Khoa Viet were mistakenly credited to another artist, Fahmi Fauzi.
Everything You Need to Know About the Tumult Championships
Get ready for the Tumult Championships by checking out the latest details in our article and registering at your local game store!
Launch Events: celebrate Altered’s release!
Join an Altered Launch Event in your local game store from September 13 to September 15 and celebrate Altered’s release day!
OP Program Season 2
Altered Season 2 is introducing a lot of new things with pre-releases, updated rewards as well as the first competitive events with the Tumult Championships!
Organized Play, Season 1 (Updated September 3)
Everything you need to know about Season One of Altered, complete with seasonal rewards, promo boosters, and special events.
Organized Play
Learn all about the organized play program for Altered, including type of events, rewards, and how to get started playing!
Trial by Frost Card Previews
Celebrate the release of Trial by Frost with us and follow along as influencers and content creators preview cards from the new set!
Trial by Frost Mechanics
Discover the new mechanics for Trial by Frost with a new type of permanent, synergies around exhausting cards and cards that care about region types.
Trial by Frost Mid-Season Patch - Introducing the Watchlist
In this mid-season Patch, we’re discussing the state of the game, giving you some updates on the currently suspended cards and introducing the Watchlist as a tool to help communicate with you around the game.
Trial by Frost pre-release guide
Get ready to face the cold during pre-release with our Limited format guide that will help you choose your Hero, your faction and build your deck!
Trial by Frost Pre-releases
Join a Trial by Frost pre-release starting January 24 at your local game store, be among the first to discover the set and get a head start on the Season 2 Adventure Pass!
Trial by Frost Preview
Get a first look at what awaits you in Trial by Frost, Altered’s first extension coming to your local game store on January 31, 2025.
Trial by Frost Reveal Season starts now!
Join us on a new adventure through snowy landscapes and icy winds with Trial by Frost, the new set for Altered releasing January 31, 2025!
Trial by Frost Season Patch
With the release of Trial by Frost, we want to talk about the state of the game and introduce an update schedule, starting with several adjustments to cards from the current sets.
Tumult Championships Announcement
Make your way to the top with Tumult Championships, a series of Altered competitive events running from April 5, 2025 to May 11, 2025 in local game stores
What’s in the Adventure Pass and Promo boosters for Season 2 ?
Discover what’s in the Season 2 Adventure Pass and promo Boosters that you can get when attending Altered Organized Play events this season.
Tidal Wave
Born in 277 AC during the reign of Assura ruun-Caellach, Aroro Niski demonstrated exceptional Alteration abilities from a very young age, just like her older sister before her and her younger brother a few years later.
Altered Marketplace and Print-on-demand services are live!
We are very proud to be able to announce today the launch of the Marketplace and Print-on-demand services in open beta!
Letter to Efrén
With trembling hands, Efrén unseals the envelope, speckled with dried mud and old water stains. He recognized the sender instantly, of course. At first glance.
Play Altered at Pax East!
Altered TCG will be at PAX East, May 8-11 in Boston, MA! Join us in the TCG Zone to Learn to play Altered, or experience both Constructed and Limited events to earn awesome prizes like never before seen oversized cards from Whispers from the Maze, Altered’s next expansion releasing June 6th!
Vaike Swiftwater
Few can claim to have left as deep an imprint on Asgarthan society as Vaike Swiftwater. This engineer and pioneer is widely regarded as the catalyst behind the Industrial Revolution and the unification of Asgartha’s technical Guilds under the Axiom banner.
Relics
Set it down there, would you? At my signal, the handler lowers the mechanical arm toward the platform, while Rossum guides the tangle of cables and chains securing the relic into position.
Dead Roots
Wrinkling her brow, Rin wonders where the persistent, rhythmic noise is coming from—until she realizes it's the sound of her own teeth chattering from the cold.
The Nilam
Although many had hoped to find a significant Kelon deposit at the heart of the Cais Adarra, the mountain ultimately holds no kelonic vein. Instead, it harbors a colossal tree, one whose proportions rival those of the Spindle.
Marketplace and Print-on-demand Beta – Phase 2 is finally here!
Phase 2 of the Marketplace and Print-on-demand beta starts today! Here’s everything you need to know about this next phase and what changes.
Symbiosis
As the doors open, a welcoming warmth greets her, almost stifling after the biting cold outside. She removes her heavy, ice-encrusted coat, opens a portal—just a small window—and tosses it through, along with her hat, straight into her quarters.
The Ascent
Drawing on the theories of Moyo Chibuye, the Expeditionary Corps successfully traversed the Belasenka territory without incident. At great cost, they managed to establish a makeshift camp on the foothills of the Cais Adarra.
Meet the Community #26 : Poriuchi
One day my friend introduced Altered kickstarter and We play it with print out.We are so excited with the game experience.Then I back the same day.
Meet the Community #25 : The Bravos Hatter
I noticed Altered in late 2023. The first thing that really caught my eye was the beautiful art, like that of Nevenka and Ratatoskr. At that time there was not a lot of information available yet, but luckily Maindeck Dan was already covering the game.
Mana Moths
While exploring the winding tunnels of the Cerulean Hollow, an Yzmir mage happened upon a most intriguing cavity by pure chance. The secluded grotto, hidden from sight and far from the open air, was home to swarms of ethereal Moths.
Altered Fan Content Policy
To assist you in the creation and development of Altered fan content, here is our fan content policy, which clearly defines the use of Altered IP.
Butterfly Effect
A horn’s roar pierces the night. Tocsin. I would recognize him anywhere.I step out of the transport’s cabin, my senses on high alert. Fastening my belt around my hips, I check my sword.
Kuraokami
Thanks to recent information, we have been able to reassess the situation we are facing within the Storhvit. Even though these findings should still be taken with caution, they may provide us with new insights into the repeated assaults of the Belisenki.
Rules and Rulings Updates – March 2025
The following article lists all Comprehensive Rules changes as well as Rulings & Clarification that have been updated since the last communication on January 8, 2024.
A Whisper in the Wind
The water has a silky texture, as if milk had been poured into the hot spring. I rub it on my arms and shoulders, hoping to make my skin softer, while to my left, Nevenka lets out a loud sigh.
Meet the Community #24 : Arxeon
My journey with Altered began at Games on Board in Bologna, a board game event. You should know that board games are one of my greatest passions, and I do my best to share this passion through my Instagram profile.
Meet the Team #2 : Léa (GD)
In 2020, driven by the desire to pursue a more creative and challenging profession, I decided to resume my studies to obtain a master's degree in game design.
The Belisenki
Those we call the "White Shadows" are now targeting our convoys. The first recorded attack came from a hunting party that had ventured into the tundra in search of game.
Marketplace and Print-on-demand Beta - February 17, 2025 Update
Today we take some time to explain in detail the reasons behind the current delay of the Marketplace and Print-on-demand beta phase 2.
Gericht vaan-Brasht
During the paranoid reign of Ayxas, the Mad Kuningas sought to crush any groups that could threaten his sovereignty.
Connect with Altered Communities Worldwide
Looking to connect with other Altered players, want to build or share your own community? Here’s a list of all existing online Altered communities.
Meet the Team #1 : Justin
I’ve been a lover of TCGs since 1998, and have played nonstop for over 25 years. After working with a huge TCG retailer for 10 years, I wanted to move over to the designing and publishing side of the industry.
Twin Suns
I insert the hefty cartridge into the flare gun and snap it shut with a flick of my wrist. Raising my arm, I fire toward the sky as the scent of gunpowder spreads through the air.
The Winter Folk
The harshness of the local climate may pose a challenge for us, beings accustomed to gentler and more forgiving biotopes, but many forms of life or sentient entities have, on the contrary, thrived under this relentless rigor.
Comprehensive Rules Update - Trial by Frost
The following article lists all Comprehensive Rules updates that have been made with version 2.0 for the release of Trial by Frost.
Prey
My steps glide delicately over the snow. I take every precaution, letting my boots sink into the powder while making as little noise as possible. I check the wind's direction and ensure it won't shift.
Marketplace and Print-on-demand Beta - Announcing Phase 2
This first phase of the Marketplace and Print-on-demand beta is coming to a close. Today we’re letting you know what’s next and announcing the launch of phase 2.
Meet the Community #23 : Cohlrabi
My story on how I got started with Altered is a story as old as time… lost my job and the job market was really harsh so I needed a way to make money until obtaining another full time job.
The Storhvit
The vanguard of the Expeditionary Corps has been deployed in the region named "Storhvit" by the first scouts of the exploration forces. While the Rediscovery Endeavor benefited from mild Tumult currents in Caer Oorun, the same cannot be said for areas beyond the borders of the rehabilitated Province.
Meet the Community #22 : Simon
I first found out about Altered through social media advertising in the winter of last year, and immediately was intrigued with the concept of the game.
Show Must Go On
The workers assemble the bleachers with their usual casual indifference. It’s always hard to believe the stage will be ready on time, but the miracle will occur again tonight, as always.
Rules and Rulings Updates - January 2025
Our monthly communication on all Rulings & Clarification added to the details page of the cards.
Beyond the Horizon
The armored vehicle comes to a sudden halt, jolting Sierra awake from her nap. She sits up, quickly descends from her perch, and opens the hatch, peering inside with a hint of concern.
Parasites
Your little puppet seems ready to be shelved… The sorcerer turns toward the figure emerging from the shadows, fully aware of her presence long before she made herself known.
Registration Open for Closed Beta of Marketplace and Print-on-Demand
Registration is now open for the closed beta of the Marketplace and Print-on-Demand services. If you’d like to participate, check out this article!
I Will Hold On To You
I discreetly listen to the young Bravos strut like a rooster in front of his buddies. His hood is pulled over the top of his head, covering his close-cropped hair—likely as an attempt to look cool, though I can’t quite tell what kind of vibe he’s going for.
Those Who Stay Behind
I play with the ring, watching the light dance on the polished metal’s surface as I roll it between my fingers. A ray of sunlight catches the part of the band that had been transformed into a diamond, the brilliance nearly bringing tears to my eyes as I squint. I let out a long sigh and shake my head at the obvious. How could it have been otherwise?
Nest
I let my doll take a sip of Arcolano Milk, feeling the liquid glide down her esophagus as if it were my own. Her taste buds are bathed in these flavors—now familiar, yet still intoxicating—and her head begins to hum, like bubbles rising in harmony with my cervical ganglia.
The Wreck
Chlack, chlack! I grit my teeth. Every movement feels like a monumental effort, every breath a new wave of exhaustion. Chlack, chlack! Raising my machete and hacking at the vines, over and over, is pure torment. The vegetation is dense, rich, tangled, and unyielding.
White Lie
Cling-cling-cling. I weave my way between slot machines that clink, jingle, and chime. The racket is deafening—shrill bells, cacophonous trills, the clatter of coins spilling into cups and metallic trays. How do people stand this constant noise, enduring the ruckus without becoming dazed within minutes?
Altered is coming to PAX Unplugged!
Come and play Altered at PAX Unplugged in Philadelphia on December 6-8, discover exciting and unique ways play and meet with our special guests!
Correspondence
Waru Toowoom - Paper Herald - Butterfly Folding - Rhombus Categorization / Priority 6
Marketplace and Print-on-Demand services are delayed until beginning of 2025
We’re sharing more details about the delay of the marketplace and print-on-demand services, as well as the launch of a closed beta for these features, starting in December.
Bureaucracy
I don’t know how he can even look at himself in the mirror anymore!’ Sigismar slams his fist against the wall, making me jump, and Wingspan hisses.
The Legacy
‘Continuity or deviation. These are now the choices facing the Asgarthans.’ Anuncia gazes toward the stage, narrowing her eyes to focus not just on the words her rival will use but on his posture, his diction, and the tone he employs. What strategy will he choose? Humility? Caution? Or arrogance?
Meet the Community #21 : JessIka
In 2021-2022, I saw an announcement from Equinox about a new TCG in development, for which they were seeking testers.
Rules and Rulings Updates - November
With these first Rules and Rulings Updates, we’re introducing a monthly communication on all Rulings & Clarification added to the details page of the cards.
The Fratricidal War
Following the abandonment of Caer Oorun, now under the Kraken’s rule, the displaced population had to find a new land to rebuild everything.
Carnelian Crown
Subhash exhales loudly and slams his mug down on the table, making the wood creak and the utensils clatter. He wipes his mouth with the back of his hand before hailing the waitress to bring him another pint.
The Paramours of Seki
When it comes to tragic love, the story that most easily comes to the minds of the Asgarthans is that of Nittaya Vorona and Acantha Shah, also known as the Paramours of Seki.
Mise en Abyss
The truth. It was never singular, always plural. Only by comparing all the truths together could one come close to a semblance of certainty... But the closer it seemed to be within reach, the more it slipped away, like a mirage that can never be attained. Those who claimed otherwise were either fools or zealots.
The Three Factions War
Already ravaged by the Severance War, the third century ends in the bloody twilight of a new conflict, called the Three Factions War. For many years, three of the five existing Factions engaged in a fierce struggle for influence within the corridors of the Asterion. What began as mere political maneuvers turned into open warfare among the rivals.
Chrysanthemum
As she exhales, a plume of vapor escapes her mouth and drifts into the air, carried away by a biting wind. The sky holds the colors of a storm. Dark, rumbling clouds gather beyond the snow-covered peaks, as if furious to see them reclaim the fortress of Cebir.
Open Altered Angers 2024 - Tournament Review
Last weekend, the largest Altered tournament to date took place in Angers, France: the Altered Open, organized by Ludotrotter, which brought together over 1024 players in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Part of the Altered team attended the event to meet the community and provide you with a detailed report of this exceptional event.
The Formats of Altered - Multiplayer
Play with a teammate or face your opponents on your own with Altered fun Multiplayer modes : Team Trek and Free for All.
The Formats of Altered
Discover the many ways to play Altered: Standard, Multiplayer, Booster Draft or Sealed Deck, each format has its own rules so find out which one you like best!
The Severance War
The beginning of the third century was marked by the gradual rise of the Governors, who were tasked with developing Asgartha’s Provinces, as they were granted near full regional powers. This key role allowed them to amass wealth and influence, to the point where they eventually challenged the authority of the Basileus. As infrastructures and cities developed and regional economies grew, so did their personal ambitions.
Altered on Board Game Arena available now!
Back in February as our backers unlocked the final stretch goal of our Kickstarter, we announced our plan to allow all players to play with their decks on Board Game Arena, unique cards included.
Far, far beneath in the abysmal sea
It was a summer afternoon. Pollen drifted through the air, while in the fields, sickles and scythes fell on the wheat heads. Not far from the mill, flails threshed the grain, as the sweet song of the winnowers echoed. Idle children played in the straw, laughing loudly, while forks and hooks piled up bundles of hay in the barns.
Until the Latter Fire Shall Heat the Deep
It is coming.In a deluge of churning waves, the water of the bay dips and collapses, while a hissing swell rises around the edge of the funnel. In the center, a roaring vortex is forming, like a furious spiral, an open mouth into the abyss. The wind has changed, carrying a scent of ozone, as a thin drizzle begins to fall. Descending from the grassy dunes battered by stinging gusts, the infantry of the Aegis begins its maneuvers, divided into four carefully ordered battalions.
Meet the Community #20 : Silence
After a long break from collectible card games, during which I explored other passions, I started looking for a new game to get back into earlier this year. None of them convinced me until February 1st, when I discovered Altered during a stream by Les Joueurs du Dimanche with Maxildan, Rofellos, and Marie Grand-jeux.
Meet the Community #19 : Saphire
I was first introduced to Altered back in September 2023 when Thalia and Eric drove over to The Netherlands to introduce Altered to the Dutch retailers. Beforehand me and two others were given the presentation + learn to play as preparation so we could present and demo the game during the roadshow that would follow.
Solstice
The brass band marches down the jam-packed street, while trumpets and sousaphones echo, cymbals clash, and drums bang in joyful chaos. Nev looks around at the crowd following the parade or bustling around the various stalls.
The Altered Comprehensive Rules are available
The Comprehensive Rules is the most complete document regarding the rules of Altered. You can download them now for any personal use or needs in competitive settings.
The Nifir
For nearly three-quarters of a century, the Nifir had regularly plagued the Asgarthan population. Brought back from the salt mines of the island of Suspira, this unknown disease spread like an ink stain across the rest of the Peninsula.
How to run Altered Organized Play events in your store?
Build your Altered community and get players involved in your store through our Organized Play program!
Organizing Altered events with Toornament
Looking for a way to manage rounds and player results for your Altered events? Here is our guide to help use the Toornament platform, a tool that is both free to use and easy to grasp.
Update on our Digital Roadmap - August
As the release of Altered approaches, we take stock of the features we're working on and those still to come.
The Torment
Seventy years after its founding, Asgartha faced dark times that nearly led to the fall of humanity's cradle. In 42 AC, Cwaith had succeeded Rune, and Ayxas was poised to take over after the High Queen, whose reign had lasted nearly twenty-eight years. Under the influence of the Kuningatar, the living conditions of the Asgarthans had greatly improved.
Patch Notes 1.0.4 - Companion App: New BETA Version 1.0.4 Available!
A new version of our Companion App is available for iOS and Android, addressing connection and disconnection issues as well as other improvements.
Noblesse Oblige
The descendants of the Rune Knights have benefited from the aura of their illustrious ancestors. As a result, these ancient families have, over time, become the aristocratic class of Asgartha. The ruun-Heshkari, ruun-Caellach, and other ruun-Tighe Houses have always been closely associated with power, regardless of the ruling regime or political system of the time.
Meet the Community #18 : Narine & Kapuchon
I discovered the game in late December - early January through an ad on a social network. I found the art direction beautiful, but I didn't linger on it much. One day, the local LGS organized an Altered demo session.
Primordia
The Guild Master nervously taps the table with his fingers. Around him, the other members of the Guild Assembly chatter and shout in a deafening uproar. On one side, supporters of the Basileus shake their heads, outraged. On the other side, his opponents boo and yell, pounding their fists or feet to drown the amphitheater in the most irritating racket.
The Vanishing
Even now, it remains one of the most enigmatic mysteries in the history of Asgartha. After over forty years of reign, Rune, the first High King of Asgartha, vanished without a trace, as if by magic. His quarters were found empty, his rooms abandoned.
Introducing the Musubi Program: Celebrating Our Community Heroes
Each year, The Musubi Program will reward 12 members from the community as a thank you for their exceptional contributions. Today we tell you more about this initiative.
Hotfix #2 - Foil cards free foilers & Unique cards public display
A few important fixes on the management of foils and the display of unique cards.
Namkha
The leaves rain around me like a rosy cloud falling from the canopy. I watch them dance, collide, and resume their indolent waltz before settling on the mossy ground. I pick one up and observe the whitish veins running across its surface.
The Formats of Altered - Booster Draft
Booster Draft is a strategic Altered format where you pick your cards one by one to build your deck, along with 7 other players.
The Formats of Altered - Sealed Deck
Sealed Deck is a fun Altered format where you open booster packs and build your deck with the cards you opened. Play and grow your collection at the same time!
The Formats of Altered - Standard
Standard is the easiest and most popular way to experience Altered. Choose a Hero, build a deck in your favorite faction and start playing!
Catch the Drift
Itoro swung her massive brush through the air, scattering droplets of ink around her before striking the ground with force. The black liquid traced shapes on the stone, seeped into the cracks, stained the cobblestones, and from these obsidian strokes sprang countless soot sparrows. They flapped their wings—pulsing masses of dark pigment—before flying off into the distance, each carrying a message, a summons.
The Great Wandering
It is difficult to know how many years this period actually lasted. During this troubled era, few cared to measure time with precision... However, it is commonly accepted that the Great Wandering lasted between one hundred and one hundred and fifty years.
Altered.gg is now available as an APP, in “BETA”
In parallel with the delivery of your Kickstarter orders, we are making the ALTERED app available to you starting today and new services will be made accessible.
Hotfix #1 - Companion App
Some quick fixes addressing the community feedbacks from this weekend following the Companion App BETA launch.
Meet the Community #17 : Keyuko
The first time I heard about Altered, it was still in the project phase during a private event. At Flip 2023, I suspected there might be a booth for 'Régis's game' somewhere (I didn't even know the name) and actively searched for it throughout the festival. We eventually found it in the REEL association area, and I got to play my first games.
Economic System
The greatest constraint of the Peninsula has long been its limited primary resources, apart from the bounty of the sea. The settlement of the entire Peninsula by humans around 130 AC led, over the centuries, to a balance, albeit precarious, between human civilization and its environment.
Meet the Community #16 : JoliRougeGorge
Let me try to recall this; I think it was late December 2023. I was looking for a TCG to dive into and stumbled upon some promotional videos of Altered (I can't remember which channel). Many things intrigued me, so I delved deeper on YouTube and social media. Then, I attended a roadshow near me with two friends.
Experience Altered at Gen Con 2024!
Altered will be present at Gen Con 2024 on August 1-4 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Join us there and experience the first Altered events!
Political System
The Asgarthan Republic is deliberative in nature, which entails active citizen participation in the political and judicial life of the Peninsula. The political framework is structured around a strict separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Each branch is further divided into several autonomous and complementary organs to prevent any one branch from exerting dominance over the others. This system aims to foster balance and ensure that decisions are made through deliberation, consensus, and adherence to principles of justice and democracy.
Unique Cards Explained
How did we come up with the idea of truly unique cards, how did we make it work and what can you expect from them ? Jacques, Game Designer and Master of Uniques tell you all about them.
Meet the Community #15 : LaoShiMahan
I discovered Altered through some friends of mine who run a YouTube channel. They played a few games and, of course, I had to try out the game myself. I was a little hesitant at first, but after setting up the demo decks and playing a few games with a buddy, I was sold on the foundations this game was built on.
Services
Outside of its rail network (trams, trains) and its short- and long-haul air routes (airships), the democratization of the Kelon has led to the emergence of numerous ground vehicles on the city's streets, ranging from unicycles to automobiles, including automated carriages. However, these vehicles remain seldom used, as the Asgarthan topography and infrastructure are still not well-suited for these modes of transport.
KS UPDATE #3 (June 25th 2024)
In this update we have more information about deliveries in Europe and in the United States as well as some good news regarding Gamegenic products!
Meet the Community #13 : Ajordat
I discovered the game thanks to a video of “La Taberna de Dam” and I joined the Discord channel at the beginning of December. I remember there being so little information online at the time that I wanted to learn more about Altered by joining the community.
Meet the Community #14 : Aran
In January 2024, I set a goal to get back into TCGs after a hiatus of about 10 years. So, I started researching the current market. As a big board game fan, when I found out Régis was working on a TCG, I wanted to learn more. I discovered Altered three days before the Kickstarter began and was immediately captivated by Equinox's proposal.
Metropolitan Way of Life
Delve deeper into Asgartha's capitol to better understand how the Asgarthans live !
Arkaster
Known as the "City of Alabaster" or simply the "First City," Arkaster is the capital of Asgartha and the chief town of Caer Eidos. The metropolis itself, nestled between the peninsulas and islands of Sekent, Kemeri, Kuna, and Nisan, has more than 695,000 inhabitants, nearly a quarter of the entire Asgarthan population.
Cities of Asgartha - 1st Part
As Asgartha was gradually populated, urban centers formed naturally in all corners of the Peninsula.
A Heavy Burden
The Aegis sentinel opened the door and stepped aside to let her pass, nodding in greeting as she went by. Behind her, the Basileus' chambers were shrouded in darkness, their atmosphere thick with incense and the heady fragrance of ointments.
Meet the Community #12 : Trickster
I first discovered Altered through a random ad and was immediately impressed by the project's professionalism. The more I explored, the more excited I became. Every aspect of the game felt refined, nothing was overly complicated, and the differences from other TCGs seemed designed to enhance gameplay.
Meet the Community #11 : Pierre
It was love at first sight with Altered! It happened thanks to a game presentation video by Orpho, released in early September 2023.
Cities of Asgartha – 2nd Part
As Asgartha was gradually populated, urban centers formed naturally in all corners of the Peninsula.
Meet the Community #10 : Mathuriel
My journey to Asgartha and the Tumult actually began with Mysterium, Dixit, and Dice Throne. I follow TCG's and boardgames quite a bit and discovered Regis was leading a team to create Altered so I knew I just had to be a part of the game's community right away.
Meet the Community #9 : Ilad
My first encounter with the game was at the end of January, as I was passing by some miniatures that showcased it on YouTube. It was only a few days later, when my brother mentioned a "new French TCG that seems to bring new things", that I remembered these videos and decided to watch them.
Festivities & Celebrations
It's not all harshness in the altered world; one must also know how to commemorate what deserves to be celebrated!
The Roadshow is back!
We’re excited to announce that beginning on the weekend of June 15, the Altered TCG Roadshow returns for the Summer!
KS UPDATE & MORE (May 13th 2024)
Thank you for your infinite patience! We know many of you are eager to play Altered with your own cards or to experience new services, and we ourselves are eager to provide you with satisfaction!
Meet the Community #8 : Troy
Once upon a social media scroll... An ad, with art of a singing mushroom scrolled past, announcing a new Kickstarter campaign. Sure please notify me when this becomes available to pledge. A week or two passed a couple more Altered ads on social media scrolling by. I guess the algorithm really thinks this game may interest me.
The Concord
After long and perilous journeys —some even lasting the span of a human lifetime— the communities of survivors, now known as Tumult Tribes or Nomads, found themselves in the same place, finally reunited after decades of isolation.
Meet the Community #7 : Fortunus
It all started in October 2023 during a tournament for another TCG at the local board game bar. The bar staff mentioned having participated in tests for a very old version, which piqued my curiosity.
Global Timeline
Following a mystical call, the Tumult Nomads initiate the Great Migrations: the various nomadic tribes all converge towards a distant location, which later becomes Asgartha.
Meet the Community #6 : Eazy
I discovered Altered at the end of 2023 while reading an article on Ludovox. The ideas presented intrigued me, especially as a big board game enthusiast. However, with the current density of collectible card games, I had other priorities and didn't delve further into my research.
The Expeditionary Corps
After centuries of isolation, humanity's new home is now sufficiently stable for it to turn its gaze outward. It already knows that there are other shores, other territories still affected by the Tumult, but capable of sustaining life.
Meet the Community #5 : EricLaz
I started playing TCGs when Magic came out, trying countless others over the next decades. My interest eventually dwindled and I sold all my cards during the pandemic, shifting my gaming focus towards TTRPGs, convinced my history with card games was over.
Caer Oorun
Nearly three centuries ago, Asgartha encompassed another Province: Caer Oorun. This territory was part of the same Oasis as the rest of the Peninsula. Initially, it was an agrarian area upon which the human colony of Asgartha relied to meet its needs.
Meet the Community #4 : Orpho
I discovered the game over a year ago, when a few lucky people in my local store were able to take part in playtests of a new project still in development at the time. Hearing about a potential future TCG made in France, my curiosity was piqued and I managed to join a playtesting session to discover the game.
The Leviathans
Their footsteps make the ground tremble and the mountains shake, their silhouette obscures the sun when they spread their wings or soar above the clouds... Leviathans are titanic creatures, large enough to cover vast cities.
Meet the Community #3 : The Art Fish
Hey there, I'm Denice, also known as The Art Fish, and I've been on my digital art journey since mid-2020, based out of the Netherlands.
Vagheria
Vagheria is an austere and rugged peninsula constantly battered by rain. Its terrain makes it a natural barrier against the Tumult currents, and it absorbed the majority of the mutagenic flows from the titanic Tumult tsunami of 305 AC.
Meet the Community #2 : Gavken
My name is Gavin Kenny. I’m a UK based gamer for over forty years, playing board games, role-playing games and card games.
The Seas
The Asgarthan Peninsula is almost entirely surrounded by seas. Throughout history, it has relied on their maritime resources to meet the needs of its population. Even today, despite the airships and aerodynes traversing the sky, numerous vessels still crisscross these aquatic expanses, whether for fishing or transporting goods.
Meet the Community #1 : Hyruama
I discovered Altered through random Youtube videos. I was looking for information about other trading card games, and the algorithm suggested videos about Altered... I was intrigued and joined the official Discord pretty quickly in August 2023.
UPDATE - Altered’s new release date is set 09/13/2024
After a thorough study of the project's logistical challenges and to ensure a perfect synchronisation of Altered's worldwide release, we have made the decision to postpone the game's release date, originally scheduled for August 26, 2024, and now set for Friday, September 13, 2024.
Suspira
An almost uninhabited volcanic island, made of black stones and sands, Suspira bathes in an unreal end-of-the-world atmosphere. Located far from Arkaster, it is called the "whispering island" or the "isle of murmurs," referring to the sulfuric vapors that almost constantly exhale from the ground.
Enosha
Located east of the Kirighai peninsula, Enosha is also divided into two Provinces: Caer Esvander to the west and Caer Alcada to the east. While Anthea is mainly specialized in cereal, fruit, and vegetable cultivation, Enosha is characterized by the strong presence of pastures and mountainous regions. This is why it is renowned for its livestock and mineral quarries.
Anthea
The largest peninsula in the Asgarthan Protectorate, located south of the capital beyond the Muir Concordia, is divided into two Provinces: Caer Kettria to the west and Caer Arcolano to the east. Like Enosha, Anthea is considered an agrarian and pastoral territory, and the capital heavily relies on the food resources from this peninsula to feed its population.
The Proclamation
Through the Rediscovery Endeavor, it's the entire people of Asgartha who are now set in motion.
Kirighai
Accessible only by water or via its unique bridge from the island of Nisan, the "Mugen," Kirighai is almost entirely covered by a dense and primal forest, the Katkera. This wild territory is sparsely populated by humans: only the Muna Refuges (or Temples of Serenity) constitute inhabited enclaves.
Asgartha
The Asgarthan Peninsula is considered the new epicenter and cradle of human civilization. Despite its rather modest size and complete isolation, this fragmented strip of land has become a biotope where sentient beings have managed to thrive, despite the limited natural resources presented by this ecosystem. In the absence of evidence of the existence of other enclaves, Asgartha is considered the last bastion of humanity.
Caer Eidos
The Province of Caer Eidos consists of three islands: Sekent, Kemeri, and Nisan. Its rugged terrain has served as a natural protection to the human communities that settled there after the Great Wandering.
Lindiwe & Maw
Are you sure you want to learn more about Lindiwe & Maw? Delve deeper into the Lore of Altered, at your own risk!
Auraq & Kibble
When he sits in front of his mirror and begins to apply makeup to his face, Auraq gradually comes to life under his brush strokes. Provocative, bold, extravagant, and so... sexy. Behind this mask, boundaries blur and constraints break. He shatters boxes to feel free to be whoever he wants, without conforming to codes and norms. It's a liberating feeling to trade one face for another, to change persona for the duration of an evening or a performance. Through this, there are no more conventions to hold onto. By breaking down barriers, she begins to exist without filter. Her body is a blank canvas, a vector of expression, which she paints and transforms as she pleases. She is a work of art made flesh, dazzling and, paradoxically, without artifice.
Waru & Mack
The Peregrine Museum is nearly deserted at these ungodly hours. His measured steps echo within the gigantic halls, usually bustling with people. He has always been one of the most prominent patrons and donors of the gallery. Allocating himself privileged access, regardless of the hour or day, is thus a mere formality for him. Hands clasped behind his back, he greets the chief curator with his most cordial smile. The latter responds with a simple nod, slightly embarrassed, knowing full well that he dislikes being disturbed during his morning walks. Then, without interrupting his stride, Waru enters the section reserved for relics of ancient times.
Rin & Orchid
Rin remembered the rainy evening when her old father revealed the truth to her. She was gutting the fish he had brought back from fishing, always careful to give some to Ukai, their domestic cormorant. It was thanks to him that they ate their fill every day. The rain traced circles on the water's surface, dripping through the thatched roof. Her father, Yonago, smoked his long pipe on the pier, blowing smoke rings into the darkening air. Then he entered the hut and sat beside her as she stuffed the pike with herbs, spices, and condiments. He looked pensive, almost worried.
Atsadi & Surge
His steps crunch on the sand as he circles, blade raised, around the other duelist. He can see sweat beading on his opponent's forehead, while his chest rises and falls with his ragged breaths. His own breathing is a continuous, peaceful breeze. He waits, alert for the slightest opening. A drop trickles down his enemy's brow, who tries to brush it away with a sudden backhand. It's more than enough to attempt a maneuver. In a fraction of a second, Atsadi lunges. His sword sings and whistles like the wind as he darts to the right, feints, and swings his blade back to the left. The Haderite fencer parries at the last moment, and the two weapons clash together, a sweet melody to his ears.
Subhash & Marmo
Hell, want to know more about Subhash & Marmo? Alright, delve deeper into the Lore of Altered, then!
Lyra
When they contemplate the world, the Lyra understand how it is expression above all else. Every living being, every thing, exhales a cohort of ideas and emotions just by existing, like fragrances, like sensory explosions that must be felt to be truly understood and appreciated... Lyra Alterers rejoice in traversing such a cosmos, as vibrant as it is intense; to be pierced by its beauty, as moving as it is relentless. Like any living being, humans are shaped by their senses and molded by what they perceive of their environment. The Lyra make sensation the cornerstone of their values, the keystone of their reality. That is why the present and the moment are so dear to them.
Yzmir
Want to know more about the Yzmir Faction? Delve deeper into the Lore of Altered!
Ordis
Want to know more about the Ordis Faction? Delve deeper into the Lore of Altered!
Muna
Unlike the Ordis, who seek to organize the sensory world, the Muna primarily seek to structure themselves, and by extension, to attain a state of inner peace. It is when a being is able to calm their inner turmoil and turn it into an impassive mirror that they are capable of facing themselves and finding their true identity. This self-knowledge and self-awareness, which must be as instinctive as possible, in turn reinforce, through feedback, their intrinsic harmony. It is this cycle of congruence that the Muna respect and develop in the first place; a virtuous loop that then allows each being, through their mere existence, to positively influence their environment.
Bravos
Want to know more about the Bravos Faction? Delve deeper into the Lore of Altered!
The Age of Rediscovery
The launch of the Expeditionary Corps marks the beginning of a new era: welcome to the Age of Rediscovery!
Anatomy of Imagination
Do you want to learn more about the cosmology of Altered? Open the doors of imagination!
Axiom
No other Faction is as keen on innovation as the Axiom. For these machinists and engineers, researchers and inventors, the world is full of wonders and opportunities to be explored and harnessed. Its members are highly pragmatic: they firmly believe that through progress — whether technical, economic, or social — and the achievements of science, humanity will continue to improve its living conditions, so harshly tested by the Tumult. This ideology is deeply rooted within the Faction, synonymous with hope for the rediscovery of the Terra Incognita. Unlike the Yzmir, who emphasize the abstract and the theoretical, or the Ordis, who consider knowledge as a commodity in itself, the Axiom exalt reason and knowledge through the prism of their practical application.
Afanas & Senka
When he woke up in the morning, Afanas had the habit of opening the door of his cottage and watching his father train. Korovin whirled around the striking dummy like a dark silhouette dancing in the mist. The Bravos swordsman struck the straw scarecrow again and again with precise and resounding blows, under the fascinated gaze of his eldest son. Korovin was a veteran who had faced many Leviathans, and Afanas relished his tales when he returned from a hunt. He and his company would depart for long months to repel the seasonal assaults of these gigantic monsters, all to protect Asgartha.
Gulrang & Tocsin
She could see them parading through the streets of the First City when she accompanied her mother to the factory. They were proud, and their armor gleamed beautifully under the sunlight. Even though she was pregnant with her yet-to-be-born brother, her mother continued to work. Sometimes, she would show her how she worked with wood using Alteration, seeking to instill in her the necessary knowledge to take over the factory. But as soon as the sound of boots echoed in the street, she would rush to the window to see the Aegis sentinels depart on patrol.
Arjun & Spike
The sky is barely beginning to light up in the distance. There is more night in the air than day, and the prevailing silence is that of the ephemeral passage between darkness and light. In the dimness of dawn, the nocturnal sounds have ceased, and those of the morning are just beginning, with the first sharp trills of the birds. Squatting down, they grasp a handful of earth and rub it longingly in their palms. They inhale the humus, letting themselves be carried away by all the scents it carries. The heady aroma of decay, the potent fragrance of soil and manure, the rich effluvia of grass and moss, bark and dampness... They let this bouquet saturate their senses. It's good soil, fertile and fruitful. It's a generous ground, ready to bring forth life. That's the smell of life itself.
Fen & Crowbar
Delicately, she cradled the small bird in her hands. It was so frail, as if it had just fallen from its nest. But there were no trees around, just an endless plain withered grass and the vastness of the sky. It chirped weakly as she nestled it against her chest, within the folds of her robe. She would take care of it, do everything to help it recover. Above her, the martengales drifted beneath the azure sky. Fortunately, she had found it before they did. They would have eagerly made a snack out of it... Lifting her skirts, Fen hurried back to the Ouroboros. She would surely find something at home to feed it. But what did a bird eat, exactly? Seeds? Porridge? Milk? No, it wasn't a cat. Maybe she would need to find some insects or caterpillars. Old Berchad would know.
Akesha & Taru
"Kesh," as some affectionately call her, has embraced a life centered around spirituality and the study of magical arts, particularly Eidomancy—the ability to conjure ideas. However, her skills in Horomancy, the magic of the Irises, also allow her glimpses into the future and manipulation of time itself. She has made this specialization her trademark, her personal touch. It must be said that this ability always seems to give her a slight edge over her peers, as unsettling as it may be for them.
Basira & Kaizaimon
Basira was still young when the Bravos mounted an expedition to try to reclaim the Cebir. This citadel, erected in 327 AC within the Terra Incognita, was supposed to be a first outpost, a forward base to re-explore the world. But the living conditions were such that the Bravos had to abandon it only two years after its construction. This surrender was a painful setback for the Bravos. Returning with their tails between their legs was a deep dishonor for the Faction, but also for the Ordis, which had invested colossal funds in the enterprise, and whose architects had actively participated in the project.
Kojo & Booda
Even as a little child, Kojo was known as a daredevil, a Kelon battery always buzzing with energy and ready to somersault. His mother, Tehea, was a skilled woodworker from the Wood Guild, specializing in luxury marquetry. His father, Yawo, owned a small convenience store under the Cornucoopia brand. His older sister, Gulrang, was his opposite, so stern, so devoid of humor. Early on, his father asked him to deliver certain groceries to address emergencies or help the elderly who had difficulty moving. And that suited him just fine. He took the opportunity to meet his friends and explore the sprawling alleys of the capital.
Nevenka & Blotch
Yep. Nevenka. With a "k". Some opt for "Nev" from time to time. That's just fine. Others resort to insults, and well, that's not very nice. But hey, in most cases, it's deserved, so she willingly accepts some sailor-like swearing. It's like pet names in the end, like "sweetie" or "cupcake." It's affectionate... right? Ah well, tough luck for her then. And especially tough luck for them. It's the fate of artists to be misunderstood. And when she draws suggestive drawings on the side of a tram, it's like a gift to the world, a cheeky and free little present. People just don't know how to appreciate that kind of gift, or even freebies, anyway.
Sierra & Oddball
Sierra, despite her workshop being a cheerful chaos of plans, tools, and piled-up instruments, navigates it with disconcerting ease. She is described as a goldsmith, and her delicate hands work meticulously, with the precision of a watchmaker, to craft and assemble, shape and create. To aid in her endeavors, she can rely on Oddball, a drone of her own design that came to life after being exposed to the currents of the Tumult. Beyond her engineering skills, Sierra is also a talented Alterer, having become an expert in manipulating Constructs, the modules used by the Axiom to control Alteration. It is thanks to all these strengths that she was selected to serve as a vanguard in the Expeditionary Corps.
Sigismar & Wingspan
As a child, he already clenched his fists, his jaw tense. He could see the adults casting sidelong glances at him, preventing his friends from coming over, citing flimsy excuses. "He can't today. Maybe another day?" But that other day never came. Regardless of his family's wealth, the opulent palazzo he lived in, his good manners, or his education... he was irreversibly considered a bad influence, a black sheep. Nevertheless, he put on a brave smile in the face of these repeated refusals, calmly responding that it didn't matter, that the door to his house was always wide open. Beneath his blond curls, he struggled to maintain a beaming facade. But internally, he wanted to scream, to shout with all his might.
Teija & Nauraa
All around her, the land is dark, sinister, and misty, as if a foreign shadow has fallen and embraced the murky undergrowth. Just a few days ago, this place was still bucolic: shrews darted through tall grass, insects buzzed above the tranquil waters of the ponds... Teija kneels down and carefully picks up the small shape slumped in the nauseating mud. She suddenly exhales, her eyes half-closed. Beyond the senses, beyond her perception, she feels the veins of the Skein, the great tapestry that binds all things together, unfurl. Within this grand canvas, this immense and infinite network, the aura of the small animal she infuses with her own energy shines and pulses weakly. The little bird flutters in the palm of her hands, exhausted, its tiny heart pounding hard to cling to life, and she helps it with all her strength, with all her soul…
Treyst & Rossum
Every morning, as he wakes up and stares at the ceiling of his room, he remembers the long months when he was imprisoned in his bed, unable to get out on his own. He recalls the painful anxiety, the knot in his stomach. Even though today, all he has to do is retrieve the Kelon batteries from their charging station to regain the use of his legs, he still remembers the painful experience of seeing his limbs inert, without truly feeling their presence. The ritual is always the same: he inserts the batteries into his spine and waits until tingling sensations travel up his nerves and he is able to contract his toes.
Lexicon
The Confluence About five centuries ago, a planetary cataclysm, born from the collision of reality and the world of imagination, swept over the Earth. This event, called the Confluence, spared no one. It leveled entire cities, brought down human nations like houses of cards. Like a roaring surge, it reshaped reality in a chaotic manner, causing ruin and destruction in its wake. In its aftermath, new life forms emerged, new landscapes, as fantastic as they were unsettling —a blend of the real and the imaginary, unfolded. The world was transformed, rendered strange and often hostile. It was altered to the point of becoming unrecognizable.