Today was focused on turning a huge amount of creative work into something organised, readable and useful for the AP Progress Blog.
My main aim was to begin shaping my progress reports properly, so they do more than simply list what I have made. I want them to show the thinking behind the work, the decisions being made and the direction AlienPurgatory is moving in.
IN SHORT:
1. Progress Report Structure:
Defined a clear and repeatable format for all AP Progress Blog updates.
2. Purgatory Magazine Strategy:
Locked in visual direction, print specifications and publishing structure.
3. Alien: Salvage Development:
Expanded core lore, mapped Chapter One and progressed the first prose draft.
4. All Ages Story Planning:
Strengthened the purpose and direction of the [ AGE – ] story line.
5. Workflow and Public Voice:
Refined how progress is communicated without losing authenticity or control.
IN MORE DETAIL:
1. Progress Report Structure
The first major task was working out how these progress reports should actually function. I do not want them to feel like dry production notes or vague announcements. They need to give readers a real sense of the work happening behind the scenes without overwhelming them with too much information at once.
The format now has a clear structure. A strong title, a focused introduction, a short scannable overview and then a more detailed breakdown. This allows each report to feel clean and readable while still carrying enough depth to reflect the actual work being done.
2. Purgatory Magazine Strategy
A significant portion of the work was focused on bringing Purgatory Magazine into the real world. This included reviewing the cover direction, confirming the premium print specifications and locking in the overall publishing structure.
The key decision here was the separation into two distinct lines. The [ AGE + ] range holds the darker, more intense material while the [ AGE – ] range is designed to be safe, structured and accessible for younger readers. This creates clarity for the audience and gives the brand a solid foundation moving forward.
3. Alien: Salvage Development
Alien: Salvage continues to develop into one of the strongest pillars of the project. The deeper lore surrounding Vanguard Asset Recovery Corp has been refined, along with Harper’s role as a Mapper and the biological consequences tied to the resin.
Chapter One has now moved beyond planning and into a full prose draft. The focus has been on restraint, silence and physical tension. The strength of the scene comes from what Harper does not do. Holding position, controlling breath and surviving through stillness rather than action.
4. All Ages Story Planning
Alongside the darker work, time was also spent reviewing and strengthening the [ AGE – ] direction. This branch is essential for expanding the reach of AlienPurgatory without compromising safety or tone.
The stories are being built around adventure, problem solving and character growth. The challenge here is balance. Keeping the stories exciting and cinematic while ensuring they remain appropriate and reassuring for younger readers and parents.
5. Workflow and Public Voice
The final focus was on how all of this work is presented publicly. These progress reports need to be honest and personal while still maintaining control over what is shared.
The voice is becoming clearer. Direct, grounded and reflective of the actual process. The aim is to give readers a genuine insight into the work without exposing key story details or losing the sense of structure behind the project.
