The Vessel:
Aged in Myth.
Bottled for Legend.
The Vessel is an interactive storytelling decanter concept designed to be a centrepiece for storytelling and a tribute to the fantasy RPG community. It goes beyond traditional packaging, with the bottle becoming an interactive artefact that enhances gameplay and immersive experiences.
Inspired by the collaborative and creative spirit of tabletop and video games, this design celebrates the richness of human imagination. It’s a response to the rise of generative AI, focusing instead on fostering connections and shared experiences among players.
The design is crafted to be a collectible that resonates across multiple genres, including fantasy, sci-fi, horror and romance.
An Artefact for Storytellers
The bottle itself is an interactive storytelling device. The design draws inspiration from various sources, including the architectural genius of Gustave Eiffel and the intricate details of the Beaux-Arts movement.
Key design features include:
- Closure: The top has a clockwork-inspired, rotating mechanism with a coin-lock system and embossed insignias. It incorporates puzzle-solving elements, where a specific sequence could reveal hidden markings.
- The Bottle: The glass body is a 20-sided geometric structure, a direct nod to the iconic D20 dice used in role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. It features embossed latticework and a central brand mark with a blend of neo-traditional typography.
- Materials: The bottle features aged metallic finishes like oxidized steel and brushed brass, combined with ash wood accents that have Beaux-Arts-inspired engravings. This fusion of industrial and classical elements allows it to fit seamlessly into both futuristic and fantasy settings.
Interactive and Immersive
The Vessel bottle is more than just a beautiful object; it’s engineered for engagement. Interactive elements transform it
into an experiential product.
- Technology Integration: The wooden base houses LED lights that can change the liquid’s colour, symbolising different story elements like alchemy or magic. The system is modular, adapting to different RPG settings, from a warm, medieval glow to cool, cyberpunk hues.
- Hidden Lore: The neck label features foil embossing with embedded cryptographic elements and Art Nouveau embellishments, providing hidden lore and puzzle mechanics. The bottle also has engraved ciphers, runes, and codes that can lead to online content or real-world scavenger hunts.
- Augmented Reality (AR): Hidden barcodes on the bottle can be scanned to trigger augmented reality experiences. This allows users to engage with digital narratives, exclusive lore, and even in-game currency. Users can also create their own stories and missions using the AR platform.
A Reusable Centrepiece
The bottle is designed to be a lasting part of the user’s experience. After the whiskey is enjoyed, it can be refilled and reused for future adventures, whether as a prop, a decanter or a centrepiece for an ongoing story. This project celebrates the community, diversity, and creativity of fantasy RPG enthusiasts, bridging traditional and modern storytelling methods.
Where stories and creativity connect.