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Bill SlavicsekGame designer, former director of development at Wizards of the Coast
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Inspirations
- Introduction to Role-Playing Games
- Career at West End Games
- Freelance Work and TSR
- Wizards of the Coast and Expertise in Star Wars
- Vice President and Departure from Wizards of the Coast
- Post-Wizards of the Coast Career
Early Life and Inspirations
Bill Slavicsek, born and raised in New York City, was captivated by comics, horror, and science fiction from an early age. Marvel comics, horror and sci-fi films, and a passion for drawing fueled his imagination.
Introduction to Role-Playing Games
In 1977, Slavicsek encountered "Dungeons & Dragons," igniting his interest in role-playing games. Despite his aspirations as a comic book artist, he pursued a degree in journalism and communications at St. John's University.
Career at West End Games
After a brief stint at a community newspaper, Slavicsek joined West End Games as an editor in 1987. His work on the "Star Wars" role-playing game earned him the position of editor and developer on the project. In 1988, he was promoted to creative director and editor-in-chief. He also played a role in the development of "Torg" with Greg Gorden and co-authored the "Stormknights" novel.
Freelance Work and TSR
Slavicsek became a freelance writer and editor in 1991, working on projects for TSR, Inc. in 1993. At TSR, he collaborated with Chet Baker on "Alternity" and additional materials for the "Ravenloft" setting, including "Dark Sun Campaign Setting" and "The Nightmare Lands." He holds "The Deva Spark" and "Harbinger House" for "Planescape" among his most notable works. Slavicsek also played a significant role in the development of the "Alternity" system.
Wizards of the Coast and Expertise in Star Wars
Throughout the 1990s, Slavicsek contributed to projects at both TSR and Wizards of the Coast. He authored three editions of "A Guide to the Star Wars Universe," becoming a world-renowned expert on "Star Wars." In 1997, he became the product line manager for TSR's products at Wizards of the Coast, eventually rising to the role of director of development.
Vice President and Departure from Wizards of the Coast
Slavicsek held the position of vice president and director of development in 2000. On June 23, 2011, he announced his departure from the company.
Post-Wizards of the Coast Career
Following his departure, Slavicsek joined Zenimax Online Studios as a writer and designer, contributing to the development of the multiplayer RPG "Elder Scrolls Online."
