The Language of Magic, currently in the midst of a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, is probably one of the more interesting Ultima-inspired projects to come along in a while. It’s a card game, but draws upon the magic system — and Words of Power — from Ultima Online (and entries in the single-player series such as Ultima 6 or Ultima 7) for its inspiration.

The Language of Magic came about from my long-time appreciation for the world which Richard Garriott created. Specifically the MMO, Ultima Online. As a kid, teenager, and young adult I put many hours into the game and, even though it has been running for just over 20 years, I still go back to it from time to time just to relive the experience. It is a masterpiece of a game that will never get old and my only hope is that we created something that pays the proper respect.

The Language of Magic is being developed by Shawn Michael Hescock. It falls into the general category of deck building games; here’s a brief description of how the game is played:

The Language of Magic is a deck-building card game which can be played in two ways: 2-player duel – players attempt to build an arsenal of powerful Words of Magic to overcome their opponent, or 2-4 player cooperative or solitary play – players work together to battle the Lich and its minions, defeating it before it can cast its final spell. As a solo or co-op player, you take on the role of the Avatar, chosen heroes of spirituality…who are to do battle with the Master of Hythloth, the vile Nefarious Lord Zorhkar and his minions of the abyss.

There are 26 words of power, each representing their own idea. These words can be combined to make powerful spells to harm, mend, protect, or alter the creatures and the world around you. Some words, the incantations, direct the polarity of the spell. Will you create, negate, or steal? Other words add elemental powers, some can add to or multiply the effect. There are so many possible spells, you will need to play it for yourself to see what you can come up with.

Full rules for the game can be found online here, if you’re curious to read more.

The minimum spend to get a copy of The Language of Magic is $8 USD; that amount will net you digital copies of the game assets, for you to print for yourself. For $35 USD, you’ll receive a single physical copy of the game. Higher pledge levels include additional copies of the game, and additional rewards (such as a dice set).

At the time of this writing, the game has raised $4,570 USD toward its $7,000 USD goal, and has about a week and a half left to go.