Game designers bring Scotland's mysterious Picts to life
Game designers bring Scotland's mysterious Picts to life
Game designers bring Scotland's mysterious Picts to life
Steven McKenzie
November, 12, 2025
Summary
Game designers and archaeologists have collaborated to create Carved in Stone: A Storyteller’s Guide to the Picts, an illustrated book exploring the complex society of early medieval Scotland’s Picts. Led by Brian Tyrell of Stout Stoat Press and archaeologist Dr Heather Christie, the four-year project draws on recent archaeological research and aims to challenge stereotypes of the Picts as “blue-tattooed barbarians.” Designed partly as a resource for tabletop role-playing games, the guide depicts Pictish settlements, culture, and social life. Supported by the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, the book brings new discoveries and scholarship to life for both gamers and history enthusiasts.
Reference
McKenzie, S. (2025, November 12). Game designers bring Scotland’s mysterious Picts to life. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cql9pwvg9kvo