Submitted by: Joe blast
Subject: Introducing "Ascension Skins" & "Artisan Frames"
Status: Blog Proposal for Splinterlands
This proposal introduces two symbiotic cosmetic systems—Ascension Skins and Artisan Frames—that fundamentally change how players value card ownership and gameplay history in Splinterlands.
By leveraging the new Cinder burn mechanic, we create a sustainable economic loop where assets are forged through destruction (burning old cards) and perfected through battle (playing the game). This shifts the cosmetic paradigm from "Pay-to-Win" to "Play-to-Flex."
“From the ashes of the old, the new shall rise.”
I propose utilizing Cinder (obtained by burning existing card supply) as the exclusive currency for acquiring base-level cosmetics. This turns the "card glut" problem into a "cosmetic opportunity."
“The card doesn’t make the hero; the battle does.”
Skins are no longer static assets; they are living projects. A player acquires the base model, but must prove their skill to unlock its true form.
| Tier | Name | Requirement | Visual Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | Dormant | Forge (Lvl 0) | Standard base model. Worn leather, dull metals. |
| II | Awakened | 1,000 SXP | Polished textures. Gemstones appear and glow faintly. |
| III | Gilded | 5,000 SXP | Material transmutation. Iron/Steel turns to Gold or Platinum. |
| IV | Ethereal | 15,000 SXP | Foil Transformation. Skin gains animated Black/Gold Foil textures and particle effects. |
| V | Ascended | 50,000 SXP | The Divergence. The skin undergoes procedural mutation, generating unique 1-of-1 traits (wings, horns, halos). |
This is a "Bolt-On" cosmetic attachment (starting with Copper) that fits over the card border. Unlike skins, frames do not "level up"—they age.
Players will see a clear progression bar for their Skins and a "Battle Count" tracker for their Frames.
When a player successfully forges a new Frame or Skin using Cinder, they are presented with a confirmation screen accompanied by the following flavor text:
"Fresh from the anvil. It shines with the naive glow of the unblooded. Keep it polished if you wish to look wealthy... or carry it into the trenches, let the elements take hold, and show the world you are dangerous."
This system creates a deep visual language for the opponent:
let me know what you think of this idea!
ok well back to work... 2026 is NOT going to built its self...
One day these wings will fly.... BLAST
