Two Janitors Create Charming RPG Amidst Work Struggles

Adam Marshall, a custodian at a school in suburban Philadelphia, dedicated over a decade to developing ‘Kingdoms of the Dump,’ an RPG that has garnered recognition as one of the year’s most charming games. Marshall balanced his responsibilities as a janitor, working from 3 PM to 11 PM, with his game development, often working late into the night until 5 or 6 AM. His childhood friend, Matt Loiseau, a fellow janitor, joined him in creating the game using RPG Maker alongside a small team of hobbyists who contributed for free. The project, which features a trashcan named Dustin Binsley embarking on adventures through landfills and sewers, faced significant challenges during the pandemic. The global health crisis disrupted their plans, forcing them to lose contractors and re-evaluate their approach. Marshall maintained this rigorous schedule for five years before deciding to quit his custodial job last year to focus entirely on the game. ‘Kingdoms of the Dump’ was finally released after its development journey, achieving approximately 7,000 sales since its launch. The game’s unique concept and the developers’ dedication have sparked considerable interest, showcasing the blend of work and creative passion.