Vibias Market - D&D Economy Simulator
A real-time market simulator designed for Dungeons & Dragons campaigns, bringing dynamic economics to tabletop gaming with realistic supply and demand mechanics.
Project Overview
Vibias Market transforms static D&D item pricing into a living economy. Game masters can create immersive marketplaces where player actions directly impact prices, availability, and merchant relationships.
Key Features
Dynamic Pricing Engine
- Real-time price fluctuations based on supply and demand
- Regional variations reflecting local resources and trade routes
- Event-driven market crashes and booms
- Seasonal adjustments for agricultural goods
Multi-User Support
- Simultaneous access for GM and players
- Player trading impacts global economy
- Merchant reputation system
- Guild membership benefits
Item Database
- 500+ pre-configured D&D items
- Custom item creation tools
- Rarity-based availability
- Magical item auction system
Technical Implementation
Built as a web application using:
- Frontend: React with TypeScript for type-safe development
- Backend: Node.js with Express for API services
- Database: PostgreSQL for persistent storage
- Real-time: Socket.io for live market updates
- State Management: Redux for complex economic calculations
Market Mechanics
Economic Simulation
The system simulates realistic market forces:
- Base prices adjusted by local availability
- Bulk purchases increase future prices
- Rare items trigger bidding wars
- Economic events affect entire regions
Player Impact
Every transaction matters:
- Flooding market with loot decreases values
- Hoarding creates artificial scarcity
- Reputation affects negotiation options
- Trade routes can be disrupted or established
Use Cases
For Game Masters
- Generate unique shopping experiences
- Create economic plot hooks
- Reward clever trading
- Simulate realistic medieval economies
For Players
- Engage in meaningful commerce
- Build merchant empires
- Exploit market inefficiencies
- Form trading companies
Results
Used by 50+ D&D groups worldwide:
- Enhanced player engagement with economics
- Reduced GM preparation time
- Created emergent storytelling opportunities
- Added strategic depth to campaigns
Future Development
- Mobile companion app
- Integration with popular VTT platforms
- AI-driven merchant personalities
- Cryptocurrency-inspired fantasy currencies
This project demonstrates how software can enhance traditional tabletop gaming, creating deeper, more immersive experiences through intelligent system design.