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Meet The Team
Shane Sargent
Founder, Author, and Chief Creative Officer
Shane Sargent is the original founder of Shadowmancer Studios, the author of Shroudwake, and the creative force guiding its vision. Born and raised in New Hampshire, Shane now resides in Indiana with his family, where his lifelong passion for storytelling and worldbuilding continues to shape every corner of the Shroudwake universe.
A veteran of the tabletop gaming community, Shane has spent decades immersed in play and design, exploring dozens of TTRPG systems and lending his experience as a freelance consultant to indie game developers for more than fifteen years.
His recent works include the forthcoming Shroudwake TTRPG and a series of companion novels set within its mystical, mutation-forged world; a setting that blends evolution, myth, and player choice into something wholly new.
Shawn Nicholas
Co-Founder, and Chief Operating Officer
Shawn Nicholas is a co-founder of Shadowmancer Studios, bringing over 25yrs of sales and go-to-market experience. Shadowmancer Studios represents an aspired life dream come reality, that Shane & Shawn have been in discussions for many years. His goal is to create games people will enjoy for generations.
Born and raised in New Hampshire, where he met his childhood and lifelong best friend, Shane Sargent. In their youth together they discovered the joy of adventure and excitement found playing TTRPG's and boardgames.
Shawn is a passionate, lifelong Game Master. Particularly fond of world building and fantasy settings deep in lore, he created his own homebrew world setting back as a kid that he continues to run campaigns over 30yrs later. When not sitting in the GM's chair, he enjoys the entertainment of roleplaying alongside his fellow party members, creating memorable experiences.
Since growing up, Shawn has spent much of his adult years on the West Coast. He and his wife Christina, who also loves games, call Gilbert, Arizona home, where they have lived for the past 10yrs. Together they enjoy frequenting their local Craft Beer & Wine bars, attending concerts, stand-up comedy, and exploring new places on their travels.
Mathys Taljaard
Chief Technology Officer
Mathys Taljaard leads the digital vision and technical operations at Shadowmancer Studios, bringing over 12 years of IT experience to the team. With a passion for technology, Mathys ensures the studio’s digital platforms, tools, and systems evolve to support Shadowmancer’s expanding universe of games and experiences.
Based in Indiana with his family, Mathys balances innovation with adventure — whether it’s playing board games with close friends, racing motorcycles at the track, exploring emerging technologies, or relaxing with a great series.
His hands-on approach and curiosity help shape the technical foundation driving Shadowmancer Studios’ growth and creativity.
