About Leão’s Architect

Welcome, traveler. I’m Ronnie — the creator of Shadows of Leão and the mind behind its world of intrigue, magic, and deception.

My journey into game design began over twenty years ago with a love for social deduction games like Mafia and Werewolf. What started as late-night games with friends became a lifelong passion to craft experiences where every player feels seen, engaged, and essential. Shadows of Leão was born from that dream — a game where no one is just a bystander, and every choice shapes the fate of the world.

But Leão’s roots are deeply personal. The name itself was inspired by my daughter, Cairo, whose early attempts to say “lion” came out as “la-la lion” — a sweet, melodic phrase that has stayed with me ever since. Cairo has become my muse (and sometimes, muses): her adventurous and magical spirit ripples through every corner of this world. She is Leão’s heroine, her essence lovingly imbued into the two in-game founders. She reminds me why we play — to laugh, to wonder, to imagine, and to connect.

A heartfelt thank you to the friends and family who have contributed over the years — playtesting, debating, and helping shape countless roles and ideas. And to my husband: your unwavering support has been the steady ground beneath this journey.

In Shadows of Leão, you’ll enter a realm where magic fuses with technology, and every player carries the power to tip the scales. Whether you seek to banish the darkness or let it thrive, know this: you belong in this story.

Thank you for stepping into the shadows with us. Let’s make it unforgettable.