The missing link is a web based version of King of Dragon Pass.
When writing the Java code for the game logic, write it in a way that can also be used server-side on a web server. Start with the current graphics and sound. The user interface would be slightly different for web access. The graphics and sound can be streamed to players' web browsers easily enough with modern day connections, even dial-up is doable with reduced quality sound. Also include a bit of advertising and/or subscriptions to support the cost of running the server and a bit of profit, as well as royalties to the artists depending on how the original artwork was licensed. Also accept cash donations in general or specifically cash or artwork for fixing up a particular painting or piece of music.
As time goes on, the Java code and plot data gets improved by people finding bugs. The artwork gets improved by hiring artists and volunteer contributions to make new high definition pictures and better sound. The plotlines can even be enlarged by doing some writing and adding more events.
Going along the open source route, people could contribute artwork and plotlines, as well as debug the code. Though this means loss of control over the project as everyone would have a copy.
Going along the commercial route, besides advertising, people could request custom versions of the game with their likeness used in the game as a clan ring member's portrait. Same with their story ideas, for example a cameo plotline involving their family dog driving off chaos.
Once the game is stable and there's enough demand, a Blu-ray version can be made using the web site as a base.
Finally, a few loose ends. Some other things to consider are: Internationalisation - change the text for different languages. Narration - have actors read the menu text aloud, much more dramatic! Sound quality - besides low/high quality, also mix for 5.1 surround sound. Graphic quality - generate screens dynamically in different sizes so you can play it on your mobile phone or on a PS3 web browser using a high definition TV. This also affects the user interface code design a bit.
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