Most computer games are designed as a stand-alone product. You don't need Diablo II to play Diablo for example or The Deeper Levels to play Dungeon Keeper. Maybe my CRPG experience is different, I've not got too many patches for those games but when it comes to applications and OS... *shudder* In addition, most patches are supplied gratis on the website. Sure the designers may put out 'hidden levels' as a separate product but for the main, everything you need to play the game is in the box.
You cannot hope to say the same about RPGs - ever try to play a White Wolf game with just the core rules? You can do it - with lots of work and instinctive calls on contradictions in the main book if there isn't errata on the web site. Check out Wraith: 2nd ed - it had the rules for regaining Pathos missing from it. Did this add to it's quality? (Apologies to Rich Dansky)
RPGs have infinite diversity. A big strength. I'll wager that the majority of games use material published for the game and not entirely whole cloth. I'm not asking for 5000 playtesters. I'm asking for 50. Or 15. If you think gamers won't playtest a new system - I suggest you get in touch with your local club.
OK, football is an extreme analogy but the intent was to contrast, not to compare. You think GenCon doesn't involve a lot of money? Maybe it isn't all retained by the organisers but a lot of money changes hands. Amateur clubs (football and RPGs) have some outlay associated with their identity and facilities.
I'm not looking for 100% error free. It'd be nice but no such beast exists, even checkers has flaws... I'd settle for a game you can play without having to improvise house rules on the fly. I don't remember seeing one in the last 12 years...
Wow, comments!
Firecat: That phenomenon prompted this article.
Jubilex: I dunno...
Most computer games are designed as a stand-alone product. You don't need Diablo II to play Diablo for example or The Deeper Levels to play Dungeon Keeper. Maybe my CRPG experience is different, I've not got too many patches for those games but when it comes to applications and OS... *shudder* In addition, most patches are supplied gratis on the website. Sure the designers may put out 'hidden levels' as a separate product but for the main, everything you need to play the game is in the box.
You cannot hope to say the same about RPGs - ever try to play a White Wolf game with just the core rules? You can do it - with lots of work and instinctive calls on contradictions in the main book if there isn't errata on the web site. Check out Wraith: 2nd ed - it had the rules for regaining Pathos missing from it. Did this add to it's quality? (Apologies to Rich Dansky)
RPGs have infinite diversity. A big strength. I'll wager that the majority of games use material published for the game and not entirely whole cloth. I'm not asking for 5000 playtesters. I'm asking for 50. Or 15. If you think gamers won't playtest a new system - I suggest you get in touch with your local club.
OK, football is an extreme analogy but the intent was to contrast, not to compare. You think GenCon doesn't involve a lot of money? Maybe it isn't all retained by the organisers but a lot of money changes hands. Amateur clubs (football and RPGs) have some outlay associated with their identity and facilities.
I'm not looking for 100% error free. It'd be nice but no such beast exists, even checkers has flaws... I'd settle for a game you can play without having to improvise house rules on the fly. I don't remember seeing one in the last 12 years...