Notice that almost all the demihumans live much longer lives than humans. Imagine the effects of lifting the level limits. What levels would a 1500 year old elf have? How many human armies could withstand the attack of a platoon of 100th level dwarven fighters?
Without something to explain why it is otherwise, the lifespans alone of demihumans would reduce humans to a borderline existance in a world of magic and battle.
That's what I've always assumed was behind the level limits. Personally, I'd also cap the demi-human thief ability too, although it would be a very high cap.
Now to ask my first question!
I've just finished reading through the whole of these threads and I think I can just about remember my own name but at least I know what has been asked before.
Obviously, I want to congratulate Gary on writing such a successful game and creating a whole genre of entertainment; an achievement attained by very few per century. And thank him for years of enjoyment
I also don't want to ask about all the usual AD&D topics so...
Gary: how do you run initiative in shogi?
Perhaps not...
Seriously, though, I'd like to know how often do you get to play shogi? I played a human opponent until about 12 years ago and then moved on (due to my opponent moving) to playing the computer. Once I upgraded past 266MHz, though, the computer became too good for me and I've not played for a long time. There is little to be learned from losing EVERY time!
"Normal" Chess players seem very unwilling to try it - much as I find that lawn bowlers fear ten-pin in case it throws their eye out for their competition games - do you find this?
What about other Chess variants? Do you get any play in at all? Have you tried the Discworld's Thud (available in nice sets now)?