Does anyone think there is a chance that basic would ever be released in a book (paperback most obviously) or even better, some readers digest sized books ala 4e essential line? Id buy one if it was really cheap (15-20 bucks).
Mike Mearls said that they have no plans at the moment, but if the demand is there, they might consider it in the future. In any case, first we'll have to wait for the finalized 1.0 version, IIRC at the end of year.
He also said (to paraphrase) what they absolutely had to avoid was someone not knowing of the free PDF, buying the printed guide, then finding out about the free PDF and feeling like they'd been had.
Thats a very important circumstance to avoid with players!
I printed a digest version at home and had Staples spiral bind it. The print is a little small, but still legible, especially if you're just using it for reference. It fits very nicely in the Starter Set box, too. When the final version is released later this year, I'll do the same, though I might have Staples print it for me since I only have an inkjet, and I would prefer something that held up to dampness a little better (we do have drinks at the gaming table, after all). I also printed out the playtest monsters and made a Binder Full of Monsters (my not-so-subtle Mitt Romney joke).
I'm not sure what Staples charges, but at FedEx Office/Kinkos, you'd be looking at about $5, including a clear plastic front cover and a vinyl back cover.
I'm not sure what Staples charges, but at FedEx Office/Kinkos, you'd be looking at about $5, including a clear plastic front cover and a vinyl back cover.