D&D 4th Edition

[Henry]

I have a strong feeling that what will make WotC decide a new edition is in order is not a bunch of threads predicting doom or change, but rather slumping sales on their D&D line, and a sagging user base. Those are the times you need an infusion of new blood, and the energy that a new edition gives. However, they already know full well that too often a release alienates diehard fans, which you need a certain percentage of to do your grassroots proselytizing for you.

 

[Zaruthustran]

I think a lot of the stuff we've been seeing (especially things like different types of actions, significantly different styles of class abilities, the monster redesign articles) are alpha or beta tests for 4E. It wouldn't surprise me to think that the plethora of prestige classes might not be one gauge of 'what do we include in 4E' as well.

I totally agree. The intro to Complete Mage hints that Wizards (the spellbook-using base class) will be rare in future editions of D&D. Next edition's arcane classes will be a lot more like the Warlock, or a 3.5 ed arcanist with Reserve feats. The whole "forced rest" mechanic issue is outdated and not fun.

The Tome of Battle had similar experiments for fighter types, but I think it failed--too complex for a tabletop game.

Next ed will see regenerating hit points and possibly even spell points, or other mechanisms to overcome "X-per-day" abilities and instead give characters ways to be effective for extended periods of time. Me, I can't wait. Bring on 4th ed*.

-z

* I just hope they do a better job with playtesting and editing.