Is WOTC falling into a problem like the old TSR did

[Grimstaff]

The number of "optional" rule books that have come out in the last year or so (and continue) is a little disturbing, but I long ago nipped that issue in the bud by allowing only Core3 at my gaming table. Sure the alternate stuff can be fun, but eventually it becomes quite a headache. If there is a feat or item that drastically improves game play (such as Practiced Spellcaster) I allow it on a case by case basis, but by and large I let my players know they are wasting their money on splats unless they are getting them for their own amusement or to save in lieu of a DM who has WAY more time to sort out the nightmarish web of conflicting and/or broken rules the use of these tomes inevitably brings forth.

Is it me, or has the number of Eberron books in production declined? I'm not complaining, I don't care for the setting myself (don't get me started on DDO!), while the number of adventures in production has drastically increased. IMHO, this is a great trend, as adventures are something I actually use and will purchase, as opposed to another "Player's Guide to Invincibility" or "Popsicle Pirates of Eberron Sourcebook".

 

[Jim Hague]

If I run to B&N, Borders, etc... the price of a paperback is generally no more than $7 (US). I see a new book in hardcover for $25 and *know* that if I wait long enough, a paperback will be released. I'm waiting for the paperback. With RPG books, there isn't a paperback to follow the hardcover.

So I guess products like the various Pocket Guides don't qualify? Research, man, research. Compare the price inflation of those books to equivalent costs in the past. Average price for a paperback is $6.95-8.95, depending on author and pagecount. You are, unfortunately, factually mistaken. RPG books have not kept up. And that means that the market must grow into new channels - POD and PDF leading the way right now.

 

[Ranger REG]

If I run to B&N, Borders, etc... the price of a paperback is generally no more than $7 (US). I see a new book in hardcover for $25 and *know* that if I wait long enough, a paperback will be released. I'm waiting for the paperback. With RPG books, there isn't a paperback to follow the hardcover.

Umm, there will be in the form of the Player's Kit and Dungeon Master's Kit.

Supposedly for people who want to graduate from the Basic Game but can't afford $60 hardbooks, so they'll buy the kit for $60 each for the softbooks plus other bonuses.