Monte Cook on target audience of RPG Supplements

[MerricB]

From the amount of glaring game-logic errors in many supplements (like sample NPCs for prestige classes who don't even meet the entry prereqs for the class they are representing, for one example) this doesn't surprise me at all...

But that's not a problem *in game*. If a NPC stats aren't quite perfect, the game doesn't fall apart. That's just a problem in development/editing.

 

[Henry]

I can personally assure you that, due to my diligent efforts as a playtester, effemminate Duros fops will be fully supported by the campaign.

You have my pledge!

So if I see that feat that gives a +5 to attacks, damage and defenses and has a requirement of a 16 DEX and wearing clothing equalling 1,000 credits in value or more, I'll know who to thank.

 

[teitan]

Well, Here I Am. And I'm Not Leaving

I found this quote the most interesting. I've often suspected some games writers stopped playing rpgs long ago.

That quote was very interesting and very reflective of some of the failed exTSR designers D20 companies *cough* Fastforwardentertainment*cough*

 

[Thurbane]

But that's not a problem *in game*. If a NPC stats aren't quite perfect, the game doesn't fall apart. That's just a problem in development/editing.

It's also something basic that should jump out at any gamer that is doing the development/editing...my point was not not that it is a huge problem that ruins a product for me, rather how it related to the topic of "Do developers game regularly" (not that it may be the fault of the developers as such)

 

[Sigurd]

I think gamers tend to readers and doers. More properly I think there is a temptation for gaming as Simulation that actually frowns on the improbable actions of players. Whats the point in building a cohesive view of all the wizards, their magic specialties, and familiars in the Forgotten Realms if someone goes and kills one of them.


"I have populated all of the Forgotten Realms and the planes of Hell."

"Did you count on Demogorgon or Bigby? Cause I just killed one and resurrected the other...."

"Ya sure,,, I'll stick to reading."


It can be similar to Scenery Artists or Soundtrack Composers who lose sight of the rest of a performance. You can concentrate on backstory until the only things players do with their 'main plotline' is screw it up. I certainly see it in gamers as well as designers. Who doesn't read, even collect, settings they don't use?

I don't think it is the best way of making an enjoyable game but it's still a way of making a contribution to a team. Sort of like brilliant but misplaced scenery, it needs someone to adapt it.


Sigurd