I only opt for PDFs (where legally available) and physical books in the first place, but even if I didn't, the idea that someone else can go in and edit the content I've purchased - or rather, leased - would be enough reason for me to do so.I'm carrying over this tangential conversation from the Demiplane/Free League thread here.
When you need a specific platform to view your content (Roll20, DDI), once that service stops being supported, if you can't download it as a PDF, then it's gone.In fairness, this was exactly the argument that I was making. That those who had already purchased the product would likely still be able to use the product but that no one else would be able to purchase it.
Also, exactly the argument I was making.
I understand there is a value to that service worth the price of the fee. For example, if I buy a subscription to Roll20 and purchase content to run for players, the value is that I didn't have to import the data into Roll20 and that I get to have those features for my online game.If I paid a fee one time - that doesn't entitle me to permanent support of the material.
But also having been on the receiving end of losing access to content stings.
Do you normally purchase PDFs and/or physical content of material you buy on services like D&D Beyond?
Are you okay with material being updated/changed or lost while you're in the process of running a campaign? Or maybe that you won't be able to go back and access it five years from now?
Whereas, for me, if those tools still existed, I'd likely be running 4e right now. As it is currently, the system is too unwieldy to run without the tools. The tools were so integrated with that particular edition that I think it affects its stance in the hobby.While I was sad that the 4e tools disappeared, it really didn't effect my life. I just moved on.
I played a few times after they disappeared, it was different for sure. But I don't agree you need them. As for having more current players, that's likely true, but I'm guessing WotC and other publishers are happier when one edition is dominant.Whereas, for me, if those tools still existed, I'd likely be running 4e right now. As it is currently, the system is too unwieldy to run without the tools. The tools were so integrated with that particular edition that I think it affects its stance in the hobby.
You'd probably have triple the number of players (or more) if those tools were still available.
I haven't played a live, in-person game of any RPG in nearly 2 years. I have hopes that there will be one this Saturday. (My wife is inviting some friends who want to learn how to play.) I wonder if I can even do it in person anymore, what my performance anxiety will be like, etc.I've used DNDBEYOND so much now, I'm not sure I can play 5e w/o it....
That system runs perfectly fine without the digital tools. We never once used them and sapped all the enjoyment out of 4e that we could.As it is currently, the system is too unwieldy to run without the tools. The tools were so integrated with that particular edition that I think it affects its stance in the hobby.
Riding a bike - you will be great!I haven't played a live, in-person game of any RPG in nearly 2 years. I have hopes that there will be one this Saturday. (My wife is inviting some friends who want to learn how to play.) I wonder if I can even do it in person anymore, what my performance anxiety will be like, etc.
I used to play 4E and I never used the tools. It was fine.Whereas, for me, if those tools still existed, I'd likely be running 4e right now. As it is currently, the system is too unwieldy to run without the tools. The tools were so integrated with that particular edition that I think it affects its stance in the hobby.
You'd probably have triple the number of players (or more) if those tools were still available.
Not sure of the context here. If you want a focused discussion it would probably be helpful to restate the main point or link to the post.I'm carrying over this tangential conversation from the Demiplane/Free League thread here.