Playtest Updates

[Morrus]

Yesterday, WotC's servers seemed unable to handle the large number of attempts to access the playtest materials. It seems that today a lot more people are having success, so it's worth trying again. There's plenty of discussion on the forum about the playtest package.


On a related note, there are a couple of interesting things to read:

• Kobold Quarterly's interview with Mike Mearls
• WotC's Playtest FAQ

 

[CoarseDragon]

They seem to have fixed the servers. I had no problem downloading the packet this morning.

 

[jeffh]

It took me three tries yesterday but I got it. I imagine things will have calmed down considerably by now, but at least by early evening (in North America), it was already tolerable.

Today it's ENWorld that seems to be getting slammed! Not surprising under the circumstances. Nothing here has failed for me yet today, but it's noticeably slower than usual. Compared to some of the issues that have come up in the past at such times, this is actually quite good - looks like the last few server upgrades were worth it!

 

[Quickleaf]

Can I run an online game via email, Skype, Google Hangout or a play-by-post forum?

No, you may not run an online game on third parties sites at this time.


Can I run a playtest on the Virtual Table for anybody who wants to check it out?

No, you will not be able to run a playtest using the Virtual Table.

Forgive my ignorance, but is there anything in the OPTA to make this legally binding? Or are they simply asking nicely? I'm seeing quite a few playtest games being offered online, so inquiring minds want to know.

 

[Starbuck_II]

And even better, they say third party, so where on their site (1st party) are we suppose to run playtests?

 

[hafrogman]

Forgive my ignorance, but is there anything in the OPTA to make this legally binding? Or are they simply asking nicely? I'm seeing quite a few playtest games being offered online, so inquiring minds want to know.

It falls under item 4, ownership.

You agree to execute any further documents and take any further actions requested by Wizards to assist it in validating, effectuating, maintaining, protecting, enforcing, perfecting, recording, patenting or registering any of its right, title and interest in or to the above.

Basically it boils down to not only does the OPTA ask you to acknowledge WotC's rights to the playtest material, but also to help them protect their rights. They've decided that running playtests in certain environments lacks the controls necessary to protect their rights. Agree or disagree with that assessment, it's within the OPTA for them to ask you to act accordingly.