Reply to thread

Message: <blockquote data-quote="Thunderfoot" data-source="post: 3785309" data-attributes="member: 34175">RPGA member and player for years....Why it IS a good idea:The newest edition is being streamlined for more of a rules light feel.  Less mechanics and more flavor, definitely a Con sort of feel.  RPGA members must adhere to a standard rules set, no house rules at official games, no cheating (in either direction), good sportsmanship and a general organized sense about the games.  Often it is stated that roleplaying is thrown to the curb at RPGA games, not true, roleplaying is a scoreable stat on the card.  It is a little lighter than a typical game, yes, but it is there.  However, I think the big thing being missed here is that all of these folks are roleplayers.  We have our own games outside of the framework of the organization.  I have been playing for nearly 30 years now, I have been a member of the RPGA on and off for about 20 years.  I didn't stop playing when I wasn't a member and I have played outside of sanctioned events on a number of occasions, even with *gasp* ENworlders.  We want a system that works just like anyone else, we aren't yes men to to WotC (trust me on this one) and if there is something missing, people will respond in kind.  Also, when it comes time to turn in the data, it will be done on-time and in the proper format.Why it IS NOT a good idea:The testing will take the form of a Con style game, while this is a great way to test battle mechanics, it is a lousy way to test roleplay mechanics.  While roleplay is stressed as essential in a timed game, it is often the first casualty as the clock gets closer to 'midnight' as it were.  Quirks in the system can get overlooked if it strays too far from the beaten path.   Grapple, Attacks, Magic, I feel safe in saying will get a thorough going over, Bluffing, Negotiating, Lying, Cheating and the like will not be addressed nearly so thoroughly.  When it comes time to turn in data, if it isn't covered in the questionnaire, it has a good possibility of being missed.Summary: Like all organizations, it isn't perfect.  I find it amazing that a few experiences have damned the entire organization to an otherwise undeserved reputation.  But then again, the most obvious contact is at conventions, where lack of sleep, time and often information is a pretty good bet.  Its kind of amazing that some of the fellow RPGAers I know as friendly and sweet are mean and cruel after working for three days at a Con with no little food, no sleep and little respect thrown their way.   Hmmm, go figure.  At the same time, trolling the D&DI for other playtesters is a smart idea.  It approaches the same problem from the opposite side, the cerebral instead of the mechanical. I have said from the start that the time involved is probably way too short, but the manner in which WotC is approaching the playtesting seems spot on.</blockquote>

Verification