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Message: <blockquote data-quote="JohnSnow" data-source="post: 5109081" data-attributes="member: 32164">I grant there was a small inference on my part. However, when you combine the statement that the first cover will contain a retro cover whereas later print runs will use a more modern cover that is more in keeping with the Essentials Line, with TWO separate images released by WotC, and it begins to look strongly like the cover shown in the solicitation WILL be used.The retro-influenced cover just wouldn't have the same Limited Edition caché for a first printing. However, the fact that it's very similar will sell the notion that the Starter Kit really is a "new red box." Using the "old red box" cover FIRST just seals the deal for WotC. The two are similar enough that only the truly observant (or those with history in the game) will probably even notice when the cover changes.Using the Elmore-art retro cover for the first printing also practically ensures decent sales numbers simply from its value as a collector's item. And that's far from the worst way to ensure the new Essentials line launches with a bang. Hell, they might take copies to Gen-Con. I know I would.However, I think the bigger story is the fact that the Starter set goes to 3rd level. Sure, 4th or 5th woulda been nice, but 3rd is at least what the Mentzer Red Box went to. That's, IMO, a very good thing.Just as an aside: 4th-level is a very easy jump from 3rd in 4e. You get 1 feat, +1 to 2 stats, and +1 to skill/ability checks/attacks and defenses. That's a pretty easy advancement for a DM to allow, or even for WotC to slip in (1 line in one table). 5th-level, with its second Daily Power, is simply infeasible (it would take too much real estate).The larger issue for adding 4th-level is probably the page space necessary to add another level's worth of items, monsters, and probably a few more feats in order to support 4th-level play. That stuff adds up pretty quick. And frankly, I'm already wondering how they'll fit all the 3rd-level content in 96 pages.My guess is that, for starters, it will probably be smaller print than the PHB.</blockquote>

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