Why I don't like 4th edition

[The Little Raven]

Many of the systems within 4th edition actually dumb down certain tactics.

Got an actual demonstration of this?

 

[NewfieDave]

Fights can get dragged out for long periods of time, especially with a big group, but the action within the fight is more fast paced. The last session I DM'd only had time for two combats, but they were both very exciting and enjoyable for the group. The reason it was exciting and enjoyable was because the fights were at an adequate challenge level to keep the players on the edge of their seats without resulting in a TPK. Both fights involved PCs dropping, PCs getting saved by allies, PCs making difficult choices, and PCs saving the day with smart tactics. That's exactly what I'm looking for from D&D's combat system.

 

[fuzzlewump]

I think the theory is that fun = combat, or so they would have you beleive. I have not played 4e yet but studied it and heard from friends who have about the long combats.

What's the problem with having shorter combats that in the context of the game last more time? For instance, is spending an hour on five rounds better than spending an hour on ten?

I've found in my game so far that the combats are either the same or shorter in real time, but require more in-game rounds. I prefer this, but would like to hear the opposition. Thanks.

 

[Plane Sailing]

No edition wars threads please, as per sticky.

Some interesting points have been raised that someone might want to pick up in a separate thread, but this one is going downhill.