Recently, Paizo announced a second edition of their signature RPG, Pathfinder; a spiritual new edition of Dungeons & Dragons 3rd edition. Role-Playing franchises see their share of changes and any new edition brings the same thoughts, regardless of the game or genre.
Cool it Now
“Ooh, watch out. You’re gonna lose control.” -New Edition. … I had to get the R&B group reference out of the way. That said, the announcement of a change or retooling of an established system can be a source of argument and/or anxiety. Change can be scary, but it’s best to take a step back, a deep breath, and to examine the change before fearing it.
Rule Changes
Whether it’s RPGs, video games, phones, or just about anything else that changes on semi-frequent basis, it’s often thought that new editions are being made so creators can re-release strictly for making money. While profit is certainly a feature for publishers releasing new RPG editions, they also bring changes to refine or redefine the rules; clean up errata; and reduce added weight and complexity introduced from the tens to hundreds of supplements. It allows RPG creators to examine the latest trends and growth in RPGs to entice new players (and hopefully not lose their current audience). New editions are about rule changes and streamlining a library and publishers take a calculated risk with any new edition.
The Current Library
When a new edition is announced I often look at my library for the existing (or prior) version of the game and wonder what to do with it. In the past, I’ve sold or donated my current stock of books to make room for the new. Every time I’d done so, I regretted it. A new edition does not mean there won’t be chances to play the prior and older books can serve as inspiration and often older items can be converted. After a few years, it may be easier to let a portion of the prior edition’s library go if space is needed and the books are no longer in use, but I would advise holding on to one’s current library as long as possible.
The Campaign
For players around a table, the group has a decision to make when a new edition is announced. Do they wrap up the current campaign in favor of using the new system when released or continue on? When faced with a new edition I’ve witnessed a number of options for the group.
Carry On
From my experience most groups continue using the existing system and version for as long as their campaign lasts. I’m aware of players who have been using the same edition of D&D in their campaigns for years. The table knows the rules, has built a history (and library) and “house rules” in which new editions could introduce instability to the play. This solution works especially well for groups running campaigns not based on published modules/adventures.
A New Campaign
Many groups see new editions as a way to shake the dust off their current campaigns, in which character balance may have become lopsided or characters too powerful. A new edition to an RPG is a chance to dispense house rules and min-maxed characters. Like new editions attracting new readers, a new campaign in an updated may make it easier to attract new players into the group.
An Entirely New Start
For most of the groups I’ve been part of, the announcement of a new edition was a chance to wrap up the existing campaign and not just look at the new edition but all available systems and genres—why not shake things up all the way? There are a lot of options out there for games, and changing the system could introduce new table dynamics. I’ve witnessed players “come out of their shells” when given the opportunity to roleplay with the same group but a different genre/system and remain more active even if the group returned to the prior game.
Organized/League Play
More than the home tables, new editions have the biggest impact on organized play. Pathfinder Society, D&D Adventurers League, Shadowrun Missions, etc. change swiftly to the newest edition and don’t bring the old rules with them. GMs and players are expected to purchase the new books and if not learn them, at least have a decent understanding of the new rules. For some, organized play is the only chance they may have to play tabletop. I can understand a certain apprehension about new systems (especially if funds don’t allow for immediate purchase of a $40-$60 core book). Fortunately, many organized play structures have either loaner book copies or free “intro” pamphlets that can allow players to join in without an immediate drain on their wallet.
Change Is OK
Even if an RPG’s new edition changes things dramatically, new editions are a good thing. Like a move, changes give us a milestone to stop and reflect on what happened before and where we want to go next. The hobby of tabletop role-play is stronger than ever and new systems and editions allow the hobby to grow. When a new edition is announced by Mr. Telephone Man, we should all cool it now.
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