Timing for T5

[Swordy]

One of the big questions I get about T5 is "when will we see it?" I have mulled the question and tried to decide when I would like to see the next version published. One side of me says ASAP. I'd love to have an updated and playable version to be using right now (GURPS does nothings for me). But I look at the landscape and wonder why we need another version now. My conclusion is that we don't.

GT continues to be successful and there is good material in every product they put out. The fact that it relies on the GURPS rules tempers my enthusiasm for it, but I have several other rules versions I can work with. Additionally, the reprints of CT are selling very well and have encouraged both old and new players to take another look at a (still) very playable version. I like the analogy to D&D versus AD&D. CT remains as the most flexible version, while others are arpuably more playable "out of the box", so to speak. Considering these two facts, I don't think that now is a good time for T5.

The question remains; when? I think that when the CT reprints are nearing the end of their run that the time will be ripe. Counting on my stubby little fingers, that might be two years from now. Scary thought, perhaps, but is it realistic? Rather than launch futher into the abyss here, I'll post more later.

------------------
What's missing?
http://www.jtas.org/

 

[ImperialOne]

Actually, I really love GURPS Traveller. I think any new system, such as T5 needs to compare to it in terms of its seamless mechanics adaptable to any setting. The detail in its system mechanics are a bit daunting for the average roleplayer... but most current Travller gamers aren't average. Just look at the gearhead mailing lists

Though T5 should be a bit simplified in comparison, GURPS has stood a test of time and its Vehicles (3rd) edition has proven adaptable for both starship and weapons design on a practical basis. Comparison with FF&S is laughable. On the other hand, high Guard and its modular system had a lot of merits.
There are always compromises.

Charles

 

[Gordon]

<BLOCKQUOTE>quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Swordy:

The question remains; when? I think that when the CT reprints are nearing the end of their run that the time will be ripe. Counting on my stubby little fingers, that might be two years from now. Scary thought, perhaps, but is it realistic?
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

That seems okay - it would be good if the next version of Traveller came live at the same time as some of the non-core supplements that are invaluable to newcomers - a described sector such as LBB supplement 3 or 10, for example. Such a time scale would probably help in making more things like this available.

Having said that, I think that the best timing for T5 should be driven by the market. We all want Marc to succeed with the new edition, particularly since it is clearly going to be more of a work of heart than the previous few. So the timing ought to be for when the market can best assist the publication, distribution and promotion. The D&D movie and the new WotC stores may help re-grow our hobby, although they will probably have no direct benefit for Traveller. However, just as the original D&D exposed millions to RPGs, many of whom were keen to try other games, so the new version will do so too.

 

[Swordy]

Well, the two years have passed and the Reprints are nowhere near the end of their run. On top of that, Marc is working on reprinting 2300AD and T2k. He may even reprint some of the licensed products as well. Still, T5 is in development so when is the best time for it to be released? Does the release of T20 suggest that T5 is still years away?

Next month a new web site is going to launch that will turn up the heat on the T5 chatter. Look for the announcement right here, among other places. We'll break down the discussion, open up the so-called "playtest" files for in-depth scrutiny, study all of the rumors, and dream about what we want in a Real Traveller game.