Re: CCG Glorantha?

From: BEThexton <bethexton_at_...>
Date: Mon, 17 Mar 2003 21:16:56 -0000

> > --- Peter Nordstrand <petermnordstrand_at_s...>
> > wrote:
> >
> > I don't know. What could go wrong?
> >
> > I don't play these things myself, but I hear that
> > they're popular and addictive. And a way for games
> > companies to make money. Could be worth a
> > non-sarcastic thought?
>
> The problem is that CCGs are a very much hit-or-miss proposition
> (very much miss, actually). For every Legend of the Five Rings or
> Mystic, there is a Xena, a Mythos, a Heretic, and a slew of others.
>
> And the startup costs are fierce, even if you do skimp on artwork.

I agree with Jeff here, really these games have to become popular enough for the collectible part to become relevant (i.e. good rare cards are in enough demand, so become worth enough, that it is worth openning many packs of cards just in hopes of getting one, or conversely, buying many packs, openning them, then trading/selling the good cards is a viable business decision).

However, I do think that it would be cool for there to be another Gloranthan game. Currently in print there a paper 'n dice role playing game (HW/HQ), and strategy computer game (King of Dragon Pass). In the misty past there are legendary board games, but I don't think they've been in print for a long time?

Certainly it would seem that, given the richness of Glorantha, there was room for more ways to enjoy it. Issaries needs to focus its resources on its main line, and the fan run companies have more limited resources. However you'd think that maybe a "convention game" produced cheaply would work. Thinks along the line Credo, or the old Steve Jackson "pocket" games. Thing is, for something like that to do well, it needs to be so appealing that it spreads largely through word of mouth, which means you need an inspired game designer, plus license to set it in Glorantha....so I don't consider it likely, but it would be cool.

--Bryan