Re: The state of play ?

From: Quicksilver <michael.kelly@lmco.com>

Date: Fri, 27 Jun 1997 00:00:00 +0000

Russell Wiltshire wrote:
>
> I have done quite a bit of work on a wargame type PBeM, but before I get
> into it too far I would like some feedback on the market:
> How many PBeMers are out there ?
> What sort of games do best ?
> What are the best bits about successful PBeM games ?
> How much do you existing players think is an acceptable turn cost ?
>
> Thanks in advance, Russ.

In order to make a successful game

1) Make sure your product is in good shape when you get play testers.
      If you do a good job, they will be an excellent source of
      advertisement.
2) Offer free games the first couple of games. Clean up your bugs.
3) Find a niche. Galactic Conquest games are is such abundance you will
      be hard pressed to find players unless it is somehow different.
      Same thing with WWII type games, fantasy empire-building, and
      arena combat. May I recommend a supers PBeM along the lines of
      Adventurer Kings (never played it but it seems a RPG as well as
      character building).
4) Be ready to take a loss in the short run.
5) Have plenty of time to spend on it. If you are not willing to commit
the
      time, don't even bother. A decent game will take a LONG time and a
      LOT of effort to get to the point where it is worth playtesting.
6) Don't expect to make much money, even in the long run.

Just a few ideas from a player who regrets he could never find the time
to do it himself. Good luck.

References

The state of play ?
"Russell Wiltshire" <russell.wiltshire@virgin.net>
Thu, 26 Jun 1997 00:00:00 +0000

Referenced By

The state of play ?
"Russell Wiltshire" <russell.wiltshire@virgin.net>
Thu, 26 Jun 1997 00:00:00 +0000