I like the FA scenario for the fact that it is unknown. None of the
chess-style opening gambits where everyone knows everything about every
other nation. I think the gradual exploration of the map is a challenge.
Certainly you need to get the list of starting capitals from one of the
kingdoms.
The main bust that I have with FA is the overwhelming agent power. The
limited agent scenario (LAS) is the only way to fly!
Matt
For me there is a credibility gap here. I cannot suspend my disbelief
enough to come to terms with the potty lack of geographical information
available to governments in 4th age. Merchants can transport tonnes of
gold unhindered from one corner of the map to another in as little as 2
weeks. Characters can fly 12 hexes irrespective of terrain. But
there's an MT 6 hexes away, and you don't know who owns it, or whether
it's fried or foe?
When 2950 came out with its reduced economy, a lot of people slagged it
by claiming that it was just 1650 with an extra 10 turns for the gaming
companies to take our cash (i.e. it took you 10 extra turns to build an
economy and get going). I have never found this to be the case, BUT it
is something which I feel could be levelled at 4th age. A lot of time
is wasted, just finding out where the other nations are.
Conscious that I'm in a minority here, and that Clint and most of North
America seem to think its the best thing since sliced bread. Anyone
else dislike 4th Age? Perhaps I'll try it again one day. The games I
played were both team games (i.e.) sign up as a team. Perhaps I should
try it as an individual.
Regards,
Laurence G. Tilley http://www.lgtilley.freeserve.co.uk/
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