alzado_77 wrote:stockwellpete wrote:Tbh I think you're bending over too far backwards to be understanding Pete. This version has been a long time in development and it should be in 99% perfect working order - just like any other device or service you would buy. Why should we have to work through all the bugs with the devs over an indefinite future period? The fact that there already two new expansions, for which you have to pay, attached to an imperfect new engine only exacerbates the problem.FroBodine wrote:For me, the game has lost all it's charm. I'll be uninstalling it and playing the older versions. Thank you for the update, but no thanks.
For what it’s worth, I’d like to say a few words about this kind of ‘product’.
I agree that when I buy most products and services I expect them to work. I expect them to meet my expectations and for them to fulfil their purpose, whether that’s a can of beans, a new computer, a ballpoint pen or a floppy hat. If the product doesn’t meet my expectations I want it to be replaced with one that does or I want my money back. Entirely reasonable, I think.
However, I feel that this kind of product is different. Buying a game of this kind is not like buying any other product. Not just because it’s software, with all the unique challenges that brings (if my Word processor didn’t function as I wanted I’d ditch it and get another), but because it’s about community and it’s about cooperation and it’s about investing in the future.
It’s not possible to release a piece of software of this complexity without bugs, and it’s not possible to release a game of this kind with all the features that we all want. It needs for the game to be released to large numbers of people in order to get it right. Large numbers of people to help iron out the bugs, and for the feedback that comes with large numbers of people playing the game and telling the developers what works and what doesn’t, what we like and what we don’t like, what we feel is missing and what we feel we could do without.
Once the game is released it is no longer Slitherine’s game or Newrosoft’s game it is our game. We play a vital role in turning an imperfect early version into a game that is going to last for years and hopefully, one day, exceed our expectations.
This is a journey that might be painful at the beginning, and one that requires patience and cooperation and collaboration, but if we are willing to work together in this way we can make this game something to be proud of and to enjoy for many years to come. It’s all about what we’re willing to invest, not just in the price tag, but with our efforts, to keep the FoG community prospering and growing.
I think our community is worth that investment and I hope you do too.
Best Wishes
Mike