RE: Background?

Even AD&D have problems when it comes to converting modules to novels or
vice-versa.
I found this out 2 weeks ago when talking to an ex-TSR editor/writer. 
If
you convert a module to a book, text about the module might only take up
3-4000 words.  Not enough for a good book, especially when management
can be
protective of their background or in allowing any changes to the
established
world.
One example of this is 'Pool of Radiance', as a computer game it was
great,
but as a novel, it stunk.  A lot.  There was an occasional reference to
various scripted events from the game, but usually only in passing.  If
you
used the novel as a playguide to the game, you would never get past the
first dungeon.

Back on topic, if you have a look at the various short stories written
by
list members, you'll find that they are very good reads, mainly due to
the
fact that the universe isn't rigid like some other companies, which
allows
free reign with plotlines (within reason).
Los' novellette, "The Rot Hafen Saga" is a good example.  An excellent
story
within the framework of the GZG universe, but he doesn't introduce
outrageous technology, stays within realistic force parameters & is
creating
new background which expands on the Kra'vak without breaking the game
systems or background (which some writers try to do almost religiously).

(By the way Los, when is the final chapter going to be available?)

'Neath Southern Skies - http://users.mcmedia.com.au/~denian/

> -----Original Message-----
> From: UsClintons@aol.com [SMTP:UsClintons@aol.com]
> Sent: Wednesday, September 15, 1999 11:58 AM
> 
> In a message dated 9/14/99 5:10:17 PM Central Daylight Time, 
> bbrush@rev.state.ne.us writes:
> >  Also, in general, great books do not necessarily make great games.
	>Many would, and I assume they would be 'adapted' for use not
taken 
	>100% verbatim.

> Again, I respect what you say, but there is one HUGE glaring exception
to
> all 
> of what you said.  The GRANDDADDY of all Fantasy games.  The one
without 
> whose success 99% of our Fantasy (as well as Sci-fi) games would not
even 
> have been created.  I speak of course about "Dungeons and Dragons".  
> 
> SC