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[OT] a clarification of my comments to David (of DLD fame)

From: "Tomb" <tomb@d...>
Date: Wed, 10 Apr 2002 17:22:09 -0400
Subject: [OT] a clarification of my comments to David (of DLD fame)

Listfolk, pardon my brief digression but I think this is important!

It has come to my attention that I may have (in a prior post, some days
back) given some people a negative impression of DLD Productions
products, and specifically their partially-armoured tracked ARV, the
Badger. 

It may not have been apparent from the nature of my posting, but the
only issue I have with the Badger could be described as "the design
seems to be one that would have problems in real life". 

Note the key words in this statement "seems to me" - this was only my
opinion and worth exactly the amount paid for it. I claim no authority
beyond having my own experience to guide me. Also note the "in real
life" part of the comment - this refers to my own limited world view,
rather than anything that matters in any game (especially a sci-fi one).

I believed I was asked for an opinion that included my opinion of the
design, and I advanced it as I advance most criticisms of games from my
own experiences in the world the games seek to model *in my opinion*.
All opinion. There is no definitive right or wrong answer. In a sci-fi
game, perhaps this vehicle has a force field or moves 200 kph. Who
knows? My criticisms fall within my own limited world view and should
not have been taken in any other regard. 

David has provided links to examples of similar vehicles, so a very fine
counter-argument (some actual vehicles that adhere to this design ethic)
has been advanced. 

MOST IMPORTANTLY:

My issue was never with (nor do I wish posterity to appear thus) David's
service (exemplary), his responsiveness to customer suggestions (high),
the quality of the resin castings (best of breed), nor the finish work
on the pieces (fantastic), nor the instructions for construction (good).
Nor my very personal critique of the Badger extend to the other vehicles
in DLDs line (of which I own a fair few). 

DLD makes great products, generously contributes to our community and
convention (ECC), and is easy to deal with. I wouldn't want anyone to
have a negative impression of the company or their product lines. As for
the Badger, look at it and judge for yourself. My critique is strictly
based on a (contestible) view of how things "should be". My apologies if
it seemed like any attempt to appear more authoritative.

David, my apologies if my comments wrankled - no harm was intended. I
stand by my _personal_ bone-to-pick with the design aesthetic of the
Badger, but, in fairness, as someone pointed out to me off-list, "It
looks kool". Everyone has their own opinion on aesthethics and function
and should judge for themselves.

I will be buying more from DLD (and Geohex, Eureka, Brigade, BR Snassis
and GZG UK). I find David easy to deal with and he makes lots of very
well made, very detailed kits. My own personal blind-spot will prevent
me from appreciating the Badger, but everyone should make up their own
minds!!!!!!!!  

(Gosh, if anyone wants me to make up their mind, drop me a line.... I'm
more than willing to use my Jedi Mind Tricks.... on a willing
assistant....) <*grin*>  (Note, this goes double for female single young
availa... I'll just stop now... or Chris will find a way to apply hist
"talents".....)

So look for yourself, think for yourself, judge for yourself. :)


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