I have been offering Kayfabe for free on my web site for about six months now. About a month ago I decided that I would not update the PDF file, despite the fact that I have made numerous improvements on the game. My reasoning for this is to ensure that people have a reason to actually pay money for it at GENCON.

My problem is that the current rules, and the rules available for download, are not 100% compatible. I feel quite uncomfortable about it. I don't want people to get used to playing the game one way and then having to deal with a bunch of rules changes in four months.

I could, post portions of the game, but as I have widdled it down to 24 pages there isn't much I can post.

I'm considering taking down the PDF all together, until the sale version is complete.

Any thoughts?

,Matt G.

Why don't you just say the above on your website so that people who download know theres a new edition on the way. That way you still have the teaser up to generate interest.

That's a pretty good idea.
Sometimes the solution is right under your nose.

Matt,

I think you're on the mark - having a less-complete version out there as a "teaser" is a good way to get people actually interested in the game. I've been doing this with Donjon (the earlier version, Donjon Krawl, is still out there - but isn't nearly the game Donjon's become), and I've seen others do it to great effect. (The apprentice version of Sorcerer - which isn't quite the same, as it's purposefully scaled-down rules - comes to mind.)

Good to hear that other folks have gone this route. We will be previewing our game - Crusade - this way. We plan to use the Shareware/Crippleware model which offers a cut down version for free. You want the whole thing - pony up the dough. the plan is to keep the Free Demo PDF current so it is consistent with the product we are using it to promote.