CFHollister wrote:Why does the process only have to be used once a year? In the same vein, I like the idea of more than one card coming out of the process.
I also like the idea of having a goal; I work better with a goal. Last time, we started with choosing a card type. Perhaps next time, we could start by choosing a goal (i.e. boost Romulan mission solving, nerf Borg, carrot Replicate, etc.) as the first step in the process and then game concept, and then card type.
I was not involved at all in the process surrounding the last creation(s), but I feel compelled to sound off on this nonetheless, since I think this is an awesome concept. First off, I am not privy to the process or timetable that Brad et. al. use to make these super-sweet virtual expansions. So in my limited view, I don't see why a process like this (however it ends up happening) shouldn't happen for every single virtual expansion. Since the game is no longer being produced for financial gain, its longevity as a game is more community driven than ever before; and getting the community involved in the production of one card (or two as the case may be) per expansion would be an invaluable marketing tool to help the fans feel more connected to the game (a personal investment, if you will).
Anyway, that all being said, IMO there needs to be a Picard-like leadership steering the course of this creation. Just as CFHollister suggested, there needs to be a goal set. In other words, what is the mission? Knowing the mission, the "bridge crew" (i.e. we, the community) can more efficiently make suggestions as to a course of action. And "Picard" (i.e. the designers that be) could then make executive decisions based on the suggestions given and steer the course of the "ship."
Okay, so my metaphor is getting tired and I'm sure you all get the gist of my statements. But streamline this process well enough, and you might even get more than one or two card ideas out of the bargain - just so long as everyone understands that a suggestion is a suggestion and "Picard" has final say on pretty much everything.
Tom Paris