I think this resource is a tremendous step in moving the rules to an all-encompassing one-stop for quick on-line reference. For those of us who have been playing this game for eons, it doesn't take long to navigate right into the information at hand and find what we need. Looking at this from a new player perspective, however, I think there needs to be a "Start Here" page for them to navigate from. An increasing number of new players are going to come here, possibly never touching a physical book, and they will need an easy orientation to what all of "this" is.
I do agree, showing up on the main Compendium page and seeing a bunch a links would be intimidating for a new player with no knowledge of D&D. But given the character generation and sheets aren't here yet, I'm guessing they have that idea already in mind and it's just not implemented.
It does bring up a good question though: is this site all encompassing and no need for purchasing books, or is this a supplement to the books? The books have a "how to get started" layout that walks new players through the basics and such. So if this is just an electronic supplement with cool features, the PH is for newbies. If this takes the place of owning the books, I'm guessing they just haven't shown all the toys that will show up in the future yet, such as the "Welcome to D&D start here" page!
I think this resource is a tremendous step in moving the rules to an all-encompassing one-stop for quick on-line reference. For those of us who have been playing this game for eons, it doesn't take long to navigate right into the information at hand and find what we need. Looking at this from a new player perspective, however, I think there needs to be a "Start Here" page for them to navigate from. An increasing number of new players are going to come here, possibly never touching a physical book, and they will need an easy orientation to what all of "this" is.
I do agree, showing up on the main Compendium page and seeing a bunch a links would be intimidating for a new player with no knowledge of D&D. But given the character generation and sheets aren't here yet, I'm guessing they have that idea already in mind and it's just not implemented.
It does bring up a good question though: is this site all encompassing and no need for purchasing books, or is this a supplement to the books? The books have a "how to get started" layout that walks new players through the basics and such. So if this is just an electronic supplement with cool features, the PH is for newbies. If this takes the place of owning the books, I'm guessing they just haven't shown all the toys that will show up in the future yet, such as the "Welcome to D&D start here" page!
Good point! I actually hope this isn't intended to replace books. Still needs an orientation for the newbs, but as you say, that may be in the works.
Very good suggestion. It would definitely be helpful for the newer gen of DMs. Maybe even a tutorial on the start page.
---Architect of Worlds, Destroyer of Dreams
Great Idea, perhaps a prominent link for "New to D&D? Start Here" type of section.