The mods have already answered that the material will be available in an offline format (ie. available without internet access). I would assume it will be delivered in some sort of controlled digital format that allows you to view it in a program on your computer or app on your phone, but does not allow you to make copies. If you buy the Master subscription, then you can share content you purchased through DDB with players in your campaign.
There is no requirement to buy any books. All the current content you see now in DDB, which is the free content will remain free. If you want the premium content, which includes the core rule books, you will have to pay for it. You can decide how much or how little content you want to purchase--you don't even have to buy a full book, you can just by relevant sections. But, are you going to be able to get all the three core books just for a $6 a month fee, no you will not. The core rule books will cost $20 each at the kickoff, or you can just buy sections, obviously for less. You may not like it, but it took thousands of hours by many people to set up the DDB interface and that investment was not done to have the premium content given away for free. If it doesn't interest you, then don't buy anything--you can continue to use the free content.
I just saw the app isn't going to be made available until after launch, which is a bummer but understandable. Still, its much easier for my group to have access over a phone than by having a laptop out (especially since I am the only group member that owns a laptop). I still plan on picking up the core books, just hoping the app releases shortly after release.
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I use summon instrument to summon my kettle drum, hold it overhead like Donkey Kong, and chuck it at the nearest kobold.
I think one of the main disconnects is that the ANTI camp sees it as buying the same content, whereas the PRO camp does not. I do not, for example. I see it as VASTLY different than just a PDF file.
THIS! This is the real debate. If DDB were just a PDF or something equivalent, I would wholeheartedly agree with the people who think the pricing is unfair. DDB is already a lot more than a PDF, FOR FREE, which is almost unfair to Curse in benefit of the consumer. If you pay for anything, it's for even more than they are offering right now.
For people that are looking at the offline functionality on something besides a phone - you can get an Android emulator for just about any operating system and run the app on your laptop or whatever.
So even if Curse doesn't make the web-native version of the tools work offline, there is a fix.
I wouldn't call that a fix, but more a potential "work around". And while this does provide a possible option to the situation, there still needs to be a windows app just like the android and apple app being created, IMHO.
It would be nice to use the tools offline on my surface.
Aye. I do think a Windows app (be it desktop or universal) is going to be a necessity to make this thing viable offline. @ Curse, I'd be happy to help with such a project.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Grant K. Smith A+, Network+, MCP x 2, BSIT/VC, MIS
Software Engineer & Dungeon Master
"Do not meddle in the affairs of wizards, for they are subtle and quick to anger." - J. R. R. Tolkien "Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup" - Anonymous
That being said, has there been any discussion about some sort of "ultimate" package at launch. All available in print/digital releases for a discounted price. Obviously buying the 3 core books for $60 is mandatory, but since I am the DM, I would rather just shell out the cost up front, and work with my groups to have people pitch in what they want since I will be holding the master tier.
Also, any word on annual subscriptions?
I'd also like to add my support to this idea. It'd be awesome to be able to purchase all available content as a bundle for a discount.
Hey All:
So now we have two on the forum interested in some sort of Launch Day Ultimate Package, one more and that's a trend!. If anyone else would be interested in this, please respond to this so we can show interest to the developers. Be honest with yourself though though, this will be a $250+ package, so if you would not be willing to slap down the cash for that, don't sign up. I think if enough (using that term gently because this is of course just the forum) people show interest, they might pitch it to their sales team.
@BadEye: What do you think?
I'd be worried about my wallet catching fire from pulling my credit card out to fast
I posted some doubts in another thread and I think that although your announcement was about pricing, maybe you could bring some other announcements about "technical requirements" for us to use DDB.
Here is why I am asking/suggesting this kind of information.
Recently I bought a digital standard Fantasy Grounds subscription through STEAM to start playing DnD. I use MAC (iMac) and STEAM runs on WIN/MAC/Linux. I have it installed in my iMac for more than one year, but I don't play "digital games". I decided to try with DnD.
With the FG Standard Subscription, I got some basic libraries which allow me to create characters and etc. I have been exploring the content, reading the user manual, etc. It seems nice.
I tried to create a War Cleric (my favorite class btw) and that domain it is not available unless I buy the Core Class Pack from FG. The same happens here in DDB; the free content has only Life Domain.
I even thought about buying the Core Class Pack (which is the same as PHB) from FG. It seems that pack only runs in PC/Win, as well as most of the adventure packs.
Besides that frustrating point, I can create my War Cleric if I join a DM campaign because he/she can release all contents for me, but I can access my character only while the DM is in share mode; so it seems I can not save my character sheet offline to have it in my computer.
Maybe I was naive or techy dumb to "believe" that having STEAM would be enough to play DnD using FG program. I knew I would have to pay extra for the adventures but I thought when buying them I would install some libraries in my iMac and the core would run through STEAM, whether I am using Win/Mac/Linux.
I still am looking for more accurate info about that "platform issue" but should I buy a PC/Win to play DnD on FG? (if yes, That's RIDICULOUS).
Now the same doubt goes to DDB.
Will WotC will release theDDBrunning on any kind of computer platform or only for PC/Win?
If we create characters inside a campaign, may we save our character sheet in our computer (like having a copy of it)?
Is it possible for the DDB staff to bring more "technical" info about what we can expect of this product concerning the type of computers and other network/hardware configurations we need to play DDB?
Will WotC will release theDDBrunning on any kind of computer platform or only for PC/Win?
If we create characters inside a campaign, may we save our character sheet in our computer (like having a copy of it)?
Is it possible for the DDB staff to bring more "technical" info about what we can expect of this product concerning the type of computers and other network/hardware configurations we need to play DDB?
DDB is currently a web-based product, accessed through a web browser. As such, it should work on any computer that has a modern browser. I've used it repeatedly during the beta on my Mac (and my iPad and iPhone), with no difficulty at all. I typically use the Chrome browser on my Mac and Safari on my phone and iPad. While the developers have stated they plan on creating mobile apps (Android and iOS phones and tablets), I've seen no indication from the developers that they play to create apps for computers, too. As I understand it, on computers DDB will continue to be accessed only through browsers, without the option for separate apps.
Will WotC will release theDDBrunning on any kind of computer platform or only for PC/Win?
If we create characters inside a campaign, may we save our character sheet in our computer (like having a copy of it)?
Is it possible for the DDB staff to bring more "technical" info about what we can expect of this product concerning the type of computers and other network/hardware configurations we need to play DDB?
Thanks for your attention and time.
Sincerely,
Drakortex.
1. DDB is browser based, and will run in any OS. I've used it in-browser on Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. Additionally, standalone Android and iOS apps are in development.
2. Charcacter sheets will be able to be exported to PDF or print. I'm not sure about a format that could be re-imported.
I use mostly MAC products (phone, tablets, desk/laptops; not bragging but I also use PC) only for work. I rarely play video games (although I have PS and Nintendo).
I have been using DDB in all those platforms until now. But it does not mean when they release the "game" it is going to work nicely as by now.
I give to myself, as a reward after an intense week of hard work, playing DnD, in the old way, with a group of friends.
I decided to try DnD in digital media some weeks ago and the system I have chosen, it seems, it is not what I was expecting, however, I did not explore it in full, I must say.
I intend to pay for the DDB subscription and I would like to "just" have the fun of playing without being concerned what kind of computer I will be using. Making some "friends" in the adventures and explore the nice and fancy graphic/data resources which a software can offer to us.
If that is that kind of project in which WotC is working on, I congratulate them and I will be more than glad to pay for the service, and I really mean it :-)
I doubt my voice here matters, but I feel the need to voice my displeasure at this pricing model. I would much rather pay $10+ a month to access a service with all of the print content available than digitally repurchase every book I already own. The current subscriptions offer almost no value for the money (No ads? Once the revenue stream dips, there will be ads on the paid side of the site just like every other subscription service.) and feels kind of like wasted potential. This could be a great service that brings a lot of people into the game, but I don't know many people who are willing to spend $20 (and I'm told that's the sale price...) a pop on digital sourcebooks on top of a subscription service.
I doubt my voice here matters, but I feel the need to voice my displeasure at this pricing model. I would much rather pay $10+ a month to access a service with all of the print content available than digitally repurchase every book I already own. The current subscriptions offer almost no value for the money (No ads? Once the revenue stream dips, there will be ads on the paid side of the site just like every other subscription service.) and feels kind of like wasted potential. This could be a great service that brings a lot of people into the game, but I don't know many people who are willing to spend $20 (and I'm told that's the sale price...) a pop on digital sourcebooks on top of a subscription service.
I don't have any way of knowing whether you already know this, so I'm going to tell you that the subscription is completely optional to use the site.
(I hate that sentence.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"Any society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve neither and lose both" -- allegedly Benjamin Franklin
If they release an app, it could be possible for a 3rd party developer to make whatever app they want with it. But you probably need curse's permission to publish it.
The mods have already answered that the material will be available in an offline format (ie. available without internet access). I would assume it will be delivered in some sort of controlled digital format that allows you to view it in a program on your computer or app on your phone, but does not allow you to make copies. If you buy the Master subscription, then you can share content you purchased through DDB with players in your campaign.
There is no requirement to buy any books. All the current content you see now in DDB, which is the free content will remain free. If you want the premium content, which includes the core rule books, you will have to pay for it. You can decide how much or how little content you want to purchase--you don't even have to buy a full book, you can just by relevant sections. But, are you going to be able to get all the three core books just for a $6 a month fee, no you will not. The core rule books will cost $20 each at the kickoff, or you can just buy sections, obviously for less. You may not like it, but it took thousands of hours by many people to set up the DDB interface and that investment was not done to have the premium content given away for free. If it doesn't interest you, then don't buy anything--you can continue to use the free content.
I just saw the app isn't going to be made available until after launch, which is a bummer but understandable. Still, its much easier for my group to have access over a phone than by having a laptop out (especially since I am the only group member that owns a laptop). I still plan on picking up the core books, just hoping the app releases shortly after release.
I use summon instrument to summon my kettle drum, hold it overhead like Donkey Kong, and chuck it at the nearest kobold.
[ Site Rules & Guidelines ] --- [ Homebrew Rules & Guidelines ]
Send me a message with any questions or concerns
Grant K. Smith
A+, Network+, MCP x 2, BSIT/VC, MIS
Software Engineer & Dungeon Master
"Do not meddle in the affairs of wizards, for they are subtle and quick to anger." - J. R. R. Tolkien
"Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with ketchup" - Anonymous
I posted some doubts in another thread and I think that although your announcement was about pricing, maybe you could bring some other announcements about "technical requirements" for us to use DDB.
Here is why I am asking/suggesting this kind of information.
Recently I bought a digital standard Fantasy Grounds subscription through STEAM to start playing DnD. I use MAC (iMac) and STEAM runs on WIN/MAC/Linux. I have it installed in my iMac for more than one year, but I don't play "digital games". I decided to try with DnD.
With the FG Standard Subscription, I got some basic libraries which allow me to create characters and etc. I have been exploring the content, reading the user manual, etc. It seems nice.
I tried to create a War Cleric (my favorite class btw) and that domain it is not available unless I buy the Core Class Pack from FG. The same happens here in DDB; the free content has only Life Domain.
I even thought about buying the Core Class Pack (which is the same as PHB) from FG. It seems that pack only runs in PC/Win, as well as most of the adventure packs.
Besides that frustrating point, I can create my War Cleric if I join a DM campaign because he/she can release all contents for me, but I can access my character only while the DM is in share mode; so it seems I can not save my character sheet offline to have it in my computer.
Maybe I was naive or techy dumb to "believe" that having STEAM would be enough to play DnD using FG program. I knew I would have to pay extra for the adventures but I thought when buying them I would install some libraries in my iMac and the core would run through STEAM, whether I am using Win/Mac/Linux.
I still am looking for more accurate info about that "platform issue" but should I buy a PC/Win to play DnD on FG? (if yes, That's RIDICULOUS).
Now the same doubt goes to DDB.
Thanks for your attention and time.
Sincerely,
Drakortex.
Drakortex, cleric of Bahamut.
Trying to Decide if DDB is for you? A few helpful threads: A Buyer's Guide to DDB; What I/We Bought and Why; How some DMs use DDB; A Newer Thread on Using DDB to Play
Helpful threads on other topics: Homebrew FAQ by IamSposta; Accessing Content by ConalTheGreat;
Check your entitlements here. | Support Ticket LInk
Thank you ArwensDaughter and LtDarien,
I use mostly MAC products (phone, tablets, desk/laptops; not bragging but I also use PC) only for work. I rarely play video games (although I have PS and Nintendo).
I have been using DDB in all those platforms until now. But it does not mean when they release the "game" it is going to work nicely as by now.
I give to myself, as a reward after an intense week of hard work, playing DnD, in the old way, with a group of friends.
I decided to try DnD in digital media some weeks ago and the system I have chosen, it seems, it is not what I was expecting, however, I did not explore it in full, I must say.
I intend to pay for the DDB subscription and I would like to "just" have the fun of playing without being concerned what kind of computer I will be using. Making some "friends" in the adventures and explore the nice and fancy graphic/data resources which a software can offer to us.
If that is that kind of project in which WotC is working on, I congratulate them and I will be more than glad to pay for the service, and I really mean it :-)
Thanks again for your reply.
I hope to see you in some future adventures.
Sincerely,
Drakortex.
Drakortex, cleric of Bahamut.
I doubt my voice here matters, but I feel the need to voice my displeasure at this pricing model. I would much rather pay $10+ a month to access a service with all of the print content available than digitally repurchase every book I already own. The current subscriptions offer almost no value for the money (No ads? Once the revenue stream dips, there will be ads on the paid side of the site just like every other subscription service.) and feels kind of like wasted potential. This could be a great service that brings a lot of people into the game, but I don't know many people who are willing to spend $20 (and I'm told that's the sale price...) a pop on digital sourcebooks on top of a subscription service.
"Any society that would give up a little liberty to gain a little security will deserve neither and lose both" -- allegedly Benjamin Franklin
Tooltips (Help/aid)
For purchased campaigns, do we get good digital maps too?
Wouldn't it be fair to include the digital version when you by for example Players Handbook?
"Most people are other people. Their thoughts are someone else's opinions, their lives a mimicry, their passions a quotation."
― Oscar Wilde.
If they release an app, it could be possible for a 3rd party developer to make whatever app they want with it. But you probably need curse's permission to publish it.
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