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What keeps you coming back? What keeps you away? What would you like to see?

Started by Ishmayl-Retired, November 01, 2007, 10:44:12 AM

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Epic Meepo

Quote from: Elven DoritosWhat do you think of the look of the site?
It needs more cow bell.
more cowbell[/i].

EDIT: Does ElDo derailing this thread by mentioning More Cowbell count as a moderator stepping in when he shouldn't?
The Unfinished World campaign setting
Proud recipient of a Silver Dorito Award.
Unless noted otherwise, this post contains no Open Game Content.
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Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.

System Reference Document Copyright 2000-2003, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Rich Baker, Andy Collins, David Noonan, Rich Redman, Bruce R. Cordell, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.

Modern System Reference Doument Copyright 2002, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Bill Slavicsek, Jeff Grubb, Rich Redman, Charles Ryan, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Richard Baker, Peter Adkison, Bruce R. Cordell, John Tynes, Andy Collins, and JD Walker.

Swords of Our Fathers Copyright 2003, The Game Mechanics.

Mutants & Masterminds Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing.

Unearthed Arcana Copyright 2004, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Andy Collins, Jesse Decker, David Noonan, Rich Redman.

Epic Meepoââ,¬â,,¢s forum posts at www.thecbg.org Copyright 2006-2007, E.W. Morton.

Cebexia, Tapestry of the Gods Copyright 2006-2007, the Campaign Builder's Guild.[/spoiler]

Hibou

I'll answer the full suite of questions later, but right now I'll just say a bit. I think the site could use a little more color, and I'm still really interested in seeing a big CBG chat. However, maybe now that we've got a little alliance going with a couple other sites, we could have one chat for all three combined?
[spoiler=GitHub]https://github.com/threexc[/spoiler]

Eclipse

Not to derail this thread further, but I, also, have a fever. My doctor prescribed more cowbell, but the pharmacy told me that it was not covered by my health insurance, and since I was on a 100 millimoo dose, I couldn't afford it. I went back, and he lowered my dosage to 50 millimoos of more cowbell, which is helping somewhat. Still, insurance companies should clearly cover more cowbell, since thousands of Americans who live below the poverty every year have a fever, and more cowbell is the only prescription offered that can offer a cure. In the elderly and children, this "cowbell fever" is often fatal without the proper dosage of more cowbell. Please, write to your senator, and tell him to support the more cowbell law, so that congress can pass the controversial "Bovine Noisemaker" bill to force insurance companies to cover the prescription of more cowbell. Think of the children. Think of cowbell.

Side effects of cowbell include chewing of cud, obesiety, the desire to moo, and rednecks attempting to tip you over while you sleep standing up.
Quote from: Epic MeepoThat sounds as annoying as providing a real challenge to Superman: shall we use Kryptonite, or Kryptonite?

Eclipse

Quote from: SovietTrollI'll answer the full suite of questions later, but right now I'll just say a bit. I think the site could use a little more color, and I'm still really interested in seeing a big CBG chat. However, maybe now that we've got a little alliance going with a couple other sites, we could have one chat for all three combined?

To get back on topic, I actually like the muted tones of the CBG, whick make it easier and less headache inducing to read.
Quote from: Epic MeepoThat sounds as annoying as providing a real challenge to Superman: shall we use Kryptonite, or Kryptonite?

the_taken

    What is the most important aspect of this site that keeps you coming back?
    The average level of intelligence of the regular members is compliant with my standards. It's a productive environment which appears to have the capability to nurture some creative skills. Notably the ones that can synergize with my god complex.

    *What is the most unique feature of this site?
    This site is dedicated to the creation of settings for co-operative story telling games. And while Gleemax.com has a section for it, the average intelligence of gleemaxians (and the average WotC member) discourages me to the point of depression and loss.

    Also, the custom avatar and tittle was totally new to me, being used to the "family friendly" avatars of WotC.

    *What is the most interesting conversation you've ever had on this site?
    http://www.thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?30147

    *How have you benefited from the site since you became a member?
    A little. I'm really stuck in my own world, but outside influences it.

    *How many times have you participated in a unique CBG feature (Showcase, the Guide, CeBeGia, etc)?  How did you contribute?
    I don't recall exactly, but I believe I stated an opinion and added several ideas somewhere in the CeBeGia area back when it was first started.

    *If you have never contributed to a unique CBG feature, is there a particular reason why?
    Most of that kind of stuff requires programming, or something. I was thinking of signing up for the new Showcase review, but thought Ishmayl would remember my blunder I will mention next, and say "no."

    *Have you ever said you were going to contribute in some way to the Guide, CeBeGia, or Showcase, and then never followed through?
    I once offered Ishmayl a new graphic to act as the CBG's new Logo. After several hours of drawing crap, I became traumatized and forgot about it 'till Ishmayl smote me. This was back around when I got an evil redhead from Luminous Crayon as my avatar. (I called her Kitty.)
    I have submitted an entry to one contest. And got no votes. Not even mine.

    *As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is asking for help on your personal campaign setting?
    Other than being the original poster? Maybe ten posts at most...

    *As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is helping other CBGers with their personal campaign setting?
    Um...
    *breaks down and cries*
    I'm sorry. *sniff* I stopped looking at other people's campaign settings when they got really big. *hic* I was afraid of drowning...

    *Do you visit the other Alliance sites (PlotStorming.com, CartographersGuild.com)?
    No. I really didn't care much for the cartography lessons, and I haven't developed enough curiosity to wonder over to the story maker's site.

    *Do you use another site for most of your campaign setting needs (WotC, gleemax, rpgspaces, eruvian, etc)?
    I use WotC to say stuff like "Hey I've got stuff going on." but they don't get the goods due to their "We own everything you post." clause. The Gaming Den has mirror threads of some of my current projects, Like PkMn SAME and Battles of the Star Angels and Space Devils. They are a little more mechanically observant over there, as is demonstrated by the recent posts in my mech game thread.

    *If so, what features do those sites have that the CBG doesn't have?
    N/A

    *If you were part of the Opal Council, what site features would you do away with or just put aside as unimportant?
    None of them.

    *Have you ever had what you thought of as a great conversation starter, and started a new thread only to find no one interested?
    Yep. My thread for Battles of the Star Angels and Space Devils here on the CBG has had many views (probably from lurkers or net-bots) but no responses. It's a freaking Evangelion inspired game for crying out loud! How can you not dig it?

    *Have you ever been really mad at the site, the Opal Council, or the other members of the CBG, in such a way that you didn't come back for awhile?
    Just the general frustration mentioned in the last question.

    *Have you ever gone away from the site for months at a time, then returned to posting normally?
    Yes, but that was due to a personal problem. Will not discuss.

    *Have you ever seen any unfair rulings of any sort on the site (threads being moved or removed, moderators stepping in when they shouldn't, etc)?
    No.

    *If you could pick one thing on the site that should be expanded on and made more important, what would it be?
    Setting Reviews: Make that a primary feature. Specifically the review swapping game, as I was going to submit to it when I got a regular Setting, as oppose to the random one-shots I've been doing recently.

    *What do you think of the look of the site?
    It very easy to get around, and the colour scheme is easy on the eyes. The Table tag is a little unwieldy though, and the "Class" button is really unnecessary.
    Seriously. Not every one plays D&D or even the same D&D as the one that button works with.[/list]

    Raelifin

    *What is the most important aspect of this site that keeps you coming back?
    It's the only place I know of that is so focused on my favorite art form. Likewise, I enjoy the variety of works to read and review. On top of this, I love the creative atmosphere and focus on criticism (I love criticism). ON TOP OF THIS the CBG is a great community full of people who have roughly similar tastes, and I love the chatter of like minds.

    *What is the most unique feature of this site?
    The focus on worlds/settings & the number and variety of good worlds/settings.

    *What is the most interesting conversation you've ever had on this site?
    Theme wars.

    *What has been your favorite contest or event on this site?
    Hmmm... Review badge mania? I liked the island contest.

    *How have you benefited the site since you became a member?
    The site or the guild? I think I've contributed to the guild by:
      Reviewing many settings.
      Being active in discussing interesting and useful things (Theme wars).
      Helping members with making maps, posts or badges.
      Adding my works to the horde.
      Writing a number of articles for the CBGuide.
      Editing the guide.
      Referring members to the site.

    *How many times have you participated in a unique CBG feature (Showcase, the Guide, CeBeGia, etc)?  How did you contribute?
      I reviewed a decent number of showcase settings, I think. It was a while back, though, so not sure there.
      I've been involved with the guide from the get-go, and have contributed and participated many times there.

    *Have you ever said you were going to contribute in some way to the Guide, CeBeGia, or Showcase, and then never followed through?
      My recent absences from the Guide aside, I've wanted to participate in contests a lot, but I don't think I've actually submitted anything.

    *As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is asking for help on your personal campaign setting?
     0%

    *As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is helping other CBGers with their personal campaign setting?
     35% (Maybe higher)

    *Do you visit the other Alliance sites (PlotStorming.com, CartographersGuild.com)?
     Occasionally. I read the PlotStorming contests now and again, and I've browsed Cartographers when I'm map-making.

    *Do you use another site for most of your campaign setting needs (WotC, gleemax, rpgspaces, eruvian, etc)?
     No.

    *If you were part of the Opal Council, what ideas would you have for making the site more interesting?
     Chat? I dono.
     I guess I feel a bit constrained by the PG-13 CoC, and would like a way to tag threads as "Mature Themed" to bypass this without offending others. (For instance, George R. R. Martin's Westeros is graphic, gritty and is filled with very human themes, including sex and violence. Westeros is one of my favorite settings ever, and I feel sad to think that it wouldn't be postable here.)

    *If you were part of the Opal Council, what site features would you do away with or just put aside as unimportant?
     Can't think of anything.

    *Have you ever had a contest idea that you wish the CBG would do?
     No.

    *Have you ever had what you thought of as a great conversation starter, and started a new thread only to find no one interested?
     I rarely start threads, but I've seen this happen with other people's threads plenty.

    *Have you ever been really mad at the site, the Opal Council, or the other members of the CBG, in such a way that you didn't come back for awhile?
     Mad? Never.

    *Have you ever gone away from the site for months at a time, then returned to posting normally?
     Yes, though I make it a point to still check the site while I'm on hiatus and never make it a big deal.

    *Have you ever seen any unfair rulings of any sort on the site (threads being moved or removed, moderators stepping in when they shouldn't, etc)?
     No.

    *If you could pick one thing on the site that should be expanded on and made more important, what would it be?
     The collection of settings into lists and groups to make the variety of works more accessible and less likely to die just from drifting off the first page.

    *What do you think of the look of the site?
     I've always liked it. I just switched to Ubuntu though, and (due to reduced resolution) I find the front page a bit cluttered. Perhaps CBG 2.0 could allow me customize the front page?

    Lmns Crn

    Quote from: RaelifinI guess I feel a bit constrained by the PG-13 CoC, and would like a way to tag threads as "Mature Themed" to bypass this without offending others. (For instance, George R. R. Martin's Westeros is graphic, gritty and is filled with very human themes, including sex and violence. Westeros is one of my favorite settings ever, and I feel sad to think that it wouldn't be postable here.)
    I agree with some of these assertions, and disagree with others.

    There are all sorts of themes and events that can be described either in very tame ways or in very graphic (and often disturbing) ways. We all have settings that contain violence (or the capacity for it), and we have the choice to present them at levels appropriate for various different audiences. It's totally possible to discuss Roose Bolton's interrogation techniques, or the quirky romantic relationships of Targaryens and Lannisters, without bringing up the kind of detail that would be inappropriate.

    And Martin's prose is more graphic than his world is. There are some chapters in ASoIaF that I wouldn't quote on this forum, but I can't think of any aspects of Westeros that would be un-discussable here (just some that might have to be discussed cautiously. Maybe.) I would love the hecks out of a Westeros discussion thread, because I think the setting (and the books) are awesome and amazing. If you like, I would lourve a Westeros thread, and we could enthusiastically discuss it in ways that comply with the CBG's Code of Conduct.

    I mean, Westeros is gritty and savage, but it ain't no Oversexed Leather-Clad Vampire Biker Vixens Gone Wild, either.
    I move quick: I'm gonna try my trick one last time--
    you know it's possible to vaguely define my outline
    when dust move in the sunshine

    Epic Meepo

    Quote from: Lminous CyaonOversexed Leather-Clad Vampire Biker Vixens Gone Wild
    Move over White Wolf! There's a new vampire RPG in town!
    The Unfinished World campaign setting
    Proud recipient of a Silver Dorito Award.
    Unless noted otherwise, this post contains no Open Game Content.
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    15 COPYRIGHT NOTICE
    Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.

    System Reference Document Copyright 2000-2003, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Rich Baker, Andy Collins, David Noonan, Rich Redman, Bruce R. Cordell, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.

    Modern System Reference Doument Copyright 2002, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Bill Slavicsek, Jeff Grubb, Rich Redman, Charles Ryan, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Richard Baker, Peter Adkison, Bruce R. Cordell, John Tynes, Andy Collins, and JD Walker.

    Swords of Our Fathers Copyright 2003, The Game Mechanics.

    Mutants & Masterminds Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing.

    Unearthed Arcana Copyright 2004, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Andy Collins, Jesse Decker, David Noonan, Rich Redman.

    Epic Meepoââ,¬â,,¢s forum posts at www.thecbg.org Copyright 2006-2007, E.W. Morton.

    Cebexia, Tapestry of the Gods Copyright 2006-2007, the Campaign Builder's Guild.[/spoiler]

    Raelifin

    Quote from: Lminous Cyaon
    Quote from: RaelifinI guess I feel a bit constrained by the PG-13 CoC, and would like a way to tag threads as "Mature Themed" to bypass this without offending others. (For instance, George R. R. Martin's Westeros is graphic, gritty and is filled with very human themes, including sex and violence. Westeros is one of my favorite settings ever, and I feel sad to think that it wouldn't be postable here.)
    I agree with some of these assertions, and disagree with others.

    There are all sorts of themes and events that can be described either in very tame ways or in very graphic (and often disturbing) ways. We all have settings that contain violence (or the capacity for it), and we have the choice to present them at levels appropriate for various different audiences. It's totally possible to discuss Roose Bolton's interrogation techniques, or the quirky romantic relationships of Targaryens and Lannisters, without bringing up the kind of detail that would be inappropriate.

    And Martin's prose is more graphic than his world is. There are some chapters in ASoIaF that I wouldn't quote on this forum, but I can't think of any aspects of Westeros that would be un-discussable here (just some that might have to be discussed cautiously. Maybe.) I would love the hecks out of a Westeros discussion thread, because I think the setting (and the books) are awesome and amazing. If you like, I would lourve a Westeros thread, and we could enthusiastically discuss it in ways that comply with the CBG's Code of Conduct.

    I mean, Westeros is gritty and savage, but it ain't no Oversexed Leather-Clad Vampire Biker Vixens Gone Wild, either.
    Alright. I don't want to make a Westeros thread (you can do it, but I have an English paper due tomorrow). I am going to agree that it's fully possible to discuss his stuff without breaking CoC, and it would be fully possible to give a depiction of the world without breaking CoC, but one of the most amazing things about Westeros is how it feels, and I think that when it comes to presenting the whole of the setting, the emotional impact of the horrors of the world cannot be easily shown in the environment we try to protect here. For example, the writer* might write about Moletown (near the wall), but understanding what Moletown means for the Night's Watch (in an emotional way) is damn hard to do and stay family friendly. (But yes, most of the mature stuff is in the prose. I don't disagree.)

    * - I use "writer" because we're not talking about George himself coming here, we're talking about settings that have like themes.

    Túrin

    I don't have much time right now (or ever, it seems these days) but I'll try to give a short reply since I think I might be in the target audience here.

    I've loved this site since we first started back on Ishy's shadowfell site. I originally joined the guild because I was working on my campaign setting and could use the help (those were also the days that I actually reviewed others' settings occasionally), but almost immediately after the creation of the forums I switched to goofing around in the Dragon's Den and the Meta-section. I just really like the people that post here regularly. I like the silly Tavern-conversations, the absurd Dragon's Den threads (the cabbage-conversations, the World War IV threads, etc.), as well as the deeper threads on gaming theory, worldbuilding theory and philosophy in general (Philosophy in the Den, Theme Wars, teh various How and Why do you X threads, etc.). These threads and conversations, because of the people that participate in them and the way they write about these topics, are the reasons I've kept coming back here semi-regularly for nearly two years now.

    Recently, I've been drifting away from the site. This has nothing to do with any particular shortcoming of the site (frankly, I'm not sure I could name any). It's just that I'm trying to combine two Bachelor's studies with being on the board and various commitees of an association, and I'm also trying to have a social life alongside these things. All in all, the CBG is far from a top priority anymore (well, it never was, but it's steadily declining in priority) and the little internet time I get is used to respond to emails. In short: it's not you, it's me. ;)

    Now, I promised to do at least one more interview for the Guide, and this promise I will keep, though it's already taking much longer than expected. However, I probably won't be seen here much anymore for at least the duration of this semester, and I have little reason to believe the situation will be different after that. So, I hope to be seeing more of you guys again in the future, but I can't guarantee anything.

    Túrin
    Proud owner of a Golden Dorito Award
    My setting Orden's Mysteries is no longer being updated


    "Then shall the last battle be gathered on the fields of Valinor. In that day Tulkas shall strive with Melko, and on his right shall stand Fionwe and on his left Turin Turambar, son of Hurin, Conqueror of Fate; and it shall be the black sword of Turin that deals unto Melko his death and final end; and so shall the Children of Hurin and all men be avenged." - J.R.R. Tolkien, The Shaping of Middle-Earth

    Xeviat

    This thread touches upon my own insecurity about the site: I founded the guild, and time after time I find my participation lacking. Perhaps this self inventory will help me gather my thoughts and reasons; I am determined to be a viable contributer around here, not only with my own settings but for others.

    # What is the most important aspect of this site that keeps you coming back?
    The people and the security. The maturity level amongst people here is higher than on WotC, and everyone is devoted to the art of campaign creation. As for security, I'm sure many of us have had issues with WotC's new rule about taking material; I know that "Keep on the Shadowfell" has several elements that make Ishy uncomfortable, and the more I read about Eberron the more I laugh and look at my own setting as it was posted on WotC (Not sure if there are any direct thefts, it's just amusing to me at this point). We don't have to worry about that here.

    # What is the most unique feature of this site?
    I haven't been to too many such sites, but the hosting system was very unique.

    # What is the most interesting conversation you've ever had on this site?
    I haven't gotten to participate in a conversation while it was still young to consider myself a participant.

    # What has been your favorite contest or event on this site?
    I like the idea of the Campaign Setting Showcase.

    # How have you benefited the site since you became a member?
    I took the first step to get the idea of the community going, but truthfully I haven't done much after that. I want to do more.

    # How many times have you participated in a unique CBG feature (Showcase, the Guide, CeBeGia, etc)? How did you contribute?
    I contributed to the Guide once with my Called Shot system; I didn't get much feedback on it, and I think that is why I haven't felt the need to contribute more. I tried to contribute to CeBeGia, but things were wild so I felt that my voice was being drowned out. I've since tried to contribute to the Guide once more, but life issues kept me from putting the needed time into it.

    # If you have never contributed to a unique CBG feature, is there a particular reason why?
    I haven't contributed to the showcase because I haven't felt that my own setting was at a reasonable level of completion to deserve such a pedestal.

    # Have you ever said you were going to contribute in some way to the Guide, CeBeGia, or Showcase, and then never followed through?
    I had offered to co-write a campaign building guide with Ishy, focusing on the Crunch aspects. I felt that I had little to nothing to offer for the first article in the series, and I realized that my own expertise was nearly entirely focused on the direction I wished to take my setting.

    # As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is asking for help on your personal campaign setting?
    In the past, most of my posts have been of this sort.

    # As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is helping other CBGers with their personal campaign setting?
    Recently, I've been trying to solely review and help other CBGers, rather than work on my setting.

    # Do you visit the other Alliance sites (PlotStorming.com, CartographersGuild.com)?
    I've visited the CartographersGuild several times.

    # Do you use another site for most of your campaign setting needs (WotC, gleemax, rpgspaces, eruvian, etc)?
    Not currently.

    # If so, what features do those sites have that the CBG doesn't have?
    None, though the gamer blogs on Gleemax might prove interesting.

    # If you were part of the Opal Council, what ideas would you have for making the site more interesting?
    I don't know; that's why I haven't requested to become a mod. I would like to see CeBeGia return.

    # If you were part of the Opal Council, what site features would you do away with or just put aside as unimportant?
    None; I think all of our features are worthwhile.

    # Have you ever had a contest idea that you wish the CBG would do?
    No

    # Have you ever had what you thought of as a great conversation starter, and started a new thread only to find no one interested?
    Yes, sort of. I started a thread on Elemental Magic that took off for a bit, but it fell apart.

    # Have you ever been really mad at the site, the Opal Council, or the other members of the CBG, in such a way that you didn't come back for awhile?
    No; I've only been mad at myself for not having the drive to contribute.

    # Have you ever gone away from the site for months at a time, then returned to posting normally?
    You're seeing it; I just started posting again yesterday.

    # Have you ever seen any unfair rulings of any sort on the site (threads being moved or removed, moderators stepping in when they shouldn't, etc)?
    Nope.

    # If you could pick one thing on the site that should be expanded on and made more important, what would it be?
    CeBeGia needs a shot in the arm. I'm going to devote much of my time to this.

    # What do you think of the look of the site?
    I like the look; it's simple and clean.
    Endless Horizons: Action and adventure set in a grand world ripe for exploration.

    Proud recipient of the Silver Tortoise Award for extra Krunchyness.

    Ivar

    Hopefully I can offer a relatively different perspective, as a new member and more of a "casual" member, and I sincerely hope that what I write does not offend, and is viewed purely as constructive criticism.  Unfortunately I have few answers, but I can post what few things strikes me as "problems" on the site.

    What is the most important aspect of this site that keeps you coming back?
    Basically the new ideas posted in the design and campaign threads.  I like reading the Guide, as it seems filled with quality articles that interest me.

    What is the most unique feature of this site?
    The amazing scope of the campaigns detailed here and the sheer number of campaigns and ideas.


    What is the most interesting conversation you've ever had on this site?
    Honestly, the thread about my "setting"/game was the most interesting to me.  


    What has been your favorite contest or event on this site?
    My favorite contest was the Rushon monthly contest.  But then again, I've only been around for a few.


    How have you benefited the site since you became a member?
    I got great feedback on a system/setting that I am looking to refine.


    How many times have you participated in a unique CBG feature (Showcase, the Guide, CeBeGia, etc)? How did you contribute?
    I've contributed to the upcoming Guide so far.  I hope to continue writing articles for it and also joining in the contests.


    Have you ever said you were going to contribute in some way to the Guide, CeBeGia, or Showcase, and then never followed through?
    I said I'd compete in the contest, but an article for the Guide took my time.  I'd wager that 90% of the "follow-through" issue is time for most people.  The other 10% would likely be a dislike of Ishmayl.


    As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is asking for help on your personal campaign setting?
    Probably around 75%.


    As a best guess, what percentage of your posts do you believe is helping other CBGers with their personal campaign setting?
    Probably around 20%.

    Do you visit the other Alliance sites (PlotStorming.com, CartographersGuild.com)?
    Not yet.


    Do you use another site for most of your campaign setting needs (WotC, gleemax, rpgspaces, eruvian, etc)?
    No.

    If you were part of the Opal Council, what ideas would you have for making the site more interesting?
    The biggest issue I have is that the site (and by that I mean mostly the content) is daunting and complex.  The site itself is very easy to get acclimated to (the shoutbox, forums, CBGuide tab, etc.) and I've had no problems with navigation or understanding what goes where.  The Homepage is simply laid out and contains the information I need.

    The actual content of the site can be quite intimidating and inaccesible.  I've started to try to review a setting and then felt bogged down even trying to find one to start on.  Then, when I do start on one, it takes an hour or reading to even get the basics it seems.  I think some kind of feature that helps people access the settings would be great.  The Showcase is a great idea for identifying worthy settings.  And the directory in the forums is a good start to briefing newcomers and casual members, but I still felt lost.  I have no specific answer to the problem, but that's a large part of the obstacle to my lack of reviews.  I'm overwhelmed.  In order to really give input (and this may be a purely personal answer), I need specific questions or portions of a setting that needs to be refined.  


    If you were part of the Opal Council, what site features would you do away with or just put aside as unimportant?
    I've not seen any unimportant or unuseful features.  Of course, I'd prally have ignored them already, so it's a tough question.


    Have you ever had a contest idea that you wish the CBG would do?

    Most of the contests seem fluff-centric and I've yet to see a crunch type contest.


    Have you ever had what you thought of as a great conversation starter, and started a new thread only to find no one interested? No.


    Have you ever been really mad at the site, the Opal Council, or the other members of the CBG, in such a way that you didn't come back for awhile?  I don't get angry at internet people.


    Have you ever gone away from the site for months at a time, then returned to posting normally?  N/A.


    Have you ever seen any unfair rulings of any sort on the site (threads being moved or removed, moderators stepping in when they shouldn't, etc)? No.


    If you could pick one thing on the site that should be expanded on and made more important, what would it be?
    It seems that most of the focus or posts are on settings, and not campaigns.  I don't think it's the Council's fault or anything, but to me Settings/Systems are more personalized and can't widely be used by anyone.  I'd rather content that can be adapted to include in your setting be emphasized a bit more.  The CBGuide does a good job of this, but I just don't see that kind of content often enough in the forums for my taste.

    The problem is that most of the people who come to this site are already accomplished DMs and have played the game extensively, and they are more interested in unusual concepts/settings rather than mundane.  They're more interested (absorbed?) in stuff that is uniquely "theirs".  They do a good job on helping you with the stuff that is uniquely "yours", but there's no middle ground.  For example, If I wanted to find an interesting NPC/plotline/organization/anything other than a setting that I could insert into my generic campaign, I'd be hard pressed to find one here.  The contests and the CBGuide are the closest thing to "usable" information that I've found on the site.

    What do you think of the look of the site?
    It works for me but then again, I have bad taste.



    Epic Meepo

    Quote from: IvarI'd rather content that can be adapted to include in your setting be emphasized a bit more.  The CBGuide does a good job of this, but I just don't see that kind of content often enough in the forums for my taste.
    Having read the above, I vote that we add a forum specifically devoted to setting-neutral content.
    The Unfinished World campaign setting
    Proud recipient of a Silver Dorito Award.
    Unless noted otherwise, this post contains no Open Game Content.
    [spoiler=OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a]OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a
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    1. Definitions: (a)"Contributors" means the copyright and/or trademark owners who have contributed Open Game Content; (b)"Derivative Material" means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations (including into other computer languages), potation, modification, correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation, abridgment or other form in which an existing work may be recast, transformed or adapted; (c) "Distribute" means to reproduce, license, rent, lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute; (d)"Open Game Content" means the game mechanic and includes the methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content does not embody the Product Identity and is an enhancement over the prior art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by the Contributor, and means any work covered by this License, including translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically excludes Product Identity. (e) "Product Identity" means product and product line names, logos and identifying marks including trade dress; artifacts; creatures characters; stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue, incidents, language, artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses, formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other visual or audio representations; names and descriptions of characters, spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or graphic designs; and any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product identity by the owner of the Product Identity, and which specifically excludes the Open Game Content; (f) "Trademark" means the logos, names, mark, sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its products or the associated products contributed to the Open Game License by the Contributor (g) "Use", "Used" or "Using" means to use, Distribute, copy, edit, format, modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative Material of Open Game Content. (h) "You" or "Your" means the licensee in terms of this agreement.

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    8. Identification: If you distribute Open Game Content You must clearly indicate which portions of the work that you are distributing are Open Game Content.

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    15 COPYRIGHT NOTICE
    Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.

    System Reference Document Copyright 2000-2003, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Rich Baker, Andy Collins, David Noonan, Rich Redman, Bruce R. Cordell, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.

    Modern System Reference Doument Copyright 2002, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Bill Slavicsek, Jeff Grubb, Rich Redman, Charles Ryan, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Richard Baker, Peter Adkison, Bruce R. Cordell, John Tynes, Andy Collins, and JD Walker.

    Swords of Our Fathers Copyright 2003, The Game Mechanics.

    Mutants & Masterminds Copyright 2002, Green Ronin Publishing.

    Unearthed Arcana Copyright 2004, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Andy Collins, Jesse Decker, David Noonan, Rich Redman.

    Epic Meepoââ,¬â,,¢s forum posts at www.thecbg.org Copyright 2006-2007, E.W. Morton.

    Cebexia, Tapestry of the Gods Copyright 2006-2007, the Campaign Builder's Guild.[/spoiler]

    Jharviss

    Which would basically mean defining the Meta forum in a different way, or am I misreading that entirely?

    Overall, I agree with Ivar and Meepo.  Perhaps that's bordering on what every other RPG forum does, but having a setting-neutral area would certainly see use.  I have a lot of regularly D&D things that could be put anywhere.

    Epic Meepo

    Quote from: JharvissPerhaps that's bordering on what every other RPG forum does, but having a setting-neutral area would certainly see use.
    I agree that every other rpg forum seems to do tons and tons of setting-neutral crunch (new classes, races, monsters, spells, etc.) but setting-neutral fluff is much rarer. You don't see too many forums generating cities, cultures, and non-rule-intensive stuff to insert in existing campaigns. Maybe that's where we could come in.
    The Unfinished World campaign setting
    Proud recipient of a Silver Dorito Award.
    Unless noted otherwise, this post contains no Open Game Content.
    [spoiler=OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a]OPEN GAME LICENSE Version 1.0a
    The following text is the property of Wizards of the Coast, Inc. and is Copyright 2000 Wizards of the Coast, Inc ("Wizards"). All Rights Reserved.

    1. Definitions: (a)"Contributors" means the copyright and/or trademark owners who have contributed Open Game Content; (b)"Derivative Material" means copyrighted material including derivative works and translations (including into other computer languages), potation, modification, correction, addition, extension, upgrade, improvement, compilation, abridgment or other form in which an existing work may be recast, transformed or adapted; (c) "Distribute" means to reproduce, license, rent, lease, sell, broadcast, publicly display, transmit or otherwise distribute; (d)"Open Game Content" means the game mechanic and includes the methods, procedures, processes and routines to the extent such content does not embody the Product Identity and is an enhancement over the prior art and any additional content clearly identified as Open Game Content by the Contributor, and means any work covered by this License, including translations and derivative works under copyright law, but specifically excludes Product Identity. (e) "Product Identity" means product and product line names, logos and identifying marks including trade dress; artifacts; creatures characters; stories, storylines, plots, thematic elements, dialogue, incidents, language, artwork, symbols, designs, depictions, likenesses, formats, poses, concepts, themes and graphic, photographic and other visual or audio representations; names and descriptions of characters, spells, enchantments, personalities, teams, personas, likenesses and special abilities; places, locations, environments, creatures, equipment, magical or supernatural abilities or effects, logos, symbols, or graphic designs; and any other trademark or registered trademark clearly identified as Product identity by the owner of the Product Identity, and which specifically excludes the Open Game Content; (f) "Trademark" means the logos, names, mark, sign, motto, designs that are used by a Contributor to identify itself or its products or the associated products contributed to the Open Game License by the Contributor (g) "Use", "Used" or "Using" means to use, Distribute, copy, edit, format, modify, translate and otherwise create Derivative Material of Open Game Content. (h) "You" or "Your" means the licensee in terms of this agreement.

    2. The License: This License applies to any Open Game Content that contains a notice indicating that the Open Game Content may only be Used under and in terms of this License. You must affix such a notice to any Open Game Content that you Use. No terms may be added to or subtracted from this License except as described by the License itself. No other terms or conditions may be applied to any Open Game Content distributed using this License.

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    15 COPYRIGHT NOTICE
    Open Game License v 1.0 Copyright 2000, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.

    System Reference Document Copyright 2000-2003, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Skip Williams, Rich Baker, Andy Collins, David Noonan, Rich Redman, Bruce R. Cordell, based on original material by E. Gary Gygax and Dave Arneson.

    Modern System Reference Doument Copyright 2002, Wizards of the Coast, Inc.; Authors Bill Slavicsek, Jeff Grubb, Rich Redman, Charles Ryan, based on material by Jonathan Tweet, Monte Cook, Richard Baker, Peter Adkison, Bruce R. Cordell, John Tynes, Andy Collins, and JD Walker.

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    Epic Meepoââ,¬â,,¢s forum posts at www.thecbg.org Copyright 2006-2007, E.W. Morton.

    Cebexia, Tapestry of the Gods Copyright 2006-2007, the Campaign Builder's Guild.[/spoiler]