For those who don't know me, my name is Justin D. Jacobson. By way of credentials: I am an RPG designer and publisher under my company name, Blue Devil Games. I've written Poisoncraft, Passages, and several others. I've published the critically acclaimed Dawning Star line. My publications have been nominated for seven ENnies. I've won a game design award (for my traditional-style game Golem). I've had material published in Monte's Year's Best d20. I'm an attorney by trade (where have we seen that before?) and a very experienced writer.
By way of full disclosure, I did submit an entry and (obviously) was not selected among the top 32. I confess, I was personally disappointed with the quality of the writing of some of the finalists, which was exacerbated by some of the judges’ comments. It's pretty clear that creativity was the top priority and actual writing was a pretty distant second. I don’t begrudge the judges for using their own criteria for selecting the top 32; this isn’t a manifestation of sour grapes. I hope it is taken in the spirit in which it is given: an opportunity for growth and development.
I’ve decided to go through the top 32 and offer my critiques. This will be unexpurgated criticism. I won’t be intentionally mean or dismissive, but I will not pull punches either. These critiques will focus on the writing, which is comprised of two components: (1) fundamental writing issues such as grammar, spelling, etc. and (2) presentation of the game elements, including mechanical flaws, omissions, and proper word usage. I will NOT be engaging in criticism of the underlying concepts, game balance issues, costing, etc.
Why am I doing this? Mostly for kicks. But I also think it can be helpful to potential freelancers to see some honest criticism of their work. I’m doing this from the perspective of a game publisher. These are things I’d be concerned about if I got these submissions for publication myself. I confess I’m a bit of a stickler about these things, and I don’t like to see them glossed over.
By way of standing offer, if you entered the contest and were not selected for the top 32 and would like me to critique your entry, feel free to post it here and I will do so.
Posts