RPG Superstar 2015
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Marathon Voter Season 6, Marathon Voter Season 7, Marathon Voter Season 8, Star Voter Season 9
aka mamaursula
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Oh dear me, if I make it , I will skew that terribly - let's just say "played in the 70s" shall we?
Oh, my wife entered this year. I knew she would eventually.
I am not under any pressure now...
no sir, everything is fine here, move along now.
Oh no. Mrs. Anthony Adam entered? Why didn't I get this memo sooner? Now I feel like a slacker.
RPG Superstar 2012 Top 32
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Champion Voter Season 6, Champion Voter Season 7, Champion Voter Season 8, Champion Voter Season 9
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Oh, my wife entered this year. I knew she would eventually.
I am not under any pressure now...
no sir, everything is fine here, move along now.
Oh gosh, the irony if your wife made it and you didn't. She will hold it over your head for so long.
Oh gosh, the irony if your wife made it and you didn't. She will hold it over your head for so long.Oh, my wife entered this year. I knew she would eventually.
I am not under any pressure now...
no sir, everything is fine here, move along now.
Template Fu might just get very snarky in such circumstances.
"Italicized the comma between spells in the crafting requirements section! One point! And she SNORES. Five points!"
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Oh gosh, the irony if your wife made it and you didn't. She will hold it over your head for so long.Oh, my wife entered this year. I knew she would eventually.
I am not under any pressure now...
no sir, everything is fine here, move along now.
Template Fu might just get very snarky in such circumstances.
"Italicized the comma between spells in the crafting requirements section! One point! And she SNORES. Five points!"
Having seen the inventiveness of her item, I can confirm her template is spotless (who would have thought that?) - I like the item but I may be biased.
And she has entered under her maiden name so none of you lot will recognize her - he he, she does look after me :)
Plus the competition runs through Valentines Day AND MY birthday, so I have to behave.
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This is something that's often bugged me about Superstar, even the Paizo staff talk about it like it's just some fun little contest that everyone should try, but then they turn around and remind everyone it's serious business and is in effect a job interview. There's not...While I understand your concern about the dichotomy, please don't lose track that the contest is also a LOT of fun. I'd argue in some ways it's the most fun I ever had in gaming, with just these intense periods of seeing what I could design, plus more feedback than I'd ever gotten (and the feedback from the voting public is as exciting as the feedback from the professionals). Even as I play less and less IRL due to conflicting schedules and whatnot, I've been as into gaming, if not moreso, in the two years since then than at an other point in my life.
While I know Paizo is looking for freelancers (as are other companies), any freelancer knows they shouldn't sign up for more than they can handle. Maybe for you (that's a generic "you"), that's one thing a year or maybe it's Neil Spicer/Jim Groves lvel of work. Whatever you choose to do with the work you earn via the contest (and I got one offer, which I didn't take, and didn't start going out to look for more work until after last year's contest), I guarantee you'll find Superstar itself a lot of fun.
Right. I am not saying it isn't fun, or that it shouldn't be fun -- and moreover anyone who doesn't have fun doing this kind of design stuff probably shouldn't be entering.
What I am saying is that people should keep the goal of the contest in mind. It is a contract, and ergo a commitment. I've seen people who enter just because they think it would be cool. I've seen entries from people who clearly were not anywhere near ready for a freelance contract and who probably would be overwhelmed if they got one. I've seen people encourage others to enter just because "it's a good idea to try" or "to get yourself out there" or it's "good experience for newbies." But what if they win, and then they're like, "You know what, I'm not interested in designing modules, bye." Or they fail to deliver. And whoever was more or less in second place, who is dying to really get into the business and really needed this opportunity to help them, gets effectively screwed out an opportunity which they would take seriously and put their all into it.
Basically, I think if you enter, you shouldn't be aiming for top 32, you should be aiming for the grand prize. And if you don't think you can hack the grand prize, then why enter? I am aware people disagree with that attitude, but that is how I feel.
Also, to be clear, I think you can take something seriously AND have fun doing it. The concepts should not be opposite one another. Generally if we love the work we do, we take it seriously and enjoy it immensely, both.
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I...
...Deathquaker, you sort of rocked my world on this subject.
This contest has been on my mind a fair bit this year, certainly more than last year, which was my first in the hobby.
I think you just crystalized for me what I've had a hard time figuring out for myself, in that I have no interest in the grand prize.
I do not want my hobby to become work or a job. I like my career very much already and I am proud of what I have built in it.
It makes me wonder why I would bother cluttering up a field that means so much to others who have a passion for doing this, a passion that I basically lack.
okay I am all done navel gazing thank you
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That's why I don't enter: while I am interested in game design, both crunch and fluff, I am not feeling like writing modules - I make notes for my session and GM in much more PC-oriented way and have hard time creating (or using) generic adventures that aren't in some way related to specific individuals involved.
I...
...Deathquaker, you sort of rocked my world on this subject.
This contest has been on my mind a fair bit this year, certainly more than last year, which was my first in the hobby.
I think you just crystalized for me what I've had a hard time figuring out for myself, in that I have no interest in the grand prize.
I do not want my hobby to become work or a job. I like my career very much already and I am proud of what I have built in it.
It makes me wonder why I would bother cluttering up a field that means so much to others who have a passion for doing this, a passion that I basically lack.okay I am all done navel gazing thank you
I have seen this type of discussion flying around quite a bit lately, and it seems to be a new kind of discussion from what I have read in year's past. It seems unfortunate to me that because the endgame of this contest is a freelance contract, that worthy submissions won't be entered because "I don't want that prize". I for one, have no idea how I would manage a freelance contract. I'm not even sure I would be good at it. But if this contest helps determine that I am qualified, I am going to give it a shot.
Just don't use "I don't really want that prize" or "I don't think I could handle the commitment" as an excuse not to enter. Just do it. If at the very least to present worthy competition at every point you are able. AND THIS IS FUN!!!
I know the intention of the contest is to discover hidden talent, but if people not entering because they don't actually want to be a writer is a problem hindering the growth of this competition to what they want it to be, I have to believe they will find a way to address it. They are pretty smart people.
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Right. I am not saying it isn't fun, or that it shouldn't be fun -- and moreover anyone who doesn't have fun doing this kind of design stuff probably shouldn't be entering.
What I am saying is that people should keep the goal of the contest in mind. It is a contract, and ergo a commitment. I've seen people who enter just because they think it would be cool. I've seen entries from people who clearly were not anywhere near ready for a freelance contract and who probably would be overwhelmed if they got one. I've seen people encourage others to enter just because "it's a good idea to try" or "to get yourself out there" or it's "good experience for newbies." But what if they win, and then they're like, "You know what, I'm not interested in designing modules, bye." Or they fail to deliver. And whoever was more or less in second place, who is dying to really get into the business and really needed this opportunity to help them, gets effectively screwed out an opportunity which they would take seriously and put their all into it.
First, I disagree that you shouldn't enter a contest if you think you have no chance of winning. It is good experience, and it teaches you some of what you need to be able to do to freelance for Paizo (even if what it teaches you is that you're not yet ready). (Although as Lamontius noted, I think it's plenty fair not to enter if you don't want to win.)
As far as second-place people getting "screwed out of an opportunity," getting second place doesn't mean you won't get work with Paizo; it just means you won't be the one writing the RPG Superstar module. We have, if I recall correctly, several regular freelancers who made it to the final round, as well as at least one person working for us who was a finalist but not a winner. Great freelancers are a precious commodity, and we're not going to pass up someone who shows all the signs of being one just because he or she didn't get the grand prize.
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What I am saying is that people should keep the goal of the contest in mind. It is a contract, and ergo a commitment. I've seen people who enter just because they think it would be cool. I've seen entries from people who clearly were not anywhere near ready for a freelance contract and who probably would be overwhelmed if they got one. I've seen people encourage others to enter just because "it's a good idea to try" or "to get yourself out there" or it's "good experience for newbies." But what if they win, and then they're like, "You know what, I'm not interested in designing modules, bye." Or they fail to deliver. And whoever was more or less in second place, who is dying to really get into the business and really needed this opportunity to help them, gets effectively screwed out an opportunity which they would take seriously and put their all into it.
I wrestled with this notion for a number of years as an RPG Superstar judge, because I was always juxtaposing it with my experience as a competitor. I went into RPG Superstar already knowing what freelancing entailed and absolutely desiring that final prize. Many others do, too. And yet, I also know a lot of people were obviously entering just for fun. Some of them learned things about themselves in the process. And, just from a community involvement perspective, everyone felt like they had a part to play even if they had no driving desire to win the whole thing. I used to worry that the latter individuals might design a compelling enough wondrous item to make the Top 32 and nudge out someone who almost made it in (i.e., an alternate or someone else from the Keep folder) with stronger aspirations of becoming a workhorse freelancer. I don't know how often that circumstance may have come about, but my stance over the past couple of years on the subject went from "preferring only the 'serious' competitors submit" to "there's room for everyone to enjoy this contest and no one should be discouraged from taking their shot and entering a submission for any reason."
Why?
Lots of reasons. As Jessica (and others) pointed out, it's a good experience regardless of what happens. You learn stuff. Stuff about game design, as well as stuff about yourself and how others view the creativity you share with them. Even if you come into the competition with little desire for the final prize, the experience itself just might change you if you give it a go.
Secondly, I think it broadens the appeal of the contest to see as many different takes on creative designs, as possible. That actually helps others learn in addition to yourself. I can't count the number of times as a judge that I'd review what a promising designer had chosen to do with an item design or monster design, etc., and it would educate me on other ways of doing things or other niches for development. So, by participating, you're actually helping others, too.
Thirdly, it helps Paizo. The more people who participate, the more eyes it draws to the competition, their website, and their brand. Lisa Stevens brilliantly envisioned this contest and it's served not only the intended purpose of restocking their freelancer pool as many of us move on, raise families, and get involved in other things. But, it also brings more attention to Paizo and ultimately helps market their brand and their products even further, because of all those people who submit...as well as all those people who stick around to support and vote for their favorite designers.
Lastly, I think it's good for the game. Every year, this contest stirs up more and more creativity. It literally helps educate and even train future game designers...and not just for those who will go on to become professional freelancers...rather, it also trains up and widens the skills of those who use the lessons and experiences here just to enhance their home campaigns, whether they're GMs or players.
The contest...much like Paizo...is a key mechanism for ensuring this hobby grows and continues to flourish. So, if for no other reason than that, why not submit an item, particiipate in the contest, and support the expansion and growth of the hobby? Even if you don't make the Top 32, stick around as a voter and encourage those who do. Even if you make the contest and don't have a huge desire to win the final prize, participate for as far and as long as you can, and then settle things up at the end, either by deferring to someone else, voluntarily taking yourself out of consideration, or whatever. The other competitors will carry on. Someone among the finalists will have the driving desire to see it through. There's no shortage of people who want the final prize, and, if you're using your lack of desire for it as an excuse not to participate, choose to do so anyway using one of the reasons listed above. I don't think you'll regret it. And no one else will either. In the end, it's about putting yourself out there, taking what you can from the experience, giving what you can to others, and supporting Paizo and the growth of the hobby.
But that's just my two cents,
--Neil
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It should also be noted that there have been several examples of people making the Top 32 and then stepping down. Their choice has generally been very well recieved by the community, and none have gone away with anything but good will and the satisfaction of knowing they had what it takes. And they nominate a handful of alternates for this very reason.
I would love to vote on items created by DeathQuaker and/or Lamontius.
Well if Lamontius isn't entering, I'll respect his decision and not guilt-trip him into doing otherwise. (At the same time, if he decides it's something he wants after all, I will cheerlead him wholeheartedly.)
But I, like last year, am entering, so you damn well better vote for me. ;)
First, I disagree that you shouldn't enter a contest if you think you have no chance of winning.Right. I am not saying it isn't fun, or that it shouldn't be fun -- and moreover anyone who doesn't have fun doing this kind of design stuff probably shouldn't be entering.
What I am saying is that people should keep the goal of the contest in mind. It is a contract, and ergo a commitment. I've seen people who enter just because they think it would be cool. I've seen entries from people who clearly were not anywhere near ready for a freelance contract and who probably would be overwhelmed if they got one. I've seen people encourage others to enter just because "it's a good idea to try" or "to get yourself out there" or it's "good experience for newbies." But what if they win, and then they're like, "You know what, I'm not interested in designing modules, bye." Or they fail to deliver. And whoever was more or less in second place, who is dying to really get into the business and really needed this opportunity to help them, gets effectively screwed out an opportunity which they would take seriously and put their all into it.
I never said that and I don't know what gave you the idea that I did. My concern was the opposite -- that someone who has no INTEREST in winning enters and wins, and kills the spotlight for someone else who is taking this as a real opportunity to do something they love.
To coin a phrase, I believe contestants should keep their eye on the prize.
I respect the disagreement with me on this thread--indeed, it's always warming to see how passionate folks are about this contest--and you know what? I'm probably wrong. But I know how I feel about this personally and I stand by my opinion that there is a gravity to the prize involved that should be acknowledged and respected and borne in mind. But that's just an opinion, and it and a buck-eighty-nine will get you a cup of coffee.
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A buck eight nine? I wholly support DeathQuaker's desire not to drink from Starbucks.
But I, like last year, am entering, so you damn well better vote for me. ;)
Unless her submission is against mine, in which case, you should clearly vote for me. ;)
Non-voters each receive a complimentary slaad larva, implanted free of charge.
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A buck eight nine? I wholly support DeathQuaker's desire not to drink from Starbucks.
Fortunately where I live there are a few good local coffee shops that serve better coffee for cheaper. ;)
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RPG Superstar 2015
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Marathon Voter Season 6, Marathon Voter Season 7, Marathon Voter Season 8, Star Voter Season 9
aka mamaursula
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But I, like last year, am entering, so you damn well better vote for me. ;)
Of course, but only because you asked so nicely ;-)
You know where to find me if you need a proof reader. Good luck!
DeathQuaker,
I think you're reading more heat into my response than was there. :-)
I took this:
Basically, I think if you enter, you shouldn't be aiming for top 32, you should be aiming for the grand prize.
as saying if you didn't think you could make it past the first round, you shouldn't enter, but clearly, from your subsequent post, I mistook your meaning.
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...she stated that she knows too little about magic items to participate this year.
Don't let her get away with that!! The beginner's perspective will give her an edge so long as she does her homework. :)
(I hadn't so much as LOOKED at a wondrous item stat block when I started on my first submission.)
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Just stumbled across this video: women and how they are represented at the end of 2013
Makes me even more happy that Paizo is who they are.
Sadly enough, I didn't even realize how badly represented women still are in this day and age. :(
*flops*
I remember this great discussion last year!
And then I got a job and all the time I had tried to put into a resource for women gamers sort of ... well...
I failed.
Apologies now, and for the moment - I'll be cheering here on the sidelines hoping that I can stop and take a breath after Christmas.
Don't beat yourself up, Amy. Creating those resources is a lot of work. :-)
*flops*
I remember this great discussion last year!
And then I got a job and all the time I had tried to put into a resource for women gamers sort of ... well...
I failed.
Apologies now, and for the moment - I'll be cheering here on the sidelines hoping that I can stop and take a breath after Christmas.
I would not call it failing, Amy.
It was an excellent effort that attracted a small group of passionate women.
Unfortunately, it so happened that RL hit you and several other members of this small group very hard, which was not a factor you had any control over. These things happen. And unfortunately it happened before the small group had a chance to become a large one.
I think it was a worthy and inspiring first attempt. Oftentimes to get something successful going, you pretty much have to have a few first attempts that didn't quite get there.
I think it also helped inspire Monica start off this blog which is a great read.
I thank you for trying it and I really hope you or someone else picks up that ball and tries again. Maybe it will be me, even, though not at this time (working on some other projects).
As an aside, I've worked on and off on a d20 Modern revision I have sometimes been tempted to drag some of the other women designers into, as a project. I have no idea how to coordinate it however, even if there would be interested folks. (And I want to finish the bits of it I am working on first.)
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RPG Superstar 2015
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Marathon Voter Season 6, Marathon Voter Season 7, Marathon Voter Season 8, Star Voter Season 9
aka mamaursula
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*flops*
I remember this great discussion last year!
And then I got a job and all the time I had tried to put into a resource for women gamers sort of ... well...
I failed.
Apologies now, and for the moment - I'll be cheering here on the sidelines hoping that I can stop and take a breath after Christmas.
I would not call it failing, Amy.
It was an excellent effort that attracted a small group of passionate women.
Unfortunately, it so happened that RL hit you and several other members of this small group very hard, which was not a factor you had any control over. These things happen. And unfortunately it happened before the small group had a chance to become a large one.
I think it was a worthy and inspiring first attempt. Oftentimes to get something successful going, you pretty much have to have a few first attempts that didn't quite get there.
I think it also helped inspire Monica start off this blog which is a great read.
I thank you for trying it and I really hope you or someone else picks up that ball and tries again. Maybe it will be me, even, though not at this time (working on some other projects).
As an aside, I've worked on and off on a d20 Modern revision I have sometimes been tempted to drag some of the other women designers into, as a project. I have no idea how to coordinate it however, even if there would be interested folks. (And I want to finish the bits of it I am working on first.)
It absolutely DID inspire me! Our group gave me the knowledge that I wasn't the only woman who felt the way I did about being a gamer, who happens to be a woman. Without the time we spent discussing and working, I wouldn't have found the place where I felt I could best use my voice.
Don't beat yourself up Amy. We all went through a lot these past 12 months. But the best part of life is we get a lot of "second chances".
Not only do I have my blog, which DeathQuaker linked to (which real life has prevented me from writing for the past couple months), I have a Facebook community by the same name and am working out the technical end for a podcast.
After only the smallest discussion and immediate agreement (which was easy since it was an internal monologue) I will be covering RPG SuperStar on my FB/blog. So I look forward to seeing everyone's feedback and if well received, I hope to make a positive contribution to this community.
The link to the FB community is right here .
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Oooo! Oooo! Blog? Blog? BLOG!
(Sorry, I am in deperate need of sleep at the moment.)
Well, good! It inspired something good!
And a Facebook community!
Most excellent! Reading both now!