>> The real question is, does one consider a "mapper" or other utility a >> game? I certainly think not, but I'm biased. :) The problem is said >> software is very much related to a game, it's used to build content >> for a game, so could the term "computer gaming software" apply to it? >> Maybe, I don't know. My lawyer also doesn't know either. IMHO the problem is that "games" are context sensitive. Normally the creation of a character for an RPG, such as D20, when done by a player when alone, probably would not be considered a game. But in other RPGs, and sometimes D20, characters are interactively developed with the DM and the other players may present -- this would make character creation a game. Normally writing a research paper would be considered work, but if you and your friends are competing based on the grade you attain, it becomes a game. If you write a 9 page paper, that really needs to be 10 and you start playing with the margins, font types, line spacing -- the word processor may now become a game (User making format adjustments are the inputs, the requirement that the result is 10pgs is the RULE, if you can get it to be 10pgs you succeed, otherwise you fail.) Again, IMHO, it is all about context, and this is where I feel the danger lies in creating any D20 software at this point in time. >From what I recall, Ryan Dancey once mentioned that the plan is to relax the software clause, or provide a seperate licence, for creating software. In the mean time, develop the software under the OGL, let word of mouth and well planned screen shots be your advertisement that the software can be used with D20. -- Michael Cortez http://www.TiniResources.com ------------- For more information, please link to www.opengamingfoundation.org
