Hey everyone! Adam, from TFG Radio, here to help you remember the basics!
As we already know, I am in a lot of Facebook groups. Many of them are dedicated to the discussion of the rules of the game. Even so, there are many rules questions brought up in all of my other groups. This even includes groups that are more casual, or non competitive. Although the best edition, so far, 8th edition does have it’s issues. That being said, many questions being asked can easily be answered. All you had to do was actually read the rules.
Over the years, as a judge and one time competitive player, I have developed the habit of looking at the relevant book as soon as I am asked a question, or I have a question myself. Many times I see questions that could easily be answered by just opening up the book, going to the correct page, and reading what is written. Many times it really is as simple as that. It’s usually not that hard. Also, please be sure to read the whole section you are looking at. There have been many times where there was a misunderstanding because someone did not read the whole entry of a stratagem, or section of the book. I, admittedly, also do this sometimes, especially when a new codex drops. Its helps save time and energy if you first look at the book, and actually read it. This is especially true during a tournament. If you have to stop the game for a question, you should spend that time looking through your book for the answer, since the judge will have to look through that same book anyway. Many times you will actually find the answer before the judge gets there so don’t worry, we won’t be mad if you find the answer before we get there. I know that there are times where you just don’t have access to the relevant book. That’s ok, just let people know so you can avoid the teasing associated when such questions are asked.
I understand that the game, although the best version yet, has a lot of ambiguities. I am not saying that you shouldn’t ask any questions. All I am saying is that maybe you should research your question by actually looking at your codex, or rulebook, to make sure that the answer to your question is right there. Even as a judge, there are times that I miss where the correct answer to a question is located. With the number of codexes, FAQs, and designer’s notes out in the wild, it is starting to become more difficult to locate the answer you are looking for. All this means is that there is just more to look through. I’m not saying you should be perfect, but what I am saying is that, before posting a question, you should do your due diligence and check with your available sources. It will save you time, and, more importantly, give you some peace of mind.
That’s all for this week, I hope you enjoyed the read. Let me know your thoughts, and some of the more odd questions you have been asked, in the comments section. Don’t forget to visit our Facebook, Twitch, and Patreon pages to stay up to date on what we’re up to and when episodes drop!
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It also helps when reading, that if you have to pretend punctuation isn’t present, or that the person writing it “probably meant x” to assume a plain reading is more accurate. In particular when it breaks the mold of the way other similar abilities work.
The hard truth is: this game requires a small amount of critical thinking and reading comprehension. It isn’t meant for everyone.