Quote:
Originally Posted by TAFMSV
The real key to appreciating the no-surge system of previous versions is placing it in its proper context: multiple encounters fought sequentially over the course of a day. A single equal-level encounter is not necessarily a real threat to the PCs’ lives on its own. But if they are careless early on, and need to spend all their HP, spells, and potions they may not have enough to recover from later fights. If players have to sweat over each healing spell and first-aid, combat becomes far more intense and meaningful. Solitary combat simulations are a poor way to test any version of D&D because they miss out on this dynamic.
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While I agree that this is true to an extent of any edition, I'm still convinced that it is more true of 4e. Perhaps I should clarify that I'm thinking primarily of low-level play here; it's the kind most people experience and I'm willing to bet the review was based on low-level simulations. In older editions, low-level play (in my experience) tends to be swingy: you can die fast from a single encounter, or you can get through unscathed. But in 4e, you're virtually assured some damage in every encounter, and the emphasis is on gradual whittling down of resources.
I mean this to be taken in a relative, not an absolute manner, of course.
"Honestly, I don't really like getting stabbed in the face with a short sword, either, but I play anyway."
Priceless!
shortforbob