Post originally by camazotz at 2005-03-06 04:59:03
Converted from Phorums BB System

I now have ti in my hands, after stopping in at the FLGS....wasn't planning to drop $50, but it was worth it, I have now decided.

I can see where the reviewer is correct: the vast bulk of the art is impressive, and adds a lot, but a few older illustrations are missing that I hope get reused elsewhere, and a couple key illustrations (trust me, you'll know which ones) suggest that the artist might be a relative or have some connection to Monte Cook and crew which insured a spot in the art in spite of the amateur quality. It wouldn't be so noticeable, but some of these illos are used in the class/race section....where impressionable, art-minded players will be quick to judge (at least, they are in my group).

On the other hand, the artists who provided the cover to "Siege on Ebonring Keep" has moved from "amateur with promise" to wow....just wow, this guy's style is unique, dynamic, and impressive. I love how he, and many fo the other artists, seem to be really in touch with the use of lighting as a mechanism in their color art. Fantastic. The art alone validated the cost to me; its so evocatve of the setting.

Any AU fan would be remiss if he/she didn't pick this book up; a new entrant could hardly go wrong here, either; AE is reminding me of what really good, inspirational games can do, and gives me hope for the future of the hobby. This, plus GOO's release of Tekumel, are great lead ins to the rest of the year.

Still, if you're budget minded: the old AU will still do you fine, at least until you can save up for this one. ;-)