[sturmkraehe]

I have to take issue with Capnzapp's conclusion as well.

No, it's not hard sci fi and no, it's not a game that values technology and vehicle design above character development. It's what you make of it just like any other RPG out there. As far as RPG's go, though, it's pretty abstract. This abstractness gives the GM a lot of latitude to build plot on the fly, but also requires the GM to be pretty creative.

What value you get from this game has a lot to do with what is put into it and I don't think the rules can be faulted if Capnzapp's experience was less than stellar.

" That might be the ner'ds dream, to finally be able to defeat the jocks using science, but it didn't leave much room for characterization of PCs and NPCs, no intrigue, no drama."

I find this statement ridiculous and demeaning. I suggest capnzapp try playing Traveller with a real GM. :-)