[sturmkraehe]

Great discussion!

Though I have to take issue with this comment by Nightwalker -

"So, I would argue that D&D is NOT an RPG, as I define the term, but rather a tactical board game with overtures at being an RPG."

Have you read the DMG yet? Have you actually played 4th yet? I agree, 4th has more tactical board game elements in it than prior editions and that the mechanics for conducting that type of play are contained in the PHB. However, the DMG has some of the best writing I have ever read on the topic of roleplaying and running a game that focuses on quality roleplay that caters to all styles of players.

To counter - I would argue that while it is up to the players to "play" in character and to act out the roles they have chosen, it is the DM who provides the environment to do this. It is also the DM who will provide the inspiration for the players to feel free to fill these roles. I think the DMG is the proper and primary place to address roleplaying concerns.

In actual play, we have found that 4th is just as rich a roleplaying experience as any of the other editions ever were with the added benefit of a rules system that breaks up the monotony of the formulaic play that charactized our 3.5 game (which, admittedly, never got above level 6).

What basis are you using to say that D&D 4th is not an RPG? I am confused.