[Andrew Montgomery]

I thought these were three solid, unbiased, middle-of-the-road reviews. Good work.

I have mixed feelings about 4e as well. While I think it is the best incarnation of D&D I have seen in a long while, it is still--when the day is done--D&D. I am in the middle of running a 4e campaign right now (the first time I've DM'd a lengthy campaign in 20 years)and what strikes me is how little the game has really changed. The mechanics have altered, but it still plays pretty much the same as it always did. The core of the game is and always has been kicking down doors, killing things, and getting treasure. This isn't to say 4e is less roleplaying focused than its predecessors (its not), nor is it impossible to get some deep roleplaying in; you can (and my group does). It's just that while the system has become increasing streamlined and cohesive, the game still holds the same habits.

Of course, I'm not sure that's a bad thing. After all, it has the same name as earlier editions and thus should be expected to maintain some continuity with them.

I am enjoying my campaign, but D&D is never going to be my cup of tea. But laying my personal likes and dislikes aside, I do honest believe this is the best edition yet.