Well, I'm not playing on hardcore level so I really don't care <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/winkwink.gif" alt="" />
I'm just pointing out some issues that randomness in player rewards can have in a game design. Some people will think they have a 30% chance of getting a reward at level up... others will think that there is a 70% chance they are punished. Is that bottle of beer half full or half empty?? <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/winkwink.gif" alt="" />
I work with game design myself and we've had these discussions many times. Some players (actually myself included) can accept random events/rewards and will just "go with the flow" in a game - knowing that nomatter what the gods of fate throws their way they'll probably be able to complete the game. Others *hate* it... the logical decision as a game developer: let the player choose, for christ sake <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/winkwink.gif" alt="" />
Whether or not reloading is cheating should be up to the individual player.. in fact, what is cheating anyway? Want to use a skill editor? Go ahead! Want god mode? Go ahead... I don't care. As a game developer all I want is for you, the player, to have as much fun as possible - because then I sell more games.
Gamers tend to think game development is more "art" than "business".. Personally, I believe it's a (tough!) business where the game developer tries to include as many of his/her "artistic" ideas as at all possible while staying within budget and maintaining a large player base.
- Telemachos