I'd prefer to see the original trilogy rereleased with the original artwork... I'm not a huge fan of Clyde Caldwell (what is it with that round red gemstone?!?)
What I thought was funny was the whole "trying to find an in game explanation of the gem" school of thought when one of his paintings seemed to dominate the "look" of a given character (for example Strahd).
NOw - I'm NOT saying this is the reason new artwork is added to older books - but *I* for one have on several occasions bought new books - only to bring them home and discover that they are not new - but have new art on them.
And I work in a bookstore!
Certainly - making it more attractive to a current 'demographic' of buyer may be another aspect. While I really enjoy the Elmore/Parkinson/ Etc line of artists - I don't overly dis-like any of the current crop of artists. They are different - and if that helps them sell more - than so be it. More sales will hopefully lead to more fans - and more new books coming out.
I'm not positive about this - but I would say that the Forgotten Realms is probably the 2nd most prolific Shared-World project ever! I would imagine that Start Trek may still be ahead of it - but I see that franchise in shared-world seemingly coming out with fewer new titles these days. Heck - I remember when we would get in as many as 3-4 new Trek novels a month! (or so it seemed at least!)
Dhomal
I am collecting the D&D Minis. I would be more than willing to trade with people. You can send me a PM here with your email listed - and I can send you my minis list. Thanks!
Judging books by their covers....sort of.
Posted - 24 Feb 2006 : 18:17:00
