As far as I can see, Indie is almost totally about innovation. There are very few games which have the idea of developing a line (Sorcerer and A|State have, octaNe or Burning Wheel might have).

Of the Indie game companies that produce more than one game, they tend to go for very different things in subsequent games.

I think this is one reason that the real industry players always come along to see what's happening away from the mainstream. It's where the ideas are, but not necessarily the interest or business acumen to push the idea from game to line.

I think there's a tendency for Indie games to initially attract people who want something different. It's not that surprising that they continue to want that and so always adopt the new quickly.

But, is that any different to the folks who always want the latest supplement? Maybe in the community's focus on Buy to Play over Buy to Read...

-Matt

Realms Publishing

I think that raises an interesting point about the differences in the buying habits of different areas of the RPG community. Anecdotal evidence would suggest that those who purchase more indie games tend to buy with the distinct agenda of wanting to play those games and talk about those play experiences. Then again, I'm not sure how many of those who tend towards buying 'traditional' games buy purely to read or always buy with the intention to play.

I sometime wonder though, do we see innovation as an end in itself, rather than purely a means to provide more satisfying or well directed play?

Cheers
Malcolm

Contested Ground Studios