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Open Beta Testing for FFG’s Only War RPG

Wizards of the Coast isn’t the only company holding an open RPG beta test as Fantasy Flight Games has begun their own open beta on Only War, a role playing game set in the Warhammer 40k universe. I will point out this is not a free playtest and there are more details below.

From FFG:

Only War is a Warhammer 40,000 roleplaying game in which players take on the roles of soldiers in the galaxy-spanning armies of the Imperium, and the Only War beta test is your chance to stand on the front lines of its development! As part of the Only War beta test, you’ll provide valuable reconnaissance for the war effort, as you help us to craft the best possible final product.

What is the Only War beta test?

The beta test is a chance for players to carefully play through the game system and help us create an enjoyable roleplaying experience. This book is a shortened version of the final core rulebook; it contains all the necessary rules for playing through a complete campaign of Only War. This test allows fans to play the game before the official release and allows us to address any issues that may be found.

Why is there a cost to participate?

Bear in mind that the Only War beta is a complete, 256-page playable version of Only War; the only difference is that it omits certain art pieces and background “flavor” that will be present in the final version. This product has already undergone extensive development, playtesting, and refinement, and we have no doubt that it’s ready to provide hours of enjoyment. What’s more, Only War beta test participants have an opportunity to experience the game months before they otherwise would!

As an added benefit, anyone who downloads the Only War beta from drivethrurpg.com or rpgnow.com will receive a $20 discount on the pdf version of the Only War Core Rulebook when it becomes available in the fall. Simply download the beta, and when the full rulebook goes live in a few months, you’ll receive the necessary coupon code for use on drivethrurpg.com or rpgnow.com.

How do I join it?

Simply download the game, play some sessions, and offer your feedback! Available for download through drivethrurpg.com and rpgnow.com, the Only War beta provides an abridged, electronic version of the full book.

How often should my group plan on playing?

As often as possible! It would be ideal if your group makes time to play at least four sessions over the course of the beta period (ending August 24th, 2012). Before your first session, it is a good idea to prepare by reading through the rulebook to make sure things go smoothly. Since you will only have a limited number of weeks to submit feedback, holding a session every week would be best.

What should my group be looking for as we play?

The most important part of this beta test is to make sure the game is enjoyable. Don’t let your group get held up by trying to proofread every paragraph of the book. Instead, play through the game as if you just bought it from the store and note anything that causes a problem, dispute, or conflict during gameplay.

What kind of feedback is FFG looking for?

Please provide precise, well thought out, and concise comments on specific issues that come up during your sessions. Good feedback states the issue at hand and accurately cites page numbers and rules contradictions therein. We are primarily concerned with issues that affect gameplay, such as missing rules entries, examples that are inconsistent with the rules text, and balance or clarity issues.

How do I submit my feedback?

There are two main methods for you to submit your feedback.

There are two main methods for you to submit your feedback about this beta. First, watch this website, which will be updated weekly with the latest news and game updates from the development team. There is a public forum where players can discuss the beta test with the other people involved, post questions and feedback, and read news updates from the Warhammer 40,000 Roleplay team.

Second, you can submit any specific reports or feedback directly to the development team at the beta test e-mail address ([email protected]). When submitting your feedback via e-mail, it is most helpful to us if you consolidate multiple questions and comments into a single message, rather than sending a separate e-mail for each question or comment.

When do I need to submit my feedback?

The deadline for all feedback on this beta test is August 24th, 2012.

Jeff McAleer

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