Max Lieberman
This reprint collection of comic-format game books starring the gritty antiheroes (or worse) of 2000 AD was a joy, and had me rolling dice at the breakfast table to get in one more game before starting work.
"What is it about the 2000 AD of 40 years ago that's so compelling?" is not a question that an American should try to answer. The knowing, self-mocking cynicism is part of it, and the sheer overwhelm of young talent who would go on to do even more great work in the decades since.
As for game books, I won't argue anything profound. They're shallow power fantasies with a bit of gambling and a bit of puzzle-solving mixed in, and that's simply fun. They're adventure games without software, and there's a bit of meta-fun in seeing how to construct a thing like that out of pulped wood and ink.
I'm not sure I would have paid cover price for the fun here, but I sure don't regret the library trip.
This reprint collection of comic-format game books starring the gritty antiheroes (or worse) of 2000 AD was a joy, and had me rolling dice at the breakfast table to get in one more game before starting work.
"What is it about the 2000 AD of 40 years ago that's so compelling?" is not a question that an American should try to answer. The knowing, self-mocking cynicism is part of it, and the sheer overwhelm of young talent who would go on to do even more great work in the decades since.
As for game books, I won't argue anything profound. They're shallow power fantasies with a bit of gambling and a bit of puzzle-solving mixed in, and that's simply fun. They're adventure games without software, and there's a bit of meta-fun in seeing how to construct a thing like that out of pulped wood and ink.
I'm not sure I would have paid cover price for the fun here, but I sure don't regret the library trip.