Rattlehead said: People have to remember that the effort required to put something like this together is time consuming and people distributing the book to those that haven't paid for it will likely discourage authors from writing more books in the future that benefit all of us.
Not sure how that would happen by printing it. There is no DRM in it to stop distribution. Just a lock on printing.
Essentially it forces you to buy the print edition if you're not a fan of PDFs.
Personally, I'm not a huge fan of PDFs. If I ever bought this (doubtful) I'd want to have a hard copy of something - a certain chapter, for example, or a particular example.
So I'd have, essentially, one to six pages on the table next to the laptop that I can refer to. If I wanted to make notes, I could scribble on the pages in the right place.
It's more convenient for me, as an end user, to have the relevant pages I want next to me that I can make notes on.
It's NOT convenient for me to have an entire book open next to me, that I wouldn't want to write on because what I'm using is relevant to just one game.
I've stayed out of this because I feel Photic's book would probably help a lot of people (and it seems to be doing that). Its one of the reasons I agreed to answer a couple of questions for it.
There will still be people that prefer an entire book on their bookshelf and don't want the hassle of having to print out every page and bind it together in a book themselves. And it's good that there's an option for this with the book version.
But disabling 'print', and then suggesting that the only option is to buy 'both' versions of the guide just comes across as greed.
I think there needs to be better "examples" from the chapters too, so that people can get a better idea of what the book actually contains before buying it.
I know theres already a chapter available...but to be honest it doesnt actually show anything that we dont already know.
I wasnt too keen on the blunt response VegasMike got when he suggested something similar.
I dunno.... Im interested in the book, but the whole way its being sold and pushed across the forums, and the responses people are getting when asking about it, are really putting me off.
Maybe someone with a copy, and with good overall experience of GameSalad should do an honest, non biased review...
quantumsheep said:But disabling 'print', and then suggesting that the only option is to buy 'both' versions of the guide just comes across as greed.
Actually, if you're referring the reply to POLYGAMe, that comment was more silliness. I don't expect people to buy both versions.
Either way it's an issue. If I make it a printable PDF, those that bought the printed version can feel ripped off because they don't get a digital copy. I tried to help out people who wanted a printed copy, or who didn't want to (or couldn't) use Google Checkout, by putting the book on Lulu.com.
Chunkypixels said: Maybe someone with a copy, and with good overall experience of GameSalad should do an honest, non biased review...
There has been feedback in this thread. Lulu.com also has a comments section. Maybe when the printed copies reach their destination, some reviews will pop up.
Photics said: Actually, if you're referring the reply to POLYGAMe, that comment was more silliness. I don't expect people to buy both versions.
Either way it's an issue. If I make it a printable PDF, those that bought the printed version can feel ripped off because they don't get a digital copy. I tried to help out people who wanted a printed copy, or who didn't want to (or couldn't) use Google Checkout, by putting the book on Lulu.com.
I don't think it is and issue, Photics. People who want a printed version, as I mentioned, want it because it's easier to read and more convenient for them. They like to rifle through a book and have something physical they can refer to.
For them, it's a great option and they pay the money because it suits them better.
Making the PDF version printable won't piss off the three or four people that have bought the hardback copy. But it will make your PDF a more attractive option for those that don't mind reading on a screen, but would like to have the option to print out a physcial copy of a chapter, or even a single example as I noted.
Ball's in your park. I think I've made my point.
Cheers,
QS
EDIT: As to google checkout - never used it myself - use PayPal all the time. It's how I paid Ian, for example.
Making the book easy to buy is one way of ensuring you get more sales.
when you buy a printed book you don't expect a digital copy... and if you think they might feel ripped off then give them the pdf too it will make no difference to you.
quantumsheep said: I don't think it is and issue, Photics.
Oh, but it has been an issue. Heh, not all conversations about this book happen on this forum.
Making the PDF version printable won't piss off the three or four people that have bought the hardback copy. But it will make your PDF a more attractive option for those that don't mind reading on a screen, but would like to have the option to print out a physcial copy of a chapter, or even a single example as I noted.
I think there is a possible compromise. I'm going to look into it.
OK, I uploaded a printable PDF to the download area. It's a "Low Resolution (150 DPI)" option. I think that's a fair compromise. That should be plenty sharp for reading a few sheets on the go, but it's not publisher quality. Printing a few sheets of the book for yourself, I consider that fair use. This is not intended for you to make copies for all your friends.
Now I get to see what happens next. Will POLYGAMe log on and say, "DUDE... you're awesome. I'm so buying a copy right now. I'm sorry for all those nasty things I wrote."
Photics, will the PDF be available for those of us who purchased the hard copy book? (most technical manuals offer the pdf version for free to hardcopy purchasers)
IntelligentDesigner said: Photics, will the PDF be available for those of us who purchased the hard copy book? (most technical manuals offer the pdf version for free to hardcopy purchasers)
This way we can get the updates...
Please let me know.
The problem is verifying those orders. I don't know exactly who bought the printed copy.
I'm sure the lulu.com order confirmation email would be pretty unique...and people would only know what it looked like IF they order the book (or anything from lulu, but I'd never even heard of them before all this)
quantumsheep said: Maybe ask for a photo to be sent of the user holding up a copy of the book, with that day's paper included in the shot!
I thought about that, but it still leaves the possibility of impersonation. If two people claim to have ordered the book at the same time, I might have to play investigator and figure out who the real person is. That seems tedious. What if someone simply uses photoshop? It's not too hard to fake holding a book.
...and do people really want to send pictures of themselves to me?
Right now, I'm not even sure if there's going to be an update to the book.
IntelligentDesigner, did you already order the printed edition?
Sure did, when it first came available. I got an email from Lulu a few days ago saying it was shipped so I am looking forward to leafing through it soon. Maybe you could ask a question that only a book owner could answer? Surely Lulu tells you customer's demographics? How do you know they don't stiff you?
The reason I did not purchase the pdf originally is that the sample was set up as a two page view and my reading monitor is a 24"WS in Portrait mode which made it hard to read the pdf.
But the pdf with updates is sure valuable, as well as being able to print out a few pages for a particularly difficult programming session.
IntelligentDesigner said: Sure did, when it first came available. I got an email from Lulu saying it was shipped so I am looking forward to leafing through it soon. Maybe you could ask a question that only a book owner could answer?
I think you're trustworthy. I've seen you around. You can forward your Lulu invoice to my email address at Photics.com.
For people that purchased the printed book on or before August, 16, 2010, forward a copy of your Lulu invoice to me within the next week (on or before August 23, 2010) and I'll probably create a PDF download account for you. But for new orders, this offer does not apply.
Yes, the printed copy costs more. Yes, shipping can be expensive. Don't buy it if you don't like it.
Photics said: OK, I uploaded a printable PDF to the download area. It's a "Low Resolution (150 DPI)" option. I think that's a fair compromise. That should be plenty sharp for reading a few sheets on the go, but it's not publisher quality. Printing a few sheets of the book for yourself, I consider that fair use. This is not intended for you to make copies for all your friends.
Now I get to see what happens next. Will POLYGAMe log on and say, "DUDE... you're awesome. I'm so buying a copy right now. I'm sorry for all those nasty things I wrote."
DUDE... you're awesome. I'm so buying a copy right now. I'm sorry for all those nasty things I wrote!!!
Although, I still don't like the way the whole thing was handled... especially the whole "I like the idea that you don't know the secrets in the book" thing.
It seems that Gendai Games isn't making a big announcement today either. I'm shutting down my desktop early tonight. I think I need a break from the computer. I'll likely be back online tomorrow morning, to check to see if any orders need to be processed.
You would have had my order to process but I just saw the new Iron Maiden album on iTunes and bought that instead... my girlfriend will get angry if I spend too much. LOL. I think I will grab it now it's printable, though ;-)
The PDF orders are up-to-date again. If you ordered the PDF, you should have the download information. If not, check your spam filter, or you can try contact me through Google Checkout.
I'm still waiting for my printed copies. I imagine that they should arrive this week.
Photics said: I'm still waiting for my printed copies. I imagine that they should arrive this week.
I got the printed book today. It's nice. I like how the cover came out and I think the inside looks professional. Heh, 8.5"x11" size makes it a very tall book. It sticks out when placed next to my other computer books.
You Recieve the Pdf the Moment yo Buy it in Google Checkout? BEcouse i have just bought It and it hasn`t arrive yet (I have the confirmation email form google).
MagoNicolas said: You Recieve the Pdf the Moment yo Buy it in Google Checkout?
No, it's not instant. I create the download accounts manually and I wait for Google to review credit card information. If I'm at my computer when the order comes in, the process is usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
All orders are up-to-date. So, you should have your PDF download information now.
Hi! Good morning! If you were waiting for an order to be processed while I slept, you should have your download information now. Just check your email.
I'm thinking about contacting Apple Corporate today, but I'm not exactly sure how to do that. Heh, or maybe I should just send an email to Steve Jobs,
A Dramatization:
Hey Buddy,
How's it going dude?! Yo, like for real, I got this dope book. It's like mad cool. It's be like helping all the smart peeps at the GameSalad community. You should totally have this book on your shelves. People be buyin's 'da Macs stuff to make them fart apps. GameSalad can make a fart app in like 5 seconds... oh snap! With my book, peeps could do it in like 4 seconds. That's like 250,000 more fart apps! Whoa dude, think of da loot! Call me.
Sent you an email yesterday with my order details for the book from Lulu. The book was ordered on the 16th August. Lulu says it's fulfilling the order. Do you know how long it will be "fulfilling" my order? I'd much appreciate it if you could send me the link aswell to the download information. Or are you only allowing customers who've paid by Google? I'm not sure how this works with regards the download. Plus it seems like I'm going to be waiting a long time for this book!
Sent you an email yesterday with my order details for the book from Lulu.
Did you send it to the email at the bottom of http://photics.com because all orders and special promotions are up-to-date.
strangealien said: Plus it seems like I'm going to be waiting a long time for this book!
I received my printed copies yesterday. I ordered it on Monday, August 9, 2010.
The book has to be printed and then sent to you. It took three days for my copies to be printed. Lulu has customer service. Maybe you could send them a message and ask why it's taking so long to fulfill your order.
Thanks for the advice. Well I live in the UK, so it may take a bit longer, but I'm hoping that Lulu will ship soon. I'll send them a message and find out what's happening!
Comments
Essentially it forces you to buy the print edition if you're not a fan of PDFs.
Personally, I'm not a huge fan of PDFs. If I ever bought this (doubtful) I'd want to have a hard copy of something - a certain chapter, for example, or a particular example.
So I'd have, essentially, one to six pages on the table next to the laptop that I can refer to. If I wanted to make notes, I could scribble on the pages in the right place.
It's more convenient for me, as an end user, to have the relevant pages I want next to me that I can make notes on.
It's NOT convenient for me to have an entire book open next to me, that I wouldn't want to write on because what I'm using is relevant to just one game.
I've stayed out of this because I feel Photic's book would probably help a lot of people (and it seems to be doing that). Its one of the reasons I agreed to answer a couple of questions for it.
There will still be people that prefer an entire book on their bookshelf and don't want the hassle of having to print out every page and bind it together in a book themselves. And it's good that there's an option for this with the book version.
But disabling 'print', and then suggesting that the only option is to buy 'both' versions of the guide just comes across as greed.
Cheers,
QS
Dr. Sam Beckett never returned home...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quantum_Sheep
Web: https://quantumsheep.itch.io
I know theres already a chapter available...but to be honest it doesnt actually show anything that we dont already know.
I wasnt too keen on the blunt response VegasMike got when he suggested something similar.
I dunno.... Im interested in the book, but the whole way its being sold and pushed across the forums, and the responses people are getting when asking about it, are really putting me off.
Maybe someone with a copy, and with good overall experience of GameSalad should do an honest, non biased review...
Either way it's an issue. If I make it a printable PDF, those that bought the printed version can feel ripped off because they don't get a digital copy. I tried to help out people who wanted a printed copy, or who didn't want to (or couldn't) use Google Checkout, by putting the book on Lulu.com. There has been feedback in this thread. Lulu.com also has a comments section. Maybe when the printed copies reach their destination, some reviews will pop up.
For them, it's a great option and they pay the money because it suits them better.
Making the PDF version printable won't piss off the three or four people that have bought the hardback copy. But it will make your PDF a more attractive option for those that don't mind reading on a screen, but would like to have the option to print out a physcial copy of a chapter, or even a single example as I noted.
Ball's in your park. I think I've made my point.
Cheers,
QS
EDIT: As to google checkout - never used it myself - use PayPal all the time. It's how I paid Ian, for example.
Making the book easy to buy is one way of ensuring you get more sales.
Dr. Sam Beckett never returned home...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quantum_Sheep
Web: https://quantumsheep.itch.io
Dr. Sam Beckett never returned home...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quantum_Sheep
Web: https://quantumsheep.itch.io
Now I get to see what happens next. Will POLYGAMe log on and say, "DUDE... you're awesome. I'm so buying a copy right now. I'm sorry for all those nasty things I wrote."
(most technical manuals offer the pdf version for free to hardcopy purchasers)
This way we can get the updates...
Please let me know.
QS
Dr. Sam Beckett never returned home...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quantum_Sheep
Web: https://quantumsheep.itch.io
...and do people really want to send pictures of themselves to me?
Right now, I'm not even sure if there's going to be an update to the book.
IntelligentDesigner, did you already order the printed edition?
The reason I did not purchase the pdf originally is that the sample was set up as a two page view and my reading monitor is a 24"WS in Portrait mode which made it hard to read the pdf.
But the pdf with updates is sure valuable, as well as being able to print out a few pages for a particularly difficult programming session.
For people that purchased the printed book on or before August, 16, 2010, forward a copy of your Lulu invoice to me within the next week (on or before August 23, 2010) and I'll probably create a PDF download account for you. But for new orders, this offer does not apply.
Yes, the printed copy costs more. Yes, shipping can be expensive. Don't buy it if you don't like it.
I'll send it later from my MAC...
Although, I still don't like the way the whole thing was handled... especially the whole "I like the idea that you don't know the secrets in the book" thing.
I'm still waiting for my printed copies. I imagine that they should arrive this week.
BEcouse i have just bought It and it hasn`t arrive yet (I have the confirmation email form google).
Thanks
All orders are up-to-date. So, you should have your PDF download information now.
I'm thinking about contacting Apple Corporate today, but I'm not exactly sure how to do that. Heh, or maybe I should just send an email to Steve Jobs,
A Dramatization:
Sent you an email yesterday with my order details for the book from Lulu. The book was ordered on the 16th August. Lulu says it's fulfilling the order. Do you know how long it will be "fulfilling" my order? I'd much appreciate it if you could send me the link aswell to the download information. Or are you only allowing customers who've paid by Google? I'm not sure how this works with regards the download. Plus it seems like I'm going to be waiting a long time for this book!
Thanks,
The book has to be printed and then sent to you. It took three days for my copies to be printed. Lulu has customer service. Maybe you could send them a message and ask why it's taking so long to fulfill your order.
I've just sent an email to you at http://photics.com.
Thanks for the advice. Well I live in the UK, so it may take a bit longer, but I'm hoping that Lulu will ship soon. I'll send them a message and find out what's happening!
Thanks