On June 7th, 2008 the Core Rule Books for D&D 4th edition will be available. Today I picked up the first Adventure Module, "Keep on the Shadowfell." I have finally managed to admit to myself that I am just a collector. I played a very short game with my girlfriend when I first picked up the 3.5 books a year or so ago. Since then though, they have just sat on my bookshelf. This new edition is rather exciting for me, especially with the promise of the computer element added in. What exactly D&D Insider will be is a whole other question. It appears that it will be a virtual miniatures environment. If so, then I will be quite happy. I've never liked the whole "collection" take that WOTC went with for them. I mean, when I need 10 Kobolds to be standing along the path then I need 10 Kobolds. I can't buy random miniature packs in hopes of getting that one last Kobold. I imagine there are alternatives, and perhaps WOTC even does allow for individual purchases. They certainly don't seem to publicize it though. As for the "Keep on the Shadowfell" module itself, I was expecting to be disappointed. I had read several bad reviews online. Most complained about the price and lack of hardcover for that price. Then upon hearing that it was a folder with some booklets and foldout maps I must say I was concerned. However, after looking at it, I am impressed. The booklets are near magazine quality. Compared to the newspaper quality paper and black and white print of the 3.x modules it is leaps and bounds better. The foldout maps are great for miniature users, although questionable in light of D&D Insider. As far as the adventure itself is concerned I have no idea as of yet if it is worthwhile. What I have read seems to be well written. Some of the negative reviews I read criticized the module as being too advanced for beginners and too simple for veterans. I could certainly see this from what little I've read so far. Although, I do feel that the first module for 3.x, "The Sunless Citadel", wasn't of much help to the beginner either. I've always felt that the fledgling Dungeon Master was always left with very little in regards to learning how to design adventures. Finally, I am writing this from Word 2007. I have been loving the entire Office 07 suite and looking for a reason to use Word on a regular basis. I suppose my novel should have been the first thing to inspire that use, but alas, I am slow when it comes to all things Keptosh. Anyway, blogging from word, FTW. Keptosh screenplay in Word, on the horizon. later, -junc