From:	dhinkley@***.org
Subject:	Sam vs Mage vs Phys Ads et al
Date:	Mon, 13 May 1996 00:04:39 -0700 (PDT)

In many respects arguments of this type are of little value. It is
possible to postulate a situation (and a reasonable sounding one at that) in
which a given character type (or at least a representative of that type) can
defeat all comers with one hand tied behind his back. The character types
ability to do so does not particuly prove anything.

In theory, Shadowrun is a balanced game in terms of character classes.
That is each class has advantages and disadvantages that are intended to balance
them out and make all the classes relatively equal in game value. Like most
human endeavors, the Shadowrun game system is not perfect in that area. FASA is
still tinkering around the edges trying to make it so.

This brings us to possibly the only value of those never ending
(possibly because they are not winnable) arguments, showing up any unbalancing
effect of a new source or rule book from FASA. As I believe there are better
formats for discussions of that type, I don't realy see the need for filling
band width with these never ending arguments. I would not morn their passing
should these argument go the way of discussions on the nature of magic. [Yes,
this a less then subtle hint to the powers that be. :)]

David Hinkley
dhinkley@***.org