The DOTTS Trading Card system is admittedly a very unique and flashy way to expand interest in the league and increase league capital, however, it presents itself (at least in its current iteration) with a few glaring flaws. Now, every new concept and idea in the league is going to be belabored with growing pains and backlash, and I personally can see this system developing into a truly ubiquitously enjoyed experience. But the current issue lies in the fact that the value generated does not presently match the personal cost accrued, at least in my opinion. Real world trading cards are physical objects, with only a set number of each card produced, therefore creating intrinsic value. The cost of purchase can be justified with the intention of receiving a rarely printed card, or merely collecting a large amount of a finite resource. With the Dotts system being a digital medium, cards can easily be reproduced and redistributed ad nauseam, therefore inherently having little to no value. It could be possible in the future to watermark cards with a print number; if you have a rare one out of ten “print” card you may feel a little more pride in showing it off. I’m not a big tech guy, but it could maybe also be possible to attach some sort of content ID system to each card, like a serial number or perhaps a digital version of the RFID chips like in the poker cards on WSOP? Someone much smarter than me can probably tell me if that’s possible or not, I’m just throwing some ideas at the wall to see what sticks.
I really like the idea of having a trading card system in the league, and as it exists right now the artwork and craft and detail that has gone in to it is impeccable. I just personally cannot justify the cost, at least until there is some inherent value attached to them. I’m very much looking forward to how it grows, though!
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I'd like to make an addendum to this post; after more thought I believe my criticism of Dotts was haphazard and reactionary. I stand by my opinion that there could potentially be more value added to the cards, however, I fear my original observation detracted from the original intent of the project. This league is built on a foundation of staunch community and unbridled fun, and more interesting and creative ventures should be welcome with open arms. The selfless souls that worked assumedly tirelessly on this project should be rewarded for their efforts; not struck down by relentless criticism and/or ridicule. As someone who is new to the league, I have no right or privilege to undermine the efforts and workmanship of those who dedicate their precious time and resources to better the league.
I will be leaving my original criticism up for posterity, in hopes that those in a similar position as I am will perhaps reconsider their position on the matter.
I really like the idea of having a trading card system in the league, and as it exists right now the artwork and craft and detail that has gone in to it is impeccable. I just personally cannot justify the cost, at least until there is some inherent value attached to them. I’m very much looking forward to how it grows, though!
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I'd like to make an addendum to this post; after more thought I believe my criticism of Dotts was haphazard and reactionary. I stand by my opinion that there could potentially be more value added to the cards, however, I fear my original observation detracted from the original intent of the project. This league is built on a foundation of staunch community and unbridled fun, and more interesting and creative ventures should be welcome with open arms. The selfless souls that worked assumedly tirelessly on this project should be rewarded for their efforts; not struck down by relentless criticism and/or ridicule. As someone who is new to the league, I have no right or privilege to undermine the efforts and workmanship of those who dedicate their precious time and resources to better the league.
I will be leaving my original criticism up for posterity, in hopes that those in a similar position as I am will perhaps reconsider their position on the matter.