>Is it about preserving an original creative work of art,
>or is it about creating gameplay that engages and
>entertains?
>
>False dichotomy; these may be one and the same in many cases.
>Tabletop Dungeons and Dragons involves engaging and
>entertaining gameplay where scenario information sits behind a
>screen. It may be that there are better means of
>entertaining players (and there are), but I'm not convinced
>that knocking over the screen is a good solution.

You're the one who said, "On the one hand, it is interesting that enjoyment value might be higher for those who have a plot spoiled; on the other, there is something to be said for authorial intent."

Are you not suggesting authorial intent is more important than pure enjoyment value? I apologize if I misunderstood. Even so, it would appear that they are not the same in many cases, as shown by the two studies about short stories.

But what if this is true? What if a majority of people enjoy experiences after being spoiled more than they do if the experiences are not spoiled? What if taking steps to do just that (exploration hints, tips, suggestions, carrots, spoilers) is quantitatively more enjoyable for more people than the current status quo?

I appreciate the reply. Hope all is well.

Hutto