Why Hardbacks Are Still The Best
When preparing for a game or sitting at the table it can be temping to reach for that pdf on your tablet, but before you do please consider the argument for hardback books over their digital counterparts.
While digital tabletop roleplaying game (ttrpg) books have their advantages — such as ease of use due to portability, search functionality, and hyperlinks — their hardback counterparts still reign supreme in terms of offering unique, enduring, and irreplaceable experiences for enthusiasts.
Now for a quick justification of why books in the home are important: “Evidence suggests having access to resources and having books of their own impacts on young peoples reading attainment. In a survey of over 18,000 young people aged 8 -17, Clark and Poulton (2011) found that pupils who had books of their own were more likely to enjoy reading and read more frequently. Young people who had books of their own were twice as likely to read daily. Those without books of their own were five times were more likely to say they never read. Clark and Douglas (2011) found that 80% of children who read above the expected level for their age had books of their own. This was much stronger than the relationship between access to electronic media and literacy attainment.”
Now that I have conveniently poisoned the well, let us discuss why hardcovers are the best thing since bread (of any kind).
To begin with, physical books evoke memories and nostalgia. The sensory aspect of flipping through a beautifully bound tome can trigger fond memories of swashbuckling, dungeon crawling, space exploration, and narrowly escaping tragedy (or not). Holding a physical book, feeling its weight, browsing its pages, seeing its loving wear, and even the smell of well preserved paper provides an experience that digital versions simply cannot replicate. This tactile engagement makes the reading and browsing experience more immersive and enjoyable.
A well-designed hardback RPG book can be a work of art in its own right and carry with it an enormous aesthetic appeal. The cover art, spine, and even the texture of the paper can enhance the overall visual ambience on the shelf and at the table. As a table centerpiece or when displayed prominently in a collection a beautiful hardcover book can be a tantalizing conversation starter.
Tabletop roleplaying games are inherently social and physical experiences. Players often use and bond over their shared love of dice, miniatures, terrain, and maps. A physical book at the table complements the social and tactile nature of ttrpgs.
Hardbound books also offer a number of practical advantages over their inferior digital analogs. A hardback book doesn’t require batteries, isn’t prone to technical glitches, and won’t become unreadable if a particular file format or software becomes obsolete. With proper care, a hardback can last for decades, centuries, and perhaps even millennia! Physical books offer an experience free from the oppressive chains of digital life like notifications, pop-ups, and other distractions. Less distraction means deeper focus and immersion.
In an age where people own less and less, physical books can still be easily shared, lent, sold, or given away. One could argue their physical nature allows for a sense of community building which ethereal digital rentals cannot. Also, there is no need to backup your physical book in case of hardware failure or accidental deletion. But you will be vaunted by your peers and receive the coveted slient head nod of social recognition for owning a 2nd physical copy.
While digital books allow for note-taking, some might argue there is something to be said for the ease and immediacy of scribbling in the margins or highlighting passages in a physical book. They are heathens and and should be shunned for such acts of vandalism. Sticky notes are ok though. Of course I jest. It is your book, use it and love it in the way which suits you best. For many, annotations and doodles become a part of the book’s history, personality, and nostalgic appeal.
I hope now you understand the error in judgement of choosing a digital publication over that of a hardback.
Now where did I leave my iPad?
Sincerely,
Fungus Bitterbrew
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