Which brings me back to the death of Sigil. I wonder, w/ the need to have the game emulated on a proprietary VTT gone, if the future of this edition of D&D will see this new direction maintained or changed. I suspect not but I wonder how different this edition would be if Sigil was never the plan.

In 2024, Backgrounds still exist but they no longer give unique features. Now they grant access to feats which, of course, are all fairly sterile "get X in Y situation" type benefits. In a dramatic reverse, they add no depth to the character only more game mechanics.

For example, see Backgrounds. In 2014e, each Background gave you a unique feature. Many of them weren't that interesting, but a few were, and none of them (that I can recall) interacted much with the rules of the game. They were there to add color or depth to your character without adding power.

Namely, any player facing option from 2014 that was narrative in nature, that lacked a concrete mechanical implementation (bonuses or penalties to rolls, movement, etc.) were removed from the game. Player options in 2024 were written explicitly to always be functional in a VTT context.

What's actually interesting to me about the death of Sigil is how much it's specter (I believe) dictated the game design of the 2024e rules of D&D. There's a foundational philosophical shift in the game design from 2014e to 2024e that I think was meant to make Sigil feel like "authentic" D&D.

All great ideas. I was writing some new weapons that this would apply to and got too excited to post it before double checking what it applies to in the PHB. It definitely needs more and I like both your suggestions.

Already realized this is way too weak. Thinking about making it so you get Finesse on all weapons that don't have Heavy?

I altered it a bit to give it some utility in all circumstances while still being ideal for when ambushed while asleep or fighting sleep casting enemies.

I absolutely do. The question is when, where, and how. But I do have some early drafts of the 2024 version and hopefully I'll get the chance to share those soon!

Lol, no, it will not. You also aren't a "creator" in any sense of the word when AI is in the process. Grifters might be the word you were looking for.

Loki! Getting MVP with him about 1 out of every 3 games.

I adored 1st ed Promethean, Changeling, and Mage specifically. I ran a very satisfying Promethean campaign but never got to fully enjoy the other two.

Yes, so much more gameable. Blood Potency lacked some of the visceral punch of Generation but, again, was so much better for the game.