From: Ken Smith <kensmith@maui.net>
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 1997 08:48:06 -1000
Subject: The Great Debate
Message-id: <3426BD66.7F72BA23@maui.net>

I'll add my two cents worth from the perspective of an intermediate (1380) player who has only been playing in organized play for two years.

When the addition of the 1000 or so words was made to OSPD a little while back, I felt a bit dismayed because I was struggling to learn the old words; however, I have found that they have added to my enjoyment of the game.  It was particularly satisfying to play "feijoas" last week.

Although I don't particularly relish the thought of learning lots of new and strange words, I believe the switch will be beneficial to the game.  I have printed out all the 2's thru 5's which are uniquely Chambers words.  These lists are easily available through Lexpert word study program which can be downloaded for free.  Last night, I played a couple of SOWPODS games using these lists (unrated), and found them enjoyable.

I cast my vote for a switch to SOWPODS.  I believe the best way to accomplish that would be to set a date for a wholesale switch maybe a year or two from now.

Aloha,
 

Ken Smith (mauiboy)
 

P.S.  Reminder...hope many of you can make it to our first tournament in Hawaii...THE MAUI, HAWAII GAMES which will occur May 1 - 3, 1998.  For more information, e-mail Gary Moss at <JFTSOI@AOL.COM>.