Does anyone know when the new rules will be published? Or at least can anyone make an assumption based on the publication dates of other games' rules ? Usually how much earlier than a game being on sale are its rules published?

Usually they show up online about two weeks before the game hits shelves.

Oh, that seems like a lot more waiting to really see what the new game is about... :(

Yeah....  I would think the rules are done if it's at the printers already.  Not sure why they couldn't post them then.

Assuming FFG stays true to form, there will most likely be additional web previews leading up to the release of the game, with the final preview being posted just before or at the same time as the rules go up.  I'm assuming the only reason for the lull in news right now is because they wanted to announce the game in time for GenCon (or one of those big board game cons), and now they're waiting until closer to launch so they don't run out of preview material.

When exactly said previews will start, I can't tell you, but once they do, you know the gears are in motion.

As far as why they don't post the rules right now, even though they probably could, I would guess it's because posting the rules now would deflate most of the interest in reading the previews.  As far as why they don't post the previews right now, I would guess that's probably because they want something to promote the game with shortly before its release to generate interest and encourage sales at a time when sales can actually happen.  To generate said hype now and then wait 3-5 months before putting the game out is a great way to ensure nobody remembers it by the time they can actually hand over money for it.

A very succinct and well-reasoned hypothesis, Steve-O.  I think you're correct on all points.

 Though, thinking about it, if they post the rules early, readers can devour the mechanics, and point out any oversights or questions - thus giving the staff a heads-up before release on fixes to make to the rules.  Admittedly, this would make good for an on-line errata, I doubt they could just take it to the printer and do a full revision prior to release.

Tashiro said:

I don't refute the idea that some FFG games (particularly Descent 1e) could have used this sort of review, however, in theory, this is exactly what FFG pays quality assurance personnel (aka "playtesters") for.

I know that video games seem to be moving ever further towards this sort of communal development/discussion model, where they release a game, let fans comment, and then patch it.  Lather, rinse, repeat.  I'm not entirely sure that the board gaming business is quite ready to follow suit, however.  It would be an interesting experiment if there were a company willing to run with it for at least one game, though.

Steve-O said:

Sirlin Games generally playtests the hell out of their stuff using their online games portal, but they're all about balanced fighting games so it makes sense.  Plus, their games tend to be a lot smaller, so it's more feasible.

Of course it would be sweet to get the rules in advance and have all the questions answered before the game hits the tables. This would just be poor marketing from FFG. By keeping the lid on the info until they can ship the product they ensure the maximum interest towards the game when it is actually available, thus ensuring maximum sales. After that will be plenty of time for patching the system and FAQs. I don't doubt that it is important for FFG to release well balanced and well playtested games, but it making big $ is crucial for their survival as a company.

I estimate we will start getting previews in mid-February and the online rulebook in mid-March.