> > Well, it looks like some of the losers got the benefit of a first-round win. They really were conserving their cash and hoping for a surprise.
>
> They got it. It's an interesting tactic, but not one I'd like to have work.
>
> Tournament #2 will definitely have some rule changes that put sleeper players like this at a distinct disadvantage.

Maybe you could introduce a feature that makes winning more exciting. How about if you win, you get the money *plus* you can steal one weapon or armor from the other guy. It's probably not unlike what would happen in real life. But the weapon you steal should instantly become un-enchanted, because enchantment seems like such a personal thing.

People in the qualifying rounds shouldn't be able to lose equipment to the computer. They just wouldn't get free stuff if they lose.

This would also raise the stakes later in the elimination rounds, when there would be better (and strategically purchased) stuff up for grabs. Nobody would mind losing their stuff, because they'd be eliminated anyway.

Just a thought.

^v^:)^v^
F"yay! free stuff!"B