...choices were made.
-challenge 5e on its own turf--that is, attempt to create a system that was MORE elegant and had a lower barrier to entry
-go the opposite route and go system-heavier, more simulationist, etc.
There was a third option, of course.
Which is, y'know, what you want in a *game* that's all about playing to fantasies of empowerment.
Looked at a fucking heatmap of where people's eyes go first on page?
(Mine bounced all over for an excruciatingly long time before finally ending up on... the AC box.)
I can't imagine that if you hadn't played either, and you saw this and the 5e player's handbook on a shelf or table, that this would be the one you pick up.
*sobs*