A Beautiful Game

This probably won’t come as a surprise to many of you, but I’m a geek for video games. Computer games in particular.

What you might not know is how deep my roots go: I’ve been playing computer games for 33 years. Since 1982. Since I was nine years old.

To give you a frame of reference, the first game I played was entirely text. Which is a good thing, because the computer I played it on didn’t have a hard drive. I learned to type playing those early Infocom games, and played some of them for *years* before finally solving them.

398361-zork-ii-the-wizard-of-frobozz-dos-screenshot-it-is-pitch-black

Long before I ever tried to write a book, I tried to write a computer game. It had puzzles and monsters, and I wrote it in the only programming language I knew: basic. By the time I gave up on the project, the printout of the program was over 32 feet long.

Later on I played King’s Quest, Populous, Alone in the Dark…. But eventually I found Fallout and Fallout 2. They became the  yardstick I use as an example of how good a game can be.

There have been a lot of games I’ve wanted to play these past two years. Bioshock Infinite. Witcher 3. Dragon Age. Borderlands…. So many games I wanted to try. But I didn’t play any of them. I had writing to do, and Worldbuilders to oversee, and a new baby. Contracts to read. Foreign translations to assist with. I had to give up something, so I gave up the games.

This is to give you some context so you can realize how big a deal it was when I heard Fallout 4 was being released. I marked it on my calendar. I watched the trailers. I had someone build me a new computer so I could play it, because my current compy is about 8 years old….

Then I realized Fallout was coming out on November 10th. The same day I was scheduled to drive down to Milwaukee and interview Joseph Fink and Jeffrey Craynor as part of their Welcome to Night Vale book tour.

Even worse, Worldbuilder’s was starting its Big Yearly Fundraiser on November 9th. It happens every year around this time: My team and I rally the geek community to raise money for Heifer International. It’s a lot of fun, and aver the last several years, we’ve raised more than $3,500,000 dollars.

But it’s a lot of work. Every day we post up blogs full of books and games that we give away lottery-style to donors. Thousands of books and games supplied by publishers and authors. We launch dozens of auctions. We shoot video, post stretch goals, do AMA’s. And offer up new items in our online store.

In short, Fallout was dropping at the most insanely busy time of my year.

*     *     *

There’s another part of my life I’m guessing many of you already know about. But for those of you who don’t follow me much on social media…

douche

(I wish it had been hard for me to find this example, but it wasn’t.)

It happens anywhere I have an online presence.

reviews

That’s a comment on a review I wrote on Goodreads. I’d shared a story about reading to my boys.

Tweet bitching

The moral of the story is that there are a lot of people who are really interested in reading book 3. And while I appreciate their sentiment, the way they express this desire… well… It’s exhausting at best.

Now this isn’t the only thing that happens to me online. Far from it. A lot of folks are amazingly kind and graceful.

Many of them step up to defend me from the abuse I’ve shown above:

Book Three - Shut the fuck up

So here’s some truths I think are fairly self-evident.

  • I want to play Fallout 4. And I deserve to play a game every once in a while.
  • I understand a lot of you are impatient for book three. (So am I, honestly.)
  • We *are* in the middle of the Worldbuilders fundraiser.

So here’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to have some fun with this. I have a supervillain-esque delight in certain types of gambling. So I’m going to put precious gaming time on the line for the good of the fundraiser.

As of now, anyone who donates to Worldbuilders gets to vote on what I do with this precious time I’ve set aside for gaming.

Behold: The Pat-o-Meter.

If you’re frothing at the mouth for book 3, this is your chance. In this limited time offer, I’m willing to let you have a say in how I spend my personal time if you’re willing to help us make the world a better place.

When you donate, you’ll see this option:

patchoice

(Pick whatever one your heart desires. Seriously.)

Every day at 4:00 CST, we’ll tally the donations. And if people have ponied up and demanded I write more of book 3, I’ll give up my gaming time and put in another three hours above and beyond my normal writing time for the day.

What’s more, I’ll stream my writing session on Twitch.

If the will of the people is that I play Fallout 4, I’ll do a live stream of that instead. Since I haven’t gamed in a while, I expect the result will either be the live stream equivalent of riding a unicorn made entirely of orgasms. Or, if my mad skillz have atrophied, it might be an embarrassing train wreck as I’m endlessly killed by rats in the basement of whatever inn we start the adventure in.

Either way, I will have my snark turned up to eleven, so it’s bound to be a good time.

As an extra bonus, every day the Worldbuilders team will pull a random winner out of that day’s donors. (We’ll work it the same way we do the main lottery, where every 10 bucks you contribute gives you a chance to win the cool thing.) So even if your team doesn’t win, you have a chance to get something cool. These items will be specific to my books, and they’ll mostly be stuff you can’t buy in the store because I’ve only hoarded a few of them.

20151112_034435b

(Your donation will still enter you into the main prize lottery, too.)

You’ll be able to watch the live stream on my newly forged Twitch channel: twitch.tv/PatrickRothfuss. I’ll start at 4:00 pm CST every night. If you don’t want to constantly be peeking at the widget, you can follow @FalloutVsBook3 on Twitter to see which side is currently winning….

We’re starting today (Thursday) and we’ll do this for two weeks. If folks enjoy it, maybe we’ll extend it all the way through the end of the fundraiser….

I’m going to be honest with you. I only had this idea a couple days ago, and until today, I wasn’t sure if we were actually going to be able to pull it off. As a result, we’re kinda making this up as we go along. (As you can see, above, we haven’t figured out a way to automate the widget, so the Worldbuilders team is having to update it manually.)

Because of this, we might tweak a few details as we move forward. Fair warning.

But no matter which team wins, I win. Either I get to play the game I love, or I get closer to moving book three off my back. This will be an interesting social experiment, I’m genuinely curious as to what will happen.

And no matter what, it will be a beautiful game.

pat

P.S. If you don’t know anything about Worldbuilders. Here’s a link to the blog where I explain everything in some detail. Here’s a link to the auctions we’re currently running.

And here’s a link to the page where you can donate and case your vote.

This entry was posted in Acts of Whimsy, Beautiful Games, Worldbuilders 2015. By Pat242 Responses

155 Comments

  1. lykashii
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:14 AM | Permalink

    “riding a unicorn made entirely of orgasms”

    Brilliant! For that, I will be voting for you to play Fallout. To be honest, as much as I cannot wait for Book 3, I also appreciate that author brains need fun too, so I hope you get to game!

  2. Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:27 AM | Permalink

    I’m voting Fallout. It might improve your opinion of Boston since your last visit.

    • Megonaut
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:15 AM | Permalink

      I’m a noob to the blog. What happened last time?

      • iabervon
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 3:32 PM | Permalink

        He was in the Boston area for 40+ hours, and still couldn’t leave and see his family again.

    • Posted November 13, 2015 at 1:39 PM | Permalink

      Heh. It wasn’t a blog thing. I just hit really *really* bad traffic.

      It reminded me why I never want to live in a big city…

      • Posted November 15, 2015 at 10:31 AM | Permalink

        Having lived in the middle of nowhere, I appreciate being back in a city but can see where it would be trying for those who crave more fields than buildings.

        Next time you are in Boston/Somerville/Cambridge, I’d love to show you some of the more redeeming features.

  3. Mitchell Hundred
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:34 AM | Permalink

    Speaking of text-based video games here’s a pretty funny example of one that played out on Twitter a while back.

    Also, I cannot afford to donate to this, but I agree with the “stop bugging you about the books” crowd. There are way too many other things that I could be doing (including plenty of other great books to read) for me to give any kind of a shit about how long it takes you to write.

  4. pharbero
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:37 AM | Permalink

    There’s a debate raging in the twitch room as to whether Pat means that he intends to stream his writing, or just his gaming. The offshoot conversation is a discussion of what streaming writing would actually look like. Possibly like a bearded man typing on a keyboard. Which is exactly what I look like as I type this, strangely enough.

    • Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:45 AM | Permalink

      I’m going to stream whichever one wins for the day.

      So if Fallout wins today, I’ll stream Fallout. but then if book three wins tomorrow, I’ll stream my writing for those 3 hours.

      As for what it will look like…. we’ll see. But it’s fair to say you aren’t going to be watching my screen….

      • pharbero
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:49 AM | Permalink

        Woop! Bearded man typing! (still voted Fallout.)

      • Dominic
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:09 AM | Permalink

        I really want to see the stream of you writing. I like the Andy Kaufmanesque idea of it. Any chance you could occasionally host a stream of that regardless of the outcome of this contest/poll/fundraiser?

        • chrishealeymusic
          Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:20 AM | Permalink

          If Pat is anything like the rest of the human race, it’ll probably just be a video of him sitting in front of a computer, his luscious, magnificent, oh-so-glossy beard reflecting the blue and white hues of… Facebook.

      • Nefariem
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:34 AM | Permalink

        Damn it, I would love to see you playing fallout, but I would also love to see you writing the book, I’m so conflicted right now. I hope both options win at least once so we can all enjoy the wonders of watching a man writing a book and wandering a wasteland.

      • Kimberlyand
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:04 AM | Permalink

        As much as I’d love to see a livestream of Pat writing, relaxation time is SO important. You can’t do anything well when you’re burnt out. Fun is necessary!!
        Maybe someday we can still get a livestream of Pat writing?

      • colinthom89
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:51 AM | Permalink

        I’m imagining a fan zooming in on the reflective surface of Pat’s coffee cup, enhancing and undistorting the reflected image of his computer scree as he writes book 3. Anyone have serious CSI skillz? =P

        • jensago
          Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:33 AM | Permalink

          who can be bribe to hang small mirrors on Pat’s beard? :D

          • jensago
            Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:33 AM | Permalink

            *we
            I’m terrible

          • colinthom89
            Posted November 12, 2015 at 11:29 AM | Permalink

            The greatness of Pats beard is already blinding as it is…

            In all seriousness, I would enjoy a life stream of Pat playing a board game with Oot more than Fallout 4 or Book 3 writing. Maybe playing Robot Turtles?

      • Posted November 12, 2015 at 11:02 AM | Permalink

        I’m reminded of another author live streaming another book…

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qRhup20Ns1c

      • pjwal
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 1:55 PM | Permalink

        If we could actually watch the screen as you work on Book 3, I’m fairly certain that would be the hands down favorite despite the overall sentiment to give you gaming time.

      • Rickster
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 2:24 PM | Permalink

        will you be starting from the beginning of the game?

      • Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:29 PM | Permalink

        If I weren’t dirt poor right now, I’d be donating $10 every day for you to play Fallout 4. I’m working on my first book, and it burns me up whenever I hear people talk about how [INSERT WRITER] needs to stop screwing around and finish his/her book. Writing is hard! Even when you know *exactly* what’s going to happen, it’s hard to get those words out. And even when you know what’s going to happen, you don’t know what’s going to happen, because it could all change in a moment if a better idea suddenly occurs to you.

        Thank you for being a super cool person.

        PS, The Name of the Wind has been a HUGE influence on my writing. Thank you for writing that book.

  5. Flarinator
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:46 AM | Permalink

    By Voldemorts holy balls.. Let this guy play Fallout 4! To let him not play this fantastic game is so cruel that it borders on bestiality. Just do the math… He will enjoy himself immensly and playing it will inevitably revive his creative energies.

    P. S. Let him also play Witcher 3 impatient biatches!!

  6. JustSteve
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:48 AM | Permalink

    Genius idea, Pat.

    P.S. If you ever visit Heifer HQ, drop me a note; I’d be happy to recommend local haunts.

  7. hobbs
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 5:56 AM | Permalink

    Pure genius! I sincerely hope the populace doesn’t disappoint and allows form some joystick jockeying!

  8. elleodee
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:01 AM | Permalink

    I have been a long term lurker on your blog for years, and this was the final push I needed to make an account so I could leave this comment. It actually breaks my heart a little bit that you have to justify relaxing with a video game. Still, you have turned something that kinda sucks into something good, and that’s why you are one of my favourite people ever.
    Im voting Fallout 4, and I’m gonna make all my friends too.

  9. DraccusPlum
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:03 AM | Permalink

    Honestly, you’re nicer than I would be. People keep bugging me about something I have near crippling anxiety about not fucking up? And not politely? $50 for book 3! And the donations have to be at least 12x the gaming donations! For 4 consecutive hours! I get the idea that more book people have to donate to balance, giving a higher chance of gaming… But the heifers… And also, supervillain…

  10. AprilWhiteBooks
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:04 AM | Permalink

    Pat – add a “daily” donation option on the Worldbuilders page, so people can put in $10 a day for the duration. Love this!

    • Jessie
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:36 AM | Permalink

      This is a really good idea! They’re having issues automating the widget though and I feel like recurring daily donations would be harder.

      I’m not being an ass to the Worldbuiders team, they’re the coolest people ever. But maybe an awesome nerd would be able to give them some coding help in the comments…

    • sparkyr1234
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:50 AM | Permalink

      I third this idea. I would cheerfully pony up the $350 to vote for playing video games (or whatever the Zarquon you want to do with your time, Pat) just to spite the petty, narrow-minded, insane maroons who have the audacity to continue to give you massively unjust grief about Book 3. I am eagerly anticipating it too, but like a kid before Christmas (back when that was a thing for me). Do you get to hassle Santa? No, you do not – unless you like lumps of coal and potato sprouts in your stocking. I agree with people who think you may have been too nice, Pat. Or at least I admire your restraint in not outing them – you could start a website for authors/artists for that purpose…

      • Posted November 12, 2015 at 11:50 AM | Permalink

        Whoo. Boy. That is a really good idea. I’ll talk to the team and see if there’s any way we can pull it off….

      • Linrandiel
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 12:42 PM | Permalink

        “Do you get to hassle Santa?”

        Indeed not. This shall henceforth and forever be my response to those who seem to think Pat works for them and isn’t sharing a gift. Thanks, sparky.

        Carry on, good bearded sir! A writer whose life is nothing but his keyboard and screen could produce nothing interesting, I am certain. Please keep having adventures (and sharing them with us, your online stalk…er, followers) and spending time with your family and taking time to refresh your soul. Your Muse and your audience will both be grateful. :-)

  11. OpponsPush
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:07 AM | Permalink

    Great idea! Now you get to see my if the rudely impatient schmucks will put their money where their mouth is! I for one will vote for Fallout 4! I don’t have the extra cash to pick it up now so I will live vicariously through your live stream! Game on fine bearded man!

  12. driftwoodslog
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:09 AM | Permalink

    Book 1 and 2 have been by far the most thrilling reads I’ve had the pleasure of reading. I’d almost given up on finding anything that made me forget about the writing and just experience a beautiful world until I discovered you. I’ve spoken your name and Kvothe’s more times than I count, responding to someone’s simple “What’s your favorite book” question and providing them with a 30 minute response on why The Kingkiller Chronicles are the absolute best.

    You’ve given us more than we had any right to ask. Keep on dreaming, Pat. Experience life, write what’s in your mind, play a beautiful game. It all makes you the mind that we love to explore.

    Besides, anticipation is everything. :)

  13. porcelain
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:11 AM | Permalink

    The abuse is not cool. Not cool at all.
    Someone’s already said it: the book will be ready when it’s ready, and I bet no one is more anxious about it than you. You have given us enough precious things already and deserve to enjoy your game.
    Letting people decide what you should do with your time in exchange of making the world a better place gives you +50 awesomeness.

  14. Raheem
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:13 AM | Permalink

    I’m not much of a gamer but I understand if my favourite wants to play games or chill out at times. Maybe it would help you write a great book 3. I say have a major Fallout with all these impatient schmucks. So yeah, I’d vote for Fallout 4.

  15. Max Nikolaus
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:13 AM | Permalink

    I’m ashamed for my obscene, selfish and inconsiderate fellow readers. Of course I want Book 3, but we’re talking about a person with needs and wants just like everybody else. It’s enough already that he shares most of his time with us in many ways (the books, this blog, worldbuilders…) Next they’ll be demanding his sleep time as well.

    Pat: my congratulations for finding this awesome and creative way of enjoying either result. In your place I’d probably would’ve been too pissed off to come up with a peaceful solution. And I hope Fallout wins. You deserve it.

  16. ilven
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:14 AM | Permalink

    Ha, this is amazing and why you’re the only author I follow outside of their books. If people out there think time spent blogging and going to events is time away from entertaining them because it’s time away from writing book 3 – that’s just because they haven’t taken advantage of reading your blog or seeing you live. There’s more than one way to be a great writer and entertainer.

  17. chrishealeymusic
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:16 AM | Permalink

    Ahh Pat.
    You’re awesome.

    But ‘porque no los dos’?

    I mean, it’s the 21st century, man. Outsourcing is the new thing. You can play video games AND get your book done at the same time. ;)

  18. aedrial
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:18 AM | Permalink

    Honestly, as much as I really want you to finish Book 3. I don’t want you to go forcing it out either. Because the beautiful thing about your books is the organic way the world unfolds and brings the reader in and I’m not sure that making you write is the most effective way of getting the book we want.
    Besides, Fallout 4 is awesome and if you have to play only one game this year it should be either this or The Witcher 3.

  19. P_Scoponi
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:18 AM | Permalink

    The worst that could happen is Pat ends up falling in love with streaming games and takes 7 more years to finish Book 3. There is no such thing as “Too many streamers”, so I guess it’s a Win-Win for me =P

  20. Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:19 AM | Permalink

    Pat, you have a problem. You are way too fucking nice. These self-entitled jerks don’t deserve such civility or tolerance by you. Fight evil with evil.

    What I would do? Pay someone to keep a tally of all the “you have no right to do anything but write” posts. Then delay the release of book 3 by one hour for each post. Maybe 3 hours for particularly vicious ones. Maybe even setup a timer on your site or something.

    • Brady Dill
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:53 AM | Permalink

      I love this idea. Seconded. He could even threaten (but not do it, obviously) to kill off characters when we reach certain milestones – Bast dead at 10,000 posts, Elodin dead at 100,000, Auri dead at 1,000,000…

      • Posted November 12, 2015 at 12:30 PM | Permalink

        Oh god. That made me laugh.

        It would be like a terrible reverse kickstarter….

      • katieighty
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 2:46 PM | Permalink

        I’m already convinced that Auri is going to die, so the longer Book 3 takes the longer she’s alive in my head.

        • michael.h.tritter
          Posted November 12, 2015 at 4:11 PM | Permalink

          What?!? Retract your vile ridiculousness, your ridiculous vileness.

          And if you have justification for this, I don’t want to hear it.

          • cynrtst
            Posted November 13, 2015 at 3:54 AM | Permalink

            Note the silence from Pat. The terrible slow regard of silence.

    • arachnid
      Posted November 13, 2015 at 5:13 AM | Permalink

      Personally, I’d like to see Pat release a short and nasty volume 3 in which everyone dies for the entitled idiots, and save the real book for the rest of us. The subtitle of volume 3a could be “You got your damn book, now shut up and go away”.

      • Posted November 13, 2015 at 1:47 PM | Permalink

        I think the term for this would be “Spite Fiction.”

        Kinda like fanfiction, but different.

        • goobermunch
          Posted November 14, 2015 at 8:44 AM | Permalink

          I’d worry about the negative psychic impacts of writing fiction, and how it might infect book 3b. I think the response needs to be “Let Pat be Pat.”

          Now if we could get someone to ghostwrite the spite fiction ….

  21. sandibd
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:20 AM | Permalink

    I don’t understand why people think they own an author or his time.

    The really sad thing is Pat is more than generous with his time towards his fans. And what do they do? Turn on him and bitch because he isn’t writing at a rate that satisfies their sense of propriety, or whatever. If you honestly consider yourself a fan, then you should realize Pat is a person with a family and a life, and NO ONE is chained to their job 24/7.

    To Pat: Please don’t let a few asshats ruin your day job. Your writing IS worth waiting for. Your family IS important. Doing whatever you need to do to recharge the soul will only make you a better writer. So, go live your life. Play with the boys. Hug the family, those of us that see more than words on a page and appreciate the bigger picture will be here when the book comes out.

  22. plgrantns
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:22 AM | Permalink

    Fallout 4 is amazing. It’s amazing because the creators took the time to get it right. I am eagerly anticipating your next book. I cannot wait for it. But I would rather read something you feel is ‘done’ by your standards than read something that is rushed because people are pressuring you.

    Take some time for you and your family. The things that creators build are awesome because of who they are. If you stop being who you are your work might suffer. Be fulfilled in your writing and we will be fulfilled in our reading :)

    To be fulfilled your life needs to be fulfilled and if that involves Fallout 4 (which is awesome) then so be it. I can wait a little longer for book 3. I found your books because I’m waiting on George R.R. Martin and needed something to read.

  23. katherineofyork
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:26 AM | Permalink

    There is something quite awful about the idea of you being forced to write Book 3 while we all watch :/ Unless, of course, that kind of dramatic pressure really gets your juices going. I’m also wondering what kind of drinking games can be devised for this.

    But I will be voting for Fallout 4, because we all need breaks, and I have seen firsthand the joy that Fallout 4 can bring to a person.

    Much love to you, Pat. I know sometimes those creeps who pester you for book 3 are louder than everyone else, but there are many of us out here who are just happy to have gotten the first 2 at all, and can wait for as long as need be :)

    • Posted November 13, 2015 at 1:50 PM | Permalink

      Nah. I wouldn’t offer this up if I wasn’t willing to do it, and if it didn’t sound at least a little fun to me.

      Having to do it all the time though? Yeah. That would be hell. (Which is why everyone constantly asking for updates is so irksome. It’s very similar…)

      • katherineofyork
        Posted November 16, 2015 at 5:52 PM | Permalink

        I’m glad :) I just had this image in my mind of us with whips, and you all sweaty and beaten down at a typewriter.

  24. HeftyJay
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:31 AM | Permalink

    As I do not want to watch how you write a book my vote goes to Fallout 4^^ Maybe I’ll give it a try myself at some point. I think it is a great Idea to gather money for the charity that way and on the plus side you might get to enjoy yourself playing Fallout 4. And a happy Pat is a good Pat :-D Have a nice time gaming and don’t let anyone dictate how you spend your time;)

    Cheers

  25. Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:33 AM | Permalink

    I reject the premise that i have any right to influence how you spend your time. (i also reject the capitalization of the pronoun i, unless it begins a sentence, because it seems non-sensical). (I also reject the concept of placing a period inside a parenthesis or quotation mark since the purpose of the period is to show the end of the sentence).

    Granted it would be more fun to watch you play Fallout 4 than to watch you write, but do whatever helps feed your soul and brings you joy.

  26. Court
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:34 AM | Permalink

    I’m voting for you to play Fallout. People need to get the fuck off your back (can I say that?) and let you live your life. Jesus.

    Also I agree with some of the other commenters, there seems to be something ookey about you being (potentially) forced to spend your time writing while people watch. Can you really work that way? I’m no writer, but I imagine like I’d have a hard time producing anything of quality under those circumstances.

  27. TomHC3
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:38 AM | Permalink

    I normally wait to donate but when Pat gave us a chance to decide what to do – I had to vote. Quite frankly I will sit and wait as long as it takes for him to do Book 3. Enjoy life Pat, especially with the little ones, they grow up too fast.

  28. Dimpl
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:42 AM | Permalink

    Alas, I donated yesterday so cannot contribute to fallout time (though a writing stream could be interesting too!). Just want to check that early backers get entered towards the Kingkiller goodies too!

  29. deMontague
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:42 AM | Permalink

    Your time is your time and anyone who says otherwise needs to calm the fuck down and deal with it. There are other authors to read in the meantime.

    Also, do more D&D at cons. Acquisitions Incorporated is some of the funniest shit I’ve ever watched.

  30. laurenrocks
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:43 AM | Permalink

    Oh Pat. You should do as you wish with your time. I love that you share bits of your life with us. You shouldn’t have to answer to those who want you chained to your computer as you write book 3. Don’t get me wrong, I can’t wait to get my hands on it but enjoying your gorgeous little guys and actually having a life outside of work is much more important.

  31. chrishealeymusic
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:44 AM | Permalink

    A Poem for Pat

    ~~~

    The games, they need a’playin’
    But the fans they are a’sayin’:

    “NO, PAT, NO.
    NO. PAT, NO.”

    The fingers are a’itchin’
    and the whiskers are a’twitchin’
    (or perhaps it ’tis the other ways a’round?)
    and it calls, it calls, it calls,
    a Siren singin’ in the halls,
    of the Game room where…

    The games, they need a’playin’,
    ah but the fans they are a’sayin’:

    “NO, PAT, NO.
    NO. PAT, NO.
    “With volumes one and two you caught,
    our hearts upon the hook,
    and no matter how we fought,
    the mysterious bait we took –
    of Kvothe and the Chandrian,
    caught in the frying pan.
    Now we flip and flop,
    and await the final full stop.
    So,
    JUST WRITE THE GOD DAMN BOOK!”

    The games, they need a’playin’
    But the fans they are a’sayin’:

    “NO, PAT, NO.
    NO. PAT, NO.”

    The games, they need a’playin’
    But Pat’s mind is a’sayin’,

    “What’s one more day, hey?
    While I have a little play,
    of this truly amazingly looking game,
    which makes writing seems so lame?”

    The games, they need a’playin’
    But Pat’s mind is a’sayin’,

    “Pyeww pyeww, take that monster dude!
    RELOAD RELOAD!
    RUN AWAYYYYYYYY”

  32. Smoochie
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:48 AM | Permalink

    You mad evil genius! Now anytime someone complains about book three all we have to do is say “did you vote?”

    I would however, like to ask if there is a ‘bug Wil Wheaton about bringing you back on Tabletop’ option. A man cannot survive on writing and video geges alone. He needs some board gaming in his life.

    • Smoochie
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:49 AM | Permalink

      Pretend I used a question mark and spelled ‘games’ correctly if you don’t mind.

  33. Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:50 AM | Permalink

    Don’t let people push you. Play the game and enjoy yourself! Who the hell wants a book written under pressure anyway? I am really looking forward to read an awesome 3rd book whenever it’s ready. And if you need few more years to write it – what the hell – take them!
    Its awesome that you do all the stuff your do. Keep it up, have fun, and live your amazing life. :)

    • Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:53 AM | Permalink

      As I re-read it now, I am sorry for the spelling by the way. I was kinda hasty pressing the “Post Comment”-Button.

  34. CraftlordDark
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:50 AM | Permalink

    Patrick, ignore all that, as a fellow gamer and fallout fan you have a right to enjoy Fallout 4, this is the game most of the fans were waiting for a long time, and it look gorgeous D:
    Also remember that whining… whining never changes D:

    It could be fun watching you playing FO4, but im playing too so i could get spoilers, that is a risky no no for me D:

    Enjoy your travels in the Fallout Wasteland wanderer! D:

    PS: Book 3 is like a good wine, it need time to get the best taste, so i have no problem to wait for that drink, there is still too much games and books i have to play/read, i need moar time D:

  35. ross2075
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:55 AM | Permalink

    While I really want to read book 3, I don’t understand the opinion that Pat should just be chained to his desk and write. As others have said, It’ll be done when it’s done. I enjoy the other things and I got to meet Pat very briefly. He signed The Name of the Wind and I got to make a very awkward comment and it was great. I think others should be able to do the same if Pat wants.

    Also Fallout is baller and he should be allowed to do what many of us do and forget about everything, including wives and children and dive into it.

    Lastly, the charity he helps is a great cause. I bought myself a calendar and if I was in a better position, I would buy more. Maybe a bridge four thingy.

  36. Sesshaku
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:55 AM | Permalink

    You should really play Bioshock Infinite.

    • Posted November 13, 2015 at 1:53 PM | Permalink

      Yeah. That one was really painful to miss…

  37. maegil
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 6:56 AM | Permalink

    I would also be VERY willing to donate toward the cause of you playing Bioshock Infinite. It was the first console game I played in…probably a decade, and MAN is it pretty and great. Pretty great.

  38. aking
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:01 AM | Permalink

    My family will donate! Everyone deserve to relax, so we want you to play Fallout 4!! Merry Christmas. :D

  39. BIGFUDGE
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:07 AM | Permalink

    Pat as excited as I am for book 3 I would never tell you to forgo gaming or family time for writing! I will vote for gaming. That being said I would love to get more updates on what is going on with book 3 from time to time (I like secret things).

  40. Kev
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:07 AM | Permalink

    I imagine the livestream of you writing book 3 being like this:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeMiaz2Sunc

  41. rhastings
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:12 AM | Permalink

    I’m pretty excited about Fallout IV, too. I preordered mine from Amazon. On the day it was to arrive, the entire region I’m in was covered in fog. Apparently, UPS will NOT drive in fog. No matter how bad i want to play Fallout IV. Who knew.

    Anyway, I saw your post on FB. I knew what I’d find in the comments, but I looked anyway. People are assholes.

    I’m pumped for you dude. I’m pumped for us. Let’s play some freaking Fallout.

  42. Alessa
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:15 AM | Permalink

    Your days sound a lot more exhausting than mine are, and I’m a doctor. ;-) I imagine that those people pestering you are roughly the equivalent of people seeing me have a beer and tell me “What, you’re a doctor, and you’re having a drink?? Like, now??? Go forth right this minute and save some lives!!!” Ahem. Thank god that doesn’t happen. The fallout from it would involve swear words and a highly raised eyebrow. So go forth and play some Fallout. :-)

  43. Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:15 AM | Permalink

    I would love to see you write on Twitch. What a neat behind-the-scenes peek, and a cool idea. Potentially the most boring 3 hours ever, watching someone sit at a computer. But you bet I’d watch it! Conversely, I have zero interest in watching you play Fallout; there’s been enough of that on my TV lately. Thanks, husband. Also, November is tight, and though I’m doing better every year, I rarely have money to spare any month, much less November and December, and so I have never donated to Worldbuilders before, even though I think it’s amazing and a very worthy cause.

    All that to say, of course I will donate/vote for Fallout 4.

  44. pamcakes87
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:16 AM | Permalink

    I’m really torn… I’ve been patiently waiting years and years for book 3 and am gleeful anytime progress is made. But… I know how kids and deadlines and this crazy life can wear you down. Taking time for you can make life better for everyone! If I had the money I would donate to both. :D

  45. JorgeBarton
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:22 AM | Permalink

    I am sure you already know this but still I wish to say it, Don’t mind those who rush you to their own expectations, storytelling has its own timing. Besides, it’s inevitable that you will pour your satisfaction at writing it on the book itself, people sometimes don’t realize that bulling you into doing what they want will spoil both their experience and yours.
    I’ve had a beautiful journey reading your books, I can only wish you enjoy writing it us much as I had reading them.

    Regards from Argentina!

  46. sbeavers
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:24 AM | Permalink

    Perhaps a third option of ‘Writer’s Choice Wednesday’ (neither writing nor gaming) could be added? I, for one, would be just as thrilled to see Pat headed out the door to rake leaves with his kids, or treat his love to dinner, or nap on the huge pile of games.

    • angledge
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:27 AM | Permalink

      I like this third-option idea. Call it, “Fuck all y’all, Pat gets to do what he wants.” I’d vote for that over & over again. I’m really sick of the people whining for Book 3. Pat isn’t working on the cure for cancer, everybody. He’s writing a novel. There are literally thousands – millions! – of novels out there to be found & read while he writes this one.

      • SMantzoros
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 1:33 PM | Permalink

        I would laugh really hard when everyone votes for the “Do whatever the hell you want” option and he just plays Fallout.

        • Posted November 13, 2015 at 2:05 PM | Permalink

          Heh. Yeah. That’s probably what would happen. I’m already hooked.

          Not that I don’t love my kids and all…

  47. Corgyll
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

    This is great! I believe the best thing for you, and book 3, would be for your brain to get some delicious wasteland massage from playing Fallout 4.

  48. Redwulf
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

    I would love to show up when these people are out at a movie, or bowling, and just start yelling at them for not continuously doing their job… 24/7.

    “What the hell are you doing at a movie?! You’re a Taxi Driver, man! Get the hell back to work!!” or, “You know, the shelves at your store aren’t going to stock themselves overnight. Stop surfing the internet and get to it you slacker!!”

    • sparkyr1234
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:53 AM | Permalink

      Nicely said, Redwulf.

    • chipke
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 11:31 AM | Permalink

      Oh, let’s do!

    • Posted November 14, 2015 at 1:58 PM | Permalink

      Yeah. This is something that I have trouble communicating to people in a meaningful way.

      The truth is, because I work from home, I *can* work at any time. But that doesn’t mean I *should* work all the time.

      Even I forget that sometimes….

      • Redwulf
        Posted November 18, 2015 at 10:09 AM | Permalink

        One thing people should try to remember, and I think I may very well be stealing this from an episode of “The Story Board” or a blog post or something, is that Writers (and other creative folk as well), aren’t just born into the world brimming with Fresh and Untold Stories. Stories come from the experiences they’ve had, and the people they’ve encountered along the way.

        Even though you may just be playing a video game for some (well deserved) relaxation, some concepts from the experience, or a good one-liner, may stick with you and show up in your future work. When you’re ‘wasting time’ helping thousands of families feed themselves, you may learn about some seemingly small cultural nuances that will define an entire fictional People down the line. Even if nothing about it ever found it’s way into a story, the Acquisitions Incorporated shows are hilarious.

        I’d love it if you put something like this up once or twice a year that let those of us who love and appreciate what you do use our charity donations to dictate how you spend your free time (with the options all being things you’d enjoy anyway).

  49. midobal
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:39 AM | Permalink

    Will the streams be recorded and uploaded to twitch past streams? (I’m not sure if this feature is activated by default). I would like to watch the streams no matter the results, but time difference isn’t playing on my favor…

    P.S. Hope that Fallout wins. You deserve to get some rest, specially on this time of the year.

  50. ndlucas
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:41 AM | Permalink

    As bad and I want to read Book 3, play your game Pat. Seriously. You are a human, and you have needs. Fallout 4 is plenty of a need, trust me, most of us fellow geeks understand. It’ll add to your creative base, at the very least. The raving, foaming-at-the-mouth fans can wait. My 8-year old said you could :-)

  51. jpbook117
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:41 AM | Permalink

    Pat your books having been molding me since 2011 when I was just a young guy trying to figure some things out and I point to them often as a standard of how I think and what I like. However Video games have been molding me since I was a kid and as I have a job now in Video Games, and a beautiful wife. I feel very blessed to say I got Fallout 4 last night. I don’t plan to be able to play it til this weekend, So You can bet your ass I want my favorite author to wonder the wasteland too. Good luck Pat and happy trails!

  52. hierovision
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:43 AM | Permalink

    I will be voting Fallout 4. Nobody should go that long without at least one amazing game.

  53. ztemhead1
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:47 AM | Permalink

    I gave to Heifer via my work because they will match my donation, and I thought the extra cash would be more important rather than counting another donation during the “official” campaign.

    The theme of the OP here is something that’s been a bit of a concern to fanbois in the recent age of epic fantasy. There are other writers out there, who, while they are kind gentle folk I admire personally, started stringing out book releases over decades rather than every couple years. The quality of work declined along the way.

    In my own little world, the “Pat is a nice guy” factor is greatly eclipsed by the “Pat is a gifted storyteller” factor. Being deprived of the latter for years at a time causes a little angst and raised eyebrow for fear of the story of Kvothe descending into a spiral of poorly completed answers to writer’s block.

    Last thought – I love the response giving the fans a “say” in write vs. game. So much more fun than fighting fire with fire.

  54. nickadee
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:49 AM | Permalink

    For those of us that can’t watch in real time (stupid jobs), will you be saving these sessions anywhere? Posting highlights on youtube?

    • Posted November 14, 2015 at 2:00 PM | Permalink

      We’ll be archiving the footage.

      I *really* like the idea of a highlights reel. I wonder if I could find someone to do that for me….

  55. DrPerkele
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:53 AM | Permalink

    Will we who live on the other side of the world be able to see the streaming after the fact? As in, will they be recorded and posted anywhere for those who are working or sleeping or whatnot when it happens?

  56. ced
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:58 AM | Permalink

    WOW. This is why I love you, Pat! In my mind I can only respond to whining posts with ‘who the f*** are you and what have you done that gives you the right to demand this?’ To reign in the rage and say “Hey — ok, but you gotta earn it” is beyond awesome.

    I hope you get to play Fallout 4. It’s been 3 years since I played a new game, I feel your pain…

  57. supermidgetrhy
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:58 AM | Permalink

    Pat, can we have a new option “Whatever the hell Pat wants to do?”

    I think its appalling that you are hounded by so many RUDE, IDIOTIC ASSHOLES who quite frankly in my opinion don’t deserve book three that you feel you have to do this.

    As that one post said, your job is to write book 3 sure. You signed up for it. You want to do it. However I only do my job Monday-Friday 8:30-5:30. My job is to manage a team of IT reps. 80% of my work-hours are not spent directly managing a team of IT reps. It’s spent on all the little side projects that comes from having an it department. So if you devote 40 hours of your week to being an author that time is going to include World Builders, publicity, writing, proofing, talking to your editor. All the stuff that goes into putting a book together and being an author. Not just writing. People need to understand this. They need to accept it.

    I think it’s completely unfair that ANYONE thinks you need to give up time with your family, alone time, time with a game or other hobby. To work. You aren’t a slave. My eagerness to read the rest of the story doesn’t make you one. I will sit here reading, rereading, re-rereading, and re-re-rereading books 1 & 2 eagerly waiting for book 3.

    Do what you’re doing. Live your life. Be you. Play Fallout4 if it strikes your fancy. Because when I’m not at work that’s what I’m doing. That’s what any of these people hounding you for book 3 are doing.

  58. Maureen
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 7:59 AM | Permalink

    HAHAHAHAHAHA I donated as soon as the fundraiser started but figured an extra $10 wouldn’t hurt too much if it meant you got to play Fallout 4.

    Soon your life will be back to more normal standards. Stay in good spirits my friend.

  59. mattdocmartin
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:06 AM | Permalink

    Where is the choice for “It’s your life, do what the hell you want to do!”?

    A happy writer is a productive writer. Fallout 4 makes you happy.

    Go. Be happy.

  60. QuintessentialDefenestration
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:14 AM | Permalink

    I was waffling on donating– my charity money was going to go to the next P4A this year– but you know what, this has pushed me to switch. Because I’m tired of the outright evil “fans” that badger the people that bring us the things we love. Every single thing Patrick Rothfuss has put out into the world has been done excellently, and done with love, and done for the /joy/betterment of others. Every review, every blogpost, every podcast, every convention.

    And instead of taking time off to enjoy himself and play videogames, he’s transforming that leisure time into at once charity work and a stream for our entertainment? I mean, my god. No other author I’m aware of is so consistently charitable with his time and with his fans.

    Money towards Fallout 4 time (and also Worldbuilders of course) is money well spent.

    I just hope the Twitch stream is like saved somewhere; I don’t know how twitch works, and I won’t be able to watch for a week or two as Piled Higher and Deeper matters stack up.

  61. Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:16 AM | Permalink

    Humans have such a monochromatic view of what other people should do with their lives. I am grateful though that as an aspiring writer, I can remind myself that with success will come unreasonable expectations that I have to manage. Admittedly I will happily do so, but it s the ugly part of the art and industry that can hit someone unexpectedly if they are not prepared for it.

    What these people fail to understand is that your success as a writer allows you to do these activities that you not only feel strongly about (charity) that working in a typical position may not allow as well as living some of your own dreams. Given the opportunity I am sure they would and do participate in activities their own level of success allows or perhaps, in activities beyond their own means just to keep the stress of life at bay. Of course the volunteer position of social media troll probably does not come with many benefits or much time off. After all there is always some successful person or well thought out opinion that needs trolling.

    I do feel your pain about gaming though. Between Inkshares, Nano, and two or more game designs, plus time with my daughter I haven’t touched SWTOR, TESO, or any of my Total War games in about three weeks. So today I am going to see SPECTRE and this weekend I will run my D&D game.

    PS – I voted fro FALLOUT 4.

  62. towo
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:17 AM | Permalink

    What I don’t get about those anxious to read book three: Do they not have anything else to do than complain about the lack of the thing they want to see next?

    When Book 3 comes out, I’ll drop any other book I’m reading and will dive into it, but until then, even when I have the time to read in peace, I’ve got enough books I still want to read to last me for a book 3 wait along the line of the GRRM dark ages. I only got through Republic of Thieves the other day, and I distinctly remember starting the line because of a recommendation you factored into ages ago.

    Until then, knock yourself out. I’m rationing gaming time away for other things like job, the partner and whatever else happens to come up, and can totally understand the sentiment to finally getting around to play the good games again.

  63. jensago
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:29 AM | Permalink

    As amazing as it would be to see a livestream of you writing, since watching people create art is such a great experience (perhaps as a strech goal and done during your regular writing hours?), games are needed to keep people sane and I would be equally happy to watch you ride an orgasm unicorn into the sunset

  64. Vesves
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:31 AM | Permalink

    This just…really upsets me. Especially the first quote. “That’s all anyone wants from you.” “Now you’re just a douche who doesn’t even put in an honest day’s work.” I have a horrible time ignoring trolls and people who say terrible things. It’d be especially hard if I ever got published, of course. My brain latches onto the negativity and explodes into shrapnel. I already feel guilty every time I do something other than write. Writing is absolutely important, but so is being a human being and just LIVING for a little while. People can be really terrible. Some people’s impatience is just astounding. Grow up. It’ll come. I know GRRM gets this kind of garbage all the time. I chose the Fallout 4 option. You deserve it.

    You do so much work. So much really, really important work. When you do your livestream (because I have no doubts that you will be playing Fallout 4 with this time) it should be some sort of happy and slightly insane online party, also benefiting Worldbuilders.

  65. tsuggitt
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:33 AM | Permalink

    Where is the option for “Do whatever the hell Pat wants to”. I’d hate for you to be playing the wonderful game that is Fallout 4, get a burst of inspiration about book 3, but be unable to write because you are bound by internet contract to play the game.

    Books 1 and 2 were fantastic because they were written while you did you. Book 3 might want to be written the same way.

    All the best.

  66. Aminar
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:34 AM | Permalink

    The generosity here is nuts. Just go play Fallout. You deserve some you time. Most people have zero understanding of this but self care is key to quality writing(Mainly the jerks who would chain you to your keyboard) . I can only see this ticking clock of what is the internet going to make me do today as stressful as hell. It’s cool. But don’t let the assholes win like this. If it gets too bad… Please End it.

  67. Daruu
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:38 AM | Permalink

    You know, writing is your job.

    What these people don’t realize is that a job has some working hours and then you return home.

    And you do what you want with your spare time.

    So play the game Pat! You deserve every minute of joy from it!

    • Brady Dill
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:56 AM | Permalink

      It’s amazing how my feelings toward you went from disgust to complete approval and joy in the space of five sentences…

      • Posted November 15, 2015 at 10:22 PM | Permalink

        Heh. It’s amazing how often that can be the case….

  68. Tzadik
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:39 AM | Permalink

    Being a non-traditional full-time university student working two jobs, I can understand the sentiment of having to divide your time in ways that leaves out the things you love… and I was so looking forward to Fallout 4. Then I find out I have an exam on the tenth. And another take-home exam that’s due on the tenth… and despite all that, I got them both done and took two days off work to play Fallout and it was so worth.

    YOU NEED TIME TO YOURSELF! I super appreciate that you’re letting the fans dictate your free time, but f*ck the fans – do what you need to do to stay sane and enjoy your life, because otherwise what’s the point? I would have been donating anyway, but now I will be donating extra to make sure you get your free time! Have fun in the wasteland, Pat!!!

  69. CatherinePeace
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:40 AM | Permalink

    As a fellow author and gamer (25 years and counting), I completely get where you’re coming from. Like you, I run events to benefit charity, and I require time to let my brain settle. I do that through playing video games. I process plot issues through playing video games. I relax with them, and honestly, some of the ones I’ve played have made me a better writer.

    What people don’t understand is that writers are CONSTANTLY writing. In the shower, with our friends (or in the shower with our friends, depending on how close you guys are), driving down the street, even during time with family, our brains are ALWAYS going. It doesn’t matter. Just because they can’t see the results they want doesn’t mean that you’re not working. But you, just like everybody else, deserve a damn break.

    So please, Pat, go play Fallout 4. Design your character. Explore the ruins of Boston. Let your mind take a breather. As flipping brilliant as your books are, I know it takes intense work and time and dedication to write them. It takes late nights and rewrites. Frustration. Wanting to throw your computer against the wall (I know I can’t be the only one). Hours of staring at your screen wondering what the hell just happened and how did your characters get here. Writing isn’t just a hobby. It’s not something we can spew out on demand. It’s taxing. It’s demanding. And sometimes, it asks too much.

    Go play Fallout. Enjoy the hell out of it. And don’t feel one iota of guilt about enjoying it.

  70. colinthom89
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:40 AM | Permalink

    Hi Pat,

    I really hope Book 3 doesn’t get released until 10 million years from now… You see, I’m planning to upload my consciousness to the cloud, and a late release date would provide something to look forward to as my existence becomes increasingly monotonous.

    Therefore, assuming you have ~100K fans who want Book 3 ASAP, you could wait until your last living breadth and still release Book 3 before the (average) date that your fans hope for. I hope me skewing expectations takes some of the pressure off!

    That said, please finish Book 3 before you kick it. Brandon Sanderson has already said his writing style matches Robert Jordan’s better than it does yours…

  71. Mephy
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:54 AM | Permalink

    Hmm, this actually poses quite the dilemma for those of us not able to donate directly in your fancy US dollars. My bank will charge me a foreign currency fee each time I donate, which would probably mean I could donate 70 bucks once and get to vote one day, or 6 x 10 dollars getting to vote 6 times but costing me the same. I have to weigh my sadness at not getting to play against my anger at my bank taking 10 dollars of worldbuilders’ donation away.

    If you do this again, could there be a way for international supporters to bulk donate for a set of days voting?

    I’ll probably just do the one off payment :)

    • Amanda
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:15 AM | Permalink

      We’re doing it by the amount of money raised, not quantity of votes, so $70 once is better than $10 six times. We’ve got your back :)

  72. tenzian
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:54 AM | Permalink

    As much as I would love to get my hands on book 3 as soon as possible you simply must find time to play Witcher 3. It has some of the best story writing to ever grace an RPG.

    Actually, you need to find time to read Andrzej Sapkowski’s books before playing the game (as the game has spoilers for the books and is much better if you know the backstory). However, unless you read Polish, there’s no official translations into English for the last two books in the series (yet), so you could always use that as an excuse to delay :D

    • Brett
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 11:36 AM | Permalink

      Awesome avatar!

      *Penfold fist-bump*

  73. RoseRed
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 8:57 AM | Permalink

    The first time I met you was at a con. I had never read one of your books and had no clue who you were. I was introduced to your writing because you went to a con! It was the first con I attended. You see going to cons was one of those things that fell by the wayside. There was never time, or not enough money. I had bigger priorities and there was plenty of time for that later. Except there wasn’t. I was diagnosised with stage IV breast cancer. Nothing brings what is important in life into focus like hearing the words terminal. Take the time to do the things you enjoy. Spend time with the people you love. Make memories with your kids. Live your life. No one is guaranteed a book 3. On a happier note I just finished The Slow Regard of Silent Things and I must say it is was awesome. I have read a lot of books in my 42 years but none have captivated me the way it did. Keep up the good work. Play Fallout4 but more importantly enjoy the journey my friend.

    • angledge
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:37 AM | Permalink

      Thank you for commenting, RoseRed. I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis, but clearly it has given you insight & focus that you’ve chosen to share with us. I think I will remember this comment every time one of the Book 3 trolls irritates me, & let that irritation wash away – because who’s got time for that negativity?

  74. kello77
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:02 AM | Permalink

    wait wait wait. did i read that response to a comment correct? “its safe to say the camera wouldn’t be at my face” (while writing).. so it would be at the writing? as in a possible sneak peak ? is that what’s going on here? because i’d love for you to get some R&R play some games, sounds entertaining. but if the alternative is if i get to see some glorious wordsmithing pre-release………..

    so uh, where’s that camera pointing during your potential writing twitch stream??

  75. khil1
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:03 AM | Permalink

    I have a compromise, you start work on book 42, where Kvothe Plays Fallout 4! So obviously you need to start researching it by, and let me be very clear that this is required, playing Fallout 4.

    • Vesves
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:44 AM | Permalink

      This just made me choke in my office. Thanks for the giggle (choke).

  76. Kelly
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:04 AM | Permalink

    I confess I sort of love the idea of watching you write. I used to hang out in the same coffee shop as Connie Willis and LOVED spying on her as she sat with her legal-sized yellow pads, writing away. (Sorry, Connie. I swear I’m not a creepy stalker.) But my money-vote goes for Fallout 4. Live your life, Pat!

  77. Mape
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:06 AM | Permalink

    The audacity to claim what your job is…. I’m shocked.

    As a noob writer I know everything I write is constructed on a basis of my living and everything I do forms me and inspires me.

    The best writing I’ve done so far revolves around playing “ShadowRun” / “Dungeons and Dragons”.

    Pat as a student with nary any money in Denmark, I say do what you need to do and live life as You deem fit to. I’m currently playing Fallout 4 and I am enjoying myself immensely even though it has some shortcomings it’s a fine game.

    Love your writing.

    http://fallout.wikia.com/wiki/Fallout_4_perks ;)

  78. Pixeluna
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:14 AM | Permalink

    If I can go to work from 9-5 and then come home and play stupid amounts of video games, then you can too! I’m sorry you have to deal with those sorts of comments, they are absolutely disgusting. Your health and happiness should always come first.

    I hope you get to play oodles of Fallout 4! :)

  79. remi
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:15 AM | Permalink

    I would love to see you livestream your writing. It’s always very interesting to see into the process other creatives use, and I believe it can be helpful to have a community actively pushing/supporting/chatting with you while you work.

    BUT

    Work life balance is important, and games are fun and rewarding and you are worth it. I would much prefer to see you do something fun that will recharge you than something that may drain you.

    It looks like most of your readers agree. :)

  80. DavidNowlin
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:15 AM | Permalink

    Yeah, I want to read the third book too, but, as I’ve been playing FO4 pretty much non-stop since it came out, I’d be kind of a hypocrite to tell you not to.

    Also, you should look into finding a way to keep your douchier, “honest day’s work” fans from ever reading the next book.

  81. pygmymetal
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:20 AM | Permalink

    Your kids are your first priority. They grow up so fast. What you do with your time is no ones business to dictate.

  82. lizsmcg
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:26 AM | Permalink

    I loved those games! Very first computer game I ever had was wish bringer (which can be downloaded & played here (I hope the link still works, my work computer is blocking it) http://www.abandonia.com/en/games/451/Wishbringer.html

    As much as I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see Book 3 I would rather see you be happy & unstressed – go play whatever game you want and watch out for Grues!!

  83. Aosto
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:32 AM | Permalink

    As much as I love the idea of Book 3, I also understand the dying need for personal time. I told my boss I’m taking a personal day today for just that reason.
    Do what you do, you’ve produced enough for us I think you deserve to benefit from something someone else produced for once.

  84. SMantzoros
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:41 AM | Permalink

    I absolute love cleverness. And this may be the most clever thing I’ve ever seen in my life. Also, can we just talk about how amazing it is that the person who writes the books we love so much is such an amazing human being? Holy god.

    Pat, you’re changing the world. But you’re doing it ingeniously.

  85. Bilbo
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:47 AM | Permalink

    Writers are just like cows.
    Happy cows give better milk, happy writers write better books.
    So do whatever you want to do ! :)

  86. kccub1206
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:48 AM | Permalink

    Pat

    People on the internet never cease to amaze me. I echo the sentiments of many others who say take as long as you need and produce the best book you can. I am eagerly awaiting, but not at the expense of the quality or your enjoyment for producing it. I choose for you to play Fallout 4. You deserve it! I love reading your reviews on Goodreads about your kids. As a Father of two boys I think it’s fantastic. I also empathize when you say you are struggling with the amount of time you spend with them and of just thinking of being a good Dad, because I analyze when I don’t think I’m spending enough time with my boys as well. You inspire me, and I love your charity. Keep up everything you do and the way you do it. I *hope* the majority of your fans feel this way.

  87. JJLeggo
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 9:59 AM | Permalink

    I’ve wanted to say for a while now that I too have noticed that every single social media post you make, whether here or FB (presumably Twitter), is full of comments about you not writing. Sometimes they’re polite, often not; either way, fuck them – honestly, because of these people, I hope you don’t finish Book 3. Your books are the best thing that I’ve read in at least a decade, maybe two, and I would rather you quietly disappeared into the wilds of Wisconsin without ever writing another word than see you be bullied.

    How long did it take you to write Name of the Wind? Something like 10 years? You know what, take the next ten years, play games, run Worldbuilders, watch your kids grow up, spend time with your gf. You deserve it.

    PS: It looks to me like I’m now going to spend a lot more money on Worldbuilders than I’d planned, just to keep you playing Fallout :)

  88. HeatherTristan
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

    I voted for time with Fallout. I know that every person who truly admires Pat’s work wants first and foremost for him to be happy. Personally, I might even be disappointed when book 3 comes out – I don’t particularly like that empty feeling that comes when you have finished a series and all (or most of) the mysteries have been solved, and look how waiting has brought us all together and given us something to share. I would never have taken the time to look for Pat’s blog years ago if I hadn’t been curious about when the next book was coming out and look at everything I (and probably most of us) would have missed if our curiosity hadn’t driven us here: this great community, Oot, Cutie Snoo, Worldbuilders, Conventions, other books like Mistborn and the Dresden Files and now Gentlemen Bastards- waiting for books 2 and 3 has opened up a whole world for me and I couldn’t be more grateful. (By the way, we had a baby in 2007 and another in 2011, and we’re due with our third this summer 2016 – I’m just sayin’.) Go play some Fallout 4.

  89. karatematt
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:00 AM | Permalink

    Pat was just trying to give us time to read all the other awesome sci-fi/ fantasy out there. There’s a lot of it and it’s frustrating to have several large “bible-esque” like tomes stack up on you. When you think about it, it’s pretty fucking considerate of him. But, seriously, angry super fans suck. Take a chill pill and read something else.

    Pat- you rock and I love reading your blog. It can be pretty goddamn hilarious and I think angry fans should appreciate the fact that you’re not a reclusive writer who doesn’t put anything else out there, except his writing. I like having this kind of access to writers I enjoy. Lastly, I wish I had some money to donate, which I really don’t right now, but if I did, I’d vote for you to play Fallout 4. Fuck the haters!

  90. Adam Paul
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:02 AM | Permalink

    I knew people complained about your non-book work, but I can’t believe someone would say to stop playing D&D. Aquisitions Incorporated is some of the very best entertainment out there, particularly the ones with Viari! Don’t ever stop. :(

  91. Draven1080
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:07 AM | Permalink

    The level of entitlement of today’s society is astounding. I knew people on the internet were rude, and often cruel, but it still amazes me at times. I once tried to be a writer. I’m fairly decent at it, or so I’ve been told. Sadly, I was never able to complete a full book, I couldn’t bring myself to give up my entire life. Spending hours staring at a blank page hoping words would start coming. Reading these comments, it’s sickening. I would like to see these trolls spend one month trying to put words to paper, at the same time as managing to live the life required to find inspiration for the stories they write, and not getting disheartened by the constant attacks by people that call themselves “fans.”

    I met you at PAX this year, something I have been looking forward to for years and never had the opportunity the other times you’ve been in Seattle. To be honest, you seemed a bit sad, and more than a little burned out. Not the smiling “hug monster” I had seen in your pictures of past book signings. Now I have a deeper understanding as to why. I’m voting Fallout 4, because everyone deserves a life outside of work, and I know that being stressed will only make the writing harder. Thus making the book take longer. Live your life, enjoy it, and let the trolls be damned.

  92. pahblowe
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:12 AM | Permalink

    Hey, Pat!

    A software engineer here with some experience in web development and WordPress in particular. I’d love to help on the automation of the widget/automatic posting of how things are going to twitter!

    Also, hope you get to play Fallout, like, a lot.

    • Amanda
      Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:29 AM | Permalink

      I will be emailing you, my friend.

      • colinthom89
        Posted November 12, 2015 at 2:09 PM | Permalink

        Hi Amanda,

        Here’s another idea:
        If the # votes for Fallout 4 continues to be ~10x those for Book 3, people will lose interest in the “competition” pretty fast and Worldbuilders will make less money. What about having different options on different days, like playing a board game with Oot on live stream vs. writing Book 3? I think this would keep fans tied in to the day-to-day competition of the fundraiser, and a closer split will lead to more donations trying to tip the balance.

        If you thinks its viable, please pass on to Pat!

  93. MizMina
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:14 AM | Permalink

    I gave up being a lifetime gamer to get my PhD. I’m only allowed to play one game each summer break until I finish. So I definitely feel your pain. But it’s a marathon, not a sprint. So since you have kept the gaming hiatus for so long, take the time to enjoy the things you love on the way and play the game. I’ve found being happy is a key part of being productive, at least for me.

  94. Turamarth
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:24 AM | Permalink

    Bethesda and CD Projekt RED time their time with development, and their love for the user shows in every game they create. Many great gaming franchises have rushed to release a product before it was stable which crippled their reputation and fanbase. I know Pat is better than this, and I hope he knows there are many more of us out there that will await book 3 even if it takes decades. He has every right to enjoy life along the way. Most people who play games do not truly understand the amount of time it takes to create the enormous amount of code involved. KKC is not the equivalent of ‘Flappy bird’ or some generic mobile app.

  95. Jsherry
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:24 AM | Permalink

    Dear schmuckfans who always post about Pat “getting back to” writing,

    Pat writes all the fucking time. For free. His posts are better than some authors’ books.

    So, and I mean this in the politest way it can be taken, GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH, just stop*.

    (*Autocorrected from SHUT THE FUCK UP ALREADY)

  96. cameronhopkin
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:27 AM | Permalink

    Does dealing with this unending fount of assholes make you want to stop writing alltogether once book 3 is done? I imagine that’s what it would do to me.

    Please don’t stop writing, though. I enjoy reading your stuff even more than my own, and I’m an incorrigible narcissist.

  97. caesandre
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:35 AM | Permalink

    Pat, dude, seriously… play that game! We have to have some fun times, where we can laugh like children and be all happy cause we’ve gained a new toy… It’s good for mental health too.
    So, haters are going to hate, as cliché as it seems… People are so selfish nowadays, they only want to have their desires fulfilled regardless of the means…
    I believe you’re going to do an awesome job writing thethe book as much as playing Fallout and having orgasms

  98. Baashterd
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:38 AM | Permalink

    Pat, I just wanted to say I think you’re amazing.

    Love,
    Paavo

  99. Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:47 AM | Permalink

    So much in common… I remember coding BASIC games with my bro on a 386 PC. Good times! I also fondly remember Fallout and Fallout 2. I never played 3, but the hype around 4 brings back so many fond memories. I’ll be lurking on twitch later – have fun playing!

  100. INCyr
    Posted November 12, 2015 at 10:48 AM | Permalink

    Awww, already donated to Worldbuilders yesterday. Wish I had known about this, I totally would have voted for you to play Fallout 4. Hope you get a lot of time to play it in the next few weeks. :)

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