So, I ordered the softcover with the free PDF. Yeah, I know my shelves are already full, and PDFs look awesome on the iPad, but this was a deal I couldn't pass up... instant gratification and the joy of receiving a package in the mail. It was a two-fer!
Now, I can't talk about the physical product yet, as I haven't received it, but the PDF is a beauty to lay eyes upon. I think the cover was the deciding factor in getting the softcover as opposed to just the PDF - its just that cool. You can see it in all of it's glory right now at RPGNow. Truly, all of its glory, as the image won't fit on my 28" LCD. I think there is a bit of a problem there ;)
The PDF is well put together. The artwork is evocative and generally high quality (which is to be expected with the participation of Frog God / Necromancer). At first glance, it reminds me a lot of AD&D 1e's Player's Handbook, which isn't a bad thing. Actually, for emulating AD&D 1e as it actually was played, it may come closer then Labyrinth Lord with the AEC. At the very least, it approaches it from a different angle. I'm sure someone could write and excellent article comparing S&W CR, LL w/ AEC, the Original Edition D&D with the Supplements and AD&D 1e. I'd certainly read it.
It is very complete for a 128 page book, just like it's title says, including both player and referee material, monsters and treasure. My single complaint with the PDF? It isn't bookmarked or hyperlinked, which is a shame. There is no excuse to fail to bookmark an RPG PDF these days, especially one that is high quality in other regards.
Is this a must by? No, not when you can get the S&W Core Rules for free. Should you want to buy it? Yes. Is it worth the 10 bucks? I think so, but I really wish they had bookmarked the sucker.
Honestly, one of my first reactions was also some shock that there weren't any bookmarks. Pretty ridiculous considering how easy it is to make them. Definitely some useful new resources in there though.
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