Interesting idea here, the key point is that it legitimises what many play groups are already doing (variant formats, fan maps, etc). My thoughts:
Variant FormatsCan't see how this would be a problem since Dynamic Duo has already been recognised. I'm still a huge fan of Karma Format, I'm sure other formats have their adherents as well
I would be wary about people coming up with all sorts of variants that totally destroy the rules. Playing without Gambit will be common, but you'll also end up with people wanting to house-rule abilities, play with range requirements, etc. Could get very messy.
Fan Made MapsI didn't want to comment on JC's petition on WotC about this, since I think this is something DCI won't allow since it involves non-WotC made products. Having a new format isn't going to change that fact. Be great if it can be done though, but I'm not holding my breath.
Custom StatsSame issue as with fan made maps, but potentially easier to resolve since we'd still be using actual WotC-made SWM figures?
I'd be keen to work on this. I think the way to do it would be:
- a committee would need to approve custom stats. The stats would need to be balanced; balanced figures will have a stamp of approval from the Custom Stats Committee. Anything that is not approved will not be allowed in the format. A database of approved customs would then be maintained.
- with the release of each set, the committee will need to re-evaluate the approved customs, in case there are any unintended new combos made available
- a rule allowing a maximum number of customs per squad should also be enforced, so as to limit the possibility that different custom figures will interact in game-breaking combinations
This concept of Approved Customs could be done regardless of whether the DCI changes are implemented, we could already be organising like this for casual play