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The pricing of TTRPG products is a tough one. On one hand, we need to change the way we think of our creations, not just as books, but as games that require many hours of development, design, playtesting, research, and more. https://worldbuilderblog.me/2019/01/24/we-need-to-change-the-way-we-think-of-rpg-products/
On the other hand, having an accessible version of your game is also important. Creating quickstart rules, basic versions, reference docs, art-free versions, etc. for free or reduced cost is great for making your game available to everyone AND it helps get your name out there.
We need to stop saying the biggest factor to consumers refusing to pay for RPGs is creators for making their products PWYW. People don't stop buying computer and console games because Flappy Bird and Hungry Shark are free. Is it a factor? Maybe. But not as big as others.
Amber puts it perfectly here. Creators want to make what they deserve, but it can be difficult for consumers to pay those prices when the consumers are not being paid what they deserve. What we're feeling in TTRPGs is felt in many hobby spaces. https://twitter.com/rocketorca/status/1329067240247930880
It takes more work, but if you can provide the dream version of your game AND a version of your game that is cheaper or even available for free (or use itch and similar services to provide community copies), it is good for consumers AND for you in the long run.
And if you can push for change not just in our industry, but in the way corporations underpay people all over the world while the bosses at the top make bank even though they have enough to live full lives without ever making another cent, that will also help.
