Well, first it should be noted that these hardbacks are only retailing for US$20, while most hardbacks sell new for US$30+. Other "young adult" hardbacks that I've seen in the US market are actually pretty comparable with their "tight" binding, although this type of binding is not very suitable for a game book where a reader will be flipping back and forth quite frequently, causing heavier wear than normal on the book's binding.
I'm hopeful that Mongoose refines their binding process, as right now it's pretty obvious that it is in its teething stage. A better and more reliable method of attaching the core of the book to the hardcover shell is going to be needed, and the binding of the pages in the core needs to be stronger and able to withstand more wear.
I'm hopeful that Mongoose refines their binding process, as right now it's pretty obvious that it is in its teething stage. A better and more reliable method of attaching the core of the book to the hardcover shell is going to be needed, and the binding of the pages in the core needs to be stronger and able to withstand more wear.