It seems to me that the only practical solution to Smaug is to surround him with mountains. I think it is clear that the mechanism is not going to change, so this is only a matter of scenery to make it look good. I am not as disappointed with the peek-a-boo Smaug as some, but it does currently look really awkward.

That said, has anyone figured out how the balls get to the very leftmost straight-line wireform? I am thinking this plays a role in the "interaction" of Smaug.

The book, IMHO, is another matter. I cannot see the justification for the distinctly-sized targets under it unless there is something above that signifies their importance. The book may determine, more than anything, whether I stay in.

My concern with additional changes is that they would be listed on the game flyer. I would seriously doubt that JJP would release the flyer and have it not include major items (like an LED screen) that are yet to be revealed. JJP employees on this site point to the things in the flyer that are not yet shown on the playfield, but nothing in the flyer indicates anything about a small LED screen (which would certainly be touted in a flyer). I think the best we can hope for on the book is that it is replaced by other better static "artwork". I just don't know if a change will help, or if the book is even changeable at this point.

Jack just verified that the book was a placeholder in the pin on the JJP Google group. That is great to hear. I look forward to seeing what takes its place. Note that he seemed to indicate that the book would be put elsewhere in the pin. I am great with that as the book looks good ... just not in its current position. I hope whatever takes the book's place it more interactive and not just static.

If they were trying to keep this area ultra-secret, then replacing the book with another piece of static art would be seriously disappointing. You keep things secret because they are important and game-changing. I am hopeful that this is the case, regardless of whether it is an LCD screen.