Which version & config of VB + Addons will be best for my new site?

[محروم.كوم]

Hi, I've been a user/developer in vB3 since 3.6.x. ( http://mysticdigital.com ) I'm starting up a new online gaming community site, which needs to be on a highly technical level, with a powerful balance of community features, blog, addons, etc.

Here is my previous site, similar to what I'm trying to do:
http://imrclan.com

This is vB3, using vBAdvanced to form the frontpage system. Latest 5 threads created in a specified forum category are streamed onto the frontpage using vBA. No blog, as this system was basically doing the same thing (on a much smaller scale).

Now I'm building a new similar site that needs to be just as good, but more diverse. I'm aware of all the CMS stuff in vB4, however I also read all the complaints. The purpose of my site is not just a home/forum for my gaming team anymore, but I'd like to build a solid public community site out of it as well - blogs, reviews, previews, news, rumors, etc.

Example: http://ign.com

The following plan is why I'm thinking of not getting the Publishing Suite:

Here's my current idea:

1. Buy VB4 Forum Classic
2. Install forum to .com/forum/
3. Install WordPress to .com/
4. Bridge WP & VB using bridge mod at vb.org
5. Skin WP to match the forum and plugin the heck out of it
6. Use WP as the big community side of things, blogging & driving traffic, etc
7. Use VB forum more for my gaming team's personal area (although still welcome to public)

First, for what I'm trying to do, is this a good plan? Second, would anyone just suggest I stick with 3.8.x? I'm aware of the developer complaints of vB4 but I'm more than willing to take the challenge - plus, I'll be future-proofed. It seems as if most mod authors have recoded for vB4 at vb.org.


Thanks alot in advance! __DEFINE_LIKE_SHARE__