"Rule book formatting and layouts" Topic

I'm trying to get a feel for what some of you feel is the best way to organize, format, layout and give examples of the game system and play.

Which games do you think have the best layout and explanation and why you have a favorite?

What do you think the bad ones are missing?

Is a progressive numbering system like ASL uses workable or is there a better way?

Any preferences for chart layouts and designs?

Thanks,
Wolfhag

I actually like the numbering system of games like ASL or Striker (so rule 17 subcases are numbered 17.1, 17.2 etc.) but it's a main in the butt to set up.

The best rule book layouts, I have seen for WWII is Rapid Fire. Heavy illustrations with diagrammes. The support books are excellent as well.

John

I like rules that have a coloured box down the side of each page which gives examples and clarifications.

Numbered headings also help for reference.

Please include a Glossary. Especially if you're going to be using acronyms. Also include WERE in the book the terms are located. This is my biggest pet peeve. There's nothing more game-stopping than having to search back and forth thru a rulebook.

Yes, the ASL numbering system is clear and easy to grasp. Combined with a good Glossary it makes finding rules much faster.

There should be no more than ONE reference chart. If you can't fit all your Modifiers, To-Hit rolls, and Morale effects on a single sheet (without issuing magnifying glasses with each set), then it's time to start paring things down.

Hope this helps, good gaming!

Another suggestion you take a good look at Rapid Fire 2nd edition. They do use a number system somewhat similar to ASL and makes it much easier when asking a question or referring someone to a particular rule. One of the stand outs is their run through of the game. Between the basic and advanced rules they provide a complete scenario and run you through the 11 turns of the game. With ample illustrations and comments really provides a great summary of most of the basic rules.

An index.

Mr. Wolfhag!
I have found that a progressive numbering system is best because, regardless what page a rule is on it can always be reference in the other parts of the text, by that number. This also tips a hat towards another necessary book orginizational component and basics of book design, you have to have a table of contents including those same rule reference numbers. And, a glossary in the back is an orginizational fundemental.

An index is also greatly useful but very hard to construct because of every reference needs to be sought out in the body of the text and it's respective page number. It's a pain but if you've got the time to put it together it can be very useful. Though, I've seen very lame INDEXES in the past so if you're going to do it then be extremely thorough about it or don't bother.

That's my two cents, Jarhead!

You don't need to reference every appearance in an index, just the main rule. In fact if you have that many, you need to edit, as you shouldn't have a rule scattered.

Thanks for the feedback guys.

Specforc11, surprised to hear from you. I thought you were still in hibernation in Chicago.

For the tank skirmish game I'm working on I was thinking of taking this approach. Have five different sections. One for each crew member in a tank that covers what their real duties and responsibilities are within a tank. The section for the Commander would cover orders, formations, spotting, range estimation, target engagement, etc. For the Driver all movement rules like speed, bogging down, turning, maintenance. The Loader section covers the different ammo types, ready rack, rate of fire, coax machine guns, damage. The Gunner section would cover the fire control, turret rotation, aiming options. The Radioman would cover hull machine firing, radio operations.

The cover page for each section would have the index and page locations and a "master index" in the front or back that would indicate which rules go with each section but it should be pretty clear. As the inevitable rule changes, errata and additions come in they can just be added to the back of each section rather than trying to insert in the middle of a page or put in one errata file section. It should also allow for a simpler numbering system and make it easier to find sections.

I'm probably going to go with a layout like Rapid Fire rather than using smaller print with two or three columns to a page.

Wolfhag

I like a layout where each aspect of the game gets the same attnetion. As many pages on command as on fireing and terrain. ;-). I HATE stupid non useful pictures. Colour pictures waste my money, I paid for brain work not art.

Colour in text seems excessive the Real US manuals manage without it!

OOPS even we don't do that, we have a colour picture on the front! Mind you we are advertiseing the terrain. ;-).

On a more serious note the technique on large table, of greying the background of some lines to help your eye stay on the same line is very usefull.