Players don't follow rules like machines, rules are more symbolic in a game's setting
In the world of tabletop gaming, rulebooks can often be a source of frustration for players. This is particularly true for games like Gaslands, where players have expressed feeling lost and the need to frequently flip back and forth through the rulebook. Recognising this issue, the creators of Gaslands have taken steps to improve the usability of their rulebooks in the new edition, Gaslands: Refuelled.
One key strategy employed in Gaslands: Refuelled is the repetition of small rules in places where they are invoked. This practice, known as functional rules writing, aims to improve rulebook usability by making rules more accessible and easier to remember. By repeating critical rules, players can quickly understand the rules without having to search for them in an unrelated section of the rulebook.
A prime example of this strategy is the rule about touching an obstacle during gameplay. In Gaslands: Refuelled, this rule is present at the start of the movement step for clarity, ensuring that players always have quick access to this important information.
Another function defined in Gaslands: Refuelled is the "Fire" rule, which outlines what happens when a vehicle is attacked by a flaming weapon. This rule, like others, is repeated throughout the rulebook to improve readability and reduce word count.
However, it's important to note that repeating rules can lead to confusion if all instances are not updated consistently. For instance, the rule about starting an activation touching an obstruction must be expressed exactly the same way in all instances to avoid misinterpretation. A slightly different wording of this rule may require an FAQ clarification.
The author of Gaslands: Refuelled has learned the importance of functional rules writing and will keep this lesson front of mind while assembling the final text of another game, A Billion Suns. The rulebook for A Billion Suns is likely to benefit from this approach, leading to increased readability and reduced word count.
This focus on usability extends to other aspects of game design. Wargames offer opportunities to create functions, or reusable definitions for actions or objects, which can significantly aid in understanding complex concepts. By organising information efficiently, using visual aids, and maintaining consistent terminology, game rule writers can create rulebooks that are more accessible and easier for players to understand, enhancing gameplay and enjoyment.
In conclusion, by implementing strategies such as functional rules writing, organising information efficiently, and focusing on player needs, game rule writers can create rulebooks that are more accessible and easier for players to understand, leading to improved gameplay experiences.
In the development of the rulebook for A Billion Suns, the author intends to apply the functional rules writing approach learned from Gaslands: Refuelled, aiming to create a rulebook with increased readability and reduced word count. Furthermore, the use of technology such as gadgets and wargames can offer innovative ways to make complex game concepts more accessible, improving gameplay experiences for players.
