Week 12 Readings Writing Game Rule

Why this is important: When it comes round to someone trying your game they must ready the rules of the game, if they have been written poorly even if the game is great it puts a downer on the game because it can get frustrating for the player. Everything needs to been clearly, your game depends on it because either it will be a complete success or a flop. Game reviewers don’t take a second look at games with poorly written rules. Even from the beginning well written rules is recommended seeing as play testers also don’t like a game with poorly written rules. Advise is given to take your time when writing your rules, in the long run it can illuminate the option of having to redesign the game.

Fundamental Qualities:  There are three fundamental qualities of good explanatory writing they are clarity, brevity and completeness. It can be very difficult to get all three of these qualities, only words and pictures can help to teach the game. If it’s not a necessity for the game rule do not use the history of the game, humour and extra information about the scenario that isn’t needed.

Order of explanation: Rules should start with a summary of the game or something that represents it. If this is done well some players may be able to predict what rules will be based on the summary. When writing your game rules you must at all times avoid leaving the player in suspense do not talk about mechanics that you have not yet explained. Related rules should be closer together. The uses of bullet points clarify where one idea starts and another ends. 

Reading Aloud: When rules are written correctly, one person will be able to read your rules aloud to the other players, and will be able to play the game. If that person who is reading the rules out has to explain the rules that to other members of the group your rules have failed.

Clarifications: Have your diagram examples in italics, so that players who understand the rule just skip it but for those who don’t can use it.

Review: The best way to find out if your rules are a success is to get someone else to review them. Get a strict review and honest feedback without this you won’t be able to improve your writing. Get people that don’t know your game to read them aloud to people to see if they understand.

Finishing: Do not print your rules in an interesting font, because your rules need to be as legible as possible. With frequent revision, consideration and rewriting your game will shine through and be as accessible as possible to new players.