Matrix Games Forums

A question on the Manul
I picked up Korsun Pocket last week and must say I am very unimpressed with the manul that came with the game. While it seems to be well written , it was hard to tell as I needed a magnifying
Glass just to read it (4 point type I think). I kid you not , and I do a lot of reading , so I know my eyes are not that bad.
So my question is what can we expect in the form of written instructions that will come with your game?
Now I understand putting the mundane details in a PFD reader format , I don’t expect a 200 page manul (It would be nice though)....but If you are going to put out a players guide covering the basics PLEASE make it readable for the average mortal.
And one last thing.... go easy on the use of color in any mauul we will need to print out , man those color ink cartridges cost the bucks.

BnickB

BnickB,

I have just finished the manuals in fact. These are done in Word format at our end and are then typeset by Matrix. I have to admit that the template provided has the default text set to 8pt Arial. The game will come with a printed Tutorial Manual - around 60 pages. In pdf format there will also be a Reference manual - around 100 pages - a ScenMaker Manual - around 50 pages and a MapMaker Manual - around 40 pages. So all up there is about 250 pages.

Steve Barnes is still working on the Strategy Guide, which will be sold separately. This will have a full historical analysis of operation market garden plus advice on how to win.

Thanks for the quick reply , At 250 pages of info it looks like there will be plenty to read. Also a strategy guide for a game like this , that seems so deceptively simple would probably be a good buy.
But you might drop a hint to the powers that be at matrix , going for 10 point type for the manuals wouldn’t break the bank. And would be greatly appreciated buy the grumpy old wargames who I am sure are the bulk of there costumers .

BnickB

Point taken. Though I reckon that 9pt type would be a good compromise. That's what we used on the original RDOA manual. I have relayed your comments on to Matrix.

The manual for this game sounds great. In addition, I like the use of color in the game manuals. Especially for a game like Korsun pocket because color is an integral part of the game interface. You can always elect to print your copy in black and white or take advantage of the special printing deal Matrix has with Kinkos.

Arjuna ,your da man.

Yes I think 9 point type would do , like I said my eyes are not that bad.
And I do like color used in the manuals but let just not get carried away ,
by the way does anyone know what kinkos would charge for all the
documentation printed in full color?
I went to stapples ( its closer to me) and just for the players guide
for Korsun Pocket , (printed in color) would have been close to
50.00 bucks needless to say I opted for a new color cartridge.

BnickB