Manual

[Anguille]

I think it's important to consider writting a large manual that covers and explains all the aspects of the game. I think that many did not understand everything in Horizon 1.

[Zaimat]

The Horizon 1 manual is about 50 pages or so LINK. I would be interested to know how many people who got the game read it and if they found it helpful.

I wrote it and I wouldn't mind if someone did a better job at writing it. But it's meant to be an introduction, easy to understand and not get too deep in details.

One problem with manuals is they need to be constantly reviewed/updated when the game/mechanics get updated which is very likely with Horizon 2 if we continue development for a long-time post-release.

So I think I'm still in favor of in-game tooltips to provide details with a tutorial/manual for introduction to general concepts.

[Anguille]

Thanks. I can only speak for myself but the physical manual was on my bed table for many many years...i've read it in all possible directions. . The manual is indeed well done but the game is fairly complex as well.

Of course, i am old school (born in 1971) and still have my physical manuals for Master or Orion (70 pages), Master of Orion (156 pages), Reach for the Stars (80 pages), Imperium Galactica 2 (124 pages) and Birth of the Federation (160 pages) just to mention a few.

But as you said, i also believe that in-game tooltips are crucial for that kind of game. I just hope people will understand the new game and see it's beauty.

[Zaimat]

That's great that you were able to get a physical copy of the game. I also have the boxes and physical manuals for all those games except IG2. A different but awesome era of gaming, I don't know that we will ever be able to make a physical box again for our new games but it would be cool to do a physical manual or guide.

[Martok]

Yeah, I don't imagine we'll ever see physical manuals make a comeback, but I do miss those days. I still have my manuals for Birth of the Federation and the 2000 Reach for the Stars remake/sequel. I *would* still have the manual for my original copy of Imperium Galactica II, if I hadn't lost it -- box, CD, manual, everything (I think that will rankle me until my dying day - grrr).


In the meantime -- and for Horizon 2, specifically -- I agree with your idea to include an in-game tutorial. Those are often invaluable, especially for introducing a player to the basics needed to understand & play the game. And of course, you can never have too many tooltips.